Max ahead of season finale: 'Proud of how we worked together as a team'
Published on 05 December 2024 by Stefan Meens
Max Verstappen sat down in the Yas Marina Circuit paddock ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi to preview the last round of the championship as well as reflect on a successful 2024 campaign.
Following last week’s win at the Qatar Grand Prix, Max is hoping to carry the momentum into the season finale at Abu Dhabi this weekend. “It’s a different track, but there is always an opportunity to turn things round within a weekend when things aren’t going well. In Qatar, we didn’t have a good start, but we were able to fight at the front in qualifying and the race.”
“Previously, Abu Dhabi has always suited us, but a lot has changed this year. I’m relaxed and looking forward to the weekend. Hopefully we can learn some more about the car so we can use that information for next year”, said the Oracle Red Bull Racing driver who thinks a winning the final race of the season does not affect the way the team heads into 2025. “Of course we want to win, but it’s not vital. We just try to be as competitive as possible.”
Despite securing his fourth world title with three races remaining in the championship, it was a challenging year. “Of course I’m proud I won, but I’m equally proud of the way we worked together in the team and how we came through the difficult times. In 2023, it felt effortles. Of course, I worked hard, and I spent a lot of time in the simulator. But if the car is in the right window, you shouldn’t look too much at the details nor change a lot. That’s not my approach as it can work against you.”
Compared to last year, the 2024 campaigned proved to be a tougher proposition. “We initially didn’t realise where our problems came from, because the numbers looked good. It took us a few races to get on top of things and with the cost cap it is difficult to know what you can and can’t do. We had good conversations within the team because there’s no point being frustrated. We worked even harder to understand the issues and find solutions. We found the right way to go and we will keep going. I’m proud how we found solutions and became more competitive.”
The highlight of Max’s season was the spectacular win at the Brazilian Grand Prix. “That was very emotional. There was the frustration after qualifying, thinking I would lose a lot of points. In the end, it became a real fight and we won from P17. That’s definitely a race I’m proud of how we went about it.”
Ahead of the 2025, Max remains realistic about Red Bull’s chances. “For me it’s always about finding more performance and continuing to improve. Of course, every car has limitations and this year we had more limitations than in 2023. It does give us more areas to work on and time will tell where we’ll be.”
Finally, earlier on in the week, the Dutch GP announced 2026 will be the last edition of an already iconic event. “Of course it’s a shame, but I’m really proud of what they achieved. When I started in F1, I didn’t think it would ever be possible to have a Grand Prix in Zandvoort again. The races we’ve had there and the event they organised; they deserve a lot of respect and I’m proud to have been a part of it. I’m looking forward to the last two editions. They say they want to go out with a bang, so I’m excited to see what they plan.”
