Verstappen is expected to 'take it easy' for an improbable championship.

      "Now conditions have changed."

      The stage is set for Formula 1's most thrilling three-way title showdown in years in Abu Dhabi, featuring Max Verstappen in pole position, Lando Norris alongside him, and Oscar Piastri following closely. "McLaren hasn’t faced this level of pressure in a long time," cautioned former team driver and F1 icon Gerhard Berger. The tension was evident on Norris’ face, particularly as he focused on "the only driver" he truly fears. He candidly expressed his "disappointment" in not being able to outpace Verstappen, aware that the Dutchman can dictate the race while leading.

      A win for Verstappen alone won’t secure him his unexpected fifth title, as for Norris the equation is straightforward – finish in P3 and he’ll be the champion. The pressing question within the paddock is whether Norris can maintain his composure. Verstappen made it clear he desires "chaos" behind him and even mentioned he enjoys the pressure. His father Jos, who is currently participating in a rally in Africa, echoed this sentiment: "Put pressure on him like this, and he’ll perform even better."

      Nico Rosberg believes the most feasible path for Verstappen to secure the championship mirrors Lewis Hamilton's strategy to thwart his title bid in Abu Dhabi in 2016. "Max’s optimal strategy might be to hold up the rest of the field," he told Sky Deutschland. "I’m quite familiar with this from 2016. Max also has his teammate in P10. If the McLarens fall behind following their stops, that could present his best opportunity. However, Max will require an exceptional performance."

      Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff also anticipates this scenario: "If Max can keep the entire field bunched up, we could be right in the thick of it." Ralf Schumacher laid out the strategic complications for McLaren. "If both McLarens were at the front, they could operate independently. But now conditions have changed," he said. "One tiny error at the start could lead to chaos, and Lando has always been a bit anxious during starts. Piastri now has to support Norris," Schumacher continued. "If Russell and Leclerc advance past Norris, McLaren would lose the championship. Piastri must protect Norris at the start, proceed cautiously during pit stops, and if necessary, hold off Russell and Leclerc."

      Dr. Helmut Marko expects a high-stakes race, particularly at the start. "Norris usually gets jittery when he’s alongside Max at the front," he noted. Despite the odds being against Verstappen, who trails by 12 points, few dispute that he has had the most remarkable season - perhaps his best yet. Mathias Lauda remarked to Osterreich: "He had such an inferior car – I’ve never seen anything like it. He simply doesn’t care. It would have impressed my father as well." When asked for his prediction, Niki Lauda’s son added: "It’s Norris. He just has to stay calm. Finishing fourth with such a strong car would be unacceptable."

      Both Norris and Piastri stated on Saturday that team orders have not been formally discussed. Lauda does not believe this. "Absolutely, team orders will be in effect," he stated. "They can't afford any more errors. They’ll wait for the start and must ensure Norris secures at least third place. They are under significant pressure now - it will be captivating to see how they manage it."