Lando Norris is facing an uphill battle to keep his championship hopes alive in Las Vegas. With the upcoming race being crucial for him to cut down Max Verstappen’s lead to 59 points or fewer, Norris will need the support of his rivals to take points away from Verstappen. Ferrari’s strong performance in Las Vegas last season could play a significant role in helping Norris stay in the title fight, especially if he secures a win.
However, the possibility of Charles Leclerc, who finished second in 2023, facing a grid penalty in Las Vegas could be a setback for Norris. Leclerc’s potential penalty could hinder Norris’ chances of maximizing his points and closing the gap on Verstappen. Despite Leclerc’s presence at the front, Norris is facing tough odds, especially with his teammate Oscar Piastri struggling in recent races.
Verstappen’s strong performance in the previous Brazilian Grand Prix has put him in a favorable position to secure another podium finish in Las Vegas. This scenario could further diminish Norris’ chances of winning his first World Championship, as any small gains made in Las Vegas would only delay the inevitable outcome until the following Qatar Grand Prix.
Looking ahead, Norris may have to wait until 2025 for another shot at the championship, with no guarantees of success. Eddie Jordan, speaking on the Formula For Success podcast, highlighted Norris’ talent and speed on the track but raised concerns about whether his niceness could be a hindrance. Despite Norris’ impressive performances, the missed opportunities throughout the season have put him at a disadvantage compared to Verstappen.
As the Las Vegas Grand Prix approaches, Norris will need to overcome various challenges to stay in the title race and capitalize on any opportunities that come his way. The race will not only be crucial for determining this year’s champion but also for shaping Norris’ future prospects in Formula 1.