Verstappen Continues Dominance with 14 Wins out of 17 Races, Revealing Most Stressful Moment
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has continued his remarkable dominance in the 2023 Formula One season, securing his third consecutive world title at the Qatar Grand Prix last weekend. With 14 wins out of the 17 races held so far, Verstappen’s grip on the championship remains unyielding.
Reflecting on the challenges he has faced throughout the season, Verstappen highlighted the race at Zandvoort as his most stressful moment. The torrential downpour intensified the pressure for Verstappen, who was leading the championship at the time. Driving on slick tires in the wet conditions added an extra layer of complexity, making him aware of the potential risks involved in pushing his limits.
While Verstappen usually enjoys driving in the rain, he felt the weight of the championship on his shoulders. The Dutch driver admitted that being cautious and driving slightly below his limit can also be dangerous. Moreover, facing competitors who had nothing to lose heightened the mental strain. Verstappen described the situation as a different mindset altogether when fighting for a championship.
Among his triumphs this season, Verstappen ranked his victory in Miami as one of the most memorable. He highlighted challenging races at Spa and Zandvoort, while also emphasizing his satisfaction with winning in Suzuka and securing the Constructors’ title with the team. Choosing a single favorite win proved difficult for Verstappen, as each victory came with its own unique satisfaction.
Impressively, Verstappen has also claimed 10 pole positions so far this year, further solidifying his dominance on the grid. When asked about his most gratifying pole position, he singled out his performance at Suzuka. The Dutchman described the car’s flawless handling and how it felt like driving on rails. The exhilarating experience left Verstappen smiling during his qualifying lap, a rare occurrence in such high-pressure situations.
Overall, Verstappen’s exceptional season highlights his skill, determination, and ability to perform under immense pressure. With his consistent victories, he has firmly established himself as one of the sport’s leading figures. As the championship progresses, fans eagerly await the next races to witness Verstappen’s continued pursuit of excellence on the track.
