Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, has credited Max Verstappen’s unshakable self-belief and mental resilience as the key factors that propelled him to triumph over Lando Norris in the fiercely contested 2024 Formula 1 championship. Speaking after the Las Vegas GP, Horner praised Verstappen’s ability to overcome significant challenges and deliver career-defining performances under pressure.
Reflecting on Verstappen’s stellar season, Horner highlighted how the Dutch driver’s unmatched focus and determination enabled him to dominate despite Norris’s faster car in the latter half of the year.
“Lando has had an incredibly strong car since Miami,” Horner said, “but Max’s win ratio speaks for itself. He’s been consistently a step ahead, and that’s what separates champions from contenders.”
Verstappen himself credited his unwavering confidence during tough times as a cornerstone of his success, emphasizing that mental toughness played a pivotal role in his ability to outmaneuver Norris and other rivals.
The 2024 season was far from smooth sailing for Red Bull Racing. Early struggles with performance left Verstappen at a disadvantage, especially during key races like the Monza GP, where Norris dominated. However, Horner pointed to a critical turning point at the Austin GP, where Verstappen’s sprint race victory and front-row start reignited his championship momentum.
The defining moment of the season came at the Brazilian GP. Starting from P18 due to an engine penalty, Verstappen showcased his mastery of wet-weather driving, slicing through the field to claim victory. The breathtaking performance echoed his iconic 2016 Brazilian GP drive, earning widespread acclaim and cementing his place among F1’s legends.
Verstappen clinched the drivers’ championship with 403 points, securing the title with two races remaining and a 63-point lead over Norris. Red Bull Racing, however, faces an uphill battle in the constructors’ championship, trailing McLaren and Ferrari.
With his 2024 title win, Verstappen has solidified his legacy, proving that sheer determination and mental grit are as crucial as speed in the race for greatness.
