3 Possible Records That F1 Qatar GP 2023 Can Create

Formula 1 is not just about fast cars and thrilling races; it’s a sport rich in history, tradition, and, of course, records. The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix is poised to add some new chapters to the record books, and here are three possible records that could be created during this high-octane event.

1. Verstappen’s Trifecta: A Historic Third Consecutive Title

The first record on the horizon is arguably the most significant. Max Verstappen, the Dutch sensation driving for Red Bull Racing, is on the brink of securing his third consecutive Drivers’ Championship title. If he accomplishes this feat, he’ll become the first driver since Nelson Piquet in 1983 to clinch the championship on a Saturday.

But that’s not all; Verstappen’s potential title win comes with even more historic implications. If he secures the championship on Saturday, it would mark the first time in Formula 1 history that there have been six consecutive ‘dead rubber’ races. In other words, with Red Bull already having claimed the constructors’ championship, the remaining races would be purely academic. This is a testament to Red Bull’s dominance and Verstappen’s prowess.

However, if he clinches the title on Sunday, it would still be a historic achievement. Verstappen would join a select group of drivers who have won the championship with five races remaining in the season. The only others to have done so are Nigel Mansell in 1992 and Michael Schumacher in 2002. With Red Bull’s Constructors’ Championship in the bag, this would also result in five consecutive ‘dead rubber’ races, breaking the previous record of four in a row.

Furthermore, Verstappen would become the 11th driver in Formula 1 history to have won three Drivers’ Championship titles. Notably, he would be the fifth to have secured three successive titles, joining the ranks of Juan Manuel Fangio (1956), Michael Schumacher (2002), Sebastian Vettel (2012), and Lewis Hamilton (2020).

And there’s another historical layer to Verstappen’s potential third title. He would become the second-youngest triple world champion in Formula 1, trailing only Sebastian Vettel, who achieved this feat at the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix. The youth and talent of Verstappen have redefined the sport and set the stage for a new era.

2. Qatar: A New Entry in the Championship’s History

The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix isn’t just a race; it’s a historic moment for the sport. Qatar marks the 22nd different country where the Drivers’ Championship could be won. It’s a testament to Formula 1’s global reach and its ability to bring the thrill of racing to new audiences.

But that’s not all. Lusail Circuit, the venue for the Qatar Grand Prix, could also etch its name into the record books. If Max Verstappen secures enough points to win the title during the race weekend, Lusail Circuit would become the 32nd different circuit to have hosted a title decider. This showcases the diversity of tracks and challenges in Formula 1.

Furthermore, the Qatar Grand Prix offers a unique opportunity for a night-time title win. If Verstappen clinches the championship, it would be the fifth time in Formula 1 history that the title has been won under the floodlights. Night races add an extra layer of drama to the sport, and Qatar could become a memorable addition to this exclusive club.

3. Verstappen’s Swift Success: Breaking Vettel’s Record

Sebastian Vettel currently holds a remarkable record in Formula 1—the fewest number of days between a driver winning their first and third titles. However, Max Verstappen is on the cusp of breaking this record. If he secures the title on Sprint Saturday at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, it will be only 664 days since his first title win at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This would break Vettel’s record by 78 days, underscoring Verstappen’s meteoric rise in the sport.

Verstappen’s potential swift success highlights the changing landscape of Formula 1, where young talents are making their mark earlier than ever before. His journey from a promising talent to a triple world champion in such a short span is a testament to his skill, determination, and the support of his team.

In conclusion, the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix isn’t just a race; it’s a stage where records can be rewritten and history can be made. Max Verstappen’s pursuit of a third consecutive title, the entry of Qatar into the championship’s history, and the possibility of breaking Vettel’s record all add layers of excitement and anticipation to this thrilling season. As the lights go out and the engines roar to life, Formula 1 fans worldwide will be watching closely to see which records are shattered and which new ones are created in the desert sands of Qatar.