An FIA Stedman has stirred up conversation by suggesting that a non-finish (DNF) for Max Verstappen at the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix could significantly alter the course of the 2024 Formula 1 championship. The comments come as Verstappen, having already moved closer to securing his fourth world title with a dominant victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix, remains the favorite to clinch the crown. However, the steward’s remarks suggest that there is still a glimmer of hope for his main rival, Lando Norris LP, provided a few key factors unfold in his favor.
Verstappen’s Brazilian GP victory was a spectacular achievement, especially considering his challenging starting position. The Dutch driver was forced to start from 16th place on the grid after a Q2 exit and a subsequent grid penalty, while his championship rival, Lando Norris, secured pole position. Despite the odds stacked against him, Verstappen showcased his exceptional driving s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, swiftly carving his way through the field to position himself for a podium finish. He even took advantage of a perfectly-timed red flag to claim the race lead, ultimately sealing the win. It was a performance that reaffirmed his dominance this season and pushed him closer to yet another world title.
In contrast, Norris faced a much more difficult race in Brazil, finishing a disappointing 6th place. While the British driver has shown impressive form throughout the season, this result left him with a significant gap to close if he is to challenge Verstappen for the title in the final races. With just three Grand Prix events remaining, including the Las Vegas race, Norris is now fighting an uphill battle.
However, Johnny Herbert, an FIA steward and former F1 driver, has thrown a lifeline to Norris, suggesting that the 2024 title race is far from over. Herbert believes that the championship could still be within Norris’ reach, particularly if Verstappen fails to finish the Las Vegas Grand Prix. In a recent interview with Vision4Sport, Herbert stated, “Norris just has to continue doing what he’s doing. And one non-finish by Max would make a massive change to the championship.” Although Verstappen would still be the favorite even in the event of a DNF, Herbert argued that such a scenario would open the door for Norris to mount a stronger challenge.
Herbert further explained that Verstappen, who has been in exceptional form all season, does not necessarily need to win the remaining races but simply needs to finish on the podium in most of them to secure the title. “Max is still the hot favourite even if that [a non-finish] happened,” Herbert noted, referring to the Las Vegas GP. Despite this, the fact that Verstappen has already shown his maturity and experience throughout the season means he has a clear understanding of what he needs to do in the remaining races to clinch the championship.
The former F1 driver also highlighted the psychological importance of the battle between Verstappen and Norris, suggesting that the latter has already made significant progress in proving he can compete with the reigning world champion. According to Herbert, Norris’ performance in 2024, particularly in races like Brazil, has shown that he is capable of challenging Verstappen and getting under his skin. “Norris will go into 2025 knowing he can beat Max, whatever happens in the last three races. That’s a massive psychological barrier he has overcome,” Herbert remarked.
Herbert went on to say that Norris has made a bold statement with his performances this season. By pushing Verstappen to the edge and consistently challenging him at the front of the grid, Norris has gained invaluable experience that will only help him in the years to come. “He has made his statement and pushed Max to the edge. That’s great because it is exactly what you need to do to an opponent—ruffle his feathers and get under his skin,” Herbert explained.
While the 2024 title remains Verstappen’s to lose, Johnny Herbert’s comments underscore the fact that, with a bit of fortune, Lando Norris still has a chance to challenge for the crown. However, it would require a combination of Norris maintaining his strong performances and Verstappen experiencing a rare misfortune, such as a non-finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. With three races remaining, including the highly anticipated Las Vegas event, the championship fight is far from decided, and both drivers will need to bring their A-game as the season heads into its final stages.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the 2024 title, and it remains to be seen whether Max Verstappen can maintain his unbeaten momentum or if Lando Norris can capitalize on a potential slip-up to keep his championship hopes alive. Regardless of the result, 2024 has proven to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable seasons in recent memory.
