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In what ways can Verstappen become F1 world champion in Japan?
- GPblog.com
The second world title for Max Verstappen was not yet in the cards in Singapore. It was also a difficult task beforehand, as he was dependent on poor results from Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez, but in Japan, the Dutchman has the title completely in his own hands. In this article, you can read about the different ways Verstappen can become world champion.
To be sure of the world championship, Verstappen needs to score at least eight points more than Leclerc and at least six points more than Perez in the Japanese GP. In this scenario, Leclerc and Perez could be exactly equal to Verstappen in the World Championship with five Grands Prix to go, but because the Dutchman would then have scored more wins in 2022, the title goes to Verstappen.
Multiple scenarios possible for the Verstappen title
If Leclerc finishes second at the Suzuka circuit next week, Verstappen will have to finish first as well as score the bonus World Championship point for the fastest lap. Verstappen then takes 26 points, Leclerc 18 points. Perez will then have a maximum of 15 points, which would mean another world title for Verstappen. So Verstappen has this entirely in his own hands.
As soon as Verstappen finishes second or lower, he again depends on the results of Leclerc and Perez. If Verstappen finishes second without gaining the World Championship point for the fastest lap, Leclerc may score a maximum of 10 points (equivalent to fifth place). Perez, in this case, would not be allowed to finish higher than fourth (scoring 12 World Championship points).
If Verstappen takes second place with the extra World Championship point (i.e. 19 points), Leclerc will need a P4 (and 12 points) to postpone the party for Red Bull for a week.
Verstappen will have to perform
There are an awful lot of possible scenarios in which Verstappen could become champion in Japan, but it is of course plausible that Leclerc will always finish in the top-four without any problems or mistakes. Verstappen can and will have to do it on his own by at least taking the win in Japan.