Max Verstappen triumphs at the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix, increasing his number of Formula 1 victories to 58, while his team, Red Bull Racing, accumulates an impressive 117 wins and 100 pole positions. Despite a disappointing Sprint qualifying, Verstappen’s dominant performance, aided by two Safety Car periods and one Virtual Safety Car period, put him nearly 14 seconds ahead of Lando Norris, who finished in second place.
In a post-race press release from Red Bull, Verstappen expressed his satisfaction with the race, highlighting the team’s excellent pace throughout the weekend. He acknowledged that the safety car period reduced the lead he had built up, but praised the well-balanced car and consistent driving experience, especially compared to Sprint qualifying. Verstappen emphasized the emotional aspect of each race and described this particular victory as especially enjoyable, given the successful week and the return of the Shanghai race to the calendar.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner praised the team’s achievement, especially the flawless performance in the pit stops, with double stops for Verstappen and Sergio Perez executed in impressive times of 2.1s and 2.0s. Horner expressed his pride in the team’s progress and Max’s exceptional performance throughout the season, as well as Checo’s podium. He credited the team’s pit stop efficiency as a reflection of the overall team dedication and thanked Exxon Mobil for their continuous support, celebrating the 50th anniversary of collaboration.
The only missed opportunity for Verstappen in China was securing the fastest lap point. However, he currently leads the F1 Drivers’ Championship with a 25-point advantage over Perez, while Red Bull maintains a comfortable 44-point lead over Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship. The team’s success in China was a testament to their unity and determination.
