Max Verstappen Clinches Third Consecutive Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship in 2023, Eyes Remarkable Achievement at Abu Dhabi GP
Max Verstappen is poised to cap off a dominant 2023 Formula 1 season with a potential record at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Red Bull standout, who has secured victory in 18 out of 21 races this year, could achieve the remarkable feat of winning the world title in both the first and second halves of the 2023 F1 season if he finishes third in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while teammate Sergio Perez finishes sixth or lower.
Verstappen’s exceptional performance throughout the season has seen him clinch his third consecutive Drivers’ Championship. Starting with a win at the Bahrain Grand Prix, he continued his dominance with a victory at the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix last week.
Even if Verstappen had participated in only one half of the season, his formidable points tally would likely have secured him the championship. With Perez already securing second place in the championship, Verstappen’s overwhelming performance is evident.
In the first 11 races of the season, Verstappen amassed 281 points, while in the last 10 races, he gathered 268 points, averaging an impressive 26.8 points per weekend. This surpasses what was possible before the introduction of Sprint Races. A win at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix would elevate Verstappen’s points to 293.
As Perez enters Abu Dhabi with 273 points, a sixth-place finish would bring him to 281 points, the same as Verstappen through 11 races. However, Verstappen would secure the championship on count back.
For Verstappen to be the world champion in either half of the season, Perez must not score more than eight points, while Verstappen needs just 13 points, achievable through a third-place finish or a fourth-place finish with the fastest lap.
It’s a concerning reflection on the state of Formula 1. Verstappen’s dominance has reached such heights in 2023 that he could have essentially secured the world championship even if he had ceased racing after the Hungarian Grand Prix in July. Conversely, had he opted to start competing at Spa and only participated in the second half of the championship, he would likely still emerge with a third crown. The extent of Verstappen’s supremacy raises questions about the competitive balance in F1.
The culmination of the 2023 season takes place with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday, Nov. 26.
