In its anniversary year, FORMULE 1 Magazine closely followed Max Verstappen on his global journey across 24 stops. Eight editors and three columnists share their most notable, personal memory of him in 2024. This time, it’s the turn of editor Wendy Heijting.
When I look back on 2024, I can’t ignore Brazil. Perhaps a predictable choice, but in my eyes, it was simply his best race ever. And I say this as someone who watches neutrally and was hoping for more excitement in the championship. But Brazil, that was pure magic!
Starting from P17 in conditions where you can barely see the end of your front wing and then flawlessly cutting through the field – it was breathtaking to watch. Max’s control over the car, his choices in those treacherous conditions, and the way he left the rest of the field seemingly effortlessly behind him, were unprecedented. Where others struggled with grip and visibility, he drove as if he had a rain radar in his helmet.
What makes this performance so special is not only that he won, but how he won. It seemed impossible – but not for Max. From the first bend, it was clear that he was going all out, with a sharpness and precision that you only see in the very greatest. No mistakes, no doubts, just pure class. It was the ride of a champion and a memory for eternity.
Personally, that race made the season special for me. It was one of those moments when sport truly grabs you by the throat, regardless of your preference. This was Max at his very best.
