Max Verstappen Breaks Record for Most Wins in a Formula 1 Season at Mexico City Grand Prix
Max Verstappen continued his dominant season with a record-breaking performance at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Verstappen secured his 16th victory of the year, surpassing his previous record for most wins in a Formula 1 season.
The race got off to a dramatic start as Verstappen started in third position but briefly fell to fourth as teammate Sergio Perez made an aggressive move to overtake him. However, Perez’s maneuver resulted in contact with pole-sitter Charles Leclerc, causing both drivers to retire from the race.
Verstappen wasted no time in making up ground and quickly overtook both Ferraris to take the lead. It looked like he would drive away with the victory until a second incident on lap 34 brought out a red flag. Haas driver Kevin Magnussen lost control and crashed into the soft barrier, causing damage and a brief delay in the race.
Despite the interruption, Verstappen maintained his composure and capitalized on his earlier pit stop for hard tires. He managed to build a 13-second lead over Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton by the end of the race, securing his historic 16th win of the season.
The final standings of the Mexico City Grand Prix were as follows:
1. Max Verstappen
2. Lewis Hamilton
3. Charles Leclerc
4. Carlos Sainz
5. Lando Norris
6. George Russell
7. Daniel Ricciardo
8. Oscar Piastri
9. Alexander Albon
10. Esteban Ocon
Verstappen’s victory solidifies his position as the frontrunner in the drivers’ championship. He now holds a commanding lead over Perez, who sits in second place. Hamilton remains in contention but will face an uphill battle in the remaining races of the season.
The Mexico City Grand Prix showcased Verstappen’s exceptional talent and his ability to perform under pressure. With several races still to go, fans can expect more thrilling battles and record-breaking performances from the Red Bull driver.
The race weekend also saw the introduction of an experimental tire prototype by Pirelli. Each team was given two sets of the new C4 compound to test and evaluate their performance. The tire’s durability and wear will be analyzed, and a decision will be made regarding its use in the 2024 season.
The Mexico City Grand Prix also provided an opportunity for rookie drivers to make their mark. Formula 2 drivers Ollie Bearman, Jack Doohan, Theo Pourchaire, Frederik Vesti, and Isack Hadjar were given the chance to participate in free practice sessions. Bearman set an impressive time in Friday’s practice, finishing ahead of seasoned veteran Fernando Alonso.
Looking ahead, Verstappen remains the favorite heading into the next race. However, Hamilton and Leclerc cannot be counted out, as they have shown their ability to challenge the Red Bull driver. With the championship on the line, fans can expect intense battles and high-stakes racing in the final races of the season.