Of the three championship contenders, Norris is in the strongest position to win. Several factors would need to align for the British driver not to secure the championship, even if he doesn’t emerge victorious at the Abu Dhabi GP this weekend.

Verstappen secured the pole position for the year’s closing race, demonstrating his readiness to challenge for the 2025 championship and potentially claim his fifth career title.

What happens if Norris wins at Abu Dhabi GP?

If Lando Norris claims victory at the Abu Dhabi GP, he will secure his first Formula 1 world championship title. His championship lead will remain unchallenged even if Verstappen and Piastri also finish on the podium due to his existing points advantage.

Victory would elevate the British driver to 433 points in the standings, extending his lead over Verstappen by 18 points if Verstappen finish in second place at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

What happens if Verstappen wins at Abu Dhabi GP?

If Max Verstappen win at the Abu Dhabi GP, he would need Norris to place fourth or lower to clinch the World Championship. Norris finishing on the podium would render Verstappen’s victory insufficient regardless of the margin in the standings.

What happens if Piastri wins at Abu Dhabi GP?

If Oscar Piastri triumphs at the Abu Dhabi GP, he requires Norris to finish sixth or lower to capture the F1 world title. Under those circumstances, even a second-place finish for Verstappen would be inconsequential, as Piastri would hold a standings advantage.

As evidenced two years ago when Verstappen captured the title in the final two laps of the same race against Lewis Hamilton, Abu Dhabi presents the last opportunity for the Dutch driver to secure his fifth F1 championship, inching closer to the German legend Michael Schumacher, who boasts seven titles.

Norris is eager to claim his first F1 world championship and holds the best chance to do so. With his second-place starting position, he simply needs to maintain his stellar performance over the season to secure the title.

The last contender is Piastri, who requires a miracle to become the F1 world champion. Starting in third place, he must hope for both Verstappen and Norris to finish lower in the standings to win his first F1 championship.

What happens If Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri end tied?

If Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri end up tied in the standings, the British driver will be crowned world champion, thanks to the number of second-place finishes he accumulated throughout the season.

In this scenario, if Norris completes the race in ninth, Piastri in second, and Verstappen in fourth, all three would be tied at 410 points. This outcome gives Norris the greatest chance to become world champion at the Abu Dhabi GP, having consistently performed well throughout the season.

What happens if Verstappen and Norris end tied?

If Max Verstappen and Lando Norris finish tied in the standings, the British driver will claim the F1 world championship due to his superior number of second-place finishes during the season. Regardless of whether Verstappen finishes second in this race, Norris has an advantageous edge in this particular scenario.

Piastri has exhibited exceptional performance this season. With seven victories in 2025, he is poised to become the world champion this weekend. However, he knows the path won’t be easy, as he must secure a strong outcome at the Abu Dhabi GP and rely on other factors going his way.

Apart from Norris, Piastri will be up against Max Verstappen, who has made a significant comeback in the standings following the overturning of his Qatar GP disqualification, which was originally due to illegal modifications on his car.

Several scenarios could crown Piastri the world champion at the Abu Dhabi GP this weekend, but they hinge on his competitors falling short of the requisite points to secure the title themselves.

What does Piastri need to win the 2025 F1 championship?

Oscar Piastri must finish first or second at Abu Dhabi to become the world champion in Formula 1. Additionally, the following race conditions must unfold:

• If Piastri finishes first, he needs Norris to finish sixth or lower, while Verstappen’s position is irrelevant.
• If Piastri finishes second, he needs Norris to finish 10th or lower and Verstappen to finish fourth or lower.

2025 Formula 1 driver’s standings

A detailed look at the current 2025 Formula 1 Driver’s Championship standings is vital to understand the dynamics that might allow Verstappen to reclaim the F1 championship title.

1. Lando Norris – 408 points
2. Max Verstappen – 396 points
3. Oscar Piastri – 392 points
4. George Russell – 309 points
5. Charles Leclerc – 230 points

Over various F1 seasons, Norris has consistently demonstrated his potential to rank among the greatest drivers in history. This year, his outstanding campaign with McLaren has generated significant buzz about his talent and potential to become a Formula 1 world champion.

Following his setback in Qatar, where he faced disqualification due to an illegal vehicle modification, Norris and McLaren inadvertently provided Max Verstappen an opportunity to vie for his fifth championship.

Now focused on capturing the world championship, Norris is evaluating his options to capitalize and surpass both Verstappen and his teammate, Oscar Piastri, who is also in contention for his first F1 title.

What does Norris need to secure the 2025 F1 championship?

To secure the 2025 F1 championship at Abu Dhabi, Lando Norris needs to finish in one of the top three positions. However, if he finishes fourth or lower, several scenarios must unfold:

• If Norris finishes 4th or 5th, he requires Verstappen to finish 2nd or lower, with Piastri’s position being irrelevant.
• If Norris finishes 6th or 7th, both Verstappen and Piastri must finish 2nd or lower.
• If Norris finishes 8th, Verstappen must finish 3rd or lower, and Piastri 2nd or lower.
• If Norris finishes 9th, Verstappen must finish 4th or lower, and Piastri 2nd or lower.
• If Norris finishes 10th or 11th, Verstappen must finish 4th or lower, and Piastri 3rd or lower.

2025 Formula 1 driver’s standings

To fully grasp the current dynamics of the 2025 Formula 1 Driver’s Championship, examining the current standings is essential. This analysis will illuminate what Norris needs to do to reclaim the F1 championship title.

1. Lando Norris – 408 points
2. Max Verstappen – 396 points
3. Oscar Piastri – 392 points
4. George Russell – 309 points
5. Charles Leclerc – 230 points

Following his victory at the Qatar Grand Prix, Verstappen closed the gap on standings leader Lando Norris and surpassed Oscar Piastri in the championship race. With his seventh win of the season, the Dutch driver is firmly focused on securing yet another championship.

Abu Dhabi has been a memorable venue for Verstappen, where he famously battled Lewis Hamilton to secure a title, with the championship being decided in the dramatic final two laps. It was a combination of luck and an outstanding performance from Red Bull Racing’s star driver that led him to victory.

There are several scenarios in which Verstappen can clinch the title. He must deliver an excellent performance, while his fate also rests on the results of the McLaren drivers. He is acutely aware of the challenge that lies ahead in his quest for the championship.

What does Verstappen need to win the 2025 Formula 1 championship?

To keep his championship hopes alive at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Max Verstappen needs to finish in first, second, or third place. However, for him to ultimately secure the 2025 Formula 1 championship, the following conditions must also be met:

• If Verstappen finishes first: Lando Norris must finish 4th or lower, while Oscar Piastri’s position is irrelevant.

• If Verstappen finishes second: Lando Norris needs to finish 8th or lower, and Oscar Piastri should finish 3rd or lower.

• If Verstappen finishes third: Lando Norris must finish 9th or lower, while Oscar Piastri should finish 2nd or lower.

2025 Formula 1 driver’s standings

To gain a clearer understanding of the current state of the 2025 Formula 1 Driver’s Championship, it is essential to examine the current standings. This analysis will help us identify what needs to occur for Verstappen to reclaim the F1 championship title.

1. Lando Norris – 408 points
2. Max Verstappen – 396 points
3. Oscar Piastri – 392 points
4. George Russell – 309 points
5. Charles Leclerc – 230 points

Formula 1 enthusiasts have eagerly awaited the transformative changes within the sport, particularly the new regulations and advancements in car technology aimed at leveling the playing field. The introduction of Cadillac, along with the return of its seasoned drivers Perez and Bottas, promises to inject fresh excitement and competitiveness into the championship, raising expectations for thrilling on-track battles.

In addition to Cadillac’s arrival, the upcoming season will feature significant updates, including Ford’s entry as an engine supplier as well as Audi’s acquisition of the Sauber team, rebranded as Audi Sport. These developments underline the sport’s dynamic evolution and commitment to innovation.

Fans are also anticipating the debut of the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, a new street circuit set to join Formula 1’s distinguished roster of urban tracks, alongside iconic venues like those in Azerbaijan and Monaco.

How many drivers will hit the Grid in 2026?

With the integration of Cadillac, the 2026 Formula 1 season is set to commence with 22 drivers on the starting grid. This increased lineup builds on the current roster of 20 competitors and is expected to heighten the drama and excitement of the championship.

The return of high-profile drivers such as Checo Perez and Valtteri Bottas further contributes to the promising atmosphere for the upcoming season. As it stands, the following drivers are confirmed for the next season:

• McLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
• Red Bull Racing: Max Verstappen
• Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll
• Haas Racing Team: Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon
• Williams Racing: Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz
• Ferrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton
• Alpine: Pierre Gasly
• Audi: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoletto
• Cadillac: Checo Perez and Valtteri Bottas

There remains speculation regarding the lineup for Mercedes and Racing Bulls, as the teams have yet to finalize their drivers for 2026, leaving fans eagerly anticipating further announcements.

Perez’s last competitive outing was during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2024, where he raced alongside the Red Bull Racing Team, the year’s Constructors and Drivers’ champions. The Mexican driver served commendably as Max Verstappen’s teammate, which left fans puzzled by his departure amid the team’s current struggles.

Conversely, Bottas remains with the Mercedes F1 Team, albeit as a reserve driver. The Finnish racer is eager for a fresh start after a decade in Formula 1, and with Cadillac’s entry next season, he aims to prove there’s more he can contribute to the sport and his professional trajectory.

Cadillac’s debut as a main team in Formula 1 marks a historic moment, having last participated as an engine supplier in 1952 and 1953. Their engines sadly failed to qualify back then, and their return has been long anticipated.

How many new F1 teams will there be in 2026?

In 2026, Formula 1 will feature 11 teams competing for the World Championship. Cadillac’s inclusion as the 11th team will be the sole new entry that year. Nonetheless, transformations abound, with Audi rebranding the current Sauber team as the Revolut Audi F1 Team.

Additionally, fresh dynamics in engine suppliers will emerge. Ford is set to return to Formula 1 through an alliance with Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls. Meanwhile, Honda will partner with Aston Martin in 2026, and Renault will exit the scene as an engine supplier for the first time since 2000.

How many new circuits will there be in 2026?

Enhancing the 2026 season, a new circuit in Spain will debut with Madrid launching a street race. This circuit will join the calendar without displacing the established Barcelona Grand Prix, but it will take the place of the historic Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at the Imola Circuit, which opted not to renew its contract.

These upcoming changes aim to engage new generations and ensure the sport’s future prosperity. The addition of a new team, engine suppliers, and a novel circuit collectively underscore Formula 1’s commitment to innovation and growth.

With Laurent Mekies stepping in as the new team principal, expectations are high for Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda to bring a renewed vigor to the remainder of the season.

Red Bull faces the critical challenge of rebounding during the remaining races of the season. With Horner departing from his roles as team principal and CEO, the team’s long-standing era of dominance and success is poised to enter a new chapter.

French engineer Mekies, stepping into Horner’s shoes, is presented with a formidable task in the races ahead. As someone familiar with the role, Mekies may offer a fresh perspective that could significantly impact Red Bull’s strategy and bolster Verstappen’s pursuit of another World Championship title.

Why is Christian Horner leaving Red Bull?

Christian Horner’s exit from Red Bull Racing comes after two decades of leadership at the helm. While specific details have not been officially disclosed, various reports hint at underlying tensions. Since the Imola Grand Prix, rumors have circulated about Horner’s discomfort with the team’s current trajectory.

Contributing factors may include Verstappen’s struggles to maintain a top position in the standings, Liam Lawson’s departure, and Yuki Tsunoda’s ongoing challenges. These elements are said to have potentially influenced the decision for Horner and Red Bull to go their separate ways.

Who is Laurent Mekies?

Appointed as the new team principal of Red Bull Racing, Laurent Mekies brings a wealth of experience to the role. Beginning his motorsport career in 2000, Mekies initially worked in various FIA categories, including Formula 3. His extensive experience eventually led him to enter the world of Formula 1 with the former Minardi team.

Mekies signed with Red Bull’s sister team, Toro Rosso, in 2005, where he spent nine impactful years before pursuing other opportunities. His career trajectory includes roles such as Safety Director at the FIA and Race Director in 2017. Mekies later joined Ferrari, where he worked in various departments until his departure in 2023. He signed with Red Bull Racing two years ago, ready to leverage his broad experience in enhancing the team’s performance.

Horner’s achievements as team principal

Over his 20-year tenure, Horner propelled Red Bull to the pinnacle of Formula 1, imprinting the team’s name in the sport’s annals. Under his leadership, the team clinched 6 Constructors’ Championships and 8 Drivers’ Championships, with Sebastian Vettel capturing four titles and Max Verstappen securing another four. Red Bull celebrated 124 race victories and amassed 287 podium finishes during Horner’s era, firmly establishing his legacy in the high-octane world of Formula 1.

Reflecting on the season’s outset, there were murmurs about the RB21’s drivability issues. Verstappen, however, initially managed the car with no apparent difficulties, contrasting with his early-season teammate Liam Lawson, who struggled with the car’s demands.

By the third race, Red Bull made a strategic change, replacing Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda. Unfortunately, this adjustment did not yield the results Team Principal Christian Horner had envisioned. Tsunoda’s tenure has seen the second Red Bull car consistently finishing at the back of the pack this season.

While the recent setback in Austria was not entirely the team’s doing, there have been multiple instances where Red Bull has fallen short in supporting Verstappen’s contest against the McLaren drivers. Under these circumstances, reports suggest that the Dutch driver has potentially made a decision about his future in Formula 1.

According to AutoSport, reports from Italy speculate that Verstappen has made up his mind to join Mercedes next season. However, AutoSport clarifies that no decision has been finalized. “AutoSport understands that nothing has been decided yet regarding Max Verstappen’s future in F1, despite ongoing discussions with Mercedes and reports in Italy suggesting a deal is close,“ they noted on their social media platform.

Verstappen rumors intensify

It’s not just AutoSport buzzing about a potential shift from Red Bull to Mercedes for Verstappen. Sky Sports Italy has reported that an agreement might already be in place. With the British Grand Prix on the horizon this weekend, there’s growing speculation that this move could materialize next season, sending shockwaves across the F1 community.

Sky Sports echoed this on their X account, stating, “Max Verstappen is open to leaving Red Bull to join Mercedes for the 2026 F1 season, with talks intensifying ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, according to Sky in Italy.”

Verstappen’s potential fit with Mercedes

If any driver can power Mercedes back to dominance, it’s Verstappen. His competitive mindset and strategic racing approach could be the catalyst Mercedes needs to regain its championship form in the coming seasons. With Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari, Mercedes envisioned George Russell stepping into the leadership role. However, this transition has yet to meet expectations.

While Verstappen’s winning mentality is an asset, it could also present challenges. Tensions have flared between him and Russell before, and despite maintaining a cordial relationship off the track, their partnership might not be seamless if they were to team up at Mercedes.

Sainz faced a challenging start at the Austrian Grand Prix, beginning the race from 19th position after Saturday’s qualifying session. Despite encountering difficulties in Q3, Sainz lined up at the back of the grid while his teammate launched from 12th place and continued to progress through the race.

High temperatures and potential issues with electronic components in the engine seemed to contribute to Sainz’s inability to commence the race effectively, even after completing a formation lap. This incident is just one of several setbacks Sainz has faced this season with the Williams Racing Team.

Accumulating only 13 points so far, Sainz has struggled to find consistency. Meanwhile, his teammate’s performance indicates that the car itself is competitive, suggesting Sainz’s challenges may stem from a mix of bad luck and adaptation to the vehicle’s handling this year.

Sainz faces consecutive setbacks at Austrian GP

The Spaniard driver encountered misfortune once again at the Austrian Grand Prix, marking the second consecutive year he’s faced race day difficulties at this circuit. Last year with Ferrari, Sainz similarly experienced issues, sparking a debate among fans on social media.

In the 2024 event, Sainz began the race smoothly, only for trouble to arise a few laps in when his car started emitting smoke, forcing him to retire. The precise cause of this year’s Austrian setback remains unclear, but the recurrence has raised eyebrows among observers.

Verstappen and Antonelli exit early

The race saw further drama as its start was delayed due to Sainz’s issues. In the first turn post-restart, Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli were caught in a collision that led to their early exits from the Austrian GP. Antonelli struggled with braking, resulting in an unfortunate collision with Verstappen’s Red Bull car after contact from the Mercedes driver.

Verstappen’s withdrawal opened the door for McLaren in the drivers’ standings, offering Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri an opportunity to capitalize and extend their lead over the reigning champion and other competitors.

Piastri’s ascent to such esteemed company in the world of Formula 1 is no accident. This season with McLaren has been nothing short of remarkable. He has secured victory in five of the nine races so far and reached the podium in the remaining three. His consistent excellence has firmly established him among the sport’s elite, joining the ranks of Hamilton and Senna.

This latest result marks Piastri’s eighth consecutive podium finish, positioning him alongside Hamilton and Senna as one of the only three drivers in F1 history to achieve such a feat in a single season. This achievement underscores his exceptional talent and determination.

With his current trajectory, Piastri is poised to continue making history alongside the greatest drivers in Formula 1. Leading the standings and demonstrating significant progress as the season unfolds, Piastri is well-positioned to break records and solidify his legacy in the sport.

Piastri shines after latest victory

Piastri celebrated his fifth victory of the season with poise and gratitude, expressing his satisfaction post-race and acknowledging the efforts of fellow competitor Nico Hulkenberg. “We had a fantastic weekend,” Piastri told the F1 media. “The team did an exceptional job. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment, and I’m incredibly thankful.”

Piastri was full of praise for Hulkenberg as well. “I didn’t catch everything that transpired during the race, but I noticed Hulkenberg finished sixth. That’s quite an achievement for him,” he remarked. This comment underscores Piastri’s focus on his own performance, which ultimately led to his outstanding victory.

Eyes on the prize: Piastri’s next F1 challenge

To maintain his lead in the F1 standings, Piastri must remain focused as the circuit heads to Canada. A victory there would significantly bolster his championship aspirations, adding crucial points to his tally.

With Max Verstappen trailing at a distance for the moment, the primary competition is within his own team. Teammate Lando Norris, who trails by a mere 10 points, is delivering an impressive season himself. The upcoming races promise a thrilling battle between these formidable contenders.