A look back at the 2024 season: a year of surprises and records
The 2024 Formula 1 season has been full of twists and turns, marked by memorable performances, intense rivalries and moments that will go down in the annals of the sport.
A champion as dominant as ever: Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen once again proved he is the man to beat, clinching his fourth consecutive title with impressive dominance. The Dutch driver won 14 victories out of 22 racesequaling his own 2022 record. His consistency and ability to exploit every opportunity have made him the undisputed leader of the season, despite increasingly fierce competition.
- Verstappen scored a total of 470 pointsfinishing with a lead of 112 points on his closest rival, Charles Leclerc.
Ferrari in ambush, but still in search of consistency
Scuderia Ferrari has shown signs of progress throughout the season, with Charles Leclerc et Carlos Sainz regularly on the podium. However, strategic errors, combined with reliability that could still be improved, prevented the Italian team from truly competing with Red Bull.
- During the Monza Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc fought an epic battle with Verstappenfinishing second just 0.4 seconds behind the Dutchman. This duel was a reminder of Ferrari's potential when it manages to put everything together.
Mercedes: a mixed return
After a difficult 2023, Mercedes hoped to return to the top, but the W15 failed to live up to expectations. If George Russell managed to secure a victory at Silverstone, the German team often lacked pace against Red Bull and even Ferrari.
- Mercedes finishes third in the constructors' championship with 322 pointsfar behind Red Bull (748 points) and Ferrari (580 points).
Alpine: a historic podium
The 2024 season offered a historic moment for French motorsport during the Japanese Grand Prix. Pierre Gasly et Esteban Oconat the wheel of their Alpine, achieved an exceptional feat by finishing respectively 2e et 3ebehind Charles Leclerc.
Under unpredictable rainy conditions, the two French drivers showed remarkable composure, seizing their chance at the right moment to give Alpine a memorable double podium. This symbolic moment marks the first time since 1996 (Alesi and Panis) that two French people climb the podium together.
A real feat which thrilled the French fans and confirmed the potential of Alpine on the most demanding circuits.
The surprises and disappointments of the season
- Aston Martinafter an excellent start to the season, saw his performances collapse due to a lack of development. Fernando Alonsodespite everything, scored three podiums, proving that he remains one of the best drivers on the grid.
- Williamscarried by a Alexander Albon in great form, had his best season in a decade, marking 57 points and finishing eighth in the championship.
- McLarenalthough competitive in qualifying, often lacked pace in the race, frustrating his drivers Norris et Plates.
The most notable moment: chaos in Las Vegas
The first Las Vegas Grand Prix did not disappoint in terms of spectacle. Under the spotlights of the Strip, a pileup at the start involving five cars redistributed the cards. George Russell was able to take advantage of the situation to achieve a memorable victory, while Verstappenwho started at the back of the grid after a penalty, moved up to fourth place in a heroic effort.
What to expect for the next F1 season (2025)?
Ferrari: The return of a giant?
With the arrival of Lewis Hamilton alongside Charles LeclercFerrari now has one of the most powerful duos on the grid. If their car gains in reliability and performance, they could finally break their long drought and aim for the two championships. Internal management between two ambitious pilots will be crucial.
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Red Bull: Dominance weakened?
Despite the departure of Sergio Perez, Max Verstappen remains the undisputed leader. The arrival of Liam Lawson brings freshness, but the young driver's inexperience could weigh against rivals from Ferrari and Mercedes. Red Bull will need to maintain its technical lead to stay at the top.
Mercedes: An era of reconstruction
The departure of Lewis Hamilton marks the end of an era. George Russellnow leader, will have to carry the team with the help of the rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Mercedes remains a force not to be underestimated, but their car will have to return to its former level to compete with Ferrari and Red Bull.
Audi: The future challenger?
The arrival of Nico Hulkenberg and the young Gabriel Bortoleto marks the start of a new era for Audi (currently Sauber). With huge investments for 2026, Audi could already surprise and establish itself as a serious outsider this season.
Rookies to watch
The 2025 season marks the arrival of promising young talents on the grid, ready to prove their worth against the veterans of the discipline.
- Liam Lawsonafter impressing as a reserve driver at Red Bull, is now part of the main team alongside Max Verstappen. His speed and maturity will be crucial to maintaining Red Bull's hegemony.
- Jack Doohannow a starter at Alpine, embodies the hope of the French team. After solid performances in F2, he will have to quickly adapt to F1 to support Pierre Gasly and help Alpine progress in the midfield.
- Isack Hadjaranother rising star, joins AlphaTauri. Nicknamed “little Prost” because of his intellectual approach to racing, the F2 vice-champion from the Red Bull sector is a raw talent who will have to demonstrate his potential against more experienced drivers.
In short: a Ferrari – Red Bull duel?
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a potential duel at the top between Ferrari et Red Bullwith Mercedes et Audi in ambush. Ferrari have the means to return to the top, but everything will depend on their ability to maximize the potential of their explosive duo Hamilton – Leclerc faced with the constancy of Verstappen.
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