Red Bull‘s Max Verstappen secured his 18th victory of the season, further solidifying his status in Formula One history. The triumph, achieved amidst a backdrop of controversies and logistical challenges, marked Red Bull’s 20th win in a single season, setting a new record for the team. Verstappen’s stellar performance also propelled him to third place on the all-time F1 winners’ list, tying with the legendary Sebastian Vettel.
The Vegas Grand Prix, hosting a Formula One race for the first time since the 1980s, had faced criticism in the days leading up to the event. Street closures, traffic congestion, and a cancelled practice session due to track repairs contributed to a less-than-ideal buildup. However, Saturday’s enthralling night race answered skeptics with a display of sporting thrills and entertainment.
Verstappen, who had been the most vocal critic of the Las Vegas scene before the race, admitted that the event turned out to be a success. The race, featuring a unique track layout that incorporated famous landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip, delivered a spectacle that captivated both fans and critics. Red Bull played the timeless Elvis song “Viva Las Vegas” over the team radio after pop star Justin Bieber waved the chequered flag, adding a touch of entertainment to the sporting extravaganza.
Despite early challenges, including a penalty for forcing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc off track and a collision with Mercedes’s George Russell, Verstappen showcased his exceptional driving skills. The race suit paying homage to Elvis Presley’s signature jumpsuit added a touch of flair to Verstappen’s victory celebration.
Charles Leclerc, starting from pole position, displayed remarkable resilience, finishing second after a fierce battle that included losing and regaining the lead. Sergio Perez, although losing out on the last lap for the second consecutive race, secured second place in the championship, a historic achievement for Red Bull, who had never previously ended a season with their drivers one-two.
The race’s drama started from lap one when Verstappen and Leclerc slipped into the run-off area, leading to a penalty for Verstappen. A collision with George Russell added further excitement, with both drivers receiving penalties. A safety car intervention allowed Verstappen to take new tires, setting the stage for a remarkable comeback.
While Red Bull had clinched both titles long before the Vegas Grand Prix, the event served as a fitting conclusion to a historic season. The team’s dominance, coupled with Verstappen’s outstanding performances, leaves a lasting impression as the focus now shifts to the final race in Abu Dhabi.
Despite initial challenges and controversies, the Vegas Grand Prix proved to be a thrilling addition to the F1 calendar, showcasing that Formula One can deliver both sporting thrills and entertainment. As fans and critics alike reflect on the spectacle in Vegas, the race stands as a testament to the resilience of the sport and the ability to create memorable moments even in the face of challenges.
