This drivers’ championship chase is outside Norris’ control right now. Even if the Brit won every race from here, including sprints, he would still fall well short if Verstappen finished second.
The title is coming into view for Verstappen too, who would be crowned in Brazil if he can increase his lead by at least 29 points over the coming two rounds.
One DNF for Norris, and that could become a serious possibility.
Opening up his lead by just four more points come the checkered flag in Las Vegas, would also be enough for the Dutchman.
If Norris is to win, it is now likely to come down to the final two race weekends; Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
As for Charles Leclerc, the standings may suggest he still has an outside shot at the title but in reality, that mathematical possibility is likely to be extinguished over the coming two races — even if he wins them both.
