Max Verstappen secured his ninth victory of the 2024 Formula One season at the Qatar Grand Prix, but was left unimpressed with the decision made by the stewards in qualifying. Verstappen was handed a one-place grid penalty for driving slowly and impeding George Russell during qualifying, which allowed Russell to take the pole position.
Verstappen, who went on to win the race, was frustrated with the decision and accused Russell of trying to “screw him over”. He stated that he had lost all respect for Russell and felt that the stewards’ decision was unfair, given that he was attempting to be nice and not impede other drivers as they completed their slow laps during qualifying.
Throughout the race, Verstappen was unharmed and managed to maintain his lead, despite a chaotic event. The Safety Car made three appearances, including after a collision between Nico Hülkenberg and Esteban Ocon, as well as a wing mirror flying off Alex Albon’s car and causing debris that punctured cars.
Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri finished second and third, respectively, behind Verstappen, while George Russell came in fourth. Lewis Hamilton, who was also penalized for false starting and speeding in the pitlane, finished 7th. The Qatar Grand Prix was the penultimate race of the season, with the final race being held in Abu Dhabi.
