The 2025 Formula 1 World Drivers' Championship race has reached a fever pitch. In last weekend's Qatar Grand Prix, the McLaren team, initially leading, failed to pit during the safety car period, resulting in a strategic error that cost British driver Lando Norris and his Australian teammate Oscar Piastri a chance to win the title. Red Bull's Max Verstappen, however, seized his opportunity, starting from third and ultimately winning the race, reigniting his hopes of a championship victory.
This is the first time since 2010 that more than two drivers still have a chance to win in the final race. Which of the three will ultimately claim the title at this weekend's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?
Currently, Norris leads the drivers' championship with 408 points, followed closely by Verstappen with 396 points, and Piastri in third place with 392 points. It's worth noting that all three have seven wins this season, but Norris has more runner-up finishes (eight). This means that if all three finish with the same points and wins, Norris will win his first career championship based on this advantage.
A list of conditions for winning the championship
For Norris to win the championship:
Top three: Directly win the championship
For finishers from 4th to 11th place, the ranking will depend on Verstappen and Piastri's results.
If Verstappen wants to win the title:
Win the championship and Norris cannot be ranked higher than 4th.
Alternatively, they could finish second, Norris could finish below eighth, and Piastri could not finish in the top three.
For Piastri to win the title:
Only by securing first or second place, and with both opponents simultaneously making serious mistakes or retiring, is it possible to achieve this.
