How Mercedes can secure a record-breaking constructors' championship in Portugal

Formula 1 returns to Portugal for the first time since 1996 this weekend for the 12th race of a season again dominated by Mercedes.

The Brackley-based team have the opportunity to wrap up a record-breaking seventh consecutive championship at Portimão's Algarve International Circuit this weekend.

Mercedes is currently tied for the record with Ferrari who won six in a row from 1999 to 2004. Going into this weekend it is a long shot it will make it seven, but how can it do it?

Mercedes currently leads Red Bull by 180 points. With a maximum team score of 44 points available from a race weekend - 25 for the win, 18 for second, and one for the fastest lap - it leaves a total of 264 points on the table.

So with a maximum of 220 points available after the Portuguese GP, Mercedes need to score at least 40 points more than Red Bull. Here are the scenarios.

Mercedes one-two with fastest lap

If Mercedes secure a one-two finish and hold the fastest lap bonus point to reap the full 44-point allocation, Red Bull must score at least four points to continue the 'title battle' onto Imola.

Mercedes one-two without fastest lap

If Mercedes fail to set the fastest lap between either two drivers, then Red Bull only need to score a minimum of three points to extend the wait for the Silver Arrows.

Mercedes one-three with fastest lap

If Mercedes obtain a double-podium with a car in between, Red Bull has to score a single point in order to deny Mercedes an early celebration. A Red Bull no score leaves Mercedes just needing a one-three finish.

Before you go...

"Negative" feelings over Ricciardo's Renault exit now in the past - Abiteboul

Engine partnership allows Haas to talk to Ferrari "first" over junior drivers

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Valentino Rossi admits he 'would come to blows' in title fight with Max Verstappen

• Yesterday 22:30

Audi F1 chief drops heavy 2027 driver lineup hint with Carlos Sainz reference

• Yesterday 21:45

George Russell told to confront Mercedes reality: ‘His championship is down the drain’

• Yesterday 20:56

Max Verstappen set 'to announce F1 future' at upcoming race

• Yesterday 19:45

F1 team boss reveals Fernando Alonso signing priority

• Yesterday 18:45

F1 boss reveals joint plans with Donald Trump to host grand prix race

• Yesterday 17:30