What better setting than the luxuries of Las Vegas to celebrate a four-time Formula 1 world champion? It was on the streets of the City of Vice that Max Verstappen became the equal of Sebastian Vettel and Alain Prost. If the Mercedes dominated the race with the victory of George Russell ahead of Lewis Hamilton, the Dutchman was satisfied with a fifth place to be crowned, since his runner-up Lando Norris (McLaren) did not do better than sixth.
“It's been a long season so far, smiled Max Verstappen, interviewed by American actor Terry Crews and 2009 world champion Jenson Button in front of the Bellagio fountains. We started off amazing, it was quieter after that. We had some difficult times, but as a team we stuck together to try to improve the car. I'm very proud of everyone on the team. I couldn't have hoped to be a quadruple world champion. I feel relieved, but also very proud.
I was just happy to be there when I started in F1 (at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix with Toro Rosso. Editor's note). I was hoping to get on podiums, to get victories, which is already very difficult to achieve. There were a few tough years when I tried. Then we put a car on track with a new concept. To be a four-time world champion is incredible. »
After a flying 2023 season, 2024 was a little more challenging with the rise in power of the other teams and particularly McLaren.
“It was a competitive season, recognizes Verstappen. I had to stay calm. I definitely prefer last season, but I learned a lot of lessons from this year. That makes this title special. It's amazing to see all these fans supporting me. We went through a lot of emotions together.
If I look ahead to next year now, it should be a battle with a lot of different cars. I will first savor this title and there are two races left to go. I want to do things right there before enjoying the winter and then return to battle next year. »
2025 could indeed be much more contested before the change in regulations.
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