Four world championships, endless records shattered, and still, Max Verstappen isn’t satisfied. As the 2025 Formula 1 season looms, the reigning champion faces his toughest challenge yet—maintaining his iron grip on the sport as Red Bull struggles to stay ahead of the pack.
Verstappen’s Rise to Greatness: Four Titles, Four Different Journeys
It’s hard to believe that just four years ago, Verstappen was still chasing his first Formula 1 championship. His controversial 2021 title win remains one of the most debated moments in modern F1 history, but the Dutchman quickly silenced the critics with three dominant follow-up seasons.
“I think the beautiful thing is that every championship I’ve won has been won in a different way,” Verstappen reflected.
From the furious on-track battles of 2021 to the sheer crushing dominance of 2023, Verstappen has shown he can win in any scenario. Even when Red Bull faltered in 2024, he still emerged on top—a testament to his raw talent and relentless drive.
A ‘Crazy’ 11th Season: What’s Next for Verstappen?
2025 marks Verstappen’s 11th season in Formula 1, a staggering milestone for a driver still just 27 years old. Having debuted at just 17, Verstappen has spent nearly half his life in the sport. And yet, he remains as hungry as ever.
“Yeah, it’s been a while already, of course. Starting my 11th season is pretty crazy,” Verstappen admitted. “But yeah, I’m just excited for what’s ahead.”
However, for the first time in years, Red Bull is facing real uncertainty.
The Red Bull Dilemma: Can They Stay on Top?
Despite Verstappen’s heroics in 2024, Red Bull wasn’t invincible. The once-dominant RB20 struggled at times, and McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari were all closing in. If the team doesn’t step up in 2025, Verstappen’s title defense could be in serious jeopardy.
- McLaren’s Resurgence: With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri leading the charge, McLaren is a genuine title threat for the first time in years.
- Ferrari’s Unfinished Business: Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz want to bring a championship back to Maranello, and they’ve been knocking on the door.
- Mercedes’ Wild Card: After years in the wilderness, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell could finally have a car capable of competing again.
If Red Bull doesn’t find extra performance, Verstappen might not be able to win races from the get-go.
Will Verstappen Rewrite History Again?
Four titles in a row already puts Verstappen among the all-time greats. But five? That’s legendary. Only Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton have ever won five consecutive championships.
Yet, Verstappen doesn’t seem fazed by records or statistics. He just wants to keep winning.
With fatherhood, increasing competition, and a team under pressure, 2025 will be the most defining season of his career. Can Verstappen keep the dynasty alive? Or is the era of Red Bull dominance finally coming to an end?
One thing’s for sure—if anyone thrives under pressure, it’s Max Verstappen.
