In a season marked by intense competition and remarkable performances, Max Verstappen once again stood out as the dominant force in Formula 1, clinching his fourth world championship title in 2024 with nine race victories. Verstappen's consistency and skill cemented his status at the top of the sport, but he was not the only driver to make headlines this year.
Pierre Gasly's Late-Season Surge
Pierre Gasly displayed impressive form in the concluding phase of the season, securing points finishes in four of the final five races. This late resurgence, including a notable third-place grid position in the Las Vegas Grand Prix, underscored his potential and resilience. Gasly's performance was a bright spot for his team, hinting at a promising future.
Lewis Hamilton: A Season of Challenges
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, faced an unusually challenging season, finishing seventh in the standings—his lowest ever position. Despite this, Hamilton still managed to triumph at the British Grand Prix, showing he still possesses the talent and tenacity that have defined his career. As he candidly remarked during a difficult weekend in Qatar, he’s "still got it."
Nico Hülkenberg's Steadfast Performance
Nico Hülkenberg had a solid season, consistently finishing in the points in half of the 24 races. His ability to qualify within the top ten grids 11 times showcased his ability to extract performance from the car, bringing a level of reliability to his team amidst the season's shifting dynamics.
Fernando Alonso Leads Aston Martin
Fernando Alonso's experience and strategic acumen were pivotal in guiding Aston Martin to a commendable fifth place in the constructors' standings. Making 16 Q3 appearances throughout the season, Alonso's efforts were described as noteworthy; "His efforts, which ultimately secured Aston Martin a comfortable fifth place in the constructors' standings, are worth recognition on this list."
Oscar Piastri: A Rising Star
Oscar Piastri's 2024 performance left a significant mark, with six front-row starts and two victories, complemented by eight podium finishes. This impressive tally highlights Piastri's rapid development and heralds his emergence as a contender capable of challenging for top positions regularly.
Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz: Ferrari's Twin Triumphs
Ferrari enjoyed a successful season with Charles Leclerc securing victories in Monaco, Monza, and Austin. Leclerc consistently finished within the top four in 19 out of the 24 races, exemplifying his racecraft and determination. Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz added to Ferrari's triumphs with wins in Australia and Mexico City, showcasing the team's capability to compete at high levels against tough competition.
The Struggles of Sergio Pérez and Lando Norris
Sergio Pérez experienced a season fraught with difficulties, failing to finish in the top six on 17 occasions. The inconsistency was a setback in Pérez's campaign, underscoring the mercurial nature of his performances. Lando Norris also faced a tumultuous season, marked by missed opportunities. As noted, "Not all of those lost positions and points can be blamed on Norris, but there's enough there to wonder if the 2024 season was a big opportunity missed."
As the curtain falls on an unforgettable 2024 season, the narratives woven through victories, struggles, and emerging talents have laid the groundwork for the next chapter in Formula 1's storied history. From Verstappen's championship dominance to Piastri's breakout moments, the season was a testament to the skill, drama, and unpredictability that the sport delivers year after year.