In the upcoming Abu Dhabi race, should Max Verstappen secure his fifth world championship, Lewis Hamilton might reflect with a hint of irony. This scenario would bring back memories of Verstappen’s controversial triumph in 2021, where a disputed safety car ruling by then race director Michael Masi allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the final lap, snatching the title from the Brit.
Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former boss at Mercedes, still harbors resentment over the events of that day in Abu Dhabi four years ago. He recently expressed frustration, citing the loss of control in a situation that led to a historic championship being taken away from Hamilton due to what he deemed as a questionable decision by Masi.
Despite the subsequent acknowledgment of an error in applying safety car regulations, the championship results stood, altering the trajectory of both drivers’ careers. Verstappen, propelled by his unstoppable form, now stands on the brink of a fifth consecutive title, potentially solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greats alongside Hamilton, Schumacher, and Fangio.
Verstappen’s dominance in recent seasons, particularly with a superior car in 2022 and 2023, has been undeniable. His remarkable performance has put him in contention for another championship, with Lando Norris posing as a formidable challenger. As the season nears its climax in Abu Dhabi, the odds are stacked against Verstappen, making a potential victory even more remarkable considering the challenges faced throughout the year.
With only one race left, Verstappen trails Norris by a slim margin, setting the stage for a thrilling finale. A victory in Abu Dhabi coupled with specific outcomes could see Verstappen clinch the championship, defying expectations given the comparative performance of the Red Bull and McLaren cars this season.
Verstappen’s impressive track record and unwavering determination have positioned him as a force to be reckoned with in the sport. As the final race approaches, the narrative of Verstappen’s rise to greatness continues to unfold, leaving a lasting impact on Formula One history.