Verstappen’s domination is part of the game, says F1 CEO. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes that the current dominance of Dutchman Max Verstappen should be applauded, with the Italian arguing that “it’s part of the game”.

Since the start of the 2023 season, Max Verstappen has won ten of the twelve races already contested and has scored 314 points in the drivers’ championship. The two-time world champion has been ultra-dominant this season at the wheel of a highly efficient RB19, with the Dutchman leaving nothing but crumbs for his rivals.

A history of domination

Over the past two decades, Formula 1 has seen a dynamic and often dramatic shift in the dominance of certain drivers on the grid. From the early 2000s to the present day, a select few have risen to the top.

It began with the incomparable Michael Schumacher, who demonstrated unrivalled skill and determination during a reign with Ferrari in the early 2000s. Schumacher secured five consecutive world championships from 2000 to 2004, creating a legacy that continues to influence the sport today. His meticulous attention to detail, impeccable racing skills and innate ability to get the most out of his machines made him a force to be reckoned with.

Ferrari accuse Red Bull of “playing games”

As Schumacher’s era waned, a new star was born – Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard’s aggressive driving and tactical skills allowed him to challenge the status quo. Alonso won back-to-back titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, breaking Schumacher’s dominance and proving that a determined underdog can beat the odds.

Then came the reign of Sebastian Vettel, a prodigious talent who burst onto the scene with Red Bull Racing. Vettel’s four consecutive championships from 2010 to 2013 demonstrated a blend of raw speed and strategic intelligence. His dominance signalled a changing of the guard as the younger generation began to assert themselves.

In the midst of this transformation, Lewis Hamilton emerged as one of the sport’s brightest stars. The British driver’s move to Mercedes in 2013 marked a turning point in his career. The team’s huge financial investment and Hamilton’s exceptional skill led to an era of unparalleled dominance, as Hamilton secured seven world titles between 2014 and 2020. His ability to adapt to changing conditions, coupled with his strategic acumen, marked him out as a true modern great.

FIA suspicions of RB19 “serious”

Verstappen: “We shouldn’t be surprised…”

But for the Formula 1 CEO, this domination by the Red Bull driver is simply part of the Formula 1 championship game, with the Italian believing, like many others, that it is up to the others to catch up.

“I think this is a good time to celebrate the incredible job Max Verstappen is doing in this car,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

“If you look at the other car [Perez’s] and where the others are in terms of the gap, it’s just incredible to see what an incredible job Max is doing.”

“It’s always been part of F1 and it’s part of the game. I’m pretty sure that over the next few years the gaps will be reduced. But if someone is great, we have to celebrate what they do.”

“And sometimes I think there is also the need to confirm the legacy of someone who does spectacular things.”

Wolff indicates his retirement may be soon

Building a new legacy

According to Formula 1’s CEO, Max Verstappen is simply building a “legacy” by making his mark in the new markets that motorsport’s Formula 1 championship has ventured into of late.

“In some markets, mainly the new ones, you can see that he is also leaving an incredible legacy because you know that it means something if you are able to win so many races. It means you really are a great leader.”

“So there’s nothing negative about that. And if you look back, I’d say it’s always been part of F1 history.”

Ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen leads the world championship by 125 points from team-mate Sergio Perez.

READ MORE: Perez blames RB19 for loss of form

A slightly early end to the session for Hulkenberg after this spin 💥

The fans certainly got a close-up!#DutchGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/g2vZBqDWkf

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 25, 2023