The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix, held under the dazzling lights of the iconic Strip, delivered a thrilling spectacle as Mercedes secured a commanding one-two finish. George Russell clinched victory, leading teammate Lewis Hamilton across the line, while Max Verstappen’s calculated fifth-place finish was sufficient to crown him as the Formula 1 World Champion for the fourth consecutive year.
Race Summary
Starting from pole position, George Russell maintained his lead into the first corner, fending off an aggressive challenge from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who had surged from fourth to second at the start. As the race progressed, Russell showcased impeccable pace and control, gradually extending his lead over the field.
Lewis Hamilton, starting from tenth on the grid, delivered a masterclass in overtaking. By executing a series of precise and strategic passes, he climbed through the ranks to secure second place, marking Mercedes’ first one-two finish since 2022.
Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz completed the podium, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the race. His teammate, Charles Leclerc, who had initially challenged for the lead, finished in fourth place after grappling with tyre degradation that necessitated an early pit stop.
Max Verstappen, needing to finish ahead of Lando Norris to secure the championship, adopted a cautious approach. After allowing both Ferrari drivers to pass in the closing stages, he ensured a fifth-place finish, effectively sealing his fourth consecutive drivers’ title.
Full Race Results
- George Russell (Mercedes) β 50 laps, 1:22:05.969
- Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) β +7.313s
- Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) β +11.906s
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) β +14.283s
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) β +16.582s
- Lando Norris (McLaren) β +43.385s
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren) β +51.365s
- Nico HΓΌlkenberg (Haas) β +59.808s
- Yuki Tsunoda (AlphaTauri) β +1:02.808s
- Sergio PΓ©rez (Red Bull Racing) β +1:03.114s
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) β +1:09.195s
- Kevin Magnussen (Haas) β +1:09.803s
- Esteban Ocon (Alpine) β +1:10.500s
- Pierre Gasly (Alpine) β +1:11.200s
- Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo) β +1:12.000s
- Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) β +1:13.000s
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) β +1:14.000s
- Alexander Albon (Williams) β +1:15.000s
- Logan Sargeant (Williams) β +1:16.000s
- Liam Lawson (AlphaTauri) β +1:17.000s
Championship Implications
Max Verstappen’s strategic drive to fifth place secured him the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship, joining the elite ranks of drivers with four or more titles. This achievement underscores his dominance and consistency throughout the season.
Mercedes’ dominant performance in Las Vegas not only highlights their competitive resurgence but also intensifies the battle in the Constructors’ Championship. With two races remaining, the fight for the top positions remains fiercely contested.
Post-Race Reflections
George Russell expressed elation over his victory, attributing it to the team’s hard work and strategic excellence. Lewis Hamilton lauded the team’s performance and his own recovery drive, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Max Verstappen, while subdued in his race approach, celebrated his championship triumph, reflecting on a season marked by challenges and resilience.
The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix will be remembered not only for its on-track drama but also for the glitz and glamour that only Las Vegas can offer, providing a fitting backdrop to a pivotal moment in Formula 1 history.
Photo credit here, AP Pic.
