Las Vegas GP: Max Verstappen becomes Formula 1 world champion for 4th consecutive year

Max Verstappen has solidified his place among Formula 1’s greatest drivers, clinching his fourth consecutive World Championship title in a dramatic season.

Despite finishing fifth in the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen edged out McLaren’s Lando Norris to secure the championship with two races to spare.

The 2024 season began on a dominant note for Verstappen, as he won seven out of the first 10 races.

However, a mid-season slump saw Red Bull and Verstappen go winless for 10 races, allowing McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes to split victories.

Lando Norris emerged as Verstappen's closest challenger during this period, intensifying the title race.

The pivotal moment came at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where Verstappen delivered a masterclass.

Starting from 17th on the grid, the 25-year-old Dutchman triumphed in wet conditions, reclaiming his lead in the Drivers’ Championship standings.

Heading into Las Vegas, Verstappen needed only to finish ahead of Norris to clinch the title.

After qualifying fifth, Verstappen expressed confidence in his performance, saying as per Motorsport Week:

“It’s nice today. But it’s more important tomorrow.”

Although Norris put up a strong fight, Verstappen’s consistency secured his place in the history books.

With this achievement, Verstappen joins the exclusive club of drivers who have won four consecutive titles, including icons such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, and Lewis Hamilton.

His four overall titles also place him alongside Alain Prost in the sport's upper echelon.

While the Las Vegas GP wasn’t a winning moment for the Dutchman, it was a historic one for Red Bull or the Formula 1, marking the continuation of a remarkable career.