Max Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, couldn’t contain his emotions after the Dutch driver secured his fourth consecutive Formula 1 title. Known for his calm demeanor, Lambiase’s typically reserved approach was replaced by heartfelt gratitude as Verstappen clinched the championship at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Heading into the race with a 62-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen needed to avoid a major setback to seal the title. Finishing in P5, Verstappen maintained his gap, rendering Norris’s chances of catching up mathematically impossible with just two races remaining. Norris, who had a challenging weekend, qualified P6 and finished in the same position, as Verstappen’s steady performance ensured he would be crowned champion once again.

Upon crossing the finish line, Verstappen acknowledged his team over the radio. But it was Lambiase’s message that stood out. The engineer, usually more restrained, expressed his pride but also revealed why he had kept quiet during the race. “I’ve been a bit quiet, mate, didn’t want to embarrass myself like you, with the stuttering,” Lambiase joked, referencing Verstappen’s emotional outbursts from previous titles.

As the team celebrated the victory, Red Bull’s Christian Horner also took a moment to congratulate Verstappen over the radio. The team principal’s words further highlighted how significant the achievement was for the team and Verstappen, who has been nearly untouchable since his first championship win in 2021.

Verstappen, overcome with emotion, shared his gratitude on the radio. “I never thought this was possible, but thanks to you guys,” he said. “Oh my God, what a season. Four times. Thank you guys. It was a little more difficult this year, but we pulled through and gave it our all. Thank you so much, guys.”

With this victory, Verstappen joins the ranks of legendary drivers like Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel, each with four titles. Vettel’s four titles with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013 mirror Verstappen’s recent dominance, adding another layer of significance to the Dutch driver’s already historic career.

As the season concludes, Verstappen’s remarkable consistency continues to rewrite Formula 1 history. Despite the remaining races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, no one can deny that the 2024 title belongs to Max Verstappen.