Mexico Grand Prix Preview: Norris and Verstappen renew rivalry

This weekend, Formula 1 will retain its presence in North America, after the US Grand Prix last weekend, as this time, it heads to Mexico for the Mexican Grand Prix. As usual, the 71-lap Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez will be the venue for the race. The Mexican GP is one of the last five races of the season, hence making it pivotal to the title race we have been witnessing these past few months. 

At this point, the line is clearly drawn between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. After receiving a penalty plus demotion at the end of the US GP, forcing him to drop fourth place, the gap between Norris and Verstappen increased to 57 points from 52, as Verstappen racked up more points for finishing third and winning the sprint race the day before. 

Although Verstappen is still not in the clear, as regards winning the championship, the aftermath of the US GP has reduced his load and if things work in his favour in Mexico, he may be announced as the title winner in the next race. This is a possibility Norris and the team back at McLaren would be fighting to prevent. 

A score of 57 points is a lot, but there is no telling what could happen in the remaining races. Obviously, the team would try to eliminate any chance of a penalty at any cost, while also working out strategies that will see Norris finish ahead of Verstappen at least.  

There is also using errors as a strategy. The middle of the season saw Verstappen fumble due to errors, which greatly helped reduce the lead he had on the leaderboard. Such errors happening is a miracle the team would no doubt be banking on. 

For now, both drivers would put their all on the track aiming not just for first position, but also to win fastest lap, as every point counts at this stage of the competition.