As Max Verstappen celebrates his fourth Formula 1 World Championship following a challenging 2024 campaign, former F1 champion Damon Hill has tipped the Dutchman for even greater achievements. Hill, who won the title in 1996, believes Verstappen could surpass Lewis Hamilton’s record of seven championships and potentially claim an unprecedented eighth title.
Praise for Verstappen and Red Bull’s Mastery
Hill lauded Verstappen and Red Bull Racing for their unparalleled adaptation to F1’s ground-effect regulations. Despite Red Bull’s mid-season struggles, Verstappen’s resilience and driving skill kept him ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris in the title fight.
“Got to hand it to Red Bull Racing and Max Verstappen. They absolutely smashed this generation of F1 regulations,” Hill wrote on social media. “Of course, Max has driven brilliantly—occasional loss of self-control aside!”
Hill acknowledged Verstappen’s exceptional talent while subtly noting moments when the Dutchman’s fiery temperament showed. Regardless, he commended Verstappen’s ability to deliver under immense pressure.
The Record-Breaking Horizon
With four titles at just 27 years old, Verstappen has already joined an elite group of F1 greats. Hill believes Verstappen has the potential to eclipse Hamilton’s seven-title benchmark.
“The event horizon of seven titles looms into view. Maybe eight? That will keep us glued to F1,” Hill predicted.
If Verstappen continues his trajectory, the possibility of rewriting the record books could solidify his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.
A Nod to Lando Norris and McLaren
Hill also reflected on Lando Norris’s comments after the race, praising the McLaren driver for his grace in defeat. Norris congratulated Verstappen despite falling short in his first serious title challenge.
“Some fine words from Lando in the pen. Also from [McLaren team principal Andrea] Stella. Quick lick of the wounds and on to the Constructors and 2025. The war that never ends,” Hill wrote.
Hill’s remarks underline the relentless nature of F1, as teams like McLaren and Red Bull have already shifted focus to next season’s championship battle.
Verstappen Eyes Final Two Races
Having secured the title with two races to spare, Verstappen can now turn his attention to helping Red Bull close the gap to McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship. Despite trailing the Woking-based squad, Verstappen’s determination to finish the season strong remains evident.
As the Dutchman gears up for 2025, fans and rivals alike will be watching to see if Verstappen can continue his dominance and march toward F1 immortality.
