Max Verstappen’s fourth Formula 1 title was the product of one of his most challenging seasons, marked by internal and external pressures that could have unraveled the Red Bull team. Instead, a pivotal mid-season intervention and Verstappen’s evolving leadership brought him and his team back from the brink, cementing his status as one of the sport’s greats.
Tensions Peak Before the Break
By the time Formula 1 reached its summer break, Verstappen was feeling the heat. Red Bull’s early-season dominance began crumbling under the relentless challenge from McLaren, and frustrations boiled over during the Hungarian Grand Prix. A significant upgrade package meant to reassert Red Bull’s superiority fell flat, leaving Verstappen visibly agitated both on and off the track.
Christian Horner, sensing a brewing crisis, arranged a crucial sit-down between Verstappen and senior Red Bull figures to address the growing disconnect. The message was clear: the team was fully behind Verstappen, and his struggles were shared by everyone.
“[We said] ‘Look, we’re all in it together, we’re all in that car with you, mate. You’re not on your own. Your pain is our pain. Everybody’s feeling it,’” Horner revealed.
Pressure Turns Into Performance
Despite an 84-point lead mid-season, Verstappen faced a car that was no longer the class of the field. The RB20, initially dominant, became vulnerable to McLaren’s advances, particularly in high-downforce circuits. Races like Hungary and Monza exposed glaring weaknesses, further straining the driver-team dynamic. Verstappen’s frustrations were evident, particularly after strategic missteps left him vulnerable in Hungary.
However, the post-race debriefs and mid-season talks sparked a turnaround. Verstappen channeled his frustrations constructively, stepping up his involvement with the team’s engineering and development efforts.
“He went above and beyond, working on the sim, analyzing data, and really immersing himself in the car’s development direction,” Horner said.
A Collective Comeback
Verstappen’s willingness to adapt his leadership style played a pivotal role in Red Bull’s recovery. Known for leading by example, Verstappen made a conscious effort to be more empathetic and engaged with his team, fostering a sense of unity.
“Every person in the team has their own emotions that you have to deal with. In a way, it’s also people management because everyone reacts differently to good results or bad results,” Verstappen explained.
The team responded in kind, working tirelessly to address the car’s deficiencies. Upgrades began to pay off late in the season, culminating in a stunning victory in Brazil, where Verstappen came from the back of the grid to win—a moment Horner described as “the most emotional I’ve ever seen him after a race.”
The Bigger Picture
The 2024 season tested Red Bull and Verstappen’s bond like never before. With McLaren snatching the Constructors’ Championship, Verstappen’s Drivers’ title was a bittersweet triumph. Yet, both parties believe the challenges strengthened their relationship.
“He loves the team,” Horner said. “He feels very much part of it. The bond is stronger now than ever.”
As the sport enters a transitional phase with the looming 2026 regulations, the question remains whether Red Bull can provide Verstappen with a championship-winning car. For now, Verstappen’s loyalty to the team seems unwavering.
“When there are tough times, it’s very easy to say goodbye. But it’s more important to face them together, move on, and focus on performance—and have fun. That’s the most important thing,” Verstappen said.
2025 and Beyond
The upcoming season will reveal whether Red Bull’s recovery is sustainable or merely a stopgap. Verstappen has made it clear he is ready for the challenge, but the team must ensure it doesn’t falter under the weight of competition.
If Red Bull and Verstappen can maintain their synergy, 2025 could see the Dutchman push for a fifth world title—and cement his place as one of F1’s all-time greats. However, the specter of 2026 looms large, potentially reshaping the grid and challenging Red Bull’s dominance. For now, Verstappen’s focus is on the here and now, and his determination is as fierce as ever.
