Pierre Gasly's Late-Season Surge
In a season filled with intense competition and remarkable performances, Pierre Gasly emerged as a key figure. Gasly wrapped up his 2024 Formula 1 season with solid performances, scoring points in four of the last five races. His prowess was notably evident in Las Vegas, where he clinched an impressive third-place grid position, fueling excitement among fans and highlighting his capabilities in high-stakes scenarios.
Lewis Hamilton: A Year of Trials and Triumphs
The 2024 season proved to be a mixed bag for the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Despite clinching victory at the British Grand Prix, Hamilton faced a challenging year by his standards, concluding the season in seventh place in the championship standings—his lowest ever. Yet, his determination and resilience remained undeterred, epitomized by his remark during a tough weekend in Qatar, affirming he’s "still got it."
Nico Hülkenberg: A Consistent Force
Nico Hülkenberg showcased consistency, scoring points in half of the season's 24 races. His skill was further underscored by his top 10 grid qualifications on 11 occasions, marking him as a persistent competitor on the track. Hülkenberg’s steady performance provided valuable contributions to his team throughout the season.
Astute Moves by Fernando Alonso
Fernando Alonso’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport was marked by strategic excellence and skillful driving. His efforts were instrumental in guiding Aston Martin to a commendable fifth place in the constructors' standings. Alonso’s performance, including 16 Q3 appearances, showcased his driving prowess and strategic acumen, with his contributions being worthy of recognition throughout the season.
Oscar Piastri: A Rising Star
Oscar Piastri emerged as a formidable force on the circuit in 2024, reaching six front-row starts and claiming two victories. His stellar performances also included eight podium finishes, demonstrating his burgeoning talent and securing his reputation as one of the sport’s promising talents. Piastri's season was marked by a blend of youthful exuberance and calculated strategy, adding a fresh dynamic to the championship narrative.
Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc: Dominating Victories
Ferrari’s dynamic duo, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, proved to be a dominant force during the 2024 season. Sainz celebrated victories in Australia and Mexico City, while Leclerc triumphed in Monaco, Monza, and Austin. The consistency of Leclerc’s performance was particularly notable as he achieved top-four finishes in 19 out of the 24 races, underscoring his reliability and competitive edge.
Max Verstappen: Sealing a Fourth Title
Max Verstappen reaffirmed his status as a leading figure in Formula 1 by securing his fourth world championship title. Winning nine races across the season, Verstappen’s campaign was marked by speed, precision, and overwhelming dominance. His performances continued to set new benchmarks in the sport, highlighting his remarkable talent and relentless pursuit of victory.
Sergio Pérez and Lando Norris: Opportunities and Setbacks
Not all drivers found the 2024 season to be a trajectory of success. Sergio Pérez faced significant challenges, failing to finish in the top six on 17 occasions—a statistic that undoubtedly frustrated both the team and driver. Meanwhile, Lando Norris's season was a series of ups and downs, with certain missed opportunities being significant. Reflecting on his season, insiders questioned whether the 2024 season might have been a "big opportunity missed" for Norris, as he battled both on-track adversities and strategic hurdles.
The 2024 Formula 1 season unfolded with thrilling displays of speed, strategic brilliance, and persistent resilience across the field. With each driver navigating their unique set of challenges and triumphs, the season’s narrative further enriched the sport's storied legacy, setting the stage for the next chapter in the race for supremacy.