The 2023 Formula 1 season wrapped up with familiar faces at the top, new additions, and a few surprises along the way setting the ground for an interesting off season and nail-biting 2024. If you want to know what happened in the 2023 season and do not have the patience to wait for Netflix’s Drive to Survive, here's a recap of the 2023 season highlights.
Dominant Dutch: Verstappen and Red Bull Triumph
Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, added another notch to his list of accomplishments with a record-breaking season. He won all but three races: 19 out of 22, claiming his third consecutive Drivers' Championship by a long shot. Sergio Perez, his teammate, secured the runner-up position, giving Red Bull their first-ever 1-2 finish. Their combined dominance led Red Bull to their sixth and second in a row Constructors' Championship title.
To be clear, this wasn’t even a close race, Verstappen finished with double the points of the runner up, 575 vs. Perez’s 285. In fact, Perez and Hamilton, who finished third with 234 points, could not beat the Dutchman even if they combined their points. This lead, stretched into constructor standings too, where Red Bull Racing Honda finished with 860 points, compared with Mercedes and Ferrari coming in second and third place with 409 and 406 points respectively.
Hamilton Holds Steady, New Stars Emerge
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time champion, a streak ended by Verstappen in 2021, finished in a respectable third for Mercedes. While he couldn't match Verstappen's pace, he displayed consistent performance and secured podiums throughout the season.
Outside the top three, Lando Norris consistently challenged the podium for McLaren, while George Russell impressed at Mercedes, even securing a surprise victory in the chaotic Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Alex Albon, piloting the resurgent Williams, emerged as a midfield contender, showcasing impressive skill and maturity. We’re excited to see his performance in 2024 and whether Williams will be able to re-emerge as a team of consequence.
Vegas Lights, Miami Spice: A Season of Firsts
The 2023 season saw several new additions to the calendar. The Las Vegas Grand Prix, held under the dazzling lights of the Strip, delivered a thrilling night race. The Miami Grand Prix, with its unique track layout and vibrant atmosphere, added a touch of glamour to the season.
Upsets and Excitement: The Biggest Surprises
While Verstappen's dominance was undeniable, there were moments of unexpected drama. The British Grand Prix was a chaotic affair, with red flags and unexpected retirements shaking up the standings. The Italian Grand Prix saw a last-lap battle for the win between Verstappen and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, with the Dutchman emerging victorious in a thrilling photo finish. Huge disappointment for the Italian spectators and Ferrari fans, but a thrill to watch for all others.
Shakeups and Departures: A Look at the Team Landscape
The driver market saw significant movement. Without a doubt, Hamilton’s announcement to leave Mercedes for Ferrari was earthshattering. Daniel Ricciardo's departure from McLaren was a significant change, while Fernando Alonso made a surprising switch to Aston Martin.
Looking Forward: What to Expect in 2024
With Verstappen's dominance and Red Bull's strength, can other teams close the gap? The arrival of new drivers and the continued rise of young talents promise intrigue. With the addition of F1 Academy, the future of the sport seems bright. The 2024 season is poised to bring even more speed, drama, and excitement to the world of Formula One.
- Disclaimer: All photos belong to their respective owners, no copyright infringement intended.
