Champion Verstappen 'had one chance and he took it'

Max Verstappen's father Jos paid tribute to the performance of his son as he delivered a maiden world championship title in the most dramatic of circumstances.

After safety car drama with five laps in the race remaining, Verstappen and Hamilton were faced with a final lap shootout to decide the race and the title.

And the Dutchman delivered, producing a daring move to get past Hamilton to collect the chequered flag and the world championship.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1 after the race, Verstappen Snr was ecstatic at the drive of his son, stating: "Because of the safety car we were in that situation but of course you have to do it. I think Max was the driver this year, and this was his championship. 

"I think the whole team was worried because we know their speed. He kept fighting, he will always fight because it's in his DNA. He had one chance, one lap, and that's what he took."

And when asked how he enjoyed the final lap of that gripping race, Verstappen conceded he thought it might be all over.

He added: "During the race I walked away because I didn't believe it anymore, but I came back for the last lap!"

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Adrian Newey promises Aston Martin improvements at next F1 race with crucial upgrades

• 59 minutes ago

Former Sauber star stops racing to join the army

• 2 hours ago

F1 Spanish Grand Prix a 'total dud' as Government Minister issues damning Madring statement

• Today 13:55

Honda replace F1 boss after nightmare Aston Martin season

• Today 12:27

F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton concedes title as Sky Sports blame F1 driver for Madrid mess

• Today 11:26

Team fined for 'woman wearing shorts' at Spanish Grand Prix

• Today 10:57