echo This article is a sequel to A Recap of F1, covering the season from the Canadian Grand Prix onward. For highlights from the first half of the 2024 season, be sure to check out the previous article.
Formula One. A sport with the fastest cars, the sharpest minds and the bravest drivers in the world. In this high-stakes sport, a single millisecond on the track can define a driver’s career, shape their reputation and send waves of simultaneous exhilaration or disappointment through fans across the globe.
Welcome back to A Recap of F1, where we bring you a rundown of where we left off in the 2024 season. Back in July, we reviewed the highlights of the season from Max Verstappen’s Bahrain win in March, all the way through to Charles Leclerc’s Monaco victory in May. With the season finally over, we aim to debunk the season’s highlights and uncover the moments that made the 2024 season stand out in the history books.
WHO WAS OUR WORLD CHAMPION?
Formula One is a sport with two winners. Therefore, the sport’s format is split into two; a Drivers’ Championship (whereby a driver with the most overall points in the season becomes the driver winner for that year) and a Constructors’ Championship (whereby a team with the total most points becomes the team winner for that year).
So let’s cut to the chase. We’re all wondering who our overall champion is for the 2024 season. Drumroll please! Our 2024 Drivers’ Champion is none other than Oracle Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen, securing his fourth consecutive championship title in a row. After a title fight with McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen secured a total of 437 points, while Norris placed second at a total of 374 points, with Scuderia Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc close behind at 356 points.
Lando Norris (left), Max Verstappen (middle) and Charles Leclerc (right) at the FIA Awards 2024
Admittedly, the season didn’t play out entirely in Verstappen’s favor (in contrast to the 2023 season, whereby Verstappen won 19 out of 22 races). In the 2024 season, Verstappen started the year strong, but with livery upgrades for McLaren and Ferrari mid-season, Verstappen’s car was no longer considered the fastest one, making it that much harder to win. While he went multiple races without victories throughout the season, Verstappen still managed to secure his title by winning 9 out of 24 races in total, which were the Saudi Arabian, Japanese, Chinese, Bahrain, Canadian, Spanish, Qatar, Emilia-Romagna and Brazilian Grand Prixs.
His performance as a driver serves as the epitome of excellence in the sport, with his constant dedication both on and off track, along with his determination to bring victory to his name, his family, his career and his team. It’s safe to say that Max will be driving for years to come, and the Verstappen name has become legendary, with Max even outshining his father, Jos Verstappen, who formerly drove in the sport from 1994 to 2003.
Max Verstappen after securing his fourth Drivers’ Championship title in 2024
Unfortunately, Verstappen’s points combined with teammate Sergio Perez’s were not enough for Red Bull to win the Constructors’ Championship. This left the title fight wide open, with Ferrari and McLaren emerging as the key contenders in a season-long battle. The championship drama reached its peak at the season finale in Abu Dhabi. The Ferrari boys put up a valiant fight, aiming to reclaim a title that had eluded them for years (2008, to be exact). However, McLaren proved to be unstoppable, as Sainz and Leclerc failed to surpass Norris despite their best attempts. Norris’s first-place finish ensured McLaren secured the top spot in the Constructors’ standings, ultimately taking the 2024 Constructors’ Championship title.
The McLaren team celebrating their 2024 Constructors’ Championship win
GAME-CHANGING RACE VICTORIES
- George’s Golden Moment
The Austrian Grand Prix, held back in June, saw Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team driver, George Russell, securing a surprising and unexpected victory. From the very start of the 71-lap race, tension crackled on the Red Bull Ring as Max Verstappen and Lando Norris fiercely battled for the lead. Unfortunately for the two title contenders, the tension when driving and their constant back-and-forth overtaking boiled over on the 64th lap, leading to a collision. With just seven laps remaining in the race, the clash forced Norris to retire, ruining any chances of securing points. As for Verstappen, he was handed a 10-second penalty for causing the collision, which demoted his results from a potential first-place finish to fifth by the time the race concluded.
Following the sudden turn of events, team principal for Mercedes, Toto Wolff, immediately took to Russell’s radio to inform him of the significantly improved chances of securing his first win of the season. Russell kept his composure, expertly navigating the remaining laps, until he finally crossed the finish line.
Team principal, Toto Wolff (left) and George Russell (right)
While Russell’s win may not have necessarily been possible had it not been for the Norris-Verstappen collision, this victory highlighted the unpredictable nature of Formula One. For Mercedes, the win was a morale boost in what had been a challenging season, showcasing their ability to seize every opportunity, whenever possible.
George Russell celebrating his win at the Austrian Grand Prix
- It’s Hammertime!
Austria may have been the start of a lucky streak for the team as they managed yet another successful win the following week at Silverstone, in the United Kingdom. While Silverstone has always been a performance benchmark for the team, with it being both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton’s home races, this year proved to be especially sentimental. Hamilton has signed with Scuderia Ferrari in 2025, marking the end of his 12-year partnership with Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. In a nutshell, Silverstone 2024 marks Hamilton’s last year driving for Mercedes in his home country.
This race was nothing short of entertaining for the Brits, as all three of the sport’s British drivers fought for the lead (and, well, Max). Ultimately, Hamilton managed to surpass Norris, Russell and Verstappen, securing the lead for the remainder of this 52-lap race. Hamilton’s victory at Silverstone 2024 broke records, marking it as his ninth win on the track, 12th consecutive podium in a row, and 15th podium placement in total.
Lewis Hamilton’s first win at Silverstone in 2008
Hamilton’s masterful performance at Silverstone showcased the skill and experience that have defined his career thus far. For Hamilton, the win was more than just another addition to his record, it was a moment of heartfelt closure with the team that had been his family for over a decade. The post-race celebrations were emotional, with the Mercedes garage coming together to honor their seven-time world champion. Hamilton addressed the crowd, thanking the fans, his team, and the British Grand Prix for the memories that would last a lifetime.
Lewis Hamilton’s latest win at Silverstone in 2024
- Victory But At What Cost?
The Hungarian Grand Prix proved to be a milestone achievement for McLaren, with the team achieving their first 1-2 finish since 2021. However, internal drama fueled the fires as Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris faced tensions over team orders. Piastri had successfully taken the lead early on in the race, surpassing Norris who secured pole position in the Qualifying session just a day before. With Piastri leading the race, the expected thing to do would be to pit him first, ensuring he keeps his position. However, the primary issue here is that McLaren decided to pit Norris first, allowing him to undercut his teammate and take the race’s lead. Naturally, this decision sparked tension in the garage, especially since Piastri had been performing strongly the entire race. Regretting their decision, the team instructed Norris to let Piastri pass, making it clear to the British driver that their top priority was supporting Piastri in securing his maiden victory.
McLaren drivers, Oscar Piastri (left) and Lando Norris (right)
A mistake on Norris’s part was his failure to follow team orders, and his lack of cooperation. From this point onwards in the race, Norris refused to give Piastri the way to pass, dragging the situation out, creating unnecessary tension with Piastri and within the team. His hesitation to yield disrupted the race flow and overshadowed what could have been a celebratory moment for McLaren. Ultimately, Norris complied with the team’s orders 19 laps later, paving the way for Piastri’s first win.
Oscar Piastri after placing first at the 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix
Following this race, fans were torn on their stance on Piastri’s race victory, questioning if this win was truly his own. However, Piastri’s luck took a turn for the better at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. While Charles Leclerc started on pole, Piastri displayed skill like never before, ultimately taking the overall win, claiming a deserved second career win. This proved to fans all across the globe that he has what it takes to win a race outright, without relying on his team’s orders.
Oscar Piastri celebrating his win at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix
- ‘il Predestinato’, The Predestined
If there’s one thing Ferrari has to do right, it’s Monza. As the heart of motorsport with Italian origins, a win in Monza would mean celebrations all across Italy. Every year, the Italian Grand Prix sees crowds draped in Ferrari red, filling the stands from end to end with passionate fans; tifosi, as Ferrari fans call themselves.
The last time Ferrari won in Monza was back in September 2019, where Charles Leclerc stood at the top of the podium, claiming a victory that would forever be etched in the hearts of Ferrari fans. To this day, this victory is one of his best achievements, especially considering it was his first year with the team, and his second consecutive win (as he won in Spa just a week before). His win in Spa earned him the nickname ‘il Predestinato’, originating from Formula One commentator, Carlo Vanzini. Following his Monza win, this nickname spread like wildfire, and is still used to describe him today, almost as if being Ferrari’s ‘golden boy’ is a prophecy he has to fulfill.
The crowds celebrating Charles Leclerc’s Monza win in 2019
This very passion and enthusiasm from the crowd is precisely what makes a Monza win Ferrari’s top priority. Determined to bring glory to their home soil, Ferrari decided to make a bold decision for their 2024 Monza strategy: a one-stop strategy (whereby Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz will only change their tires one time throughout the race), while every other team opted for a safer two-stop strategy. The one-stop strategy was a gamble, prioritizing track position and the ability to control the race’s pace over tire longevity. While the move raised eyebrows across the paddock, it was a reflection of Ferrari’s willingness to take risks in their quest to secure a victory in front of the tifosi.
As the race unfolded, it became clear that the decision was paying off. Leclerc, starting from the front row, executed a flawless drive, managing his tires masterfully while keeping his rivals at bay. While Sainz tried his best to stick with his teammate, his tires deteriorated, and he was unable to maintain his performance as consistently as Leclerc. This allowed both McLaren drivers to eventually overtake him, leaving Sainz to fight for a place on the podium. Leclerc, however, fought his way to the end, securing Ferrari’s first Monza victory since his own triumph in 2019, proving once again that maybe, just maybe he truly is ‘il Predestinato’.
Charles Leclerc donning Ferrari’s Monza 2024 race suit following his win
Charles Leclerc with fans after the Monza Grand Prix 2024
- Norris Masters Marina Bay
The Marina Bay Street Circuit is a street track that was the site of the first night race in F1 history in 2008. With its unique atmosphere and cityscape backdrop, the Singapore Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar. For Malaysian fans, the race offers a convenient opportunity to experience the thrill of Formula 1 up close, with many making the short trip across the border every year to witness the spectacle firsthand.
Last season (2023), the Singapore Grand Prix stood out as the only race not won by a Red Bull driver, with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz taking a well-earned and deserved victory. This race proved to be a testament to friendship, as Sainz worked closely with former teammate, Lando Norris, into sharing the podium. To stop both Mercedes cars from taking an almost certain win, Sainz allowed Norris back into DRS range, forcing Russell to damage his tyres, and give the pair a gap large enough to hold onto first and second positions.
Carlos Sainz winning the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix
While the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix may not have been as fortunate for Sainz, luck remained on Lando Norris’s side, as he secured his third career win, marking another significant milestone in his F1 journey. Norris led the entirety of the 62-lap long race, overtaking Verstappen at the very first turn.
Lando Norris after securing a victory at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix
Lando Norris at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix podium ceremony
- Ferrari’s Texas Rodeo
The USA Grand Prix, based in Austin, Texas, might just be the most American thing you’ll see in motorsports. With a track painted in red, blue, and white, adorned with stars, and a giant U.S. flag towering proudly over the track, it’s a spectacle that screams patriotism. From the electrifying energy of the country’s fans to the unmistakable Texan flair, the Circuit of the Americas perfectly captures the spirit of the United States while providing a thrilling track for the world’s fastest drivers.
With this being the main race for American fans, many teams put in extra effort to secure a win at this track, especially given the unique Western aesthetics of this Grand Prix. Admittedly, Max Verstappen had claimed victory at this track for three consecutive years; 2021, 2022, and 2023. However, 2024 proved to be different, as Charles Leclerc was the driver standing at the top of the podium at the end of the day, with Verstappen at third.
What made this win especially significant was that Carlos Sainz successfully secured his place on the podium right next to Leclerc in second. This marked the teammates’ last shared 1-2 finish together, as Sainz prepared to part ways with Ferrari at the end of the season. The emotional victory wasn’t just a testament to Ferrari’s strength on track but also a celebration of the duo’s journey as teammates. From fierce on-track battles to moments of teamwork, their final 1-2 finish together was a fitting farewell to their partnership in red.
Carlos Sainz (left), Charles Leclerc (middle) and Max Verstappen (right)
Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz at the USA Grand Prix
- Smooth Operator
Sainz, a name that needs no introduction to motorsports fans. Carlos Sainz Sr. was a Spanish rally driver, who won the World Rally Championship drivers’ title with Toyota in 1990 and 1992. His son, Carlos Sainz, undoubtedly carries his father’s name with pride, being a Scuderia Ferrari Formula One driver.
Carlos Sainz Sr. and Carlos Sainz Jr.
Sainz joined the team back in 2021, replacing Sebastian Vettel to partner up with Charles Leclerc. However, his time with Ferrari is set to end after the 2024 season, as Lewis Hamilton has signed with the team for 2025. With this in mind, Sainz savored every victory in 2024, knowing it could be his last in red.
His final triumph came at the 2024 Mexico Grand Prix, marking his fourth career win and a bittersweet farewell to his chapter with the Scuderia. Sainz finished off the race ahead of his two closest friends on the grid, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, making the podium celebration an emotional one. The cheers from the crowd, the champagne-soaked celebrations, and the heartfelt embrace from his fellow podium finishers encapsulated years of hard work, resilience, camaraderie and loyalty to his team and career.
THANK YOU, LEGENDS. WELCOME, ROOKIES!
- Sargeant’s Out, Colapinto’s In
Logan Sargeant, the only American driver in Formula One to compete full-time since 2006 and 2007, made his debut at the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix with Williams Racing. As the first US driver in over a decade to secure a permanent seat, Sargeant carried the hopes of American fans, eager to see their country represented on the F1 grid. Unfortunately, his time in the sport was rather short-lived.
Williams Racing driver, Logan Sargeant
In 2024, Sargeant struggled to meet the team’s expectations, consistently underperforming compared to his teammate, Alex Albon. His best result in 2024 was 11th place, failing to secure any points. He had crashed the car on multiple occasions, costing the team over $2.9 million in damages. His heavy crash at the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix was the final straw for the team, causing an immediate (but unsurprising) announcement of his dismissal before the season’s end. This decision signaled Williams’ urgency to turn their fortunes around, as they sought a more reliable and competitive driver to partner with Albon for the rest of the season.
Logan Sargeant’s crash at the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix
From this, we are introduced to Franco Colapinto, a 21-year-old Argentine driver competing in Formula 2. A member of the Williams Driver Academy since 2023, Colapinto was part of the team’s vision to develop young talent for an eventual Formula One seat with Williams Racing. However, his opportunity arrived sooner than expected following Sargeant’s mid-season dismissal.
With Williams needing a swift replacement (and with Colapinto having already won a sprint race in 2024), Colapinto was called up to make his F1 debut at the 2024 Italian Grand Prix, becoming the first Argentine driver to compete in Formula One since 2001. His sudden promotion was met with excitement from both Argentine fans and the wider F1 community, eager to see how the young driver would perform on the biggest stage in motorsport.
Franco Colapinto securing his first F2 win at Imola 2024
It’s safe to say that while this may not have been an easy decision, it was undoubtedly the right one. Out of the 24 drivers who competed in the 2024 season, Colapinto finished 19th in the standings, securing a total of 5 points. While this may not seem like a standout result for a full-time F1 driver, earning those 5 points in just 9 races is certainly impressive for a rookie making a mid-season debut. His performances showcased both his potential and adaptability, proving that Williams’ gamble on young talent was a step in the right direction.
Colapinto was unable to get a seat for the 2025 Formula One season (particularly because there weren’t exactly any seats left). However, he has recently signed a multi-year deal with Alpine, making him a reserve driver for the team.
Franco Colapinto with Williams Racing teammate, Alex Albon
- The Honey Badger and The Kiwi
Daniel Ricciardo is a household name in Formula One, having made his debut in 2011. Known for his signature smile and infectious personality, he quickly became a fan favorite both on and off track. Over the years, he’s raced for multiple teams, including Red Bull, McLaren, Renault and Visa Cash App RB. But as much as it pains us to say, Ricciardo may not necessarily be in his prime anymore. He doesn’t rack up as many points as he did in his Red Bull years, and continuously falls short of teammate Yuki Tsunoda.
Ricciardo’s struggles became more apparent as the 2024 season progressed. While flashes of his old brilliance occasionally surfaced (like placing fourth at the Miami GP, as we covered in Part 1 of A Recap of F1), they were too few to justify his seat in the team. Meanwhile, Tsunoda consistently outperformed him, both in qualifying and on race day, making Ricciardo’s position at Visa Cash App RB increasingly undeserved.
Visa Cash App RB driver, Daniel Ricciardo
Following his 18th place finish at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, the team decided it would be best if they switched him out for another driver for the last 6 races of the season. With Red Bull eager to develop young talent and Visa Cash App RB needing a more competitive lineup, the team made the difficult but necessary decision to part ways with Ricciardo before the season’s end. While this decision broke the hearts of fans worldwide, there’s no denying it was a long time coming.
Daniel Ricciardo prior to the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix
His mid-season replacement? 22-year-old New Zealand driver, Liam Lawson. Having already impressed in his brief F1 stand-in in 2023 (ironically, where he also replaced Ricciardo for 5 races due to Ricciardo’s hand injuries), Lawson was more than ready to step in and prove himself once again.
Liam Lawson races in replacement of Daniel Ricciardo
While Lawson only raced for the final 6 races of the season, he still managed to secure 4 points, proving his capability as a competitive driver. He showcased some impressive fights on track, even earning some (frustrated, but relevant nonetheless) acknowledgement from Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team driver Fernando Alonso regarding his competitiveness on track.
Liam Lawson attending a press conference at the 2024 US Grand Prix
UNSTOPPABLE ON THE TRACK: 2024’S BEST DRIVES
- Alpine’s Brazilian Masterclass
The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix was every driver’s nightmare; pouring rain, sharp turns and a track surface with inconsistent grip levels. Well, a nightmare for all but the Alpine drivers. While others struggled to keep their cars on track, Alpine thrived in the treacherous (and dangerous) conditions, and they always have. Both French drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly showcased masterful wet-weather driving, making up positions as their rivals struggled with the downpour and tire degradation. Fans were treated to a perfect display of this as both Alpine drivers secured podium finishes, with Ocon in second and Gasly in third.
Esteban Ocon (left) and Pierre Gasly (right) celebrating their podium finish
This was a major win for Alpine, as the team had only managed to secure 14 points before the Brazilian GP. However, their incredible performance in São Paulo saw them add 35 points to their tally, giving them a significant lead ahead of their closest rivals in the Constructors’ Championship.
It is also a known fact that Ocon and Gasly haven’t always seen eye to eye, with their relationship often described as tense. However, the results of this Grand Prix told a different story. Forced to trust each other in the weather conditions, their teamwork and mutual respect became evident as they navigated the race together. As they stood by each other on the podium, the usual frostiness and tension between them seemed to be thrown in the past, replaced by genuine celebration. This race may have been the turning point; not just for Alpine, but for Ocon and Gasly’s relationship, marking the beginning of a newfound and unexpected friendship.
The Alpine team congratulating Ocon and Gasly
- Comeback Of The Century
There must be something lucky in the Brazilian air, as this track wasn’t just a miracle for Alpine, but for Max Verstappen too. Verstappen showcased an absolute masterclass at the Interlagos circuit, possibly producing his most impressive win yet. After an underwhelming qualifying session, where he finished in 12th place, Verstappen was hit with another setback; a five-place grid penalty due to an engine change. In Formula One, teams are only allowed to change their internal combustion engines four times, but Red Bull had changed Verstappen’s for the sixth. Due to this, although he qualified in 12th place, he started the main race in 17th.
Red Bull Racing driver, Max Verstappen
As anyone would, Verstappen was beyond frustrated with this news. It didn’t help that at the Brazil Sprint Race (which took place earlier that weekend), he was hit with a 5-second time penalty, which demoted him from 3rd place to 4th, behind Charles Leclerc. Naturally, Verstappen had to make the main race his best drive yet, in order to rake up the points and lead ahead of Lando Norris in the championship. And so, throughout the main race, Verstappen climbed up the grid effortlessly, passing multiple cars by the minute. Fans sat at the edge of their seats, wondering if Verstappen could pull off a podium finish, while dodging the many crashes that occurred dangerously close to him throughout the 69-lap long race.
Miraculously, Verstappen not only secured a point for the fastest lap, but he won the entire race! While fans often support their respective favourite teams, there was no denying that everyone was a Red Bull fan that day. This goes to show the sheer talent of Max Verstappen, as he managed to defy all odds and deliver the comeback of the century. Verstappen is a clear example that in Formula One, anything is possible; it all comes down to the driver in the cockpit.
Max Verstappen upon crossing the finish line at the 2024 Sao Paulo Grand Prix
Max Verstappen winning the Brazilian Grand Prix
- Under The Qatar Lights
Zhou Guanyu, a Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber driver, has always unfortunately been short of points when it came to the races. Despite showing flashes of brilliance and solid racecraft, he often found himself just outside the top 10, either due to the car’s lack of pace, strategic misfortune, or sheer bad luck. Whether it was being caught in midfield battles, suffering from reliability issues, or simply lacking the race pace to challenge the main four forerunners (Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes), Zhou’s journey in Formula One has been challenging.
Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber driver, Zhou Guanyu
However, his persistence and determination never wavered. Race after race, he pushed his car to the limit, waiting for the right moment to finally gain some much-needed points. Thankfully for him, in Qatar, everything finally aligned. The combination of a well-executed strategy, a decently strong qualifying session, and a determined drive saw Zhou cross the finish line in the points for the first time in the 2024 season. For the only Chinese driver on the grid, this was more than just an 8th place finish; it was proof that his talent and resilience could finally translate into points and strong results. While it may have taken longer than expected, Zhou’s performance in Qatar was a moment of triumph, for himself, his team and his country.
Zhou Guanyu winning Driver of the Day following the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix
Zhou Guanyu with teammate, Valtteri Bottas
- ‘Only Charles Knows How To Dance With Max’
Similarly to Verstappen’s drive in Brazil, Charles Leclerc pulled off the same masterclass and showcased his incredible racecraft at the last race of the season, Abu Dhabi. The two have often been compared in terms of talent and determination, with fans believing they would be on par with each other if given the same car. Leclerc’s performance in Abu Dhabi was a testament to this belief.
After a 10-place grid penalty and an underwhelming qualifying session, Leclerc started the main race at the Yas Marina Circuit from 19th place. This was a major setback for the driver, as this race would determine the winner of the Constructors’ Championship; a tight battle between Scuderia Ferrari and McLaren. Despite the setback, Leclerc remained unfazed and determined, knowing that every position gained would be crucial in Ferrari’s fight for the title. As the lights went out, he wasted no time carving his way through the field, displaying a mix of calculated aggression and tire management.
Charles Leclerc following the 10-place grid penalty announcement
Impressively, Leclerc climbed up 11 places (19th to 8th) in just a single lap. The crowd erupted in cheers as he kept everyone on the edge of their seats with his overtakes. Mirroring Verstappen’s pace in Brazil, this single lap alone showcased Leclerc’s sheer talent when he puts his mind to it, proving just how much he craves a championship, even if it was the Constructors’ and not the Drivers’.
Despite Leclerc’s heroic drive from 19th to a remarkable 3rd place finish, it wasn’t enough to secure Ferrari the Constructors’ Championship, as Norris ultimately claimed his third victory at the track for McLaren. While the team fell short, Leclerc’s performance was a testament to his pace and determination, proving once again why many consider him one of the most naturally gifted drivers on the grid, alongside Verstappen. As one of the commentators said back in Bahrain 2022, “Only Charles knows how to dance with Max,” a phrase that perfectly encapsulates the childhood-rivals-turned-friends. While Ferrari may have lost the championship, Leclerc’s Abu Dhabi masterclass ensured that his talent (and his hunger for a title) was undeniable.
Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen in 2023
Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen in 2023
Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen in 2024
‘Rivals’ Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc at the 2013 Karting World Cup
THE TEA!
- An Unexpected Title Fight
Let’s face it. At the start of the 2024 season, nobody remotely expected anyone to be close to Max Verstappen in the Drivers’ Standings. After his dominance in 2023, many predicted another runaway championship for the Dutch driver. However, as the season unfolded, a surprising challenger emerged; McLaren’s Lando Norris.
After Lando Norris’s first win in Miami, McLaren seemed unstoppable, racking up consistent victories and podiums for the remainder of the season. Their surprising performance established them as a serious threat in the championship fight, one that fans did not expect. On Red Bull’s end, Sergio Perez began to struggle, falling short of expectations, while Verstappen found himself unable to dominate as he had in previous seasons. With Red Bull’s grip on the front slipping, the gaps between Verstappen’s race wins were filled by Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren, making for one of the most competitive seasons in recent years.
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris
With McLaren’s rapid development, the gap between him and Verstappen narrowed progressively as the season went on. However, despite Norris’s determination and drive, Verstappen’s experience and ability to deliver under pressure ultimately secured him the title, though Norris was not far off. A crucial victory at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix sealed his fourth consecutive championship, but not without a fight. Norris had pushed him harder than any rival had in years, setting the stage for what could be an entertaining season in 2025. Will Verstappen secure a fifth championship? Or will Norris, Leclerc or even Hamilton take that title?
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris
- Victory To Void
Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team driver, George Russell, has won a total of 2 races in the 2024 season. But did you know it was supposed to be 3?
Russell initially claimed victory at the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix, delivering a stunning performance at Spa-Francorchamps. However, this victory was short-lived, much to the dismay of his fans and the team. Russell was disqualified from the race minutes after celebrating his victory due to notice of an underweight car, which went against Formula One regulations. As a result, Russell became the first driver in 30 years to have been disqualified from a race win at the Belgium Grand Prix, which, let’s face it, isn’t exactly a proud achievement.
George Russell following news of his disqualification
Though admittedly, while this may have been news they were not expecting, Mercedes found a silver lining; Lewis Hamilton, who originally finished second, was promoted to first place following Russell’s disqualification, bumping up McLaren’s Oscar Piastri at second and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc at third. For Hamilton, this unexpected victory marked his second win of the season. While not the way he would have wanted to claim the top step of the podium, the seven-time world champion still showcased his consistency and pace throughout the weekend. His strong performance at Spa-Francorchamps added yet another victory to his already legendary career.
The podium ceremony at Spa-Francorchamps before Russell’s disqualification
- Survival Of The Best In Sao Paulo
The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix was undoubtedly the most eventful race and qualifying session of the season, but not necessarily for the best reason. Straying away from the positive points (Verstappen’s miraculous drive and the double Alpine podium in the main race), heavy rain in Sao Paulo resulted in crashes by not one, not two, but five drivers during just the qualifying session.
Originally, the qualifying session was scheduled for Saturday afternoon, following the sprint race. However, poor weather conditions forced the FIA to postpone it to Sunday morning, leaving just a six-hour gap before the main race. Crashes involving Alex Albon, Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll, Carlos Sainz, and Franco Colapinto had fans on edge, worried that mechanics wouldn’t have enough time to repair the cars. This was unfortunately the case for Alex Albon, while Carlos Sainz had to start the main race from the pit lane, as the damages forced Ferrari to change his power unit and gearbox.
Alex Albon’s crash during the 2024 Brazilian Qualifying
Fernando Alonso’s crash during the 2024 Brazilian Qualifying
Carlos Sainz’s crash during the 2024 Brazilian Qualifying
Unfortunately, this string of bad luck carried over into the main race. Even during the formation lap (the lap where drivers position themselves before the race start), Stroll spun out into the dirt. Parallel to qualifying, Sainz and Colapinto once again crashed during the race, while Haas F1 Team driver, Nico Hulkenberg, was disqualified when he received assistance from marshals when returning to the track.
Haas F1 Team driver, Nico Hulkenberg
Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso (left) and Lance Stroll (right)
- ‘Cause Now We’ve Got Bad Blood
Rivalries between championship contenders are common, but one can’t help but wonder, ‘What’s the beef between Max Verstappen and George Russell?’ After all, they’re not battling for a title, nor do they have a remotely close number of wins. This fresh F1 feud began in the second last race of the season, at the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix.
During the qualifying session, Verstappen slowed down his car in an attempt to cool down his tires, which resulted in a collision between the Dutchman and Russell, with Russell’s car being forced into the gravel. Naturally, Max was given a penalty. Needless to say, the stewards’ room with the FIA following qualifying was not pretty.
Confrontation between Russell and Verstappen after the qualifying session
When asked what happened in the stewards’ room, Verstappen stated that he “lost all respect” for Russell. “I was quite surprised when sitting there in the stewards’ room, what was all going on. I’ve never seen someone trying to s***w someone over that hard”, he voiced out. Russell hit back on media day for Abu Dhabi, claiming that Verstappen said on Saturday night that he was “going to purposefully go out of his way to crash into me.” He adds on further that Verstappen is a ‘bully’, adding that “people have been bullied by Max for years now.”
This feud extended beyond the drivers and to their respective team principles, Toto Wolff of Mercedes and Christian Horner of Red Bull. There has always been some form of bad blood between the two, and the rivalry between their drivers only added fuel to the fire. Horner spoke to the media, stating that the penalty was “more based on hysterics from George, who has been quite hysterical this weekend.”
Wolff was infuriated by this, and clapped back later that day. “Why does he feel entitled to comment about my driver? If you’re thinking about it, yapping little terrier, always something to say.” And no, he doesn’t stop there. “His forte is not intellectual psychoanalysis, but that’s quite a word. How dare you comment on the state of mind of my driver. There is a thing between drivers, and this is George and Max, and I don’t want to get involved in that. But if the other team principal calls George hysterical, this is where he crosses the line for me.”
Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff (left) and Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner (right)
Every year, all the drivers on the grid gather for a traditional dinner before the final race of the season. In 2024, this took place after the Qatar Grand Prix on December 5th. According to the rest of the grid, the dinner was marked by an awkward seating arrangement between Verstappen and Russell and a hefty bill footed by Valtteri Bottas. The two reportedly sat as far apart as possible, with Russell even pulling his chair away when he was deliberately seated next to Verstappen. The move, intended as both a joke and an attempt to get them to reconcile, only added to the tension.
- The End Of The Road
35-year old Mexican driver, Sergio Perez, made his Formula One debut back in 2011 with the Sauber team, replacing Nick Heidfeld. Little did he know, his career in Formula One too would end with, well, being replaced. After a challenging 2024 season plagued by inconsistent performances (or lack thereof), Red Bull has made the difficult decision to part ways with the driver, opting instead to promote 23-year old Liam Lawson for the 2025 season. The move signals a shift in Red Bull’s strategy, prioritizing fresh potential over experience, and officially brings Perez’s journey with the team to an end.
Liam Lawson (left) and Sergio Perez (right)
One can only hope that Lawson’s performance will match the team’s expectations and that he will be compatible as a teammate to Verstappen. With Red Bull’s notoriously high standards and the pressure of competing alongside a three-time world champion, Lawson faces an uphill battle to prove himself worthy of the seat. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Kiwi to see if he can rise to the occasion, or if this was a mistake on Red Bull’s part.
Liam Lawson (left) and Max Verstappen (right)
THE CLASS OF 2025: ROOKIES ON THE GRID AND DRIVER SHUFFLES
- Reshaping The Grid
While certain drivers remained with their respective teams from the previous season (think Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, and Max Verstappen), others opted for fresh starts elsewhere, with drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Esteban Ocon, and Carlos Sainz making high-profile moves. Meanwhile, some found themselves without a seat altogether, as the fierce competition for limited spots saw Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu, and Kevin Magnussen exit the grid. The 2025 season promises a reshaped lineup, much to both the entertainment and dismay of fans worldwide.
- The New Generation
The 2025 driver line-up is certainly an interesting one, with 6 full-time rookies on the grid. This puts this year’s grid just one short from the rookie record, with there being 7 back in 2001. Liam Lawson secured a seat with Red Bull Racing, Kimi Antonelli with Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, Jack Doohan with BWT Alpine F1 Team, Isack Hadjar with Visa Cash App RB Formula F1 Team, Oliver Bearman with Haas F1 Team and Gabriel Bortoleto with Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber.
CONCLUSION
Looking through the line-up for the upcoming season, there’s no denying it will most definitely be filled with all sorts of drama, unexpected twists, and rivalries. With seasoned drivers defending their legacies and rising stars eager to make their mark on the sport, the 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be an exhilarating ride for fans worldwide. As we reflect on the 2024 season and gear up for what’s ahead, one thing is certain; Formula 1 continues to captivate fans with its relentless pursuit of speed, innovation, and competition. Whether it’s redemption arcs, shocking transfers, or on-track overtakes that keep us on the edge of our seats, the upcoming season is set to deliver. Buckle up your seatbelts, lights out, and once again, away we go!
Written by: Ashley Anne Danker
Edited by: Tisyha
