In a season filled with drama, exceptional performances, and intense rivalries, Max Verstappen once again proved why he deserves to be regarded as one of Formula 1’s all-time greats. Clinching his fourth consecutive championship in Las Vegas, Verstappen didn’t just dominate on the track—he made a statement off it, particularly targeting McLaren boss Zak Brown’s earlier remarks about his capabilities. This season wasn’t just a triumph for Verstappen; it was a masterclass in silencing critics and maintaining composure amid fierce competition.
The backdrop to Verstappen’s fourth title was far from straightforward. Unlike previous years, Red Bull struggled to maintain its dominance, often finding itself trailing McLaren in outright pace. The MCL38 emerged as the fastest car on the grid from midseason onwards, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri consistently challenging Verstappen. However, while McLaren impressed with their car’s raw speed, strategic missteps and missed opportunities ultimately cost them in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
Verstappen’s performance was a direct rebuke to comments Zak Brown made earlier this year, suggesting that Verstappen’s success was solely attributable to having the fastest car. Brown stated that “six or seven drivers” could have won the championship if they were in Verstappen’s Red Bull. The Dutchman didn’t forget those words, and after clinching his title, he took the opportunity to remind Brown that this year was different. “You pushed us all the way,” Verstappen said to Brown. “Like you said before, I could only win in the fastest car, but this year is a little bit different.”
McLaren’s resurgence, powered by their upgrades from Miami onwards, put them in contention for significant titles. Yet, inconsistencies plagued the team. Lando Norris, who had the best car on many circuits, faltered under pressure, with errors like his restart blunder in Brazil highlighting his struggles. Norris admitted the pressure was immense, but Verstappen’s calm demeanor and ability to thrive in high-stakes situations proved to be the difference.
The rivalry between Verstappen and Norris, once rooted in mutual respect and camaraderie, has started to show cracks. While the two drivers were known to be friendly off the track, their competitive dynamic has begun to strain their relationship. Norris recently downplayed their friendship, stating, “Everybody thinks we’re better mates than we are. I have other people who are my real friends. Max is someone I get along with well off the track, but that doesn’t mean we’re close in our personal lives.”
For McLaren, the 2024 season offered valuable lessons but also raised critical questions about their readiness to contend for championships. Their inability to capitalize on having the fastest car, coupled with intra-team tensions and strategic blunders, exposed areas for improvement. While Norris and Piastri demonstrated their potential, their dynamic could become a double-edged sword. Team harmony may be at risk as both drivers vie for supremacy within the team.
On the other side, Verstappen’s title win holds historical significance. Winning a championship in a car that wasn’t consistently the best on the grid places him in elite company. Only two other drivers—Keke Rosberg in 1982 and Nelson Piquet in 1983—have managed such a feat. Verstappen’s ability to adapt, overcome, and deliver under pressure reaffirms his status as a generational talent.
Zak Brown and McLaren now face a pivotal offseason. Verstappen’s pointed remarks have undoubtedly lit a fire under the Woking-based team. The question is whether they can channel this pressure into a stronger 2025 campaign. With Norris and Piastri at the helm, McLaren has a strong foundation, but converting potential into championships will require not only a fast car but also flawless execution and team cohesion.
As the dust settles on a dramatic 2024 season, one thing is clear: the rivalry between Verstappen and McLaren is far from over. Whether this fuels an even more intense battle in 2025 or becomes a turning point for McLaren remains to be seen. For now, Verstappen stands tall as the four-time world champion, a testament to resilience and skill, proving that greatness transcends machinery
