Anthony Davidson, a former F1 driver and current analyst, has called on Max Verstappen’s competitors to step up their game if they want to break the dominance of the three-time World Champion in the 2024 season. Despite his unprecedented success, Verstappen has faced some setbacks in recent races, ending his invincible streak. However, after winning the Sprint and finishing ahead of his closest rival, Lando Norris, at the United States Grand Prix, Davidson believes Verstappen is still the driver to beat.
Davidson highlighted that Formula 1 has become more unpredictable this season, with races no longer having a guaranteed winner. He singled out Lando Norris as a driver with immense talent, capable of becoming a World Champion. Davidson suggested that had Norris started the season with the car he currently has, he might have been leading the championship. However, Davidson emphasized that to prove his championship potential, Norris and others need to directly challenge Verstappen on the track.
At the U.S. Grand Prix, Norris began in pole position but lost his lead to Verstappen at the first corner, which allowed Verstappen to widen his points lead in the championship standings. Davidson noted Verstappen’s skill in exploiting race regulations, particularly during the first lap, to gain an advantage. Some viewed Verstappen’s move as aggressive, but Davidson praised him for using his deep understanding of racecraft to his benefit.
According to Davidson, Verstappen’s rivals need to do more than just match his speed; they must outsmart him in terms of race strategy and assert their dominance on the track. Verstappen’s confidence, bolstered by his three World Championships and his bid for a fourth, makes him a formidable competitor. Davidson believes that the only way to dethrone him is for other drivers to challenge his authority and control in races more forcefully.
With the Mexican Grand Prix next on the calendar, Davidson pointed out that Verstappen is particularly strong at this venue, having won the race five times in the last six years. This presents a tough challenge for any rival hoping to catch up in the championship. Drivers like Norris will need to seize every opportunity and disrupt Verstappen’s momentum if they want to make a serious bid for the 2024 title.