The 2024 Formula 1 season was filled with thrilling races, unexpected turns, and monumental changes. From new team partnerships to surprise victories and major driver movements, this year marked a turning point for several teams and drivers. The Formula 1 2024 season saw changes that not only shaped the championship standings but also set the stage for the future of the sport. Here’s a closer look at the key events and developments that defined the 2024 Formula 1 season.
A Year of Surprises and Shifts in the Formula 1 2024 Season
The 2024 Formula 1 season was anything but predictable. The year began with significant team restructuring, new partnerships, and ongoing legal battles that would reverberate throughout the year. Even though Red Bull and Max Verstappen dominated the headlines, there were plenty of other storylines that made this season one to remember. Teams like Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren continued to evolve, with new strategies, drivers, and technical developments coming into play.
Early Moves and Team Announcements
The 2024 Formula 1 season kicked off with major announcements and significant team changes. Williams committed to using Mercedes engines until at least 2030, signaling a long-term partnership with the German manufacturer. Meanwhile, Haas F1 made headlines with a leadership change when Ayao Komatsu was appointed as the new team principal in January. These early changes in the team structure set the tone for a year where stability and strategy would be crucial for success.
In terms of contract renewals, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc extended his stay with the Scuderia, cementing his place at the team for the foreseeable future. McLaren also made waves by signing Lando Norris to a new deal. Norris had been performing exceptionally well, and the team recognized his potential as a cornerstone for their future success.
However, some moves were more surprising. Red Bull, always a team in flux due to its intense competitiveness, saw multiple driver and technical management changes throughout the year. In particular, the decision to sack Riccardo and replace him with Liam Lawson in the latter half of the season marked a major shift within the team. This was also the year where we saw the rebranding of AlphaTauri, which became the Visa Cash App RB F1 Team, signaling a new chapter for the team.
Race Results: Verstappen’s Dominance and Surprises on the Podium
It would not be a Formula 1 season without Max Verstappen’s continued dominance. The 2024 Formula 1 season was another chapter in the Dutch driver’s storied career, with Verstappen winning multiple races and maintaining his position as the driver to beat. He started the season strong, taking victory in Bahrain, and continued his winning ways with victories in Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, and Canada, among others.
However, it wasn’t all about Verstappen. While Red Bull remained at the top, there were multiple surprises throughout the season. For instance, Carlos Sainz claimed victories in both the US Grand Prix and the Mexican Grand Prix. His performances were a highlight for Ferrari and reminded fans that the Scuderia could still challenge Red Bull on occasion.
Additionally, Lando Norris had a breakthrough year with McLaren, claiming multiple podiums and even winning the Dutch Grand Prix. Norris’ rise was one of the feel-good stories of the 2024 Formula 1 season. His relationship with the McLaren team continued to grow stronger, and his on-track performances put McLaren back into the spotlight after several seasons of struggle.
Shifting Alliances and New Partnerships
The 2024 Formula 1 season was also defined by changing partnerships, particularly in terms of engine suppliers. Audi’s full takeover of Sauber marked a major shift, with the German manufacturer set to play an even more significant role in the sport’s future. Audi’s appointment of Andreas Seidl as CEO of Sauber marked the beginning of a new era for the team, which would be key in the lead-up to their entry into F1 in 2026.
Other major changes in the team dynamic included Alpine’s continued shift in strategy. The team had signed a deal with Mercedes for 2026 and beyond, which showed their intent to compete at the highest level in the years to come. Meanwhile, Haas expanded its technical partnerships, first announcing a deal with Toyota Gazoo Racing and later, signing a major agreement with BP and Castrol. These partnerships signaled a bold move for Haas as they looked to establish themselves as more than just a midfield team.
Unexpected Departures and New Faces in Formula 1 2024
The driver market in the 2024 Formula 1 season saw its fair share of surprises. On December 18, Red Bull parted ways with Sergio Perez, a decision that shocked many given his long-standing relationship with the team and his ability to secure podium finishes. His departure was followed by the announcement that Liam Lawson would be joining Red Bull for the 2025 season, signaling a new era at the top of the team.
Perez’s exit wasn’t the only big driver change. Valtteri Bottas, a veteran of the sport, was announced as Mercedes’ new reserve driver, taking a step back from his full-time racing career. Meanwhile, several younger drivers like Isack Hadjar and Oliver Berman took the opportunity to step into F1 in 2024, adding fresh talent to the grid.
Technical Developments and Regulatory Changes
The 2024 Formula 1 season also brought technical advancements and new regulations. The sport saw some changes in its structure, including a revamped sprint weekend format, which was introduced in February. This alteration was aimed at increasing excitement and engagement for fans, and while it had mixed reviews, it showed F1’s willingness to experiment with new formats to keep the sport fresh and exciting.
In terms of the cars themselves, the FIA released updated images of the 2026 cars, giving fans a glimpse of the future. These updates indicated that major technological shifts were coming, especially with the new technical regulations for 2026. The development of these cars would play a significant role in shaping the competitive landscape in future seasons.
Team and Driver Changes Ahead of 2026
The 2024 Formula 1 season also set the stage for significant changes in the sport’s future. Teams began to prepare for the 2026 season when new engine regulations would take effect. Several teams made moves in anticipation of this change, including Ferrari’s deal with General Motors for a new engine partnership. The upcoming entry of new teams like Cadillac F1 added excitement to the sport, as the team looks to make an impact in the sport’s next era.
One of the most intriguing developments in this area was the decision to expand F1’s calendar, with new venues and races being added in an effort to globalize the sport. For example, China signed a new contract with F1 until 2031, and the Netherlands’ race was scheduled to be dropped from the calendar after 2026, signaling the ever-evolving nature of the sport.
The Final Stretch and End of Season Highlights
As the 2024 Formula 1 season neared its conclusion, the final races in Abu Dhabi and Las Vegas were electric. Verstappen wrapped up his dominant year with a victory in Abu Dhabi, securing the 2024 title. This cemented his status as one of the most dominant drivers in modern Formula 1 history.
Meanwhile, McLaren’s victory in the constructors’ championship added another dimension to their resurgence. The team’s ability to challenge the top teams, even with Red Bull’s dominance, was one of the standout stories of the season.
A Year of Transition and Success in Formula 1 2024
The 2024 Formula 1 season was a year of immense change, with new partnerships, drivers, and teams positioning themselves for the future. Red Bull and Max Verstappen continued to dominate, but the rise of McLaren, Ferrari’s return to form, and the constant evolution of the sport through new regulations and technological advancements gave the season depth and intrigue. The 2024 Formula 1 season was a thrilling chapter in the sport’s history, with fans eagerly awaiting what the future holds as the teams and drivers prepare for the next great era of Formula 1 racing.
