Max Verstappen Clinches Fourth Formula One World Championship #

George Russell claimed victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, leading a Mercedes 1-2 finish with Lewis Hamilton. However, the spotlight stayed on Max Verstappen, who secured his fourth consecutive Formula One world title.

Despite not having an easy path as in previous championships, Verstappen completed this feat with two grands prix and a sprint race remaining. Early in the 2024 season, he won the Japanese Grand Prix by 19.3 seconds, prompting many to believe his dominance would continue unchecked.

Nonetheless, the season unfolded differently. Verstappen initially faced little resistance but later struggled, most notably failing to win a grand prix over ten weekends. His performance fluctuated, with moments of controversy and remarkable victories, such as the Brazil win.

Ferrari and Mercedes collectively took eight wins, marking the first time since 2012 seven different drivers won a race. Lando Norris emerged as Verstappen’s chief rival, capturing his first F1 victory at Miami. Norris posed an early threat, but team decisions, starts, and strategic errors hindered his momentum.

In Singapore, Norris shone, cutting Verstappen’s lead to 52 points with a 20.945-second victory. However, subsequent races saw Verstappen maintain his edge, with Norris facing issues such as penalties in the U.S. Grand Prix, which widened the gap to 57 points.

A clash in Mexico saw Verstappen penalized, while São Paulo highlighted Red Bull’s car development troubles. Nonetheless, Verstappen managed nine victories, ultimately ensuring his championship standing.

As the Las Vegas GP unfolded, Norris reluctantly accepted his title hopes were dwindling. Despite doubts about Red Bull’s pace, Verstappen described their recent Brazil success as situational, cautioning against assumptions they’d regained their speed.

The Las Vegas race began smoothly, with Oscar Piastri erroneously positioned, incurring a penalty. Charles Leclerc pursued Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz but relinquished his position due to Sainz’s superior pace.

In the title race, Verstappen steadily advanced, while Norris struggled to make significant gains. By mid-race, Verstappen was in second place while Norris lagged behind. Mercedes capitalized with undeniable pace, as Hamilton overtook Verstappen, narrowing the point lead.

Ultimately, Mercedes’ dominance prevented Ferrari from making inroads on McLaren’s championship position, while Norris and Piastri finished behind. As the season concludes with a sprint and two grands prix remaining, the constructors’ championship remains contested.

Top 10 Finishers in Las Vegas Grand Prix #

1. George Russell
2. Lewis Hamilton
3. Max Verstappen
4. Charles Leclerc
5. Carlos Sainz
6. Lando Norris
7. Oscar Piastri