WATCH: Relive the moment Max Verstappen became a double world champion
After a dominant victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen is now a double world champion – although the Red Bull driver was forced to wait until after the race to get the good news...
Verstappen produced a dominant display at Suzuka, crossing the line over 26 seconds ahead of Charles Leclerc. However, the Ferrari driver was later adjudged to have gained an advantage after leaving the track at the final chicane, in his defence against Sergio Perez for second place. The Monegasque was consequently given a five-second time penalty dropping him down to third after the race.
After initially believing that the title fight would go to the next race, Verstappen was informed of the Leclerc penalty that made him a two-time world champion, sending him and his Red Bull team into wild celebrations.
READ MORE: Verstappen crowned world champion with Japanese GP victory after late penalty for Leclerc
Click on the video player above to watch the moment Verstappen learned he was now a double world champion.
Next Up
Related Articles
ExclusiveLawson examines factors behind his impressive 2026 so far
How Cadillac’s 2026 season has played out so far
Long-time Aston Martin engineer set to leave team
The F1 Power Rankings at the halfway stage of 2026
ExclusiveWhy Vowles is convinced ‘it will all come good’ at Williams
UnlockedHow an unraced Newey McLaren compares to Aston Martin’s car