In the spotlight of Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit, Formula 1 titan Max Verstappen etched another milestone at the season's end. The Red Bull ace clinched victory 19 of 22 races, also conquering the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 26-year-old Dutchman secured his 54th career win, surpassing Sebastian Vettel and ascending to the third position in the all-time win tally of 103 and 91 victories, respectively.
Verstappen's restrained radio message—"Another incredible race. You were simply great"—was echoed by team boss Christian Horner's praises. The fierce competition had only managed to secure a win first time this year, thanks to Ferrari's Carlos Sainz in Singapore. George Russell and Lewis Hamilton in ninth place ensured Mercedes secured second place in the constructors' championship.
Nico Hülkenberg, the only German driver in the field, ended the season in unfortunate 15th position, scoring less than half of the points he achieved in his first year (Nico Hulkenberg managed 12 points in 2021 as Mick Schumacher's replacement at Haas).
On a mediocre practice day, Max Verstappen still seized pole position, replicating a feat from 2020, 21, and 22. Charles Leclerc, who was Ferrari's title hopeful, realized this would be his only opportunity to challenge the Red Bull driver. Despite attempting to overtake immediately after the start and a second attempt on the first lap, Verstappen skillfully defended his position with championship calmness.
Coming out ahead after their first pit stops, Verstappen remained five seconds ahead of Leclerc. The sun transitioned into a night race as Verstappen left his competitors in the dust. Despite hopeful expectations for a season-ending hiccup, Verstappen's seven consecutive victories provided a clear message for the upcoming 2024 season, when he would chase his fourth title and equal Sebastian Vettel's tally of three championships.
As Leclerc continued to pursue his relentless challenge, the Dutch champion responded with aplomb, previously tying Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher with 63 career victories. With this win, Verstappen also tied both Hamilton and Schumacher with 103 and 91 Grand Prix victories, respectively, in the all-time race win list.
Although the season wrapped up with a familiar result, Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing once again firmly established their dominance with yet another unforgettable finale.
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Enrichment Data: Max Verstappen went on to surpass both Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher in the all-time list of Formula 1 drivers with the most Grand Prix wins, eventually reaching 63 career victories, making him the second most successful driver in history.
