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Max Verstappen, after clinching his fourth consecutive Formula 1 World Championship, made a bold statement, suggesting that he could have secured the title even sooner if he had been driving for McLaren or Ferrari. His remarks, particularly regarding the challenges of racing for Red Bull in 2024, were met with an endorsement from Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko.
Heading into the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Max Verstappen was already in a commanding position to wrap up his fourth consecutive F1 title. With Lando Norris of McLaren mathematically eliminated from contention, Verstappen sealed his championship in a dominant display.
When asked if he could have won the title earlier in the season with a car from McLaren, Ferrari, or Mercedes, Verstappen was candid with his response. “Yes, even earlier... So further ahead,” he said, adding that his performance in a Ferrari would have been largely similar. However, Verstappen was more cautious when considering Mercedes, commenting, “The Mercedes, no. I think that would have been trickier.”
Helmut Marko on Verstappen’s Confidence
Helmut Marko, Red Bull's senior advisor, was asked about Verstappen’s comments and whether he was allowed to speak so openly.
Marko agreed with Verstappen's assessment, stating, “Yes, because he’s certainly right.” Marko emphasized that Verstappen’s success was even more remarkable considering that Red Bull’s car wasn’t the outright best on the grid this year.
“No other driver than Max would have won the World Championship for us this year. He certainly didn’t have the best car,” Marko added, underscoring the immense skill and adaptability that Verstappen brought to the team, even when faced with a more competitive field in 2024.
Verstappen’s Dominance Amid Tougher Competition
While Verstappen and Red Bull started the 2024 season in dominant fashion, reminiscent of their record-breaking 2023 campaign, they soon faced a renewed challenge from McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes, all of which emerged as race-winning teams. Despite this, Verstappen navigated the season with precision, securing his fourth title even though his victory count was limited to just one win in the last 12 races of the season.
Verstappen’s statements reflect his immense confidence in his abilities as a driver, and his willingness to acknowledge his strength even when racing under less-than-ideal conditions. With his fourth World Championship now confirmed, Verstappen’s place in F1 history continues to solidify, and his relationship with Red Bull, despite the competitive season, remains as strong as ever.
