Picture Credit: Formula 1
After a lot of rain and drama, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen was adjudged the winner of the Japanese Grand Prix 2022 as the Dutchman pipped teammates Sergio Perez and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. And with this, Verstappen became the World Champion for a second consecutive year. However, interestingly, Verstappen’s both championship wins have been marred with controversy.
While it was Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton last year in Abu Dhabi, it was Charles Leclerc at Suzuka this year against Verstappen. Leclerc, who looked set to finish second to keep the title fight alive, was penalized for cutting the chicane on the final lap as he defended from the other Red Bull of Sergio Perez. Nevertheless, Verstappen is the new F1 champion and his expressions were priceless when Verstappen learned that he won the title in 2022.
“Well, what can I say? Incredible, of course,” said Verstappen when he was informed about his title win.
It’s something I could have ever imagined: Verstappen
While interacting with the media after the race, the 25-year-old said that it was something he could have never imagined. "It's crazy, very mixed emotions. What a year we've had, so far, it's been incredible," Verstappen told media in the aftermath of the race.
"It's something I could have never imagined from happening after last year already, fighting until the end and then having such a good car again this year. I'm so thankful to everyone who has been contributing to the success, the whole team who's here. But also back at the factory [those] who are constantly working flat out, they're never missing any motivation to try and make the car faster."
