Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has indicated that Max Verstappen's ability to block out "any noise interference" was vital to him becoming a four-time F1 champion last season.
Verstappen is one of only six drivers in the sport's history to have four titles to his name - Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher, Juan Manuel Fangio, Alain Prost, and Sebastian Vettel the others.
It proved to be a hard-won championship for the Dutchman, who eventually managed to get over the line after a run of 10 grands prix without a victory, and in coming under pressure from McLaren's Lando Norris.
Horner feels 2024 was Verstappen's "best year because of the challenges" his driver faced, notably as he did not have the best car "for a significant portion of the season".
"He had to drive out of his skin, and with great maturity and tenacity," said Horner, speaking to RacingNews365. "He was phenomenal. He was the most complete driver.
"In '21, it was all about two drivers", referring to the fight to the wire with Lewis Hamilton. "In '22, once we got up and running we were untouchable, and '23 was a unicorn year."
As for 2024, Horner added: "Max had to roll his sleeves up and work hard for this championship. He drove brilliantly."
Viewed by others:
Verstappen 'a straightforward guy'
As to whether Horner witnessed anything different about Verstappen compared to the previous three title victories, he said: "He showed great maturity, and was inspirational from in the cockpit as well.
"Also, the graft he put in with the engineering staff to help provide direction, saying, 'This is the area we need to focus on'."
There was also considerable distraction behind the scenes, sparked by an investigation into Horner following a complaint made against him by a female employee.
Verstappen's father Jos also strongly voiced his opinion, whilst there were also suggestions mentor and Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko could quit, opening the door for the 27-year-old given apparent clauses in his contract.
Verstappen's future was also the subject of considerable speculation. Additionally, he was in the firing line of the FIA after he swore during an official press conference.
"He never let any noise interfere with getting on with the job at hand," said Horner. "He just showed tremendous maturity.
"Our relationship has always been very strong. It had nothing to do with him, and he's very straightforward. He's a very straightforward guy."
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