Should Max Verstappen secure his fifth world drivers championship in Abu Dhabi this weekend, it might bring a knowing grin to Lewis Hamilton’s face. The last time Verstappen clinched a world title on the final race of the Formula One season was in 2021, marking the start of his four consecutive titles, albeit amid controversy.
At that time, a contentious interpretation of safety car rules by race director Michael Masi allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the last lap, seizing his eighth world title and sparking debates. This event in Abu Dhabi from four years ago still irks Toto Wolff, who was Hamilton’s team principal at Mercedes then, expressing his frustration about the situation and its impact on Hamilton’s championship record.
Despite an FIA investigation in 2022 pinpointing Masi’s error in applying safety car regulations, the championship results remained unchanged. Since then, Hamilton has not been in contention to surpass Michael Schumacher on the all-time championship list, while Verstappen has continued his dominant streak, potentially securing a fifth consecutive title, with Lando Norris also in the running.
If Verstappen manages to claim this fifth championship, it could solidify his status as one of the greatest drivers in history, joining the ranks of Hamilton, Schumacher, and Juan Manuel Fangio. His exceptional performance in the 2021 season, matched with a superior car in 2022 and 2023, has propelled him to the forefront of the GOAT conversation.
Although facing setbacks in the previous season due to car issues and team turmoil, this year’s championship battle presents a significant challenge for Verstappen. With only one race left in the season, he trails behind Norris by 12 points, but a victory in Abu Dhabi coupled with Norris missing the podium could secure the title for Verstappen, defying the odds given his car’s performance compared to McLaren’s throughout the season.
Prior to his victory at the Qatar Grand Prix, Verstappen acknowledged the unexpected nature of his championship contention this year, emphasizing the competitive landscape of the sport. Reflecting on his success, he highlighted the pivotal role of his car in the championship battle.
Looking back at the controversial events of Abu Dhabi 2021, the memory of the injustice lingers for Hamilton and Wolff, but as time passes, Verstappen’s achievements continue to bolster his legacy in Formula One.