LIVE: Verstappen takes the throne, Leclerc OUT, F1 in turmoil

Max Verstappen etched his name further into the annals of Formula 1 history by clinching his fourth World Championship title in a dramatic race filled with high-stakes drama and heartbreak for Charles Leclerc. The Las Vegas Grand Prix, held under the dazzling lights of the Strip, served as the stage for a spectacular showdown that left fans breathless.

Verstappen’s Triumph: A Season of Dominance

The 2024 season has been a masterclass in precision and dominance from Max Verstappen and the Red Bull Racing team. Coming into the Las Vegas race, Verstappen needed only a handful of points to secure the title. But in typical Verstappen fashion, he didn’t just play it safe—he went for glory.

After starting third on the grid, Verstappen displayed impeccable racecraft, overtaking both Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ George Russell in the early laps. His relentless pace and flawless strategy ensured he crossed the line first, cementing his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship with style.

Leclerc’s Heartbreak: Red Mist in the Desert

While Verstappen celebrated, it was a night of frustration for Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who saw his championship hopes unravel in heartbreaking fashion. Starting on pole, Leclerc looked poised to challenge for the win, but a combination of strategic missteps and on-track errors cost him dearly.

The turning point came on Lap 42, when Leclerc, under pressure from Russell, locked up into Turn 5 and lost valuable track position. Adding insult to injury, a poorly timed pit stop dropped him further down the order, leaving the Monegasque driver fuming over team radio.

Leclerc finished a disappointing fourth, visibly frustrated with both his performance and Ferrari’s ongoing strategic struggles.

Max Verstappen: A Legacy in the Making

Verstappen’s fourth title puts him in elite company, alongside legends like Sebastian Vettel and Alain Prost. At just 27 years old, the Dutchman’s career shows no signs of slowing down, and his dominance suggests he could challenge Lewis Hamilton’s record of seven championships in the years to come.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner hailed Verstappen as “one of the greatest talents Formula 1 has ever seen,” and with his combination of skill, aggression, and consistency, few would argue otherwise.