The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix marked a historic moment for Max Verstappen, as he clinched his fourth world title. But behind this victory lies a tumultuous season that tested the Dutchman’s relationship with Red Bull, nearly shaking up his future with the team.
Is Max Verstappen planning to leave Formula 1 earlier than expected? Here’s a look back at a year where the champion had to navigate rough waters before ultimately staying loyal to his team.
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A 2024 season full of twists and turns
The 2024 Formula 1 season was far from smooth sailing for the newly crowned 4-time World Champion. While the Red Bull driver continued to showcase his incredible talent, he had to deal with a car that was sometimes less dominant than in 2023. Despite many victories, the Dutch driver didn’t monopolize the top spot throughout the season. McLaren, in particular, managed to unsettle Red Bull Racing with strong performances, especially during the Miami GP, where Lando Norris shone brightly. Nevertheless, Verstappen tapped into unexpected reserves to maintain a lead in the championship, even when his car wasn’t the fastest on track.
Internal tensions at Red Bull Racing
Beyond his on-track performances, Verstappen faced another challenge: internal tensions at Red Bull. The 2024 F1 season was marked by complex issues within the team, particularly involving Christian Horner, the team principal. Verstappen admitted he had seriously considered his future with the team, especially after an internal investigation that involved his father, Jos. Calling the situation “messy,” Verstappen fueled speculation about his future, with Mercedes seizing the opportunity to express interest in his services. The Dutch driver has never hidden that he finds life too short to spend it racing.
MAX VERSTAPPEN IS THE 2024 F1 WORLD CHAMPION! 🏆
A brilliant fourth title in-a-row! Incredible!!!#F1 #LasVegasGP pic.twitter.com/kiBpPmV86H
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 24, 2024
A strong sense of loyalty to Red Bull
Despite the doubts and pressures, Max Verstappen chose to remain loyal to Red Bull Racing. In recent statements, he explained that he isn’t someone who makes rash decisions. For him, it was above all a matter of loyalty to the team that has supported him since his F1 debut, taking him under their wing after his first steps in F3. He shared that even in tough times, it’s important to face challenges alongside the people who have been there throughout his career, rather than running away from problems. The bond between Max Verstappen and Red Bull appears as strong as ever, and with renewed motivation, he is gearing up for new challenges. In 2026, when the next FIA regulations come into effect, could Verstappen decide to leave Formula 1?
This article explores the unexpected challenges Max Verstappen faced in 2024, from stiffer competition with McLaren to internal tension at Red Bull. Despite a tougher season, the Dutch driver remains loyal to his team, proving that loyalty and resilience are the marks of a true champion.
Image : Red Bull Content pool
