When And Where Will Red Bull Mathematically Win The 2023 F1 Title?
As the 2023 Formula 1 season continues to unfold, one question looms large: when and where will Red Bull Racing mathematically secure the championship title? With Max Verstappen’s dominant performance and Red Bull’s strong showing this season, the prospect of sealing the deal is tantalizingly close. Let’s break down the points permutations and look at the possibilities.
Verstappen’s Commanding Lead
Max Verstappen has emerged as the standout driver of the 2023 season, amassing a formidable lead in the drivers’ championship. His advantage of 151 points over teammate Sergio Perez after 15 races is nothing short of remarkable. With only seven Grand Prix and three Sprints remaining on the calendar, there are still 206 points up for grabs.
Japan: The Next Stop
The upcoming race in Japan at the iconic Suzuka Circuit has fans eagerly anticipating Verstappen’s potential title-clinching moment. However, a close examination of the points situation reveals that this race may not be the one where the championship is decided.
In Japan, there are only 26 points available, including the bonus point for the fastest lap. Even if Verstappen secures a victory and the fastest lap while Perez fails to score, it wouldn’t provide the Dutchman with the margin he needs to lock in the championship.
Qatar: The Likely Venue
Turning our attention to the following race in Qatar, the scenario becomes more promising for Red Bull and Verstappen. Qatar presents an opportunity for the Dutch driver to widen the gap significantly. The return of the Sprint format in Qatar also introduces extra points (a maximum of eight) into the equation.
If Verstappen can leave the Lusail International Circuit with a points margin of 146 or more, he will secure the championship title. This would give him five remaining rounds to celebrate his third drivers’ crown.
Remaining Races
The following are the points gaps required for Verstappen to clinch the title in subsequent races:
Qatar: 146 points –
United States: 112 points –
Mexico: 86 points –
Brazil: 52 points –
Las Vegas: 26 points
Constructors’ Championship: Red Bull’s Chance in Suzuka
While Verstappen aims to secure his personal glory, Red Bull Racing also has a shot at clinching the constructors’ championship. They currently lead Mercedes by a whopping 308 points. The upcoming Suzuka race offers Red Bull a chance to claim their second consecutive constructors’ title.
