Max Verstappen expects rivals to close the gap to Red Bull in 2024, although he specifically identified McLaren as a possible threat in the upcoming campaign.
There isn’t much left to be said about Verstappen’s dominance last season. The 26-year-old left no doubts about who would claim the Championship, with his victory merely a formality after the opening rounds.
Still, there is every reason for Red Bull to face a greater challenge this year.
Purely by virtue of probability, it seems unlikely the reigning Champions will enjoy such unmatched dominance this season.
Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and Aston Martin are all theoretical threats. At least one of these teams should unlock the necessary performance over winter to give Christian Horner’s squad some headaches.
Whilst reflecting on his historic third Championship, Verstappen outlined what he expects from the chasing pack:
“We were the only team that was really consistent,” he said on the Talking Bull podcast.
“Behind us, it was really up and down. One team [was] second, then another team…
“That’s where the battle was quite close behind us. It will all depend on how much they improve in the winter.
“The one I think was most impressive behind us – from where they started to where they ended – was definitely McLaren.
“It looks like they might be very strong next year.”
Lando Norris (GBR) McLaren MCL60 leads Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing RB19 and Oscar Piastri (AUS) McLaren MCL60 at the start of the race.
09.07.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 11, British Grand Prix, Silverstone, England, Race Day.
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As ever, identifying who will contend is a difficult task to complete over the winter period. Even the teams themselves cannot be sure of anything until hitting the track.
Still, inferences and deductions can be made in the coming weeks and months – especially as car launches and pre-season testing begin.
To varying degrees, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes have all offered glimpses into their 2024 progress.
Even Aston Martin, who spent the end of last year on the defensive, have hinted at a quiet confidence in their capabilities.
For the neutral F1 fan, there will be hopes that at least one of these names can disrupt Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s winning form.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
