Max Verstappen has secured his fourth world championship title with a steady fifth-place finish during the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Meanwhile, it was a triumphant night for Mercedes, as George Russell clinched victory from pole position, with Lewis Hamilton joining him on the podium for a one-two finish.
Heading into the 50-lap race, Verstappen knew that his primary task was to keep his championship rival, Lando Norris, behind him. He successfully maintained his position right from the start, gradually creating a gap between himself and the McLaren driver. Despite holding a podium position after the second round of pit stops, Verstappen chose not to contest the Ferraris that approached him in the final laps, allowing Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc to pass before the finish line.
At the front of the race, Russell showcased his skills by navigating the challenging and slippery conditions effectively, successfully fending off an aggressive Leclerc early on. This strong defensive driving paid off as Leclerc faced tire issues due to his early race aggression, allowing Russell to control the race from that point forward.
Hamilton, who faced a tough qualifying session that placed him in 10th position on the starting grid, made an impressive recovery as he maneuvered through the field to support his teammate Russell. This victory was significant for Mercedes, marking their first win since the Belgian Grand Prix in July.
This race not only highlights Verstappen’s consistency and ability to secure championships but also reflects an exciting resurgence for Mercedes, potentially setting the stage for a more competitive season ahead. As both teams continue to develop and refine their strategies, fans can look forward to an exhilarating continuation of the racing season.