Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands became the F1 drivers’ world champion, during the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan, Sunday.
Verstappen successfully concluded his world title defense to claim his second consecutive Formula One championship with four races to spare.
The victory in Japan was Verstappen’s 12th win of the season after starting from the pole position to reach the chequered flag before any other driver on the grid. Despite the rain in Suzuka, Verstappen retained his title at the same venue where he made his debut as the youngest-ever driver to participate in a practice session
His second title came in less disputable circumstances compared to his maiden win last year, in which he secured the title in a seemingly controversial manner at the cost of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton during the last race of the season. But, this year, the Dutchman has been far better than anyone, with a lead of over a hundred points segregating him from his closest competitor.
With four races still to go on the race calendar, Verstappen might break the current record for most wins in a season, i.e. thirteen, jointly held by German great Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel.
