Formula 1 is heading into the last five races of the season, with the championship race narrowing between the top three contenders: Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris, and Max Verstappen.
McLaren teammates Piastri and Norris are vying for their first world title, but they are being closely pursued by four-time champion Verstappen, who has significantly reduced their points gap over the last four races. His recent performance puts him in contention for a fifth title this year.
With the point margins shrinking, each point becomes crucial in the upcoming races, adding pressure to all competitors.
Weather Outlook – Warm & Sunny
Initial forecasts for Mexico City indicate a warm and sunny weekend, with temperatures peaking at 26°C (79°F) on Saturday, and similar conditions expected for Friday and Sunday with minimal wind.
This Week’s Essential Reads
UNEXPECTED TITLE FIGHT: Verstappen expressed disbelief that he would still be in contention at the U.S. Grand Prix after struggling at his home race barely two months ago, saying, “I would have told him he was an idiot.”
STRATEGY UNDER PRESSURE: Although recognizing the threat from Verstappen, McLaren must figure out how to handle this challenge without losing their composure. Learn more about their approach to managing his challenge.
PENALTY ALERT: Carlos Sainz will face a five-place grid penalty at the Mexico Grand Prix for a collision incident with Mercedes’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli during the U.S. Grand Prix, leading to a penalty conversion due to an earlier retirement.
Things to Watch For
PIASTRI’S CONFIDENCE: Despite a decreasing lead, Piastri remains optimistic about his championship prospects, stating, “I’d still rather be where I am than the other two.”
NEW DRIVERS IN FP1: Rising star Jak Crawford will test for Aston Martin at the Mexico GP, while Pato O’Ward steps in for Norris at McLaren, and Luke Browning will take the wheel for Williams.
HERTA’S F2 MOVE: Colton Herta is set to compete in Formula 2 in 2026, aiming to prove his credentials for a future spot on the Formula 1 grid.
Championship Standings
The competition is heating up! Oscar Piastri (346 pts) remains in the lead, but his margin shrinks as Lando Norris (332 pts) closes in. Max Verstappen (306 pts) is just behind, only 40 points away from Piastri and 26 points behind Norris.
- Piastri: 14 podiums, 7 wins
- Norris: 15 podiums, 5 wins
- Verstappen: 10 podiums, 5 wins
