Breaking: FIA steward drops Verstappen Las Vegas Grand Prix DNF BOMBSHELL as…read more
FIA steward drops Verstappen Las Vegas Grand Prix DNF BOMBSHELL as…read more
An FIA steward has made a surprising statement about the potential impact of a Max Verstappen “Did Not Finish” (DNF) result in the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix. Johnny Herbert, former F1 driver and now an FIA steward, shared insights that add a new layer of intrigue to this year’s championship. Herbert explained that, despite Verstappen’s commanding lead in the driver standings, a DNF in Las Vegas could have serious implications on the title race, potentially reviving Lando Norris’s title aspirations.
This speculation comes in the wake of Verstappen’s impressive drive at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Despite some setbacks, the Dutch driver took a major step towards securing his fourth World Championship title. Verstappen’s journey through the field at Interlagos was nothing short of remarkable, considering he had to start from P16 due to a Q2 exit and a grid penalty. His starting position, however, didn’t stop him from launching a powerful comeback, showing the skill and determination that has defined his season. Verstappen’s Red Bull sliced through the competition, with the race ultimately turning in his favor after a well-timed red flag. This allowed him to secure a memorable win, even though his race engineer, in a light-hearted twist, had bet against him.
Meanwhile, Norris, who qualified in pole position, was unable to capitalize on his strong start. The McLaren driver finished in sixth place, a frustrating result that now leaves him with a steep challenge if he wants to keep his championship hopes alive. With Verstappen maintaining a significant lead, Norris will need a near-perfect performance in the remaining races and some setbacks for Verstappen if he wants to claim the title.
Herbert’s comments underscore the high stakes for Norris, as well as the small margin for error that Verstappen must navigate in these final races. “Norris just has to continue doing what he is doing. And one non-finish by Max would make a massive change to the championship,” Herbert explained, adding that while Norris’s chances may be slim, they are not yet extinguished. Even a single DNF for Verstappen could have a substantial effect, opening the door for his rivals.
Still, Herbert acknowledged Verstappen’s firm grip on the championship lead, asserting that Max would remain the favorite, even with a DNF in Las Vegas. Verstappen’s consistency, formidable skill, and Red Bull’s performance make him the clear frontrunner. As it stands, while Norris’s path to the title is challenging, Herbert’s perspective offers a reminder of how quickly the tide can turn in F1, where every race has the potential to shift the championship balance.