Verstappen wants his third crown and Mercedes and Ferrari fight for second place in Constructors
The Dutch Max Verstappen (Red Bull) has it in its power to become world champion for the third consecutive time this weekend in the Qatar Grand Prixeighteenth test of the Formula 1 World Cup that is disputed in the Losail circuita triple crown that could be achieved in the ‘Sprint’ race, while Mercedes will defend its runner-up position in Constructors against an improved Ferrari, and Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) focuses the final stretch with the challenge of not falling in performance.
The Dutch already treasure 400 points ahead of the general classification of pilots, 177 more than the second, his teammate, the Mexican Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez (223), who abandoned the Japanese track, handing the championship to ‘Mad Max’.
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Thus, Verstappen’s comfortable advantage in the World Championship in the table turns the Qatar GP into a ‘match ball’ after achieving his thirteenth victory in the 16 races disputed so far. In a weekend that distributes more points for the ‘Sprint’, the current champion would only need to finish sixth in this Saturday’s ‘mini-race’ to win the title; or lead the Mexican by 146 points or more when the GP ends.
This overwhelming dominance of the Dutchman, who may be the second youngest world champion driver for the third time (26 years old) – only surpassed by Sebastian Vettel (25 years and 4 months) – was key for Red Bull to achieve sixth place in Japan. Constructors title with 318 cushion over Mercedes. However, the team podium is not decidedsince the Germans (305) only have a 20-point advantage over the Ferraris (285) of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.
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Where to watch Formula 1 races
Those who are not lucky enough to be able to occupy a place in the stands can always settle for follow the excitement of the ‘Great Circus’ on television. Once again, those in charge of broadcasting Formula 1 in Spain are Dazn and Movistar+, which share broadcast. In principle, none of the grand prizes can be seen openly.
If you don’t have access to these options, you can always follow the races live on our live broadcast.
Qatar GP 2023 schedules
Friday, October 5.
Free Training 1 15.30.
Rating 19.00.
Saturday 6.
Qualification for the ‘Sprint’ 15.00.
Race to the ‘Sprint’ 7:30 p.m.
Sunday 7.
Race 19.00.