Anthony Davidson Breaks Down F1 Title Race Questions

The 2025 Formula 1 season is hurtling towards a captivating climax, with a three-way title fight set to be decided in the final four rounds. Lando Norris surged back into the championship lead for the first time since April with a dominant victory at the Mexico City Grand Prix, putting him a single point ahead of McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. Red Bull's Max Verstappen, 36 points adrift, is chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive drivers' title.

Why it matters:

This championship battle marks one of the most unpredictable and exciting conclusions in recent F1 history, with multiple contenders from different teams vying for the top prize. The outcome will not only crown a new champion (or a repeat one) but also significantly impact team dynamics and future driver market decisions. A close fight between two teammates, like Norris and Piastri, adds an extra layer of intrigue, challenging team management's neutrality.

The Details:

• Upcoming Track Challenges: Anthony Davidson, F1 expert, provides insights into how the remaining circuits might favor each contender:
  • Brazil: Expected to be close, with Verstappen potentially holding an advantage, especially in wet conditions. McLaren historically strong in the dry, but Verstappen's recent form makes it less clear-cut.
  • Las Vegas: Similar to Monza, a low-downforce track that could suit Red Bull. McLaren's strength in tire management might be a disadvantage in the cold, low-corner conditions, where tire warm-up is key.
  • Qatar: Hands down a McLaren circuit due to its medium and high-speed corners, where they are expected to dominate.
  • Abu Dhabi: Expected to be closer, favoring McLaren's race pace, though Verstappen could still challenge for pole position.
• McLaren Team Orders: Davidson believes McLaren will continue to let their drivers race, unwilling to favor one over the other to secure the championship. This approach, while fair, could inadvertently benefit Verstappen, allowing him to capitalize on any internal McLaren battle.
• Verstappen's Adaptability: While Verstappen's dominance in the Red Bull is clear, Davidson questions whether he would be as effective in the McLaren, highlighting the complexities of car-driver synergy. He suggests that Norris and Piastri would provide the toughest competition Verstappen has ever faced.
• Piastri's Form: Piastri's recent dip in form after a strong start to the season is noted, but Davidson expects him to rebound. Qatar, where Piastri previously won a Sprint race, is highlighted as a potential turning point for him. Davidson suggests that Piastri's mistakes might stem from the pressure of leading the championship.
• Norris's Resilience: Norris is praised for his mental fortitude and aggressive, yet controlled, driving style, especially under pressure. His Mexico qualifying lap is cited as an example of his exceptional ability.
• External Factors: Davidson points out that drivers not in the championship fight, like George Russell or Ferrari drivers, have less to lose and might drive more aggressively against the title contenders, potentially creating incidents. Title contenders, in turn, are more cautious, operating in "protection mode" to avoid contact.

What's next:

The title fight intensifies with the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, a Sprint event. The battle is predicted to come down to consistent perfection every weekend, rather than reliability, which Davidson hopes will not be a deciding factor. If McLaren's drivers continue to push each other, and external factors play a role, the championship could go down to the wire in Abu Dhabi, promising a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 season.