By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp
ANKARA (AA) - Max Verstappen could clinch the 2022 Formula One title in Sunday's Singapore Grand Prix, depending on how his nearest opponents Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez perform.
The Dutch driver could win one of the earliest titles in history in two possible case scenarios.
If Verstappen finishes the race first and sets the fastest lap, his teammate Perez must finish no higher than fourth, while Ferrari's Leclerc must finish no higher than eighth.
If the Dutchman wins the Singapore GP without setting the fastest lap, Perez must finish no higher than fourth or fifth. If the fastest lap is set by Perez, Leclerc must finish no higher than ninth.
If one of these unlikely are conditions met, 24-year-old Verstappen will equalize the second earliest drivers' championship win in F1 history, with Williams driver Nigel Mansell, who won the 1992 title with five races to spare.
The earliest drivers' championship win in F1 history was recorded by German legend Michael Schumacher in the 2002 season with six races to spare.
The Singapore Grand Prix, Round 17 in 2022 season of the Formula One World Championship, will be held at Marina Bay Street Circuit on Sunday.