Carlos Sainz has highlighted the vulnerabilities of four-time world champion Max Verstappen during the 2024 Formula 1 season, underscoring that Red Bull’s struggles mid-season proved the Dutchman could be beaten in equal machinery.
While Verstappen ultimately clinched his fourth title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari’s Sainz believes the season’s remarkable competitiveness revealed cracks in Red Bull’s armor and the Dutch driver’s performance.
A New Era of Competition in 2024
The 2024 F1 season has been one of the most tightly contested in recent years, with seven drivers from four teams taking victories. Verstappen’s dominance in the previous two seasons seemed unassailable, but Sainz insists this year showed that the Red Bull driver is beatable when rivals are given comparable machinery.
“As much as I think Max has done an incredible job this year, the second half of the season showed that when we’re all in more equal machinery, we can go up against each other and make life difficult for him,” said Sainz.
The Ferrari driver emphasized that the margins at the top were razor-thin, with as many as eight drivers separated by just a tenth of a second during qualifying on some weekends. Sainz sees this as proof that Verstappen’s rivals are capable of challenging him when the playing field is level.
Pressure Exposes Cracks
Verstappen’s season wasn’t without its struggles. After a strong start, Red Bull’s RB20 faced significant performance issues mid-season, leading to a shocking 10-race winless streak. This slump, paired with a resurgent McLaren and Ferrari, brought Verstappen under increased scrutiny—and pressure.
Sainz pointed to Verstappen’s emotional radio messages and public frustration as evidence of the strain the Red Bull driver faced during this period.
“Everyone starts making mistakes when they’re under pressure, and everyone starts complaining about their car,” Sainz remarked. “It’s part of the sport when things aren’t going your way.”
Sainz’s Personal Triumphs
Sainz himself had a strong showing this year, claiming multiple victories and standing out as one of Verstappen’s most consistent challengers. Ferrari’s improved performance allowed the Spaniard to go toe-to-toe with Verstappen on several race weekends, demonstrating his ability to capitalize on Red Bull’s weaknesses.
“It’s been great to have those wheel-to-wheel battles,” Sainz said. “When you’re in a car that gives you a chance, you can see how close it really is at the top.”
Looking Ahead
With two races remaining, Sainz is eager for more on-track duels with Verstappen. As F1 heads into 2025, the Spaniard is optimistic about Ferrari’s trajectory and the potential to mount a stronger challenge next year.
The 2024 season has already served as a reminder that even the most dominant drivers aren’t invincible. As Sainz put it, “When the machinery is equal, everyone’s capable of taking the fight to Max—and winning.”