As the 2024 Formula 1 season roared to a close in Abu Dhabi, the championship narratives were dominated by McLaren’s Constructors’ Championship triumph, Max Verstappen’s fourth consecutive Drivers’ title, and a striking contrast in driver performance. Among the season’s most remarkable feats, Pierre Gasly etched his name into the history books as the only driver to complete the year without causing a single incident—an unprecedented achievement in the sport.
Gasly’s Perfect Season: A Historic First
Driving for Alpine, Gasly’s crash-free campaign showcased precision, control, and consistency rarely seen in a sport known for its high-risk, high-reward nature. This spotless record not only bolstered Alpine’s performance but also set a benchmark for professionalism and composure under pressure. In stark contrast, teammate Esteban Ocon’s £787,819 ($999,610) in damages highlighted the challenges of maintaining such perfection.
“To complete an entire season without a single incident is unheard of,” said a team insider. “Pierre’s achievement speaks volumes about his skill and discipline.”
Perez’s Struggles: A Year to Forget
While Gasly earned plaudits for his record-setting performance, Sergio Perez’s season told a very different story. The Mexican veteran’s campaign was marred by inconsistency and costly errors, culminating in a staggering £3.81 million ($4.83 million) in repair costs—the highest among all drivers. Five race-ending crashes, including a dramatic collision in Abu Dhabi’s season finale, painted a grim picture of a year Perez himself described as “very difficult.”
The low point of Perez’s season came in Monaco, where he collided with both Haas drivers, leaving a trail of extensive damage. This performance, combined with his 155-point tally—285 fewer than teammate Verstappen—has intensified speculation about his future at Red Bull.
The “Destructors’ Standings”: Damage Costs Across the Grid
Data from MostlyF1.com revealed the financial toll of on-track incidents across the grid:
- Sergio Perez: £3.81 million ($4.83 million)
- Alex Albon: £3.66 million ($4.63 million)
- George Russell: £2.61 million ($3.31 million)
- Logan Sargeant: £2.36 million ($2.99 million)
- Carlos Sainz: £2.26 million ($2.87 million)
Notably, Max Verstappen’s repair costs were relatively modest at £714,005 ($906,145), reflecting his dominance and control on the track. Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton incurred even lower expenses, with £330,805 ($420,225) and £250,848 ($318,625), respectively, underscoring their clean racing throughout the season.
McLaren’s Resurgence and Verstappen’s Domination
Lando Norris secured McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998 with a commanding victory in Abu Dhabi, capping a stellar season for the British team. Meanwhile, Verstappen celebrated his fourth Drivers’ title, claiming nine wins across 24 races despite facing pressure from Norris and other contenders.
While Verstappen’s title highlighted Red Bull’s enduring strength, Perez’s turbulent year has raised critical questions about his place within the team heading into 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As Formula 1 shifts its focus to the upcoming season, the 2024 narratives will shape the dynamics and rivalries on the grid. Gasly’s historic crash-free season will be a benchmark for precision, while Perez’s struggles and Norris’ rise position 2025 as a season brimming with potential drama.
The stark differences in driver performances serve as a reminder of the sport’s unforgiving nature—where skill, strategy, and a bit of luck can make or break a season.
