Max Verstappen has described his fourth consecutive F1 title as an “incredible” achievement.
Verstappen knew that if he outscored Lando Norris, he would become the driver after Sebastian Vettel to win four consecutive F1 titles at Red Bull, which the Dutchman duly did with a fifth-placed finish in Las Vegas.
The 27 year-old post-race described winning the title in Las Vegas with two rounds to spare as an “incredible” achievement, plus a “proud” moment in his career.
Verstappen took eight Grand Prix victories plus four sprint wins this season en-route to the title, amidst off-track controversies swirling around the team and Adrian Newey’s decision to leave after two decades to join Aston Martin next season.
Reflective of the rollercoaster year, Verstappen praised his team for their efforts to help him retain his crown.
“It has been quite a year and I’m proud of how we handled everything as a Team. We started off the season really strong and then it became quite tough; we never wanted to give up and got the best result we could, barely made any mistakes and that is what you need to win a title.
“We stuck together as a Team and we pushed back really hard and came back stronger. I’m super proud of everyone of what we achieved and also of myself with how we have worked together this season.”
Verstappen ran as high as second in the Las Vegas GP but ultimately finished fifth in a manner which he described as a “calm” drive, in his most quietest F1 title-clinching result to date.
“Ultimately every Championship win is different, so that also makes it really special and it really means a lot to us. I am very proud to be part of this Team, especially as we are now celebrating our fourth World Title.”
Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Perez finished tenth but echoed the four-time champion’s view on the team’s role in his success, but crucially added that Verstappen himself was a key component himself in his latest title.
“I think he has had the best season I have ever seen from a driver, because a lot of the time we did not have the best car and Max made the difference a lot of weekends.
“The way he pushed the Team forwards, he was just a pure force and I think this has been the best year from him in the four we have been together.
“He has been tremendous, well done to him for all the success he has had, he deserves it.”
Leave a Reply