Gasly's Impressive Finish to the Season
The 2024 Formula 1 season proved to be a whirlwind of excitement and achievements, particularly for Pierre Gasly, who ended his campaign on a high note with four points finishes in the last five races. Gasly's performance, peaking with a third-place grid position in Las Vegas, demonstrated his resilience and competitiveness amid fierce competition.
Hamilton’s Record and Reflections
Lewis Hamilton's 2024 season was one of mixed emotions. He claimed victory at the prestigious British Grand Prix, a highlight for the seasoned champion. However, by the season's end, he found himself settling for a seventh-place finish in the standings, marking his lowest position ever. Reflecting on a challenging year, Hamilton openly noted during a tough weekend in Qatar that he’s "still got it," showcasing his enduring spirit and commitment to the sport.
Hülkenberg and Alonso: Consistent Performers
Nico Hülkenberg displayed a commendable level of consistency, scoring points in half of the 24 races. Moreover, his ability to qualify within the top 10 grids on 11 occasions underlines his steady presence in the field. Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso's experience proved invaluable for Aston Martin. His strategic prowess and skill guided the team to a comfortable fifth place in the constructors’ standings, an achievement lauded by many as significant, marking a rare high point for the squad. Alonso's 16 Q3 appearances further attested to his enduring caliber as a driver.
Piastri and Leclerc Shine
Oscar Piastri emerged as one of the breakout stars of the season. With six front-row starts and two race victories, his talent became increasingly evident. He also secured eight podium finishes, signaling his readiness to challenge the more established names on the grid. On the other side, Charles Leclerc's superior driving skills were on prominent display over the course of the year. Victories in Monaco, Monza, and Austin were highlights in a season where he consistently placed within the top four in 19 of 24 races.
Sainz and Verstappen: Dominant Forces
Carlos Sainz made his mark by winning the races in Australia and Mexico City, a testament to his growing prowess and tactical acumen behind the wheel. However, it was Max Verstappen who dominated 2024 with an awe-inspiring nine race victories, culminating in his fourth world championship title. Verstappen's reign continued to exemplify his unmatched skill and the near-unbreakable synergy with his team.
Pérez and Norris: Challenging Journeys
Conversely, Sergio Pérez faced a challenging season, finding himself outside the top six in an unfortunate 17 races. This season was particularly grueling for the Mexican driver, as he battled to find consistency and overcome various hurdles. As for Lando Norris, the narrative was one of reflection and missed opportunities. "Not all of those lost positions and points can be blamed on Norris, but there's enough there to wonder if the 2024 season was a big opportunity missed," highlights the scrutiny around decisions that curtailed his potential gains.
As the curtain falls on the 2024 Formula 1 season, the stories of triumphs and challenges offer much to reflect on. With thrilling races and standout performances, it has certainly been a season to remember. As the drivers and teams regroup, the narrative continues to evolve, driving anticipation for what lies ahead on the horizon of this exhilarating sport.