Overview

• McLaren arrives on 617 points, 337 clear of Ferrari (260), 357 ahead of Mercedes (240) and 378 ahead of Red Bull (239).
• With 346 points available after the Azerbaijan weekend, a gap of at least that size guarantees the title on countback based on wins.
• Reported thresholds indicate McLaren must outscore Ferrari by nine points while avoiding being outscored by Mercedes by 12 or more and Red Bull by 33 or more.
• A straightforward permutation is a one–two finish for McLaren, which would confirm the championship regardless of rivals’ results.
• Clinching in Baku would deliver a 10th constructors’ crown, the team’s first successful defence since 1991, move McLaren ahead of Williams on the all-time list, and break Red Bull’s record for the earliest title by races remaining.