Max Verstappen secured his fourth Formula 1 world championship under the dazzling Las Vegas lights, solidifying his place among the sport’s legends. The 27-year-old Red Bull driver needed only to finish ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, his sole title contender. Verstappen placed fifth, while Norris took sixth, sealing the championship with two races remaining.
Joining an elite group of four-time champions like Schumacher and Hamilton, Verstappen reflected on his journey: “What a season. Four times! It’s been tougher than last year, but we gave it all.”
Mercedes’ George Russell triumphed in the race, finishing ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz. Verstappen opted for a cautious strategy, allowing Ferrari’s cars to overtake as his title rivals posed no threat. Norris praised Verstappen, calling him “relentless” in maximizing his car’s potential.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix brought unparalleled glamor to F1, with celebrities like Paris Hilton gracing the paddock. The iconic Strip’s 1.2-mile straight saw cars reaching speeds of 221 mph. The event, part of a 10-year Vegas contract, generated $1.5 billion in economic impact, showcasing F1’s growing U.S. presence.
Meanwhile, speculation grows about Cadillac joining the grid in 2026, potentially marking a new era for American motorsport giants. The season, while turbulent for Verstappen with fierce competition and car issues, underscores his resilience as he navigated a shifting competitive landscape to claim his fourth crown.
