2024 F1 World Drivers Champion Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates with Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit on November 23, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Christian Horner believes Max Verstappen’s self-belief and determination were key factors that set him apart from Lando Norris in the 2024 title battle. Speaking to media, including Sportskeeda, after the Las Vegas GP, the Red Bull Racing CEO highlighted how the Dutchman cemented his title chances despite significant challenges.
In the champion’s press conference, Verstappen credited his self-confidence and self-belief during tough times as a defining factor driving his success. Horner emphasized that Max Verstappen’s mental grit and standout performances in 2024 were career-defining moments that solidified his place among the sport's all-time greats.
Asked by Sportskeeda, if mental grit and determination were the factor that cemented Verstappen’s chances against Norris for the title, Horner said:
“Absolutely. Lando since Miami has had a faster car and you look at the win ratio, it's heavily stacked in Max's favour. So that's taking nothing away from Lando, he has driven very well this year. But I think Max has just been that step ahead.”
