Max Verstappen, now a four-time Formula 1 world champion, has dismissed speculation of an early retirement following his latest title triumph at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix. The Dutchman assured fans and his team that his commitment to the sport remains steadfast, providing a massive boost to Red Bull Racing as they navigate a challenging season.
“No Retirement on the Horizon”
While Verstappen has previously hinted that he doesn’t plan to remain in F1 for another decade, he made it clear that any thoughts of leaving the sport are far from his mind. Instead, he reflected on the significance of his fourth championship, praising his team for their resilience in a season filled with ups and downs.
“Every championship is different,” Verstappen told Sky Sports F1. “Last year was still my favorite, even if people didn’t appreciate it enough—what we did, winning 10 in a row. This one also definitely means a lot with how we handled everything.”
Despite facing fierce competition from McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen maintained his composure to clinch the title with two races and a sprint still to go.
“There’s definitely nothing on my mind about retirement,” Verstappen added. “For me, I’m just very proud to be part of the team, and we are now celebrating our fourth world title together.”
“A Grueling Season of Highs and Lows”
Verstappen’s fourth championship win comes at the end of a tumultuous campaign. Red Bull faced a dip in performance mid-season, with McLaren and Ferrari emerging as serious threats. However, the Dutchman’s consistency, skill, and knack for maximizing results in difficult conditions proved decisive.
“It’s been a long season with many good races but also many tough ones,” Verstappen admitted. “At times, it looked very tough to keep believing [in winning the title]. There was a clear lack of pace in places, but we managed to get the best results or even more than we deserved. At the end of the day, you also create your own luck, and I think that’s what we did.”
His victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix—where he charged from P17 on the grid to take the win—proved a pivotal moment in the championship fight, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
“Red Bull’s Star Man Stays the Course”
Verstappen’s assurance of loyalty is a sigh of relief for Red Bull Racing, who have relied heavily on his exceptional talent. With 64 points separating him from Norris, the 27-year-old has proven that even in a less dominant car, he can deliver under pressure.
“For me, this season was about optimizing and limiting the damage,” Verstappen reflected. “At the end of the day, I’m very proud of what we have achieved as a team.”
“Looking Ahead”
With Red Bull trailing in the Constructors’ Championship, Verstappen’s focus now shifts to helping his team reclaim the title in 2025. The Dutchman’s unyielding drive, even in challenging conditions, sets the tone for Red Bull’s future ambitions.
For now, Verstappen is savoring his victory, reminding the world why he belongs in the conversation with Formula 1’s all-time greats.
“Winning four championships is special,” Verstappen concluded. “It’s a team effort, and I couldn’t have done it without everyone at Red Bull.”
“Legacy in the Making”
Max Verstappen’s dominance and ability to overcome adversity this season reaffirm his place among the elite in Formula 1 history. With no plans to retire and a hunger to keep winning, the sport’s reigning king isn’t ready to relinquish his throne anytime soon.
