F1 news: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen secures fourth drivers’ title amid thrilling Las Vegas showdown
The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix was a spectacle of brilliant racing and broken records, with Max Verstappen's crucial fifth-place finish securing him a historic fourth World Championship.
Although unable to challenge for the win, Verstappen’s calculated drive ensured that a top-five finish was enough to clinch the title, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo takes us through what was a historic night in the streets of Sin City.
Verstappen seals legendary status with fourth title in Vegas
The Las Vegas Grand Prix delivered drama under the desert lights, but the night ultimately belonged to Max Verstappen.
With a calculated fifth-place finish, the Red Bull ace sealed his fourth consecutive Formula One Drivers’ Championship, navigating a season of fierce competition and evolving challenges.
While George Russell claimed victory for Mercedes, Verstappen’s relentless consistency throughout the year proved decisive in a campaign that showcased the depth of his talent and adaptability.
Max Verstappen solidified his place among Formula 1 legends by clinching his fourth consecutive Drivers’ World Championship with a calculated fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
This milestone puts the Dutchman alongside the likes of Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel, while only Juan Manuel Fangio, Lewis Hamilton, and Michael Schumacher have surpassed his four-title tally.
Russell's historic victory lights up Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Grand Prix, a glittering spectacle on F1’s newest and most glamorous stage, saw Mercedes’ George Russell take a commanding victory.
His victory was historic, as it marked the first F1 season where seven drivers have won multiple races.
His team-mate Lewis Hamilton finished second, whilst Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz Jr. closed out the podium in third.
Russell and Hamilton’s one-two finish made history for the Silver Arrows, marking Mercedes’ 60th one-two finish.
It was also the first time in Formula 1 history that four teams have achieved a 1-2 finish and won at least four Grands Prix each in one season.
READ MORE: Las Vegas Grand Prix: A high-stakes event redefining F1’s global impact
Verstappen’s clear objective
However, the night belonged to Verstappen, who entered the race with one clear objective: to finish ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris and secure the championship.
Starting fifth, just one place ahead of Norris, Verstappen maintained his composure throughout, crossing the line in fifth while Norris settled for sixth, sealing the title with two races to spare.
Reflecting on his achievement, Verstappen acknowledged the challenges of the season. “It feels incredible to win here today, especially considering how tough this year has been,” he said.
“For much of the season, we didn’t have the fastest car, but as a team, we stayed calm, kept improving, and made the most of every opportunity. This season has taught me a lot, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together,” the Dutchman added.
The 2024 campaign was a marked departure from the dominance of 2023, requiring Verstappen to dig deep as Red Bull faced intensified competition from McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari.
Despite these challenges, Verstappen’s unwavering focus and ability to maximise results in every situation set him apart. “From Miami onward, we weren’t the fastest anymore, but we stayed consistent, avoided mistakes, and kept delivering points,” Verstappen explained.
Praise from rivals and teammates
Tributes poured in from across the paddock, with rivals and teammates alike lauding his incredible achievement.
Norris, who had mounted a strong title challenge, conceded that Verstappen was simply unstoppable. “He has no weaknesses,” said Norris. “Whether he has the quickest car or not, he’s always there, making life difficult for everyone else. He has deserved this title.”
Mercedes driver George Russell, who triumphed under the lights of Las Vegas, echoed those sentiments. “Max has been exceptional. He’s delivered every single weekend, even when the
car wasn’t at its best. That’s the hallmark of a true champion.”
Lewis Hamilton, who knows firsthand the intensity of battling Verstappen, praised his consistency, adding, “He hasn’t put a foot wrong all year. He’s done a fantastic job.”
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, was effusive in his praise. “This year has been Max’s most impressive season yet. He’s shown incredible determination and resilience, especially when the competition was tougher than ever. He’s truly in a league of his own.”
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A strong finish from the back of the grid
While Verstappen celebrated his title, there were notable performances elsewhere on the grid.
Sergio Perez climbed from 16th to 10th to score a vital point for Red Bull, while Yuki Tsunoda’s ninth-place finish brought valuable points for Visa Cash App RB.
With Verstappen now cementing his status as one of the all-time greats, the focus shifts to the two remaining races of the season, where teams and drivers will battle for crucial points to close out 2024.
However, the spotlight firmly remains on Verstappen, whose extraordinary blend of talent, determination, and consistency has redefined what it means to be a Formula 1 champion.
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