Verstappen will not travel to the FIA Gala for the first time in years

GPblog has learned that the Red Bull Racing driver will miss the event due to illness. He was supposed to receive the trophy for finishing second in the drivers' standings.

The Dutchman has previously attended the ceremony to lift the trophy for the World Drivers' Championship during the past four years, but this season, he missed out on the title after a stunning comeback.

Verstappen also won the season finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but after Lando Norris crossed the finish line in third place, he finished two points behind his British rival in the standings.

One final hurdle awaits the Dutchman in claiming the number '3' for the upcoming Formula 1 season.

The two-year waiting period rule, but if Daniel Ricciardo waives his right, the four-time world champion would be able to have '3' on his car already next year.

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