Lewis Hamilton may witness Max Verstappen potentially securing his fifth world drivers championship in Abu Dhabi this weekend with a hint of irony. The last time Verstappen clinched a world title at the final race of the Formula One season was in 2021, marking the beginning of his four consecutive titles, amidst controversy.
During that eventful race in Abu Dhabi four years ago, an unconventional application of safety car rules by race director Michael Masi allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the final lap, snatching the world title from the Brit. This incident, later attributed to ‘human error’ by an FIA investigation in 2022, shook the Formula One community.
Despite the contentious outcome, Verstappen’s dominance in recent years has been undeniable. While the odds currently favor Lando Norris, the Red Bull driver remains a strong contender for a fifth consecutive championship victory. A triumph this weekend would solidify Verstappen’s legacy as one of the greatest drivers of all time, joining the elite ranks of drivers like Hamilton, Schumacher, and Fangio.
Verstappen’s unparalleled skills have been evident in his performance, with his Red Bull car proving superior on the track in recent seasons. Although facing challenges and internal team turmoil, Verstappen’s determination has been unwavering. Going into the final race in Abu Dhabi, the championship standings are tight, with Verstappen poised to secure the title if he outperforms Norris.
Reflecting on his journey to this point, Verstappen acknowledged the unexpected position he finds himself in and the challenges he has overcome. As the championship battle intensifies, the Formula One community awaits the outcome eagerly, recognizing Verstappen’s potential to etch his name further in the annals of racing history.