Lewis Hamilton may find himself smirking if Max Verstappen clinches a fifth world drivers championship in Abu Dhabi this weekend. The last time Verstappen secured a world title at the final Formula One race was in 2021, marking the beginning of his four consecutive championships amid controversy.
A contentious incident involving an unconventional application of safety car rules by former race director Michael Masi allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the last lap and snatch the title. Toto Wolff, then Hamilton’s team boss at Mercedes, still harbors resentment over the event, criticizing the loss of control and dubbing the situation as chaotic.
Despite an FIA investigation revealing Masi’s error in safety car regulations, the championship outcome remained unchanged. Verstappen’s dominance has since been unchallenged, with Hamilton falling short of claiming the title that could surpass Michael Schumacher’s record.
Verstappen’s potential fifth victory would solidify his status as one of the greatest in Formula One history, joining the elite ranks of drivers like Hamilton, Schumacher, and Juan Manuel Fangio. While his 2021 Red Bull was evenly matched with Hamilton’s Mercedes, the Red Bull has emerged as the superior car in recent seasons.
Heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen faces tough odds but remains a strong contender, trailing only by a few points behind his competitors. A win for Verstappen coupled with a strategic outcome for his rival Norris could crown him the champion, showcasing a remarkable achievement in his career.
Verstappen’s triumphs have sparked discussions on his GOAT (Greatest of All Time) potential, underscoring his exceptional talent and competitive edge in the sport. As the memory of past injustices fades, Verstappen’s legacy continues to grow, leaving a lasting impact on Formula One history.