At the start of the season Max Verstappen was particularly short when asked about how demands change as a world champion. They talk of the delayed publication of the 2021 budget cap report, which is due on Monday amid allegations, which have been denied, that Red Bull breached the £114million cap en route to Verstappen’s first title. They talk of Verstappen’s luck not to be stripped of pole position by stewards after a near-collision at Turn 15 with Lando Norris. Right now, Verstappen is the best driver in the best car, that much is undeniable and he will be a worthy champion. Talk of the budget cap is what has irked Verstappen most of all since he touched down in Singapore for the previous race. Depending on who was asked, incredulity followed, as it often does around decision-making on Verstappen.

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