The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix delivered a memorable race, blending strategy, drama for the Alpine team, and, most importantly, a new chapter in Max Verstappen’s legacy as a four-time Formula 1 World Champion.
Between a race on the Las Vegas Strip dominated by Mercedes and fierce battles throughout the grid, here’s what stood out.
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Mercedes shines under vegas lights
George Russell converted his pole position into a commanding victory, fending off constant pressure from teammate Lewis Hamilton. Starting from 10th, Hamilton delivered a stunning comeback, fueled by a perfectly executed strategy and daring overtakes, particularly on Verstappen and the two Ferraris. A poorly timed late pit stop for Carlos Sainz handed Mercedes a golden opportunity, allowing them to capitalize on their superior pace on hard tires. Despite Hamilton’s late “hammer time” charge, Russell held his ground to secure his second win of the season, capping off a memorable one-two finish for Mercedes, the first of the German team (if we exclude the one in Spa which was cancelled due to the Russel’s disqualification).
Ferrari and Red Bull: a tale of struggles and resilience
Ferrari’s race was a mixed bag, with Sainz and Leclerc showing promise but faltering strategically. Leclerc had an excellent start, climbing to second place, but rapid tire degradation during his first stint derailed his momentum. Despite this, Ferrari managed to outpace Verstappen in the closing laps thanks to superior tire management. Meanwhile, Verstappen refrained from risking too much, knowing that a fifth-place finish was enough to clinch his fourth World Championship. Lando Norris, Verstappen’s closest challenger, struggled with tire performance, finishing a subdued sixth despite snatching the fastest lap. The fight is not over for the British driver because McLaren still can win the 2024 Constructors’ Championship.
MAX VERSTAPPEN, YOU ARE THE WORLD CHAMPION! 👑 pic.twitter.com/Wr6EJdCEwx
— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) November 24, 2024
Alpine’s heartbreak and midfield surprises
The action wasn’t confined to the front. Pierre Gasly, starting an impressive third, suffered a heartbreaking engine failure, dashing Alpine’s hopes after his stellar qualifying performance. The Frenchman, previously the only driver never to suffer a car failure or a crash, saw his streak end in the most frustrating fashion. Adding insult to injury, Haas capitalized on the chaos, with Nico Hülkenberg securing a crucial eighth place, propelling the American team ahead of Alpine in the F1 Constructors’ Championship. Yuki Tsunoda surprised everyone with a ninth-place finish, while Sergio Pérez salvaged a point for Red Bull after a fierce battle with Fernando Alonso. Nice points scored by Haas, Alpine will have to double their efforts, and the Racing Bulls drivers will continue to give headaches to the Red Bull team principals despite the recent announcement that Perez will stay with Red Bull for 2025.
This article explores George Russell’s brilliant victory and Mercedes’ dominant one-two finish, the strategic battles between Ferrari and Red Bull, and the surprises in the midfield at Las Vegas. From heartbreak to heroics, this Grand Prix cements Verstappen’s reign as the undisputed champion of Formula 1.
Featured image: Alpine F1 Team media
