Under the neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip, the 2024 Formula 1 season hit the jackpot with a race that was as thrilling as a high-stakes PokerStars poker game. George Russell rolled the dice and came up big, securing a dazzling victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. It was a night to remember for the Mercedes team and Ferrari is making Mclaren sweat a little. Not to be outdone however, reigning world champion Max Verstappen played his cards right, clinching his fourth consecutive World Championship title in a night to remember against the backdrop of the ever epic Las Vegas strip.
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The high rollers’ podium
Russell, driving for Mercedes, led the pack with a performance that had fans betting on his every move. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, wasn’t far behind, securing second place and completing a British one-two finish that had the Union Jack flying high in Las Vegas. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz rounded out the podium, bringing a touch of Italian flair to the festivities.
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Verstappen’s royal flush
While Russell celebrated his victory, Verstappen’s fifth-place finish was enough to deal him the winning hand in the championship race. The Dutchman, known for his aggressive driving style, played it cool, ensuring he stayed ahead of his main rival, Lando Norris, who finished sixth. This strategic drive secured Verstappen’s place among the F1 legends, joining the likes of Michael Schumacher and Alain Prost with four titles to their names.
A night to remember
The Las Vegas Grand Prix wasn’t just about the racing; it was a full-house of entertainment. Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone waved the chequered flag, adding a touch of Tinseltown to the proceedings. The race itself was a spectacle, with the cars zipping past iconic landmarks like the Bellagio fountains and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, making it a bucket-list experience for motorsports fans.
Team strategies and surprises
Red Bull Racing, focused on securing Verstappen’s championship, played a conservative game, ensuring their ace driver stayed ahead of the competition. Meanwhile, Mercedes’ unexpected speed on the street circuit left competitors scratching their heads, with Russell and Hamilton dominating the race. Hamilton’s impressive drive from a tenth-place start to a second-place finish showcased his enduring skill and determination. A night to remember for the Brit who only has two more races to go before this season is complete and next season sees him don the famous red of Ferrari.
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Looking ahead
With the championship now decided, teams and drivers are already looking to the future. Verstappen hinted at more competitive battles in 2025, suggesting that fans can expect even more excitement in the seasons to come. As the sun sets on the 2024 season, the Las Vegas Grand Prix will be remembered as a night where the stakes were high, the action was thrilling, and the house—well, the house cheered along with everyone else.
Feature image courtesy of F1
