As the 2024 Formula One (F1) season approaches its final races, the season standings are still very much up in the air. With new regulations and an evolving grid, this year has already proven to be one of the most exciting in recent memory despite seven-time champion and perpetual fan-favorite Lewis Hamilton’s struggles compared to his prime years. Only six races remain before the winner will be crowned. While this season has been very back and forth at the top, two men have led the pack all year: Lando Norris and three-time reigning champion Max Verstappen, whose rivalry has continued to entertain fans.
Lando Norris, representing McLaren, is often seen as a rising star in the sport, compared to Verstappen who has already solidified his greatness. While he hasn’t matched Verstappen’s championship successes yet, Norris has consistently impressed with his racecraft, adaptability and maturity beyond his years. His ability to extract maximum performance from his car, even when McLaren hasn’t been at its peak in recent years, has marked him as one of the future contenders for world titles.
Red Bull Racing, the dominant team lately, has been a hallmark of stellar car performance. With Max Verstappen continuing his reign as a formidable force on the Red Bull team, the Dutch driver has showcased remarkable consistency and skill. In years past, it was Red Bull teammate Sergio Pérez who came closest to challenging Verstappen’s throne, but this year has been marked by a breakout season from Norris. His aggressive racing style and steady composure under pressure have solidified his position as Verstappen’s main competition, and both are tied with 11 podiums this season. This season Norris finally has the car to match Red Bull which has allowed him to contend for a potential championship. While Verstappen has won six races to Norris’ three, just 52 points separate them with everything still to gain.
This past weekend, Norris won the Singapore Grand Prix with Verstappen finishing right on his tail. While the two are good friends off the track, their relationship seems to have soured slightly this year, especially after the Austria race where the two were involved in a collision on Lap 63. It resulted in Norris’ car suffering race-ending damage and Verstappen accepting a 10-second time penalty, leaving Mercedes’ George Russell victorious. Norris spoke on the incident and his overall frustration.
“I respect [Verstappen] a lot but there are times when he goes a little bit too far […] All three times he was doing things that can easily cause an incident. And in a way just a bit reckless; seemed a little bit desperate from his side,” Norris said.
It certainly isn’t the first time that Verstappen has come under fire for aggressive driving. In 2023’s Austin Grand Prix, the Dutch driver caught some flak for forcing Ferrari driver (and closest competitor at the time) Charles Leclerc off track and over the pit exit. And in 2021’s Brazilian Grand Prix, he was handed a penalty for forcing rival Lewis Hamilton off track. Although his guns-blazing style of racing has got him into some trouble, it makes for the can’t-miss excitement that has propelled the 26-year-old into superstardom.
Verstappen and Norris represent the next generation of F1, as their aggressive racing styles create intriguing matchups that will continue for seasons to come. With the two vying for the top spot this year, it may prove difficult to maintain their friendly relationship off the track. Nonetheless, fans will continue to be entertained by both of their talents as the season comes to a close.
