Max Verstappen just grabbed his fourth straight Formula 1 world championship in spectacular fashion under the bright lights of Las Vegas. The Red Bull superstar crossed the finish line ahead of Lando Norris, adding another crown to his incredible run.
“You never had the feeling the championship party would have to be cancelled,” wrote German newspaper BILD, giving Verstappen their highest possible rating. “He opened his first beer directly on TV during the interviews. Cheers!”
The victory sparked a massive fireworks display over the Vegas Strip, a fitting backdrop for a champion who’s dominated the sport like few before him.
This one wasn’t as easy as it looked though. Behind the scenes, Verstappen had to navigate team drama and scandals while keeping Red Bull focused on winning.
“There was no rival this year,” Spain’s Marca pointed out. “Only McLaren had the machinery, but Lando couldn’t match Max behind the wheel.”
The achievement puts Verstappen in rare company among F1’s all-time greats. Italy’s La Gazzetta dello Sport praised how he “kept the rudder straight” through a season full of challenges.
The Guardian caught the emotional moment after the race: “The Dutchman, visibly moved by securing what was his toughest title yet, allowed himself a long breath and a smile to take in what is a remarkable achievement.”
The real drama actually ended two weeks ago in Brazil, where Verstappen essentially locked up the title. But the Vegas celebration, complete with the Strip’s famous neon glow, gave him the perfect stage to make it official.
The big question now: Who can possibly challenge him next year? At just 26 years old, Verstappen shows no signs of slowing down.
