LAS VEGAS | For the first time since 2021, the suspense in the Drivers’ Championship will have lasted almost until the end of the season. Max Verstappen may not have dramatically won his fourth title by overtaking Lewis Hamilton in the last corner like in Abu Dhabi, but his strength in adversity and his small miracles over the course of a tumultuous season will have allowed him to stay in front and enjoy a different coronation.
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In a race won by Briton George Russell, the 27-year-old Dutch driver brought his Red Bull car back to fifth position at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, 22nd of the 24 stages of this 2024 season.
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With Lando Norris who followed him in 6th place and who was terminated seeing little chance of catching up with him in the ranking, he thus increased his lead to 63 points, to 403 points in total, and assured his title before landing in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
“It was a long season. We started strong and built on our successes. We hit rock bottom by incorporating the new concept, said the reigning four-time world champion. Winning this title is incredible. We have gone through a season full of challenges. We should all be proud of ourselves. I never thought it would be possible to experience this moment. I am relieved and proud.”
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Incredible season
Verstappen hit a nerve. Remember that the 2024 season had not yet launched when Red Bull was plunged into turmoil with allegations of misconduct weighing on principal director Christian Horner. This situation fueled tensions in the team. What followed was the announcement of the departure of automotive engineering guru Adrian Newey and a host of problems on the track with a wayward car.
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Luckily, the talent comes out of the ears of this ace driver who is already considered among the greatest drivers in the history of F1. Furthermore, this fourth world consecration brings him equal with Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel in this very select group.
Lessons
Across his eight wins in 2024 so far, including his incredible performance in Brazil two weeks ago, he has still been ousted from the podium on nine occasions. These “failures” compared to his total domination of 19 victories last year taught him “to stay calm”.
“In a way, I prefer last season,” he joked after being congratulated by his peers.
“But I learned a lot of lessons,” he added, thinking of the craftsmen who worked hard at the Mylton Keynes factory even though the middle of summer was not easy. with a series of difficult outings. I’m also proud of the way we performed as a team.”
Remarkable and solid
“It’s been a roller coaster season,” admitted Horner, congratulating his champion. He was remarkable. He started strong and we got through a tough summer. Despite everything, he remained strong. Max joins a group of great champions belonging to the elite of our sport. He is among the greatest in history.”
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“I think it’s his best and hardest title,” added the team director and big boss of motor racing at Red Bull, who also tipped his hat to the employees of the English factory. He delivered the goods even if the car was not always ready.
Unlike the 2022 and 2023 campaigns, Verstappen has been put under pressure. The valve has often failed in his fight with his friend Norris this season. This competition bodes well for the future.
“Next year it will be a battle with several people, but I love it.”
