LAS VEGAS (United States): Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive Formula One World Championship at the Las Vegas Grand Prix on Saturday, finishing fifth in a race won by Mercedes’ George Russell. At 27, Verstappen became just the sixth driver in F1 history to win four championships, joining an elite list that includes Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Juan Manuel Fangio, Sebastian Vettel, and Alain Prost.
McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen’s only rival for the title, finished in sixth place. Despite taking the fastest lap and earning an additional point, Norris’ challenge to Verstappen’s crown was extinguished.
Verstappen, reflecting on the season, expressed his gratitude over the radio to his Red Bull team, saying, “It’s a little more difficult than last year, but we pulled through. Thank you so much, guys.”
Russell claimed victory, finishing 7.313 seconds ahead of his teammate Hamilton, who started from 10th on the grid but made an impressive charge through the field. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc took third and fourth, respectively. Verstappen, despite his relatively low finish, had already secured enough points to claim the title, while Norris’ hopes faded after struggling with his tires.
The race, held under the lights in the Nevada desert, saw Russell make a perfect start from pole position.
Leclerc, from fourth, quickly jumped to second. Verstappen passed Pierre Gasly to move into fourth early on, and later made his move on lap 9, passing Leclerc for third. Throughout the race, Verstappen focused on maintaining his lead in the championship, while Hamilton, showing impressive form, closed in on Russell.
Verstappen’s calm and methodical approach ensured he maintained his lead in the title race, while Russell, after a flawless drive, took the win. With this victory, Verstappen cemented his place among F1’s all-time greats. – AFP
