Max Verstappen clinched what had long been expected with his win at the 2022 Japanese Grand Prix: this year’s drivers’ title crown. It makes him a double world champion at 25 and now he’s close to breaking Formula 1’s record for most wins in a single season, with four events still left to run.
But Verstappen’s title celebrations were overshadowed by the chaos and confusion during and after the wet race last Sunday, which has led to even more questions being raised about the procedures and attitudes of motorsport’s governing body. There was also plenty of intrigue further down the field and off the track too.
Here are the headline takeaways from F1’s first visit back to Suzuka in three years.
Verstappen hugs Adrian Newey after claiming a second F1 world title
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images
1. Verstappen is the 2022 champion, sealed with a virtuoso drive
It had been coming ever since Charles Leclerc crashed out of the lead of the French GP: Verstappen was going to be the 2022 world champion. After his Suzuka triumph and the Ferrari driver’s latest error gifting Sergio Perez second, came Verstappen’s coronation. Although, as we’ll get to soon, not immediately.
Having missed his first, slim chance to seal the title in Singapore seven days earlier, Verstappen wrested control in Japan. He edged Leclerc for pole, then beat his rival in the race’s two main challenges.
PLUS: The confusion and controversy that should never overshadow Verstappen’s Suzuka magic
The first was the start. Verstappen actually launched worse with low revs, but it was his move on the grippy outside line with Leclerc just ahead that should be forever remembered. A brilliant, bold, very Verstappen move that maintained the lead and a crucial, spray-less advantage in the wet conditions. After the restart, he led Leclerc comfortably, which then got even easier when the Ferrari lost time waiting for Perez to pit as they all switched to intermediates.
Leclerc charged, but in doing so wore his tyres badly. Verstappen was so strong he maintained his gap, kept his tyres in better shape while doing so, then cleared off to secure a massive near-30s winning margin and history. He’s now just one win away from equalling the single-season win record of 13, with four events still left.
Red Bull and Verstappen thought there was another lap to go, as the time limit caused confusion
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
2. Verstappen’s celebrations overshadowed by rules…
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