Max Verstappen F1 Abu Dhabi 2021 controversy marked with Red Bull deal

Max Verstappen

Verstappen Abu Dhabi 2021 controversy marked with Red Bull deal

Max Verstappen claimed a controversial maiden championship victory at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Kerry Violet F1 News Editor

F1 editor and journalist covering motorsport since 2024.

Thursday 12 December 2024 13:56

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Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has a new deal available with his Red Bull team, marking his controversial maiden championship victory which was claimed on this day in 2021.

At the final race of the 2021 F1 season, Verstappen and reigning champion Lewis Hamilton headed into the season finale on equal points, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix set to be a title decider.

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Both the drivers' and the constructors' championship were on a knife-edge ahead of the race at the Yas Marina circuit, with Mercedes eventually stealing the title in the team's standings despite ideal teamwork from Red Bull star Sergio Perez.

Mercedes' star driver Hamilton, on the other hand, was unable to retain his champion status and claim a historic eighth title thanks to an unfortunately-timed safety car.

With just five laps to go in the grand prix, the safety car was deployed due to a crash from the Williams of Nicholas Latifi.

After significant confusion, the safety car ended on lap 57 and the 2021 championship was to be decided with just one lap of racing.

Max Verstappen has now won four F1 championships with Red Bull

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After a dramatic race to the line and a shock overtake from Verstappen, the Dutchman claimed his first F1 championship and put a stop to Hamilton's dominance in the sport.

Verstappen is now a four-time champion, and has won all of his titles consecutively since that first success.

To celebrate Verstappen's four consecutive titles with Red Bull, shop the champion's merchandise collection here.

The Fanatics store also stocks a variety of Verstappen merch, including the number one driver's official cap which is currently on offer for just £31.50, click here to buy yours.

With the official M4X merch flying off the shelves, you can also click here to shop the 'UNSTOPPABLE' F1 2024 world champion hoodie that features a chequered flag graphic and orange detailing in the shade of the Dutchman's home colours.