Verstappen praises Hamilton: "Lewis is an amazing competitor"

Max Verstappen is very happy that he can celebrate his success together with Jos Verstappen in Abu Dhabi. The Dutchman is very grateful to his father and says nice words about his fans who follow him everywhere. Lewis Hamilton is also mentioned.

"My goal when I was little was to become a Formula 1 driver. You hope for wins and a podium. They play the national anthem and you hope they play yours," Verstappen said in a conversation with Jenson Button after the podium ceremony. "When they play yours and they tell you that you are world champion. It's incredible. The special moment with my dad here and everything comes together on the last lap. My whole team. Family and friends.. the people I grew up with pushing me."

Verstappen thanks fans

The Dutchman also has a nice word for the people who are in Abu Dhabi to support him. "To see all of this orange especially here and all over the world where they have supported me all over the world and I hope to continue this throughout the year."

For rival Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen has yet to receive rave reviews. "Lewis is an amazing competitor and has made it hard for us. Next year we will try and do it again," he concludes.