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FIA Steward Reveals Max Verstappen DNF Could Shake Up Las Vegas GP and Championship Battle
An FIA steward has dropped a significant bombshell about the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, suggesting that a potential DNF (Did Not Finish) for Max Verstappen could dramatically shift the trajectory of the 2024 Formula 1 championship. Verstappen, who has been dominant all season, moved even closer to securing his fourth world title after a stunning victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Despite starting from 16th on the grid after a Q2 exit and a grid penalty, the Dutchman fought his way through the pack to take the win, leaving his championship rival Lando Norris with an uphill battle.
Verstappen’s triumph in Brazil was particularly impressive, as even his own race engineer had doubts about his ability to win from such a low starting position. However, Verstappen demonstrated his extraordinary racecraft, overtaking car after car to eventually take advantage of a well-timed red flag, which allowed him to take the lead and secure yet another victory. This result edged him closer to sealing the 2024 title, but his nearest competitor, Norris, still has a slim chance of taking the crown.
Lando Norris, who started the Brazilian GP from pole position, was left disappointed after finishing in P6, a result that complicates his pursuit of the world championship. With just a few races remaining in the season, Norris faces a daunting task to catch up to Verstappen, who remains the clear favorite. However, former F1 driver and current FIA steward Johnny Herbert believes that Norris still has a glimmer of hope, especially if Verstappen encounters a setback in the form of a DNF in Las Vegas.
Herbert, speaking in an interview with Vision4Sport, shared his thoughts on the championship battle, suggesting that a single non-finish for Verstappen could completely change the dynamic of the title race. “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 said. While he acknowledged that Verstappen remains the heavy favorite, even if a DNF occurs, he pointed out how critical it is for Norris to stay focused and ready to capitalize on any potential misfortune for his rival.
Herbert went on to highlight Verstappen’s maturity this season, noting that the Red Bull driver has grown significantly in his approach to managing races. “Max will not have to win; he only needs to finish on the podium. He knows what he has to do and is so much more mature this season,” Herbert explained. This calm and calculated mindset has been key to Verstappen’s consistency, which is why he is so close to clinching the championship despite Norris’s efforts.
For Norris, regardless of what happens in the final three races, Herbert believes he will take valuable lessons into the 2025 season. According to Herbert, Norris has proven to himself and others that he has what it takes to challenge Verstappen, which will serve as a psychological boost moving forward. “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 said. He praised Norris for pushing Verstappen to the limit this season, adding, “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.”
Although Verstappen remains the frontrunner for the 2024 title, Herbert’s comments underscore how fragile the situation could become if the Dutchman experiences any mechanical issues or race-ending incidents in Las Vegas. Norris, who has been in strong form this season, would need to seize such an opportunity to keep his title hopes alive. As the season approaches its climax, all eyes will be on the two rivals as they battle for championship glory in what promises to be a thrilling Las Vegas Grand Prix.
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