Max Verstappen’s lead in the Formula 1 overall standings has been reduced to eight points. Defending champion Lewis Hamilton stalks after his sovereign victory Sunday in the desert state of Qatar before the final two races of the season. After a week off, things could get more dramatic in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi than they have been in a long time. The two stars of the scene are ready to fight to the last meter.

In top form on time: Lewis Hamilton can reach the season finale full of self-confidence

Two wins in a row come at the right time. After his wild ride in Brazil, success in Qatar was never in jeopardy. Hamilton controlled the top like the best of times thanks to the perfectly coordinated car. “I’m very positive about the upcoming races. They should adapt to our car,” said the 36-year-old Brit happily.

If he still surpasses Verstappen, he would be the only record world champion with eight titles and would have surpassed Michael Schumacher.

Suddenly again: Max Verstappen can’t keep up with Hamilton’s Mercedes

Even without a starting place penalty, it would hardly have been possible for the 24-year-old Dutchman in the emirate to be at eye level with the defending champion for long. While Mercedes continually improved the car, this time Red Bull failed to create a perfect setup for the car and it weakened. “We want to come back stronger in Saudi Arabia and then see what is still possible in Abu Dhabi,” Verstappen said. (Also read: This is how Max Verstappen already takes the title of world champion in Saudi Arabia)

The old master can still do it: Fernando Alonso returns to the podium after seven years

The former world champion (2005 and 2006) was downright euphoric after his third place finish in the French Alpine team’s race car near Doha. “I had secretly set myself the goal of coming back as the leader from the first lap thanks to the soft tires,” said the Spaniard with a smile. The 40-year-old in third place on the grid failed to do that, but in the end he was finally able to celebrate again. “I am very happy for the whole team,” he said. (Also read: “It couldn’t be better”: ski jumper Geiger travels to Finland in yellow)

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