This weekend in Abu Dhabi, the Formula One world championship will be decided in a thrilling three-way fight. For the first time in years, the title will go down to the final race, with reigning champion Max Verstappen chasing down Lando Norris, who holds a slender lead, while Oscar Piastri lurks as a genuine outsider.
The High-Stakes Championship Battle
The standings could not be tighter heading into the season finale. Lando Norris leads the championship with 408 points, but his advantage is precarious. Max Verstappen sits just 12 points behind in second on 396, with Norris's McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, a further four points adrift on 392. The mathematics are simple yet nerve-shredding: a top-three finish for Norris guarantees him the crown. If Verstappen wins and Norris fails to finish in the top three, the Dutchman will claim his fifth title. The same scenario applies to Piastri.
This is familiar territory for Verstappen, a four-time champion, but uncharted waters for both McLaren drivers. Norris mounted a minor challenge last season, but it was over with two races to spare. This time, a dramatic twist in Qatar, where Verstappen won and both McLarens were disqualified, has set up a spectacular showdown. With seven wins each this season, the trio have dominated, claiming 21 of the 23 races between them.
Fortune & Fame: The Multi-Million Pound Lives of F1's Elite
The financial rewards of being at the pinnacle of motorsport are staggering, and the three title contenders are living proof. According to celebritynetworth.com, Max Verstappen's net worth is an estimated £150.1 million, bolstered by a reported £50 million annual salary from Red Bull, with whom he is contracted until 2028.
In comparison, the McLaren duo have some catching up to do, reflecting their shorter careers. Lando Norris, emerging as Britain's new F1 star, is valued at approximately £52.6 million, earning around £15.5 million per year. Rookie sensation Oscar Piastri has accrued a net worth of £30 million, with an annual salary of £4.6 million. Both are tied to McLaren until at least 2027 and 2028 respectively, with prospects of extended stays given the team's resurgence.
Property, Cars & Personal Lives
All three drivers have made the tax-friendly principality of Monaco their home. Norris moved there four years ago, revealing his apartment with sea views on Instagram, and has since reportedly added a £16 million London flat with panoramic skyline views to his portfolio. Verstappen rents a £13.4 million penthouse and has invested in property in California and Portugal with his partner, Kelly Piquet. Piastri also resides in a luxurious Monte Carlo apartment, having relocated from the UK in 2024.
Their car collections are equally impressive. Norris's garage in Monaco features icons like a McLaren P1 (£866,000) and a Porsche Carrera GT (£507,000). Piastri, who joked about catching his teammate, drives a McLaren Artura and a 720S. Verstappen's more refined collection, including an Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, is estimated to be worth £6 million.
Off the track, their personal lives differ. Verstappen and model Kelly Piquet, daughter of triple champion Nelson Piquet, welcomed their first child, Lily, earlier this year. Piastri is in a long-term relationship with childhood sweetheart and engineering graduate Lily Zneimer. Norris's romance with Portuguese actress Magui Corceiro has been a topic of fascination, with the pair confirming their relationship is currently 'on'.
Paths to the Pinnacle: Privilege, Pedigree & Passion
The drivers' backgrounds reveal diverse routes to F1. Lando Norris enjoyed a privileged upbringing; his father, Adam, co-founded the financial giant Hargreaves Lansdown, funding his karting from age six and his education at Millfield School. Max Verstappen was born into racing; his father, Jos, was an F1 driver, and he began karting at four with private tutoring. Oscar Piastri's path saw him move from Australia to a UK boarding school at 14. His father, Chris, who owns a software company, heavily sponsored his early career, having spent over £4 million.
As the sun sets on the Yas Marina Circuit this weekend, one of these three exceptional talents will etch their name into history. Will it be a fifth crown for the experienced Verstappen, a maiden title for the consistent Norris, or a fairytale finish for the impressive rookie Piastri? The stage is set for a monumental conclusion to the Formula One season.
