Although Max Verstappen secured the 2023 Formula 1 Championship and secured his third consecutive title almost two months ago at the Qatar Grand Prix, his competitive spirit remains unwavering. Demonstrating relentless determination, Verstappen has triumphed in every race since, culminating in a stellar conclusion to the year with his 19th victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday.
Verstappen, reflecting on his relentless approach, remarked, “I think this is what I grew up with. I can’t go into a race weekend without giving everything I have.” He acknowledged a refusal to let up, even after clinching the championship, stating, “My mentality did not change after winning the championship. I come to the race on the weekends and always try to do my best, and winning is great. Why wouldn’t I want to win?”
To cap off an exceptional season, Max Verstappen surpassed the milestone of completing over 1,000 laps in a single season, adding another accolade to his illustrious career. Verstappen, now with 54 wins in total, stands third on the all-time drivers’ list.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix of 2023 Formula 1 saw Verstappen secure victory ahead of Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Mercedes driver George Russell. Notably, Verstappen also claimed an additional point for the fastest lap. This win positioned him one victory ahead of the former Red Bull legend Sebastian Vettel, with only Michael Schumacher (91 points) and Lewis Hamilton (103 points) boasting better records.
Expressing his sentiments after crossing the finish line, Verstappen reflected on the remarkable year, stating, “What an amazing year. It was a bit emotional on the lap.” Red Bull’s dominance was evident throughout the season, winning 21 out of 22 races, with Sergio Perez contributing two victories.
Acknowledging the challenges of replicating such a stellar season, Verstappen remarked, “It will be very difficult to have another season like this, we know that. We will see, we will work hard to have a very competitive car next year.”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner commended Verstappen’s achievements, noting, “You have destroyed everything off the field this year. We are all incredibly proud of you.”
In the final standings for the 2023 Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship, the top three positions are as follows:
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- Sergio Perez (Red Bull)
- Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
Similarly, in the Constructors’ Championship, the standings are as follows:
- Red Bull (860 points)
- Mercedes (409 points)
- Ferrari (406 points)
