Max Verstappen claims it will be ‘hard to replicate’ the dominant 2023 season after Abu Dhabi GP triumph

Mercedes held the record with 19 wins until 2023; Max Verstappen equalled this feat this season.

Max Verstappen claims it will be ‘hard to replicate’ the dominant 2023 season after Abu Dhabi GP triumph

Max Verstappen and Gianpiero Lambiase (Via IMAGO)

As the sun set on the Yas Marina Circuit, Max Verstappen sealed the 2023 Formula 1 season with yet another resounding victory, marking the 19th triumph of a season characterized by ruthless dominance. The Abu Dhabi GP showcased Verstappen’s prowess as he secured his 12th pole position with a commanding two-tenths of a margin, eventually clinching the race with an 18-second lead over Charles Leclerc.

The Red Bull team set the tone of the 2023 season with a 1&2 in Bahrain and securing the top 2 spots in the drivers’ standings as well, with Sergio Perez‘s runner-up spot. The season unfolded as a narrative of Red Bull’s relentless dominance, winning all but one race, a momentary blip at the Singapore GP where Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari emerged victorious. Despite a brief setback, Verstappen and his team rebounded to clinch the championship in spectacular fashion, shattering records along the way.

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In a post-race interview with David Coulthard, the three-time champion expressed the emotional significance of the moment. Verstappen’s gratitude extended to his team, acknowledging their pivotal role in the remarkable year.

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It's been an incredible season. It's emotional on the in-lap, the last time sitting in the car that has given me a lot. I am, of course, proud to win here the last race as well, but I have to say a big thank you to the team. It’s been an incredible year, it will be hard to do something similar again, but we definitely enjoyed this year.

As Verstappen basks in the glory of a season that saw the Red Bull team secure almost every individual season record, he acknowledges the daunting task of replicating such dominance. 

It will be so hard to have another season like this, we know that.

Max Verstappen asserts that they are ready for the battle in 2024

While Red Bull ruthlessly dominated the majority of the season, the later stages did witness some challenges. The second-fastest team fluctuated throughout the season, providing occasional opportunities for Ferrari, Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin to challenge the Milton Keynes outfit. However, Red Bull remained steadfast, clinching victory in 21 out of 22 races.

Christian Horner with his drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez
Christian Horner with his drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez (Credits: MARCA)

Verstappen, aware of the growing competition, spoke about the team’s dedication to maintaining their competitive edge. The Dutchman said:

We are working hard for the next year to have a very competitive car. For sure, all the teams want to beat us next year and we’re ready for the battle. But in the meantime, we'll enjoy this as well.

As the teams embark on the winter break, Formula 1 enthusiasts eagerly await the 2024 season, hoping for a more closely contested battle at the front. Verstappen’s acknowledgment of the challenges ahead adds a layer of anticipation, leaving fans eager to see if the Red Bull juggernaut can be challenged in the coming year.

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