Max Verstappen, crowned as a four-time Formula 1 World Champion, expressed optimism for a highly competitive 2025 season while receiving his world drivers’ trophy at the FIA Awards Ceremony in Kigali, Rwanda. Verstappen reflected on an “up and down” 2024 season, which many regard as his most remarkable championship win yet, given the fierce competition across the grid.
The Dutchman overcame a tough challenge from McLaren’s Lando Norris, particularly highlighted by a spectacular victory in Brazil, where he surged from 17th on the grid to take first place. This triumph set him up to clinch the title in Las Vegas. Despite Verstappen’s dominance, scoring 74.2% of Red Bull’s points, his team fell short in the constructors’ championship, finishing third behind McLaren and Ferrari. McLaren, bolstered by Norris and Oscar Piastri, edged out Ferrari by just 14 points to secure the title.
Acknowledging the challenges faced, Verstappen praised his team’s resilience during a difficult mid-season period. “We didn’t panic, which could easily happen in those situations,” he remarked. He also emphasized Red Bull’s determination to improve for the upcoming season, predicting a “proper fight between a lot of teams.”
Verstappen’s achievements place him in an elite group of F1 legends with four world titles, joining Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel. Only three drivers—Juan Manuel Fangio (five titles), and Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton (seven titles each)—sit ahead of him in the sport’s history. Reflecting on his rise, Verstappen said, “As a kid, you don’t think about these things. You just hope one day you can be on the podium.”
Looking ahead, Verstappen expressed pride in Red Bull’s accomplishments despite missing out on the constructors’ championship. He also highlighted the increasing competition within the sport, noting that changes in 2026 could further shift the balance of power. “For now, it’s important to enjoy the moment and be proud of what we’ve achieved,” he added.
With the promise of a tighter competition next season, Verstappen’s focus remains on continuing his legacy and securing even greater success with Red Bull in the future.
