Max Verstappen, the dominant force in Formula 1 over the past few years, has set his sights on breaking a winless streak at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.
Despite his remarkable success in 2023, where he has secured multiple wins and further solidified his status as a world champion, the Texan track has eluded him in recent seasons.
The Red Bull driver, who clinched his third consecutive World Drivers’ Championship title earlier this year, has been in a class of his own on the track. However, Austin has remained a tricky venue for the Dutchman.
Verstappen’s best result at COTA was a second-place finish in 2022, with Lewis Hamilton securing the top spot that year. His last victory at the American circuit came in 2017, a fact that Verstappen is keen to change this time around.
Verstappen’s near-miss in Texas last year came in a dramatic race that saw a last-lap pass by Hamilton, preventing the Dutch driver from extending his winning streak.
This year, Verstappen is determined to come out on top, and the 2024 edition of the U.S. Grand Prix presents a golden opportunity for him to end his drought in Austin.
The Circuit of the Americas is known for its technical layout and diverse range of corners that require precision and skill. It has been a notoriously difficult circuit for many drivers, and Verstappen’s historical performance here shows that even the best can have an off day.
However, his current form and Red Bull’s superior pace on almost every track suggest that they will be the team to beat in Texas.
In addition to his strong form in 2024, Verstappen’s focus on consistency, tire management, and strategic execution has been a key factor in his success this season.
Red Bull’s RB20 car, which has been a near-perfect blend of speed and reliability, is expected to perform exceptionally well at COTA, where high-speed straights and challenging corners demand the best from both driver and machine.
As Verstappen heads into the race weekend in Texas, he is fully aware of the significance of claiming his first win in Austin.
With his eye on the prize, Verstappen is primed to rewrite the narrative of his winless streak in Texas and add yet another memorable chapter to his already illustrious F1 career.