Max reflects in Vegas: 'Grown as a driver this year'

Published on 21 November 2024 by Stefan Meens

This weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix marks the first of the final three races of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Max Verstappen, who secured a spectacular win at the last Grand Prix in Brazil, addressed the media in the Vegas paddock.

“I was really happy with that race at Interlagos, especially after having an unlucky qualifying and grid penalty. I knew it would be tough, but the result was great. It means it’s looking good for the championship, but we’ll see what happens this weekend.”

The reigning champion added: “We have hope we’ll be competitive here in Las Vegas, but we don’t know how competitive. We had good race pace in Brazil in the dry, but this is a completely different track. It’s also a lot colder, but I hope we can keep the momentum. There’s enough to fight for, including the constructors championship.”

“Ultimately, I want to focus on doing the best I can during the weekend. It was great to take a win again after not winning in a while, especially as we haven’t had the quickest car lately. Last year, we were quick, but so were the Ferraris. Hopefully we can fight for the win.”

The Las Vegas Grand Prix will serve up several challenges for the teams and drivers with the race taking place in the evening under artificial lights. “It’s cold and the tyres will struggle, especially the soft compound. We’ll have to see what the graining will be like. It’s also difficult to guess how much grip there will be and how bumpy it is compared the last year.”

With a fourth title appearing imminent, the Dutchman takes a lot of satisfaction from this year’s campaign. “Evey title is different. 2021 went all the way to the wire. We didn’t start well in 2022, but did amazing at the end. In 2023, we dominated as a team. It looked like we were on the same course in 2024 but we had a string of tough races. Every year is different. I enjoyed 2023 the most, but I’ve learned a lot this year. It was important to stay calm and continue to work hard with the team. This season is very satisfying and I’ve grown as a driver.”

To clinch the title in Vegas, Lando Norris cannot gain more than two points on Max meaning the fourth championship is within sight. “If the team has prepared anything for celebrating, I do not want to know.”

Contest Las Vegas GP: win a by Max Verstappen signed Red Bull Racing cap!