Max Verstappen confessed he 'never imagined' he would secure four world titles after clinching the 2024 Formula One championship under the dazzling Las Vegas lights. Verstappen's remarkable achievement places him in an exclusive group alongside Juan Manuel Fangio, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, and Alain Prost as a four-time champion.

A streak of seven victories in the first ten races propelled Verstappen towards this triumph, but he faced a challenging mid-season stretch of ten races without a win. His victory in a rain-soaked race in Brazil ultimately paved the way for his fourth title. 'At 17, I was simply thrilled to be there, dreaming of potential wins and standing on the podium—normal aspirations that are already quite difficult to attain,' the 27-year-old Dutchman reflected, noting that his fifth-place finish in Las Vegas was sufficient to secure the title.

'This season was incredibly demanding, both for me personally and for the team. There were times when I had to remain calm. In some ways, I still prefer last season; I enjoyed it immensely, but I believe this season has taught me many valuable lessons. I am immensely proud of our team, and that makes this season particularly special and beautiful. It has been fiercely competitive this time around. A special season, indeed.'

Verstappen also dismissed rumors that he might leave Red Bull, the team that has nurtured his talent and propelled him to the pinnacle of the sport. 'We've been through so much together, and this is truly special—but next year will be a proper battle with many cars in contention, so I am going to savor this moment. For me, I am just incredibly proud to be part of this team, and we are now celebrating our fourth world title together. There is definitely nothing else on my mind.'

Verstappen has maintained his lead in the world championship since the Spanish Grand Prix in 2022. 'It's incredible; he's done an amazing job,' said Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. 'He's been outstanding all year, and we are just very proud of him. He's won eight Grand Prix and the championship with two races remaining—you can't ask for more than that. He's only just turned 27 and is in the prime of his career, so as long as we can continue to provide him with a competitive car, he will keep delivering.'

Lando Norris, who pushed Verstappen to the limit in the latter half of the season, finished sixth in the race, one place behind his rival. 'Congratulations to Max, as much as it stings a bit to say it, knowing the championship is 100 per cent over always leaves a glimmer of hope inside,' the Englishman remarked. 'He drove an incredible season, and when he had the fastest car, he dominated. Even when he didn't, he was always right there, always on my heels. He made my life tough, and I'm sure we made his tough at times, but he drove a better season.'

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