In the fast-paced world of Formula 1 racing, one name has become synonymous with breaking records – Max Verstappen. Over the past three years, the Dutchman has consistently found himself on the top step of the podium, making his mark as one of the most dominant drivers in the sport. However, even the most seasoned Formula 1 enthusiasts were not prepared for the level of supremacy Verstappen would exhibit in the 2023 season.
Behind the wheel of the Red Bull Racing Team’s RB19, Verstappen clinched the 2023 driver’s title with remarkable ease, securing his third title at the Qatar Grand Prix sprint race in October. The RB19 proved to be an unparalleled force, propelling Verstappen to new heights and rewriting the Formula 1 record books.
It should be acknowledged that several of the records shattered during the 2023 season was enabled by the extension of the F1 calendar. A mere fifteen years ago, the limit was set at sixteen races, with no mention of sprint races, with the season concluding in mid-October. Nevertheless, Red Bull, with the exception of Ferrari and Carlos Sainz’s win in Singapore, achieved a clean sweep of victories throughout the 2023 season.
Verstappen’s record-breaking achievements in the 2023 season include the highest percentage of wins, a staggering 19 wins in a season, accumulating the most points at 575, an impressive streak of 10 consecutive wins, leading an unprecedented 1005 laps led in the season. The records go on, ranging from most consecutive wins from pole, most wins from pole in a season, the largest points gap between first and second in the standings at 290, to the most consecutive races as a championship leader, most consecutive points scored, and achieving the most hat-tricks in a season. Verstappen also stands alone as the only driver to win three times in one country in the same season, claiming victories in Miami, Texas, and Las Vegas.
As Formula 1 heads into the 2024 season, the majority of regulations remain stable, leaving room for the possibility of rival teams closing the gap to Red Bull. However, until the cars hit the track for the first race of the new season, momentum undoubtedly remains firmly on the side of the reigning champion, Max Verstappen.
