The glitz and glamor of the Las Vegas Grand Prix set the stage for Max Verstappen to clinch his fourth consecutive Formula 1 title. While the Dutchman celebrated on track, it turns out the party didn’t stop there—and George Russell witnessed firsthand just how much fun Verstappen was having.
Speaking during media duties ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, Russell revealed a comedic moment that perfectly encapsulates Verstappen’s Sin City revelry. The Mercedes driver, on his way to the airport early the next morning, spotted Verstappen still in full party mode—at a bar at 9 AM.
The “Caught in the Act” Exchange
Russell shared the amusing encounter in the presence of Verstappen himself, sparking laughter from both drivers:
Russell: “I don’t think he saw me, but I saw him in the bar at 9 in the morning when I was leaving to the airport. He was… nodding away.”
Verstappen: (grinning) “It was 5 PM somewhere.”
The anecdote quickly became a hit among fans, with Verstappen’s carefree celebration symbolizing the culmination of a dominant season. It’s not every day that an F1 champion gets spotted winding down with such gusto—especially when the day is just beginning for everyone else.
Max’s Legendary Season and Relaxed Outlook
Verstappen’s Las Vegas antics followed a historic season where he equaled Sebastian Vettel’s record for consecutive Red Bull championships. His dominance on the grid has been unmatched, but this lighthearted moment shows a grounded, fun-loving side to the typically intense racer.
While Russell enjoyed the hilarity, Verstappen took a moment during the press conference to address recent developments in F1 governance. With race director changes and steward departures making headlines, Verstappen admitted he wasn’t even aware of some of the moves:
“I didn’t even know someone else left, right? I think that’s better anyway. I don’t follow F1 news. It just depends on who you get back for it.”
A Rollercoaster Year for F1
The 2024 F1 season has been a wild ride—not just for Verstappen but for the entire paddock. From dramatic on-track battles to governance shakeups, the sport continues to grow in popularity while facing its fair share of challenges.
For Verstappen, though, the year is winding down with celebrations and lighthearted moments. And for Russell? A front-row seat to some of F1’s best off-track drama.
As the sport gears up for its final two races, it’s clear that moments like these are what make Formula 1 not just a spectacle of speed, but also a source of unforgettable stories.