On Sunday, Verstappen won the wet Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka for his 12th victory of the season. However, this was only possible after Charles Leclerc of Ferrari was given a five-second penalty.

While Verstappen comfortably won the race, it was a Leclerc error while under pressure from Sergio Perez that led to him winning the driver’s championship.

Leclerc went past the checkered flag in second, however, he cut across the final chicane and it was deemed that he got an advantage over Perez who was eventually awarded the runners-up position.

Verstappen said he couldn’t have been happier with being able to win the world title at Suzuka – the home of their engine manufacturer, Honda.

"It’s crazy and I’ve got very mixed emotions," said the 25-year-old Dutch driver.

"What a year we’ve had so far – it’s been incredible. It’s something I could never have imagined happening after last year, fighting to the end and having such a good car again this year.

"I’m so thankful to everyone who has been contributing to our success. The whole team here, but also back at the factory, is constantly working flat out and never missing any motivation to make the car faster.

"Besides that, the work we’ve done together with Honda all the way through every year, just keeps improving rapidly.

"To win twice with them is very emotional, especially here at their home track, with everyone watching. It gives you a little bit more pressure, but it’s good pressure, it’s positive pressure.

"I’m very proud that we could do it here."

While Verstappen won the world title, and his teammate, Sergio Perez, is currently second in the driver’s championship, Red Bull hasn’t secured the constructors' title yet, and there is a lot up for grabs in the final four races.

The next race on the circuit will be on 23 October with the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport