Russell Teases Norris on Verstappen's Title Hopes After Singapore GP

Max Verstappen's recent resurgence, marked by two consecutive wins, has injected momentum into his fight for a fifth world title heading into the Singapore Grand Prix weekend.

However, a significant 69-point deficit remains between the Red Bull ace and McLaren's Oscar Piastri, who leads the Drivers' Championship, with Lando Norris closing the gap to 44 points behind Verstappen.

Several drivers were pressed on Verstappen's remaining title prospects during pre-Singapore media activities. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc assessed the chances at a "20%" probability, citing Red Bull's strength on low-downforce tracks like Baku and Monza, while suggesting McLaren's pace could improve on circuits yet to come.

Haas driver Esteban Ocon, mindful of Verstappen's track record, suggested a "good chance" for the Dutchman if he remains competitive.

Williams' Alex Albon offered a similarly skeptical view, estimating Verstappen's title chances at "15%," highlighting the fragility of the championship situation, where a single race result between Norris and Piastri could drastically alter the landscape.

McLaren's Norris himself sidestepped a direct assessment of his teammate's title threat, stating only that "there's a chance," implying it was certainly more than zero but perhaps not overwhelmingly likely.

Mercedes' George Russell, however, provided a more memorable answer. While acknowledging the question about Verstappen's title challenge to Norris, Russell offered a playful 100% chance before erupting in laughter.

In contrast, Verstappen himself appeared relatively unfazed, stating he saw his chances as a "50/50" proposition because "I do or I don't [win it]!"

The reigning champion emphasized his focus on race-by-race performance, acknowledging the substantial gap to the McLarens. He noted McLaren's dominance throughout the season but stressed that Red Bull remains confident in their car's potential across different track types.

Despite admitting he has "nothing to lose" over the remainder of the season, Norris underscored McLaren's continued ambition, stating they would enter the Singapore race "with the ambition and with the goal of winning," regardless of the threat posed by Red Bull.

Ultimately, as the F1 grid gathered in Singapore, the narrative revolved around Verstappen's remarkable late-season rally, the formidable McLaren challenge, and Mercedes' pursuit of their maiden constructors' title, with Norris's measured response and Russell's irreverent comments adding personality to the championship debate.