Max Verstappen has solidified his place as one of the elite drivers in Formula 1 history by clinching his fourth world championship title at the electrifying Las Vegas Grand Prix. This remarkable achievement places the Dutchman among a prestigious group of champions, joining the ranks of illustrious names in F1 lore. In light of this momentous occasion, we take a closer look at the legendary figures he now shares the stage with on the all-time championship list – and also examine the three icons who remain ahead of him…
Four-time F1 world champions
Alain Prost (1985, 1986, 1989, 1993)
After claiming his debut victory on home turf at the historic 1981 French Grand Prix, Alain Prost embarked on a career that would see him etch his name into the annals of racing greatness. The driver, who later earned the renowned moniker ‘The Professor’ for his strategic approach to racing, amassed a series of wins in subsequent seasons. However, it wasn’t until 1985 that he savored the sweet taste of championship glory with McLaren, marking a pivotal moment in his career and making him the first French world champion in F1 history.
Prost’s remarkable journey continued as he repeated his championship triumph in 1986, achieving back-to-back titles. During this era, he became embroiled in a fierce rivalry with his teammate Ayrton Senna, a relationship that would define the late 1980s in Formula 1. The duo formed a dominant combination in 1988, with their McLaren team winning an astounding 15 out of 16 races that season, although it was Senna who ultimately claimed his first world championship that year.
WATCH: How Prost returned from the sidelines to make a title-winning comeback
The brewing tensions between Prost and Senna escalated dramatically in 1989, culminating in a controversial collision during the Suzuka season finale that ultimately led to Prost taking the drivers’ crown. In a twist of fate, Prost made a switch to Ferrari in 1990, only to find history repeating itself when he clashed with Senna again at Suzuka, resulting in Senna claiming the championship that season.
The relationship between Prost and Scuderia Ferrari soured in 1991, forcing the Frenchman to exit the season prematurely due to ongoing tensions. Following a year away from the sport in 1992, Prost made a significant return to the Formula 1 grid with Williams in 1993. He went on to secure his fourth and final title that year, before gracefully retiring from the sport at the conclusion of the season, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates within the motorsport world.
What does Max Verstappen’s fourth championship title mean for his legacy in Formula 1?
**Interview with F1 Expert: Reflecting on Max Verstappen’s Historic Achievement**
*Host:* Welcome to our special segment! Today, we’re diving into a remarkable milestone in Formula 1 history as Max Verstappen clinched his fourth world championship title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Joining us is Alex Thompson, a seasoned motorsport journalist and F1 enthusiast. Alex, thanks for being here!
*Alex:* Thanks for having me! It’s an exciting time in F1, and Verstappen’s achievement is certainly worth celebrating.
*Host:* Max’s victory in Las Vegas not only secures his title but also cements his place among some of the sport’s greatest legends. How significant is this achievement in the context of Formula 1 history?
*Alex:* It’s monumental! By winning his fourth title, Verstappen joins an elite group of drivers, including the likes of Alain Prost, who is a four-time champion himself. This places Verstappen firmly among the legends of the sport. It’s a testament to his skill and the dominance of Red Bull Racing in recent seasons.
*Host:* Speaking of legends, can you tell us more about Alain Prost and the legacy he has left in F1?
*Alex:* Absolutely! Alain Prost earned his titles in 1985, 1986, 1989, and 1993, and was known as ‘The Professor’ due to his strategic approach to racing. His battles with other greats like Ayrton Senna are iconic and have shaped the narrative of F1 rivalries. Prost’s ability to analyze and adapt his driving style made him a formidable competitor.
*Host:* Verstappen has now achieved a level of success that many dream of. However, he still has three icons ahead of him in championship titles. Who should we be watching for in this all-time ranking?
*Alex:* Right now, the drivers ahead of him include Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, each with seven titles, followed by Juan Manuel Fangio with five. Achieving that level would not only require Verstappen to maintain his current form but also to overcome the challenges posed by emerging talents and the unpredictable nature of racing.
*Host:* Looking ahead, what do you think Verstappen needs to do to further solidify his legacy in F1?
*Alex:* For Verstappen, consistency will be key. He’s already shown he can win under pressure, but if he continues to collect titles and break records, he could very well surpass the legends before him. It will also be crucial for Red Bull to sustain their performance advantage and for Verstappen to remain adaptable to the sport’s ever-evolving landscape.
*Host:* Fascinating insights, Alex! Max Verstappen’s fourth title certainly marks a historic moment in F1 history, and it will be exciting to see what the future holds for him. Thank you for sharing your expertise!
*Alex:* My pleasure! Let’s hope for more thrilling races ahead.
*Host:* And to our viewers, stay tuned for more updates and insights into the world of Formula 1!
