Vettel Backs Verstappen to Fend Off Norris in 2024 F1 Title Fight

Vettel Backs Verstappen to Fend Off Norris in 2024 F1 Title Fight

Sebastian Vettel’s Prediction for the F1 Title Race Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel has thrown his support behind Max Verstappen to win this year’s F1 title over his main challenger, Lando Norris, despite Red Bull’s performance struggles in the latter half of the season. According to Vettel, Verstappen’s experience and confidence give him an edge in the high-stakes showdown, despite a slower Red Bull car.

Verstappen’s Lead Under Pressure Heading into the Brazilian Grand Prix sprint race, Verstappen holds a 47-point lead in the drivers’ standings. However, Norris has steadily chipped away at this advantage since the summer break, with McLaren’s car improvements proving formidable. Red Bull, once dominant, has seen its car outpaced by McLaren and Ferrari’s upgrades. If McLaren’s strong pace continues at Interlagos, Verstappen may face a difficult challenge to maintain his lead.

Vettel’s Insight on the Championship Dynamics Vettel, a former Red Bull driver himself, believes Verstappen’s driving abilities and mental fortitude will ultimately see him through. “Max is now so hardened, so confident in his driving – we rarely see any mistakes from him,” Vettel told Sky Germany. He emphasized Verstappen’s ability to score crucial points consistently, even with a car that may no longer be the fastest. Vettel also noted that Norris, while talented, isn’t guaranteed wins each race, especially as Ferrari has become a formidable threat to McLaren’s dominance.

Norris vs. Verstappen: An Intense Rivalry The rivalry between Verstappen and Norris has heated up recently, with clashes at the United States and Mexico Grands Prix. While some suggest Norris should adopt a more aggressive style to combat Verstappen, McLaren has a different perspective. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella praises Norris’s maturity and approach to racing at the top level, asserting that the team is pleased with his handling of the title fight.

McLaren’s Advice for Norris: Stay Focused and Evolve Stella highlighted Norris’s rapid development in race craft and resilience. “We just keep telling Lando: keep doing what we are doing, let’s keep improving all the time,” Stella said. “He’s now a very mature driver capable of handling a fight with one of the best drivers in F1 history.”

Final Thoughts Although Vettel tips Verstappen as the title favorite, he remains hopeful that the season will end with a thrilling, close battle. As Verstappen aims to fend off Norris and retain his lead, fans are gearing up for an intense conclusion to the 2024 F1 season.