Max Verstappen (27) became the world champion of Formula 1 cars for the fourth time in a row. Fifth place in the Las Vegas Grand Prix was enough for the Dutch pilot of Red Bull to win another title. The night event was dominated by Mercedes: George Russell (26) won ahead of Lewis Hamilton. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz was third.
Verstappen has an unassailable 63-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris with two races to go. Only 60 points will be awarded in the final events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Norris could theoretically stay in the game if he beat Verstappen by at least three points today. But in the end he finished sixth.
“My God, that was the season. Fourth world champion. Thanks to all the guys. It was a bit more difficult than last year, but we gave it everything,” said an emotional Verstappen on the radio after the finish.
The Dutch driver succeeded thanks to a successful first half of the season, winning seven of the opening ten races. Although he was no longer so dominant and Norris was reducing his lead, Verstappen significantly blunted his attack three weeks ago in Sao Paulo, where he triumphed in rainy conditions after starting from 17th place.
“It’s been a long season. We started it amazingly, we were flying, but then came a difficult period. But as a team we stuck together, worked to improve and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve done now. I never thought I’d be here could stand as a four-time world champion. At this moment I feel a huge relief and pride,” added Verstappen to the BBC.
The Red Bull driver equaled German Sebastian Vettel and French Alain Prost with the fourth title in the historical order. Only Argentine Juan Manuel Fangio (5) and Lewis Hamilton (7) with Michael Schumacher (7) have more triumphs. Of these six pilots, he is the second youngest to reach this milestone. Only Vettel, who like the Dutchman won all four of his titles with Red Bull, was younger.
In Las Vegas, Russell ruled
Russell picked up his second win of the season and third of his career. Mercedes won its first double since the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in 2022. Its drivers also finished in the first two places in Belgium this year, but the victorious Russell was later disqualified for a car that was too light.
“It’s going to be a nice party here. I was planning to fly out in a few hours, but I know I won’t. I’m going to stay here and enjoy it with the team. It was a dream weekend. I don’t know why we were so fast, but today I just took advantage of the wave ,” Russell pointed out.
Qualifying winner Russell was in control for most of the race. After the start, he maintained the lead over Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who improved from fourth to second, but later destroyed his tires and crashed again.
From the 10th lap, the drivers started to run for new tires for the first time. Verstappen got to the second place, after starting from the 10th position, Hamilton also gradually moved forward. On the other hand, Pierre Gasly from Alpine did not continue due to technical problems and did not follow up on the third place from the qualification.
In the 28th lap, Verstappen and Hamilton headed to the pits. The third Sainz was also in the plan, but his mechanics were not ready yet, so the Spaniard stayed on the track a lap longer. On lap 32, Hamilton got ahead of Verstappen and Mercedes were aiming for the double from then on.
In the end, Sainz and Leclerc also successfully attacked Verstappen. However, the Dutchman finished fifth without much difficulty and could celebrate after crossing the finish line, where actor Sylvester Stallone waved him a checkered flag.
“Max has done an amazing job. He’s been great all year and we’re very proud of him. To win eight races and take the title with two events to go, you can’t ask for more. He just gets in the car and drives it where it needs to go. ranks among the greats, he already belongs there according to the statistics. He is only 27 years old and in the shape of his life. If we are able to prepare a good car for him, he will continue to do so,” added Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.
What are the key factors that contributed to Max Verstappen’s dominance and consecutive world championship wins, particularly in the face of increasing competition?
## World-Today-News Interview: Verstappen Makes History, Mercedes Resurges in Las Vegas
**Interview Introduction:** Welcome to World-Today-News! Tonight, we celebrate a historic Formula 1 night in Las Vegas. Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive world title, equalling legendary racers, Sebastian Vettel and Alain Prost. Joining us are two esteemed motorsport experts:
* **[Guest 1 Name],** a former F1 driver and commentator known for their insightful analysis.
* **[Guest 2 Name],** a motorsport journalist with years of experience covering the world of Formula 1.
Thank you both for joining us.
**Part 1: Verstappen’s Reign of Greatness**
* **Interviewer:** Max Verstappen has etched his name in history as a four-time champion at just 27. What stood out about his performance this season, especially considering the increased competitiveness from drivers like Lando Norris?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
* **Interviewer:** Verstappen has frequently spoken about the difficulties faced in the later part of the season. How much did this pressure contribute to the drama and ultimately, his triumphant victory? Do you believe this tough period showcases the resilience of a true champion?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
**Part 2: The Revival of Mercedes**
* **Interviewer:** Switching gears to Mercedes, George Russell delivered a dominant win in Las Vegas, securing Mercedes’ first double podium since 2022. How significant is this performance for Mercedes, and what does it signify for their future in the championship?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
* **Interviewer:** We saw Lewis Hamilton secure a crucial second-place position, demonstrating his continued prowess and determination. Could this strong performance in Las Vegas be a turning point for Hamilton, indicating a resurgence in the final races of the season?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
**Part 3: Looking Ahead**
* **Interviewer:** With two races remaining, what are your predictions for the upcoming events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi? Who are the drivers to watch, and what exciting narratives might unfold in these final races?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
* **Interviewer:** Verstappen’s achievements are undoubtedly remarkable. Where do you see him fitting into the pantheon of F1 legends? How does his driving style and personality contribute to his legacy?
* **[Guest 1 Response]**
* **[Guest 2 Response]**
**Interview Conclusion**
* **Interviewer:** This has been an insightful conversation, shedding light on a truly spectacular night in motorsport history. Thank you, [Guest 1 Name] and [Guest 2 Name], for your expert analysis and thought-provoking perspectives. We look forward to an exciting finish to the F1 season!
