Max Verstappen’s path to his fourth consecutive Formula 1 World Championship title in 2024 was marked by a blend of domination, consistency, and exceptional racecraft. With every passing race, Verstappen demonstrated why he is one of the greatest talents the sport has ever seen. Here’s a look back at how the Dutch driver amassed the points needed to secure another championship.
A Perfect Start: Bahrain Grand Prix (Round 1)
The season kicked off in Bahrain, and Verstappen wasted no time in setting the tone for the year. Starting from pole, he delivered a masterful performance, leading from start to finish. His commanding victory in Bahrain, nearly 20 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher, gave him the first 25 points of the season and established an early lead in the championship standings.
Continuing the Momentum: Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (Round 2)
In Saudi Arabia, Verstappen once again showcased his ability to perform under pressure. Despite starting from second on the grid, he quickly took the lead in the race and never looked back, securing his second win of the season. His ability to manage tire wear and stay ahead of the competition was evident, and this victory continued to build his lead in the points standings.
A Key Victory: Australian Grand Prix (Round 3)
The Australian Grand Prix was one of the most dramatic races of the season, and Verstappen’s strategic brilliance was on full display. With multiple safety cars and unpredictable weather conditions, many of the front-runners faltered. But Verstappen stayed cool under pressure, executing perfect timing on pit stops and overtaking when necessary to claim a hard-fought win, his third of the season. This victory further extended his lead in the standings, showing his adaptability on a range of circuits.
European Dominance: Spanish and Monaco (Rounds 4 & 5)
As the season moved to Europe, Verstappen’s consistency continued to impress. In Spain, he took his fourth victory, capitalizing on a mistake by his rivals and executing a near-perfect race strategy. In Monaco, a notoriously difficult and narrow street circuit, Verstappen’s composure and precision allowed him to edge out the competition. Despite the intense pressure from other teams, he managed to secure another victory, his fifth of the season, and further solidify his grip on the championship.
The Summer Surge: Austria and Britain (Rounds 9 & 10)
The mid-season races saw Verstappen extend his dominance even further. At the Austrian Grand Prix, held at Red Bull’s home circuit, Verstappen was untouchable. He claimed pole position and led the race from start to finish, taking yet another victory. This was followed by a strong performance at Silverstone, where Verstappen triumphed in a race that saw a fierce challenge from Mercedes and Ferrari. These two wins ensured that Verstappen’s lead in the championship remained secure as the summer break approached.
Key Moment: Dutch Grand Prix (Round 13)
In his home race at Zandvoort, Verstappen delivered a thrilling performance, winning in front of a jubilant crowd. The Dutch Grand Prix became a defining moment in the season, as Verstappen’s victory here pushed his points total to a level where it was increasingly difficult for his competitors to catch him. The psychological advantage of winning on home turf also gave him the confidence to finish the season strong.
Continued Excellence: Singapore, Japan, and Qatar (Rounds 14-16)
As the season neared its conclusion, Verstappen’s form only improved. In Singapore, Verstappen clinched another victory, showcasing his ability to adapt to street circuits. His win in Japan further added to his dominance, as he raced flawlessly to secure another 25 points. By the time he reached Qatar, Verstappen had built an unassailable lead in the standings. His Qatar win was a crucial one, effectively putting the title out of reach for his rivals.
The Final Triumph: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Round 18)
With the championship effectively secured before the final race in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen’s focus shifted to finishing the season in style. Starting from pole, he dominated the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing his 15th win of the season. The victory was not only a testament to his brilliance but also sealed his fourth consecutive World Championship, a remarkable feat in the modern era of F1.
Conclusion:
Max Verstappen’s 2024 season was one of near perfection. His ability to perform consistently at the highest level—combined with his knack for managing races, adapting to changing conditions, and his flawless execution when it mattered most—allowed him to rack up points across a variety of circuits. By the end of the season, Verstappen had secured his fourth World Championship with several races to spare, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history.