Reaching a significant milestone, such as a Drivers’ Championship, is no small feat, but maintaining that success in subsequent years is even harder. Great sports champions often acknowledge that reaching the top requires a certain type of effort, but staying there can prove exceedingly difficult. Some athletes, after achieving major results, rest on their laurels. Only an obsession with winning can provide the extra drive necessary to remain at the top.
This very topic was addressed by Max Verstappen, who has won four consecutive world titles, in an interview with Formula 1’s official channels. After the grueling 2021 battle with Lewis Hamilton, which demanded immense mental effort (as evidenced by Nico Rosberg, who retired the year after his first title), the Hasselt native managed to repeat his success for three more years.
Following his dominant 2023 campaign, many believed that a fourth consecutive title was in jeopardy, especially given McLaren’s resurgence, which brought the Constructors’ Championship back to Woking for the first time since 1998. After a drought from the Barcelona GP to the Interlagos GP, attention turned to calculating the points gap between the Dutchman and Lando Norris.
However, thanks to his obsession with winning and the experience his rival sometimes lacked, the Red Bull driver secured his fourth title. Even when the car faltered, Max remained a constant presence, managing the gap to Norris effectively.
Max Verstappen’s Fierce Battle with Lando Norris
During Verstappen’s winless streak, a rare occurrence given the frequency of the Dutch anthem in recent years, the four-time champion carefully managed his lead over his rivals, particularly Norris, who was the closest challenger. The two engaged in fierce battles, sometimes pushing the limits.
It became evident that Max Verstappen’s focus was on staying ahead of Norris and preventing him from winning races. One such instance was in Austin, where the McLaren driver fell into Max Verstappen’s trap and received a five-second penalty. Conversely, in Mexico, it was Max Verstappen who incurred a hefty 20-second penalty.
According to the 1997-born driver, everything that unfolded on track was calculated. Max Verstappen maintained control, knowing exactly what he was doing: his sole goal was always to win.
Max Verstappen: “I Hate Losing. I’ll Do Whatever It Takes to Win”
Unapologetically, Max declared his mission. The Hasselt native doesn’t race to participate but to win. Every weekend, he demands a winning mindset from the team and constant year-on-year improvement. This mentality has enabled Verstappen to break records and cement his place in Formula 1 history.
“There have been tough races, defensive battles, and moments of uncertainty, but I know what I’m doing. I have perfect control over my actions,” stated the Red Bull driver. “Sometimes, I have a specific idea in mind. I’m in control of what I do on track, and sometimes it’s necessary. I’ll do everything possible to win because I hate losing.”
“I acknowledge when someone does a better job,” Max Verstappen continued, “but losing is never pleasant. It’s the dominant factor—we have to be the best. Even after dominating in 2023, we wanted to be even more competitive,” he affirmed.
Now Max has his sights set on a fifth title, but the Milton Keynes team must address the balance issues that plagued the RB20 last season. Without resolving these challenges, it will be nearly impossible to fight for victories, and even Verstappen’s hunger for success may not be enough to secure another championship.
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