Only eight points separate them. When it comes time to tackle the penultimate Grand Prix of the season, the mano a mano between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is having his hottest hours. After Lewis Hamilton’s victory on Sunday, November 21, at the Grand Prix of Qatar, the drivers have an appointment in Saudi Arabia.
By a subtle alignment of the planets, the Dutch driver could be crowned world champion this weekend. A title that would put an end to the reign without sharing of Lewis Hamilton, crowned without stopping since 2018. What scenarios can offer the title of world champion to Max Verstappen this Sunday?
If Verstappen finishes first …
It would be the simplest scenario for the Dutchman. Finish first and count on a poor form from Lewis Hamilton. For the first part, nothing insurmountable for Verstappen. The Red Bull rider has already finished first in a GP nine times this season.
Clear your calendars for the next two weekends ⚔️# F1 #HistoryAwaits @ Max33Verstappen @LewisHamilton pic.twitter.com/V2D33KWZEu
– Formula 1 (@ F1) December 1, 2021
For the rest, he must count on a ranking of Hamilton above sixth place. If Max Verstappen also made the fastest lap in the race on Sunday (1 bonus point) and Lewis Hamilton finished 6th, the calculator must be taken out. The Dutchman will score 26 points and the Briton 8. Verstappen would then have 26 points of margin over his great rival and would be assured of the title, even in the event of a full card from Lewis Hamilton during the last GP. Indeed, in the event of a tie, it is the driver with the most victories who is titled.
If Verstappen finishes second …
Another place, other scenarios. Verstappen could be crowned by finishing second with the fastest lap, if Lewis Hamilton doesn’t do better than 10th. If the Red Bull driver does not set the fastest lap, Lewis Hamilton should not score a single point.
This season, the Briton has finished beyond seventh place just three times. Including once, at the Italian Grand Prix, for not having finished the race after a collision with … Max Verstappen.
If Verstappen finishes beyond second place …
The Red Bull driver is obliged to finish first or second in Saudi Arabia to hope for a coronation before the final meeting of the season. If he finishes third or even further in the standings, Lewis Hamilton can always dream of a new title …