Why Max Verstappen's Driving Masterclass in Spain Proves He’s More Than Just a Car
It’s easy to chalk up Max Verstappen’s unparalleled success to the engineering marvel that is the Red Bull RB19. For a good while, this wasn’t far from the truth. Last year’s car was a beast, allowing not just Verstappen but also Sergio Perez to secure wins and solidify their positions in the championship standings. However, the 2024 season is unveiling a different narrative. With other teams closing the competitive gap, Verstappen is proving it’s his extraordinary skills and not just the machine beneath him that are keeping Red Bull on top.
The recent Spanish Grand Prix showcased this beautifully. No longer is it merely his car’s performance; Verstappen is outdriving his rivals even when they have arguably superior machinery. Gone are the days when one might argue that it was the vehicle doing the heavy lifting. The tables have turned, and it’s clear: the driver’s talent is what’s making the difference.
A Battle From the Start
The first few seconds of a Grand Prix are often chaotic, and Barcelona was no different. Verstappen’s start was pivotal. He utilized superior traction in the second phase of his acceleration to gain an edge over Lando Norris. Norris failed to defend the inside, a mistake you can’t afford against someone like Verstappen. It’s a move that demands both bravery and precision, traits that epitomize Max's driving style.
This mastery isn't just a one-off fluke. In Imola, Verstappen showcased similar prowess, outmaneuvering Norris in the crucial traction phase to retain his lead. Even in situations where the initial launch isn't perfect, Verstappen’s ability to reclaim control is exceptional.
Breaking Away in Barcelona
One of the hurdles of starting from the front row at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is the long run to the first corner. George Russell’s double slipstream allowed him to shoot into the lead, demonstrating just how volatile the initial moments of a race can be. Russell’s commitment was flawless, earning him the lead momentarily.
But the race’s narrative quickly shifted back to Verstappen. As Russell passed Norris on the outside, Verstappen took advantage and aggressively snatched the inside lane, clearing the McLaren. Lando Norris was the only credible threat to Verstappen’s win, and Max’s ability to secure track position early on was critical.
Just two laps later, Verstappen made a decisive move for the lead. Following some advice from race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to “think wisely,” Max used impeccable strategy and timing to overtake Russell. He exploited one opportunity, utilizing energy deployment and sheer commitment through the high-speed corners to sweep past Russell. Once in the lead, Verstappen was untouchable.
The Art of Aggression
Max Verstappen’s driving is often labeled ‘aggressive,’ but there’s a method to his madness. While earlier in his career this aggression might have led to misjudgments, now it’s a well-honed skill. Verstappen knows exactly when to push and when to hold back, reading races with an uncanny precision. It’s this matured aggression that allows him to execute tight overtakes while avoiding incidents that could jeopardize his lead.
Fans saw this in Imola and even more so in Canada, where an unpredictable race still felt like a foregone conclusion the moment Verstappen took the lead. His driving creates an air of inevitability that is as much a mental game as it is technical skill.
Not Just a Red Bull Affair
If anyone needed further evidence that it’s not just the car, Sergio Perez’s recent performances provide it. Perez has pulled just eight points in the last four races, whereas Verstappen has continued to dominate. Lando Norris has emerged as a consistent threat on paper, driving superbly in perhaps the most competitive car McLaren has ever produced. Yet, Norris himself admits there are areas he needs to refine to truly match Verstappen. It’s a hard truth, but an accurate one.
In a typical season, Norris might have more wins to his name by now. But this isn’t a typical season, and Verstappen isn’t racing in a typical world. For McLaren, Ferrari, or Mercedes to dethrone him, they will have to deliver a flawless weekend. Anything short of perfect gives Verstappen a chance, and as we’ve seen, when he has a chance, he takes it.