Max Verstappen caps off an unprecedented 2023 F1 season by clinching victory in 19 out of 22 races. Although the drivers’ and constructors’ titles were determined earlier, the Abu Dhabi GP witnessed a fierce Mercedes versus Ferrari battle for P2. Sergio Perez’s penalty proved pivotal as it secured enough points for Mercedes to surpass Ferrari in this tussle.
Verstappen secures a commanding win at Abu Dhabi GP staying true to form, Verstappen notched another win by comfortably maintaining his lead from pole position, finishing 17.993 seconds ahead of Leclerc.
This achievement catapults the Red Bull driver to the third position in F1 history for most wins (54), trailing only Lewis Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91).
Reflecting on his victory, Verstappen expressed, “It was a bit emotional on the in-lap, the last time I was sitting in the car that has, of course, given me a lot. I’m very proud to win here and also at the last race. I have to say a big thank you to Red Bull, it’s just been an incredible year. It will be hard to do something similar again, but we definitely enjoyed this year.”
Mercedes outpaces Ferrari
Perez incurred a five-second penalty for a collision with Lando Norris. Employing strategic tactics, Leclerc allowed Perez to overtake him for P2 in the race’s closing phase, aiming to create a sufficient gap from George Russell. This strategic move was intended to aid Ferrari in securing P2 in the constructors’ championship.
Despite Perez finishing second on the track, he fell short by 1.1 seconds, relegating him to fourth place behind Leclerc and Russell.
Consequently, Mercedes garnered enough points to outshine Ferrari in the championship standings. Norris claimed fifth place, leading his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. Fernando Alonso, Yuki Tsunoda, Lewis Hamilton, and Lance Stroll completed the top 10.
As the curtains draw on the 2023 season, F1 enthusiasts await the action resuming in February next year. The pre-season test is slated for February 29-March 2, 2024, marking the next chapter in F1’s exhilarating journey.
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