What is Formula 1 grand slam which Lando Norris nearly missed in Singapore GP? - Explained

In Formula 1, a Grand Slam represents the pinnacle of race dominance, where a driver exhibits flawless mastery across the entire weekend. Lando Norris, during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, came incredibly close to achieving this elusive feat but narrowly missed out, adding another layer of excitement to an already intense race. But what exactly is a Formula 1 Grand Slam, and why is it so prestigious?

A Grand Slam in Formula 1, also known as a Grand Chelem, is an unofficial title awarded to a driver who accomplishes four specific feats during a single race weekend. These are:

1. Securing pole position in qualifying.
2. Leading every lap of the race.
3. Setting the fastest lap.
4. Winning the Grand Prix.

This combination of achievements requires not only skill but also a dominant car and race strategy, making it one of the most difficult accomplishments in motorsport. However, fans often confuse a Grand Slam with a hat trick. The difference between a Grand Slam and a Hat-trick, which is often confused, lies in the requirement to lead every lap.

For a hat trick, a driver needs to secure pole position, set the fastest lap, and win the race—but they do not need to lead every lap. Therefore, every Grand Slam is a hat trick, but not every Hat-trick is a Grand Slam.

How did Lando Norris miss his first Grand Slam?

Lando Norris was poised to potentially secure his first Grand Slam at the Singapore GP, having started from pole and displayed exceptional pace. However, while he led several laps and was in contention for the fastest lap, he could not maintain the lead for the entire race, nor did he set the fastest lap, narrowly missing out on the full Grand Slam.

Achieving a Grand Slam places drivers in an exclusive club. To date, only 26 drivers in Formula 1 history have managed to pull off this remarkable feat. Legends like Juan Manuel Fangio were among the first to accomplish it, while contemporary stars like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have etched their names into this elite list.

The record for the most Grand Slams is held by Jim Clark, who achieved it an incredible eight times between 1962 and 1965. Max Verstappen most recently secured his fourth Grand Slam during the 2024 Bahrain GP, demonstrating just how rare and challenging this accolade is to attain.