Max Verstappen’s quest for a historic fourth consecutive Formula One title is facing unexpected challenges. While the Red Bull driver remains the favourite after securing five wins in the first eight races, recent outings have highlighted a shift in momentum.
Uncharacteristic Errors and Rising Competition Threaten Verstappen’s Supremacy
Verstappen’s previously unbeatable aura has been dented by strategic miscalculations and uncharacteristic errors. In Miami, a poorly timed pit stop cost him the lead to McLaren’s Lando Norris.
A similar scenario unfolded in Imola, where Norris pushed Verstappen hard before finishing a mere 0.7 seconds behind. Last weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix marked a low point, as Verstappen finished a distant sixth while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc secured his first win of the season.
Ferrari Boss Senses Verstappen’s Vulnerability
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur believes these developments indicate Verstappen is feeling the pressure. The lack of a dominant advantage has exposed Verstappen’s vulnerabilities, leading to a higher error rate. Vasseur commented:
“I don’t want to draw any conclusions on this weekend, but if you have a look on the last two hours of the weekend, I think Max made more mistakes in Imola or went out more in Imola than over the last three seasons.”
“I think that as soon as they have to push more, if you stay in your comfort zone for the strategy, you don’t do mistakes and I think they were in this situation.”
With the gap closing at the front of the grid, the 2024 Formula One season is shaping up to be a much more competitive affair than initially anticipated.