In the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a potential fifth world drivers championship for Max Verstappen might elicit a knowing grin from Lewis Hamilton. The last time Verstappen clinched a world title at the final race was in 2021, marking the beginning of his four consecutive championships amid controversy.
The contentious victory stemmed from an unusual interpretation of safety car regulations by Michael Masi, the then race director, who later faced removal from his role. Masi’s decision allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the last lap, securing an unprecedented eighth world title.
The 2021 Abu Dhabi race remains a sore point for Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former Mercedes team principal, who recently expressed discontent over the outcome. Wolff’s frustration highlighted the perceived loss of control during the race and criticized the impact on Hamilton’s championship record.
Following an FIA investigation in 2022, Masi’s application of safety car rules was deemed incorrect due to ‘human error.’ Despite the controversy, the final standings remained unchanged, leaving Hamilton out of championship contention since then.
Verstappen’s dominance in recent seasons has been evident, with his Red Bull outperforming competitors. The upcoming race in Abu Dhabi could potentially solidify his status as one of the greatest drivers of all time, alongside legends like Hamilton, Schumacher, and Fangio.
Although Verstappen faced challenges in the 2022 season with team turmoil and inconsistent car performance, his current position as a championship contender against odds signifies a remarkable achievement. Heading into the final race, he holds a narrow lead over his closest rivals, making the title race a thrilling spectacle.
Reflecting on his previous successes, Verstappen acknowledged the unexpected nature of his championship contention this season despite winning four titles. His confidence in his abilities and the superiority of his Red Bull car have been pivotal in his championship pursuit.
As the anticipation builds for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the possibility of Verstappen claiming a fifth championship title underscores his growing legacy in Formula One. While the controversy of past seasons lingers, Verstappen’s skill and determination continue to shape his narrative as a potential GOAT in the sport.