Former racer Felipe Massa has been eagerly watching Formula 1 over the past few months. So far, 2024 has delivered one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent history. This is partly due to Red Bull’s lackluster performance, which has allowed multiple teams to compete for victories. According to Massa, this is likely due to the ongoing turmoil within the reigning champions.
“It’s astonishing,” Felipe Massa summarized the season. “What has already happened in the championship is exactly what every fan wants to see in Formula 1; multiple teams and multiple drivers fighting for the win.” This year, seven different drivers have already won a Grand Prix. This has never happened before since the beginning of the so-called turbo-hybrid era.
“We are now at the point where there are still six races to go and anything can still happen,” Massa continued. “McLaren is doing great and is currently definitely the strongest team. This could easily determine the outcome of the championship – both championships. For the drivers, it won’t be easy for Lando Norris; Max (Verstappen) is very strong, a great driver.”
‘Disputes and Politics’
The Brazilian, however, also realizes that Verstappen is not performing under ideal conditions. Over the past few months, there has been unrest within Red Bull, ranging from an affair involving team boss Christian Horner to a power struggle at the top of the company. “That doesn’t help,” Massa explained. “Disputes and politics prevent people from performing optimally.”
Yet, the former Ferrari driver does not expect the Dutchman to give up the championship. “Max (Verstappen) should be able to win,” he concluded. “But for the teams, I think McLaren already has the championship.” Verstappen currently has a fifty-two point lead over his closest rival Lando Norris. In the constructors’ championship, McLaren has recently taken the lead, while Red Bull has slipped to second place with a forty-one point deficit.
