Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has lauded Max Verstappen‘s tenacity in clinching his fourth Formula 1 World Championship in 2024, citing the Dutchman’s growth and adaptability as key to his success. However, Marko candidly admitted that it would have been “impossible” for Verstappen to dethrone Lewis Hamilton during the dominance of the turbo-hybrid era.
Marko reflected on an era when Mercedes, spearheaded by Hamilton, and Ferrari were the benchmark in F1. Between 2014 and 2020, Hamilton amassed six World Championships, largely due to the superior machinery Mercedes provided. Marko suggested that Verstappen, despite his undeniable talent, couldn’t have competed on equal footing during those years.
“Nobody else would have won this World Championship title, which is clearly down to Max and his extraordinary ability,” Marko said of Verstappen’s 2024 triumph. “Two years ago, it would have been impossible for him to beat Lewis Hamilton or the Ferraris. Now he has the maturity and knows that he also has to drive in position.”
Verstappen’s Rise: A Tale of Grit and Growth
Verstappen’s remarkable progress from a daring prodigy to a polished champion was exemplified by his 2024 performance. The Dutchman amassed nine Grand Prix victories this season and demonstrated exceptional racecraft and resilience under pressure. His most defining moment? A stunning victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he charged from P17 to the top step of the podium in treacherous wet conditions.
“The emotions went from being super upset in the morning, looking like you were going to lose a lot of points in the championship, to then, of course, winning the race from P17. For me, that is definitely a race that I’m very proud of,” Verstappen reflected.
The Shift in Eras: Verstappen’s Maturity vs. Hamilton’s Dominance
Marko’s comments underline a key distinction between the eras dominated by Hamilton and the current ground-effect regulations. During Mercedes’ turbo-hybrid dominance, the W06 through W11 were untouchable machines, giving Hamilton an unparalleled advantage. However, Verstappen’s emergence as the sport’s standout performer coincides with a leveling of the playing field and the Dutchman’s own development as a driver.
In 2021, Verstappen dethroned Hamilton in one of the most fiercely contested seasons in F1 history, marking a seismic shift in the sport. Since then, Verstappen has evolved into a consistent and calculating racer, winning titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024 with a blend of speed, strategy, and mental fortitude.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Can Verstappen Continue the Streak?
As the grid braces for what promises to be an even tighter battle in the 2025 season, Verstappen’s quest for a fifth consecutive championship faces increased challenges. With rivals such as Hamilton at Ferrari, a resurgent McLaren, and a motivated Mercedes in the mix, the stakes have never been higher.
Marko remains confident in Verstappen’s ability to deliver, crediting his maturity and knack for delivering in high-pressure situations. However, as the competition tightens, Verstappen’s consistency and adaptability will be tested like never before.