Max Verstappen has achieved pole position in every race of the 2024 season thus far, including the Japanese GP. The Dutch driver has once again displayed his dominance in this season, earning two race wins and only missing out on the Australian GP due to an early retirement. Determined to make up for that setback, Verstappen secured the pole position at the Japanese GP. Despite his impressive performance, he expressed dissatisfaction with his lap time.
Verstappen shared his thoughts on his pole position achievement, expressing that he could have performed even better in various sessions at Suzuka. He also expressed his happiness in seeing his teammate qualify just behind him in P2, securing another front row finish. Therefore, the qualifying session in Japan was considered “good” by the reigning world champion.
After retiring due to braking issues at the Australian GP, Verstappen missed out on crucial points. However, he has been performing exceptionally well throughout the weekend and is expected to eliminate any competition early on in the race.
There were rumors circulating about Verstappen potentially moving to Mercedes, especially during his teammate’s surprising move to Ferrari. However, the Red Bull star has repeatedly reassured his loyalty to Milton Keynes. Verstappen acknowledged that he understood why Mercedes would want him in their car and mentioned the tensions between the two teams during the controversial title battle in 2021. Nevertheless, the reigning world champion believes that everything from the past can be forgiven and forgotten. Despite this, he has no intention of exploring his options to drive for the German manufacturer in Formula 1.
Verstappen will remain at Red Bull and has the potential to break multiple records until at least 2028 when his contract ends. The 2024 season has started off strongly for the Dutchman, except for the disappointment in Albert Park. The team aims to secure another dominant victory at the Japanese GP to extend their lead over rival teams.