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Max Verstappen’s recent results reveal a surprising pattern that hints at a shifting form at Red Bull Racing. Over the last 14 Formula 1 races, he has reached the podium or won only in alternating events, showing both his individual talent and the inconsistency of the RB20 and RB21 cars.
From the United States Grand Prix in 2023 through to the Monaco Grand Prix in 2024, Verstappen has consistently finished either inside or outside the top three, never repeating the same outcome twice in a row. This strict sequence highlights a new level of unpredictability in his performances.
In the current F1 season’s first eight races, Verstappen has secured four podiums, including wins. He also appeared on the rostrum three times during the last six races of the previous year.
Throughout this 14-race stretch, the Dutch driver has alternated between podium and non-podium finishes, marking a departure from the dominance fans typically associate with Red Bull.
The pattern is more striking when considering Verstappen’s usual consistency and Red Bull’s reputation for producing race-leading cars. His finishes show this unusual alternation: third in the United States, sixth in Mexico, first in Sao Paulo, fifth in Las Vegas, first in Qatar, sixth in Abu Dhabi, second in Australia, fourth in China, first in Japan, sixth in Bahrain, second in Saudi Arabia, fourth in Miami, first at Emilia Romagna, and fourth in Monaco.
Despite these mixed results, Verstappen remains a key contender this year. He currently sits third in the drivers’ standings, trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by just 25 points.
Lando Norris, also a strong competitor in 2024, is 22 points ahead of Verstappen. The Dutch driver’s skill in maximizing race outcomes, even with a car that sometimes lacks pace, keeps him close to the top.
This odd pattern may continue or break at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Verstappen has won at the Circuit de Catalunya for the last three years, making it a track where he performs strongly.
Fans will be watching to see if he maintains the alternating result streak, with another podium finish expected by the pattern. This run adds unpredictability to what was once a series of Red Bull-dominated championships.
In 2024, Red Bull faces stiff competition from McLaren and Ferrari, both of which have adapted well to rule changes and technical upgrades. The battle at the top has tightened, with drivers like Norris and Piastri seizing every opportunity.
Verstappen’s alternating results reflect a shift in Formula 1’s balance of power. Nevertheless, he remains a threat at every race he enters.
As the season continues, attention will focus on whether Verstappen can return to the consistent victories that marked his earlier years with Red Bull. This streak also highlights how narrow the margins between success and failure are in today’s Formula 1.
The races ahead, starting with Spain, could determine if 2024 remains unpredictable or sees the return of Red Bull’s former dominance. Meanwhile, concerns about car performance and strategies at Monaco continue to surface, as seen in recent Monaco Grand Prix fears, adding another layer to the competitive landscape.
John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.