As F1 heads into the final six races of the season, Lando Norris eyes to join an elite F1 club as he keeps his sights set on clinching his maiden F1 title.
Among the 34 drivers who have won the F1 world championship, only five secured their first Grand Prix victory in the same season they became champion. Norris is targeting this achievement in 2024, having clinched his first F1 win in Miami. Currently, he sits 52 points behind Max Verstappen, with 180 points available and six races left to catch up to the Dutchman.
If Norris succeeds, he will be only the sixth driver to accomplish this and the first in 42 years, while also becoming Britain’s 11th world champion.
Here is the list of F1 drivers who won their first race and title in the same season.
| Driver | Year | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Giuseppe Farina | 1950 | Alfa Romeo |
| Jack Brabham | 1959 | Cooper |
| Graham Hill | 1962 | BRM |
| Denny Hulme | 1967 | Brabham |
| Keke Rosberg | 1982 | Williams |
As the remaining races unfold, both Norris and Piastri will be looking to capitalize on any opportunities that arise. With the McLaren team showing improved performance thanks to their recent upgrades, the dynamic duo could potentially challenge Verstappen more aggressively in the coming races.
Can Lando Norris dethrone Max Verstappen as the F1 season reaches its exciting finale?
Norris has had an exceptional season so far, consistently pushing boundaries and showcasing his talent and composure on the track. With impressive performances that include multiple podium finishes and his inaugural victory at the Miami Grand Prix, he has established himself as one of Formula 1’s most promising stars. With McLaren’s substantial upgrades and improved competitiveness, Norris has proven capable of contending at the front, often matching the pace of the Red Bulls.
However, Verstappen maintains a 52-point advantage in the championship standings. Norris will face a formidable challenge, considering Verstappen’s demonstrated ability to excel under pressure. The 26-year-old’s experience in high-stakes situations highlights his championship pedigree. In contrast, Norris has yet to navigate a title fight of this magnitude, and his capacity to handle the mounting pressure will be vital in assessing whether he can dethrone Verstappen at the top.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
