Max Verstappen will stand as the third most successful driver if he wins the Abu Dhabi GP.
Max Verstappen and Daniel Riccardo (Via IMAGO)
Following his victory at the inaugural Las Vegas GP, Max Verstappen joins Sebastian Vettel with 53 wins each, marking a stellar achievement. Red Bull’s phenomenal season, nearly flawless save for one race, showcases their dominance. As the season crescendos towards the Abu Dhabi GP, the crowned champion exudes optimism, aspiring to conclude the season on a high note.
Verstappen’s season is a record-breaking spectacle, claiming the most consecutive wins, wins in a season, and podiums. Leading an astonishing 75.06% of grand prix laps, totaling 951 out of 1,267, he surpasses Jim Clark‘s six-decade record as the driver with the highest lap-leading percentage.
As the Abu Dhabi GP weekend approaches, Verstappen commands an impressive 273-point lead over teammate Sergio Perez, nearly doubling Perez’s tally. Red Bull secured the constructors’ title, achieving their maiden 1-2 finish in the standings, with Perez securing the runner-up position. A testament to the team’s outstanding season.
Red Bull’s anticipated triumph this season seemed vulnerable, yet they secured both titles impressively, leaving rivals trailing. Max now aims for a triumphant season conclusion. Speaking to Racing News 365, the Dutchman said;
The whole team has worked incredibly hard and everyone deserves a good rest and time with their friends and families. It’s the last push for the year and I’m hoping to end this season on a high.
Max Verstappen claims that he cherishes his first title win at the controversial Abu Dhabi GP in 2021
The Dutchman has won the last 3 races at the Yas Marina circuit and is aiming to make it 4 in a row this weekend. Verstappen shared the connection he has with the Abu Dhabi GP saying;
Abu Dhabi always brings back good memories for me and the team, winning my first Drivers’ Championship here is a memory that we’ll never forget.
Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen on the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP podium (Credits: IMAGO)
Verstappen secured his inaugural title in the tumultuous 2021 Abu Dhabi race, prevailing in a bitter duel with Lewis Hamilton. His subsequent dominance yielded two consecutive titles. The 2023 season stands as a historic pinnacle, epitomizing one of the most dominant individual performances. Reflecting on that, the champion said;
It’s been a long but successful season, I’m looking forward to a break and having some free time.
Max Verstappen ⚔️ Lewis Hamilton
The moment, that ONE MOMENT…🔥
Christian Horner vs Toto Wolff, the contrast in emotion…
Back at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for the final F1 race week!🇦🇪#AbuDhabiGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/QV11yyX767
— Opinionated Fan (@OpinionatedSF19) November 20, 2023
Approaching the climax, Verstappen eyes surpassing Vettel, aiming for his 19th season win—placing him third, trailing only Michael Schumacher and Hamilton. The 22 racing weekends concluded, and teams now embark on a well-deserved break, channeling efforts towards recuperation and crafting their next year’s challenger during the winter hiatus.
