Lewis Hamilton was in control, but a late safety car left the race as a one-lap shootout and Verstappen triumphed. Our goal was to win this championship when we came together and we have done that,” said Verstappen. After the safety pulled off with one lap to go, Verstappen – on fresh tyres – overtook Hamilton – on old ones – to win the race and the title. A stunned Hamilton was downbeat but proud of the efforts of his Mercedes team as he reflected on finishing runner-up to Verstappen. “Firstly, congratulations to Max and his team,” said the Briton, a seven-time world champion.

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