Max Verstappen could drive a perfect race in Japan, but he will have to wait a little longer for the championship. Indeed, even if he wins the race, Ferrari will do everything it can to still take the fastest lap in Japan away from him.

Ferrari full on attack

Verstappen can become champion on Sunday and if he wins in Japan and sets the fastest lap, it doesn't even matter what Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez do. That fastest lap is unlikely to be taken by Verstappen. The chances of Ferrari wanting to do everything they can to grab that fastest lap are pretty good. So that the championship celebration can at least be postponed until the US Grand Prix in a fortnight' time.

In addition, Carlos Sainz will be tasked with defending teammate Leclerc as much as possible against attacks from Perez and all other drivers, to ensure the Monegasque crosses the finish line second. The difference in qualifying between Verstappen and the Ferraris was minimal and there is no reason to think this will be completely different on Sunday. Leclerc and Sainz both have a good chance of winning.

Verstappen will not take unnecessary risks

It is also far from certain that Verstappen will be dominant again on Sunday, as he has been in the races after the summer break. In Singapore, the Dutchman showed a moment of weakness by making mistakes when trying to drive from the back to the front.

Verstappen would love to win the title in Japan, especially after the partnership with Honda has become a lot stronger again. The Dutchman is smart enough not to take unnecessary risks at the Japanese Grand Prix. Even if it means waiting a while longer for his second world title.

Therefore the statement: Verstappen will not be champion in Japan this weekend yet. Do you agree with this opinion or not at all? Then let us know in the poll and leave a comment!