In the upcoming Abu Dhabi race, a potential fifth world drivers championship win by Max Verstappen might provoke a knowing grin from Lewis Hamilton. The last time Verstappen clinched a world title at the final Formula One race was in 2021, marking the start of his four consecutive championship victories, albeit amidst controversy.
The contentious win was attributed to an unconventional interpretation of safety car protocols by then race director Michael Masi, a decision later deemed a ‘human error’ by a 2022 FIA investigation. This move allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the final lap and snatch the eighth world title from the British driver.
The memory of that day in Abu Dhabi four years ago still stirs emotions for Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former Mercedes team boss. Wolff recently expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting the impact of the controversial decision on Hamilton’s championship record aspirations.
Verstappen’s dominance since then has been evident, with the Red Bull driver now being a strong contender for a fifth consecutive title, despite initial odds favoring Lando Norris. A potential fifth championship win by Verstappen could solidify his status as one of the greatest drivers of all time, placing him alongside legends like Hamilton, Schumacher, and Fangio.
While Verstappen’s 2021 Red Bull was closely matched with Hamilton’s Mercedes, his 2022 and 2023 cars have been superior. Despite facing challenges within his team and a shift in car performance last season, Verstappen’s resilience and skill have kept him in contention for another championship victory.
Heading into the final race with a narrow points lead over his competitors, Verstappen faces a tough battle to secure the title. With only nine races remaining in the season, the outcome in Abu Dhabi could determine whether Verstappen adds another championship to his impressive record.
Verstappen’s confidence in his abilities and determination to succeed have been evident throughout the season, with the Dutch driver acknowledging the unexpected position he finds himself in. His remarks prior to the Qatar Grand Prix reflected his humility and drive to excel in a challenging season.
As the championship race intensifies, the focus remains on Verstappen’s pursuit of greatness and his ability to overcome the odds. While past controversies linger, the potential for a fifth championship win would further cement Verstappen’s legacy in Formula One history.