In a spectacular display of skill and strategy, Red Bull's Max Verstappen clinched a decisive victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 22. This triumph marks his second win in four races and the impressive 69th victory of his illustrious career, signaling a powerful comeback in the final stages of the Formula 1 championship.
Dominant Drive on the Vegas Strip
Starting from second on the grid, Verstappen's race was defined by a pivotal moment right at the start. Lando Norris, the current points leader, attempted an aggressive overtaking move into Turn 1 but slid wide, allowing the opportunistic Verstappen to seize the lead instantly. The Red Bull driver never looked back, controlling the race from the front and eventually crossing the finish line more than 20 seconds ahead of Norris.
This win is Verstappen's eighth consecutive podium finish and a record-breaking eighth victory on American soil. Reflecting on his costly error, Norris was quoted saying, "I made the mistake in Turn 1. That cost me. Sometimes a good result is second, and scoring some points. I've had a good run and I think the pace was still good." He added, "Max just drove a good race and they were quick. I was just a bit too punchy, you know, and that cost me."
FIA Investigation Shakes Up Championship Standings
The drama continued after the checkered flag fell. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) summoned both McLaren drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, to the stewards. The reason for the investigation is excessive wear on the skid plank under their cars, a breach of technical regulations.
This is not a minor issue. Earlier this season, the same infraction led to the disqualification of Lewis Hamilton. In a historic precedent, Michael Schumacher's 1994 Belgian Grand Prix win was cancelled for the same reason. If the McLaren cars are disqualified, it would dramatically alter the championship landscape. Verstappen is currently 42 points behind Norris with only two races remaining, and a disqualification for his rivals would massively boost his title chances.
A Champion's Celebration and Contradictions
Amid the dazzling fireworks over the Las Vegas strip, Verstappen celebrated his second win in three years on this street circuit in signature style. The celebrations took a unique turn as he took a ride in a pink Lego-built Cadillac driven by actor Terry Crews.
The victory came with a touch of irony. Verstappen has previously been critical of the Las Vegas Grand Prix's emphasis on celebrity glamour over pure racing. However, his performance proves he can triumph regardless of the setting. "I personally, of course, am less of a showman and not really into that," Verstappen stated. "But, I guess in terms of the calendar, if you are in Vegas, it needs to be like this, and that's fine."
With the championship battle reaching a fever pitch, all eyes are now on the FIA's decision regarding McLaren. The outcome could be the defining moment of the 2025 Formula 1 season.
