In a season that saw less of the controversial drama of 2021 and more sheer dominance than 2022, Max Verstappen’s 2024 Formula 1 World Championship has been hailed as his most impressive title to date. While the 2023 season reinforced his prowess with 19 wins in 22 races, it’s his ability to triumph amidst turmoil in 2024 that stands out.
Verstappen’s Unprecedented Challenges
This year, Verstappen faced significant challenges both on and off the track. Unlike the drama-filled 2008 season of Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen’s drama was internal, arising from within Red Bull Racing. The turmoil began before the Bahrain Grand Prix when accusations surfaced against team principal Christian Horner, causing rifts within the team’s structure and affecting their harmony.
Verstappen’s initial response, when asked about his support for Horner, was ambivalent at best. The controversy threatened to overshadow his focus, yet Verstappen managed to win the Bahrain GP, securing pole position and maintaining the fastest lap throughout the race, marking an extraordinary start to his campaign.
Navigating Family Tensions
Further complicating matters, Verstappen’s father, Jos, publicly criticised Horner, demanding his immediate dismissal. This only intensified the scrutiny on Max Verstappen, raising doubts about his loyalty to the team and questions regarding Horner’s role in Red Bull. Amidst this, speculation about Verstappen’s potential switch to Mercedes kept journalists at bay, with Verstappen persistently quelling rumours about his departure from Red Bull.
Despite fielding questions about his future, Verstappen maintained composure, a trait he’s sometimes criticised for lacking. His statement during the Austrian Grand Prix, asserting his commitment to Red Bull until 2028, inadvertently heightened tensions with his father but solidified his stance within the team.
On-Track Rivalries and Diplomatic Play
On the track, Verstappen’s competition with McLaren’s rising star Lando Norris was palpable. Norris, buoyed by McLaren’s soaring performance, amplified pressure on Verstappen, highlighting an internal Red Bull struggle — the absence of team support shown by Sergio Perez comparable to that given by Oscar Piastri to Norris.
This pressure culminated during the Austrian GP when Verstappen’s aggressive move forced Norris off-track, earning him a penalty. Rather than retaliating, Verstappen maintained their friendship, a rare show of sportsmanship amidst intense rivalry.
Remarkable Recovery in São Paulo
Verstappen’s defining moment of the season came during the São Paulo Grand Prix. Starting 17th on a grid led by his chief competitor Norris, Verstappen delivered a masterclass performance by clawing his way to a remarkable victory. It was a testament to his resilience and determination to fight for every point despite external distractions.
Handling Political Skirmishes with Maturity
Verstappen’s ability to navigate regulatory rebukes also shone through. Amidst criticism for his candidness, particularly his profane remarks at the Singapore GP, Verstappen handled FIA’s sanctions with aplomb by initiating his press conferences, offering unabashed insights akin to his driving style—open and relentless.
The season witnessed further skirmishes with Norris and his old contender Lewis Hamilton, but Verstappen, embodying newfound maturity, kept his head down, focusing on his ultimate goal—winning the championship.
A Unifying Force for Red Bull
In 2024, Verstappen stepped up not just as a driver aiming for success but as a rallying force for a Red Bull team at odds. His success this year has been more than just about winning races; it’s about solidifying his legacy through challenge and change. Shunning his reputation for impetuosity, Verstappen has instead turned adversity into triumph, proving that resilience under pressure shapes not only athletes but champions.
As he moves forward, what remains to be seen is whether this season’s trials will carve out a more seasoned Verstappen, or if the competitive landscape of Formula 1 will again evolve, presenting new challenges for the reigning champion.
