SUZUKA, JAPAN – APRIL 07: Race winner Max Verstappen from the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrate with their team after the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka International Racing Circuit on April 07, 2024 in Suzuka, Japan. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Despite his best efforts to minimize the pace of his RB20 race car, and some excessive tire degradation due to the high temperatures at the start of the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen was as dominant as we are used to seeing from him.
After securing his 57th victory in Formula 1, Verstappen reflected on his race in a Red Bull press release. He stated: “Today was just delightful and I really enjoyed the race. We managed to avoid any issues on the first lap and from there on, we focused on taking care of the tires as much as possible. The decisions we made before qualifying were definitely beneficial today, and it’s great to come back and win after Australia.”
“The car kept improving throughout the race and although it took a few laps to find a good rhythm due to limited practice in long runs, the car really came alive during the second stint. I was able to push when needed and effectively manage my tires, so the race was amazing,” explained the Dutch driver.
“It was a fantastic team performance throughout the weekend, and it’s amazing to secure a second place here, our third of the season. Suzuka is always an exciting track to race on, and overall I am extremely pleased with today’s performance,” concluded Verstappen.
Sergio Perez followed Verstappen in second place, showing a dominant display from Red Bull. Team principal Christian Horner commented: “Today was an exceptional team performance; we got the fastest lap, a second place, the fastest pit stop, and secured the top two positions in the championship standings. It’s truly an incredible performance, especially here in Japan, the home of our engine partner, Honda.”
“Max controlled the race beautifully from the start and managed the tires excellently. However, Checo had a remarkable outing today. His qualifying session yesterday was exceptional, surpassing his previous personal best. And his performance in the race was also exceptional. He worked his way through the pack and maintained a strong pace.”
“It was a brilliant race from the whole team. We are delighted with the result,” concluded Horner.
Verstappen now leads the 2024 F1 Drivers’ Championship by 13 points, with Perez in second place. Furthermore, Red Bull Racing currently holds a 21-point advantage over Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship.
