Norris on the Brink: Qatar Grand Prix Set for Championship Decider
Lusail, Qatar - November 30, 2025 - Lando Norris stands on the cusp of a Formula 1 World Championship title as the Qatar Grand Prix prepares for a 5 p.m. local start. the McLaren driver enters the race with eight distinct scenarios that could see him crowned champion, with a straightforward victory being the most direct path.
The championship battle has come down to this final race, with Norris facing a complex set of possibilities dependent on his finishing position and the performance of rivals Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri. Should Norris not win, he could still secure the title by finishing 2nd if Verstappen doesn’t win and Piastri finishes 4th or lower.Further permutations include finishing 3rd ahead of Verstappen with Piastri 5th or lower, 4th ahead of Verstappen with Piastri 6th or lower, 5th ahead of Verstappen with Piastri 7th or lower, 6th ahead of Verstappen with Piastri 8th or lower, 7th ahead of Verstappen with Piastri 9th or lower, or 8th ahead of Verstappen with Piastri failing to score points.
Adding intrigue to the grid is the starting position of French driver Isack Hadjar, who will begin the race from the third row alongside Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The starting grid sees oscar piastri and Lando Norris lock out the front row, followed by Max Verstappen and George Russell in second. Carlos Sainz jr. and Fernando Alonso occupy the fourth row, while Pierre Gasly and Charles Leclerc round out the top ten.
Fans can follow all the action live with commentary from RMC Sport as the Qatar Grand Prix unfolds and the destiny of the World Championship is decided.