McLaren Leads Formula 1 Constructors Championship in Qatar

Max Verstappen secured his fourth Formula 1 title in Las Vegas, but the focus now shifts to the constructors' championship, where McLaren leads Ferrari by 24 points and Red Bull by 29 points. The upcoming Qatar Grand Prix features a sprint race that could allow McLaren to clinch its first constructors' title since 1998, contingent upon a strong performance or misfortunes for its rivals. The constructors' championship, worth around $140 million, remains competitive, with McLaren needing a perfect weekend to secure victory. Lando Norris dismissed Verstappen's claims about earlier wins and emphasized the importance of having strong teammates, reflecting on the challenges faced by Red Bull's Sergio Pérez, who has yet to win a race this season. Weather conditions in Qatar are anticipated to be milder than last year, when extreme heat posed serious risks to drivers. This weekend's races will be pivotal in determining the final outcome of the constructors' title before the Abu Dhabi finale.