The 2024 Formula 1 season delivered an unparalleled mix of thrill, drama, and unforgettable moments. Each race brought something special, keeping fans glued to their screens. Max Verstappen once again proved why he is the reigning champion with awe-inspiring performances, while the season also saw young talents like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri rise to the challenge. Established drivers such as Lewis Hamilton showed they still had the hunger to win, making this season a true clash of generations. From nail-biting battles on iconic circuits like Silverstone to breakthrough victories in Baku and Zandvoort, this year had it all. More than just statistics and trophies, 2024 was about human grit, teamwork, and breathtaking racing brilliance. Buckle up as we relive the year's standout races!
Bahrain Grand Prix - The Stage Is Set
The season opener at Bahrain gave fans a taste of the drama to come, courtesy of a spectacularly dominant performance by Max Verstappen. Starting from pole, the Red Bull driver led every lap of the race, securing a "grand chelem" by also recording the fastest lap. It was an emphatic statement from Verstappen as the defending world champion.
The real battles unfolded behind him. Sergio Pérez capitalized on a strong Red Bull and climbed from fifth on the grid to secure second place, completing a Red Bull 1-2. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz held steady for third, fending off challenges from Mercedes’ George Russell. Meanwhile, Lando Norris delivered a quietly impressive performance for McLaren, holding his ground against seasoned rivals. With Verstappen finishing over 22 seconds ahead of the field, Bahrain set the tone for a season where he would be the man to beat.
Monaco Grand Prix - A Dream Fulfilled
For Charles Leclerc, the streets of Monaco have long represented a mix of heartbreak and hope. But in 2024, he finally conquered his home race, delivering a victory that was nothing short of magical. Leclerc navigated the narrow, twisting circuit with precision, holding off challenges from Red Bull and Aston Martin to cross the line first.
The race wasn’t without drama. Rain disrupted qualifying and made Sunday’s race unpredictable, as drivers struggled to keep their cars on a slick track. Fernando Alonso demonstrated his expertise by finishing third for Aston Martin, bringing cheer to his legions of fans. Meanwhile, strategies varied wildly, with some drivers betting on early tire changes while others gambled on the weather improving. For Leclerc and Ferrari, it was a moment of redemption at one of the most iconic tracks in the sport.
Azerbaijan Grand Prix - Piastri’s Breakthrough
Baku’s mix of tight corners and long straights made it a fitting host for the first Sprint Weekend of the season, and the resulting action didn’t disappoint. Saturday’s sprint race reshuffled the grid, but the real breakthrough came on Sunday when rookie Oscar Piastri claimed his maiden Formula 1 victory.
Driving for McLaren, Piastri managed his tires masterfully and showed nerves of steel to fend off late pressure from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. The Australian’s composure on one of the sport’s most challenging circuits marked him as a star of the future. Max Verstappen, who suffered a rare mechanical issue, was out of contention, showcasing that even the strongest teams aren’t immune to surprises in Baku.
British Grand Prix - Hamilton Shines at Home
There’s no place like home, and Lewis Hamilton proved that at Silverstone. The seven-time world champion thrilled the British crowd by taking a hard-earned victory, his first win of the season. Starting behind Verstappen, Hamilton stayed close to the Red Bull driver through the early stages and capitalized on a well-timed pit strategy.
The cheers grew louder as Lando Norris took third, giving the Silverstone crowd two British drivers on the podium. Verstappen stayed in the fight until the end, finishing just 1.465 seconds behind Hamilton. Oscar Piastri also impressed with a solid fourth-place finish, demonstrating McLaren’s growing strength as a team. For Hamilton, this win was a reminder of his enduring prowess.
Dutch Grand Prix - Norris Topples Verstappen’s Streak
Zandvoort has been one of Max Verstappen’s strongholds, with the Dutch driver enjoying overwhelming support from the sea of orange in the stands. But this year, Lando Norris stole the show. Starting from pole, Norris delivered a masterclass in composure and racecraft to snatch the victory, ending Verstappen’s dominant run at his home Grand Prix.
Verstappen finished second after a valiant effort, while Charles Leclerc claimed third for Ferrari. The race highlighted McLaren’s continued improvement, as they moved closer to challenging Red Bull on a consistent basis. Norris’s win was a victory for McLaren and a statement to the entire grid that he’s ready to fight for championships.
Japanese Grand Prix - Verstappen’s Perfect Comeback
At Suzuka, the spotlight was once again on Verstappen as he showcased his unmatched skill. From pole position, he controlled the race from start to finish, displaying what can only be described as a driving clinic. Verstappen’s performance reminded everyone why he is the reigning champion, as he built an unassailable lead throughout the race.
Behind him, Ferrari and Mercedes were locked in a strategic battle for the remaining podium places. Carlos Sainz emerged victorious in that fight, finishing second with an impressive display of tire management. George Russell took third for Mercedes, highlighting his growing consistency as a top-tier driver. Suzuka solidified Verstappen’s dominance, but it was also a reminder of the fierce competition behind him.
Brazilian Grand Prix - Late-Season Chaos
Interlagos rarely disappoints, and 2024’s Brazilian Grand Prix was no exception. Starting from pole, Sergio Pérez looked set to give Red Bull another victory, but Verstappen had other ideas. Starting from ninth on the grid after a qualifying mishap, Verstappen carved through the field with a series of daring overtakes to take the lead and ultimately the win.
Amid the chaos, McLaren’s Norris secured yet another podium finish, reinforcing his position as one of the season’s standout drivers. Meanwhile, Russell and Alonso provided late-race drama with a nail-biting duel for fourth. Interlagos once again proved why it’s considered one of the best venues for unpredictable, high-stakes racing.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Norris Wraps It Up
The season finale at Yas Marina didn’t disappoint, as Lando Norris signed off in style with a brilliant victory. Starting from pole, Norris led for most of the race while fending off relentless pressure from Carlos Sainz. This win marked Norris’s second of the season, capping a year of consistent performance and signaling a bright future for McLaren.
While Verstappen had already clinched the championship, the race for second in the Drivers’ standings kept fans on edge. The battle for team supremacy was also intense, with Ferrari eventually edging out McLaren for second in the Constructors’ standings. Abu Dhabi perfectly encapsulated the 2024 season’s spirit of innovation, competition, and unpredictability.
The 2024 Formula 1 season was about the rising stars challenging that dominance and the veterans proving they still had what it takes. From Verstappen’s brilliance to Norris’s breakthroughs and Piastri’s emergence, this year offered fans a thrilling blend of old and new. It’s proof that Formula 1 remains the pinnacle of motorsport, where the drama unfolds both on and off the track. If 2024 was any indication, fans are in for another electrifying year when the lights go out in 2025.