Verstappen Downplays Championship Scenarios Ahead of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Abu Dhabi – Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Abu dhabi, setting the stage for a dramatic championship showdown with McLaren‘s Lando norris and Oscar Piastri. While Norris and piastri qualified second and third respectively, a specific finishing order could see Norris claim his first world title.
Verstappen acknowledged the pressure but expressed confidence in his readiness. “I hope so. I have driven many laps during the long run, so we have tried to prepare as best as possible. It is probably the best feeling I have had, but let’s wait and see if that is good enough,” he stated to RacingNews365.
Despite eagerly anticipating the title fight - “of course I’m excited. I’m looking forward to it. I’m going to try to win that race” – Verstappen conceded he may require assistance. “But of course I still need a little help or luck to win the championship. But we’ll see how that goes tomorrow.”
The path to Verstappen’s championship isn’t straightforward. He needs Norris to finish off the podium to win outright, even with a victory. finishing second or third also offers a chance, but requires further assistance from Norris and McLaren teammate Piastri.
However, Verstappen isn’t dwelling on the complex permutations. When asked if he was considering the scenarios, he responded, “To think about that in the evening? No.We’ll look at that on Sunday, not Saturday night. It’s like talking about strategy; you can talk about it for an hour or two hours, and then normally after one round you throw it in the bin.So a lot can go right for you, a lot can go against you, and we’ll see that on Sunday.”
