top of page
Writer's pictureDestiny Lam

The Youngest Formula One Legend in the Making

Written by Destiny Lam, Edited by Sean McKean


In 2023, the Formula 1 season witnessed an extraordinary display of dominance by the Red Bull Racing team and their driver, Max Verstappen. This season marked Red Bull’s peak in F1, a year where they asserted their supremacy by claiming victory in all but one Grand Prix held throughout the season.


Max Verstappen's burnouts at the 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix; Credit: Clive Mason/Getty Images

Formula 1 World Championship

Max Verstappen, the face of this triumphant streak, secured his third consecutive F1 World Championship title through breaking numerous long standing records in a single year!


Verstappen’s 2023 Formula 1 season was nothing short of extraordinary, with the Dutch racing sensation solidifying Red Bull’s dominance in the world of Formula 1. Let’s dive into the record-breaking season displayed by Max Verstappen during this unforgettable season!


Most F1 Wins In A Single Season

Among his achievements was the remarkable tally of 19 wins during the 2023 season, breaking his own prior record of 15 victories established the year before. This occurrence solidified Verstappen’s position in the books of Formula 1 history as the driver with the most wins in a single season.


His podium finishes showcased an unmatched consistency, marking the presence of 21 podiums throughout the seasons, breaking his previous record of 18 podiums in the 2021 season. With these podium appearances, Verstappen showed his striking demonstration of skill and dominance.


Verstappen’s remarkable season in Formula 1 wasn’t just about gathering wins and podiums, rather it was about rewriting the records book across various categories. His streak of 10 consecutive wins broke Sebastian Vettel’s 2013 record of nine consecutive victories, highlighting  his sustained excellence throughout the season.


Verstappen showcased unmatched skill in starting from pole position, claiming victory in 12 races, three more than the previous record held by Nigel Mansell in 1992 and Sebastian Vettel in 2011. His exceptional performance from the front of the grid demonstrated a mastery of race strategy and control, setting him as a force to be reckoned with. 


Max Verstappen didn’t merely break records. He redefined what it meant to collect points in a single Formula 1 season. His astonishing accumulation of 575 points in 2023 broke his own previous record of 454 points from the former year. Such an immense collection of points served as proof to Verstappen’s consistency and exceptional performance across the season’s races. 


Leading 1,003 Laps

Beyond these monumental achievements, Verstappen’s supremacy extended to numerous other aspects of Formula 1. He set the record for most laps led in a season, surpassing Sebastian Vettel’s previous record of 739 laps led.


Verstappen became the first driver in Formula 1 history to lead over 1,000 laps in a single season. His unrivaled dominance extended to leading 75.7% of all laps during the year, setting a new benchmark for percent laps led in a season. 


Max Verstappen’s Homecoming posing with trophies at Red Bull Racing Factory; Credit: Bob McCaffrey/Getty Images

Additionally, Verstappen’s victories in four out of the six sprint races in 2023 highlighted his skills not only in the main Grand Prix races but also in the shorter-format sprints.


During the season, he was named “King of the Sprints,” where Red Bull Racing driver Sergio Perez and McLaren Driver Oscar Piastri were the only drivers to take a victory against Verstappen in sprint races. This showcased his adaptability and skill across various race formats, circuit tracks, and race strategies. 


A Legend In The Making

In the adrenaline filled world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen stands as a remarkable force, a prodigy on the track. At only 25 years of age, he has become the third-most successful driver in terms of F1 Grand Prix victories. This speaks volumes about his exceptional talent and relentless pursuit of excellence. 


With an impressive tally of 54 race triumphs under his belt, Verstappen’s accomplishments goes above the career totals of legends like Alain Prost, who secured 51 victories, and Sebastian Vettel boasting 53 wins.


The 2023 season witnessed Verstappen breaking these established records, showcasing his unwavering determination and brilliance on the circuit. With many years of racing ahead, the horizon of Michael Schumacher’s and Lewis Hamilton’s monumental totals is well within Verstappen’s grasp. 


Verstappen broke several other records, such as most consecutive races as championship leader, most consecutive points scored, most consecutive top two finishes, and others, further solidifying his status as a Formula 1 legend in the making.


This year of exceptional performances adds to a series of records that Verstappen has been rewriting since his entry into Formula 1. From becoming the youngest driver ever to make a debut in Formula 1 to securing the highest number of points in a single season, his journey has been marked by consistent excellence and groundbreaking accomplishments. 


Sergio Perez’s and Max Verstappen’s Homecoming at Red Bull Racing Factory; Credit: Mark Thompson/Getty Images

The story of Max Verstappen’s rise is not just a story of victories but a reflection to the relentless pursuit of greatness. His route in the world of Formula 1 sheds light on the possibilities that lie ahead.


Given this unprecedented display of dominance in the 2023 Formula 1 season, the question lingers: 'Can Red Bull Racing and Max Verstappen replicate their astounding success in the upcoming 2024 season?'


The stage is set, and fans are eagerly waiting to witness if history will continue to be rewritten in the world of Formula 1. What are your thoughts on this? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!


13 comments

13 Comments


Guest
Jan 10

Great read great read! The author really knows what she talking abou. 100/10

Like
Destiny Lam
Destiny Lam
Jan 17
Replying to

thank you !!!

Like

Guest
Jan 10

I think the 2024 szn is going to end up being Max taking over the podium race by race. He showed that not only would a fast car get him to where he wants to be but to incorporate it with unmatched and unwavering skill.

Like
Destiny Lam
Destiny Lam
Jan 17
Replying to

max definitely showed out for the 2023 season! i can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2024

Like

Guest
Jan 09

There’s only 1 rule in this jungle. When the lion is hungry, he EATS!!!!

Like
Destiny Lam
Destiny Lam
Jan 17
Replying to

LOL i love this

Like

Guest
Jan 09

The 2023 season was extraordinary, but I have a hunch McLaren might just come in strong for the 2024 season. Their development has been impressive, and it wouldn't surprise me if they become the team to watch out for. Formula 1 always keeps us on the edge of our seats, doesn't it?

Like
Destiny Lam
Destiny Lam
Jan 17
Replying to

i also heard McLaren could be a huge contender for the 2024 season ! i’m excited to see how it unfolds

Like

Guest
Jan 09

With all he has accomplished so far, I think Max will continue to bring it on the tracks! 2024 is going to be a season to watch out for

Like
Destiny Lam
Destiny Lam
Jan 17
Replying to

for sure!! i totally agree

Like
bottom of page