F1 World Drivers Champion Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrate in the paddock. — AFP
Max Verstappen's competitors were swift to acknowledge the Red Bull driver's achievement in securing his fourth consecutive Formula One championship on Saturday, but they expressed that they do not view the Dutchman as unassailable. Verstappen clinched the championship in Las Vegas by finishing in sixth place, just ahead of title contender Lando Norris of McLaren, amidst the vibrant neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip.
"Nobody is unbeatable," declared race winner George Russell of Mercedes during a post-race interview. "There are periods where teams and drivers dominate, leading people to think that they cannot be challenged. However, self-belief is crucial." Verstappen made significant strides in the F1 record books in 2023, starting the season with a formidable car before encountering a challenging mid-season phase that necessitated extra effort to secure the title.
Ferrari's Carlos Sainz noted that the closely contested title race demonstrated that when conditions are balanced, any top driver can exert pressure. "Despite Max's remarkable performance this year... the latter part of the season indicates that when our equipment is more evenly matched, we can compete fiercely and make each other's races difficult," Sainz remarked, having finished third in Las Vegas.
Verstappen acknowledged the pressure he faced this year, including moments of doubt during the mid-season lull, and anticipates a fierce competition next year. "I'm immensely proud of how the team rallied during those challenging races where we faltered," he said. "We have several strategies in mind for next year, particularly addressing aspects we couldn't modify this year. I hope this enhances the car's drivability and competitiveness, as I know our rivals are not resting on their laurels." The teams now shift their focus to the upcoming Grand Prix in Qatar next weekend, before concluding the season in Abu Dhabi.
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