Max Verstappen’s stunning 2021 title was more than a win, it was the defining moment in Red Bull’s racing history.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has reignited the conversation around the 2021 title, calling Max Verstappen’s dramatic championship win the greatest moment in the team’s history.
Throughout 2021, Verstappen battled Lewis Hamilton in one of Formula 1’s most intense title fights, ultimately ending Mercedes’ dominant run that had started in 2014. Verstappen, who joined Red Bull in 2016 during just his second year in F1, made an instant impact by winning on his debut for the team.
Still, it wasn’t until his sixth season with Red Bull that he finally had a car capable of challenging for the championship.
“Max arrived with us as a teenager, and we’ve watched him grow ever since,” Horner explained when asked about Verstappen’s role within the team.
“We’ve seen his development, his extraordinary talent. What he needed was the right tools to showcase it — that meant giving him a car with the right engine and performance.”
“That first title in 2021 was the result of one of the most iconic seasons in F1 history, right down to the very last race.”
Verstappen and Hamilton entered the season finale in Abu Dhabi tied on points. In a dramatic and controversial finish after a late safety car, Verstappen overtook Hamilton on the final lap to claim his first world title.
Despite the controversy that still lingers around that race, Horner believes 2021 stands alone as Red Bull’s ultimate achievement.
“It was an epic battle — from the first race in Bahrain through to the 22nd round in Abu Dhabi. Reducing it to just that one race misses the bigger picture,” Horner said.
“That 2021 title was undoubtedly the pinnacle of our team’s journey. It led to an incredible title in 2022 and then an unforgettable season in 2023.”
“Max has earned his place among the legends of the sport — and he continues to strengthen that legacy year after year. He absolutely deserves it.”
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Horner: Verstappen’s 2021 Triumph Defined Red Bull’s Era Horner: Verstappen’s 2021 Triumph Defined Red Bull’s Era
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