Why Verstappen still got the 25 points and became champion in Japan

Most F1 fans thought that Max Verstappen could only become world champion in the United States when the chequered flag dropped. After all, the Japanese Grand Prix wasn't 75% complete, meaning no full points could be awarded. Nothing could be further from the truth, however, as Verstappen was credited with the 25 World Championship points after all. But why?

It was assumed by most that if a race is finished and it is only 50-75% complete, then fewer points would be handed out. In this case, the race leader would get 19 points, the runner-up 14 points and the number three 12 points. Verstappen needed to score eight more points than Leclerc at Suzuka, but the difference between the two title rivals was only seven points. Everyone at Red Bull Racing, therefore, thought Verstappen would be one point short.

FIA explains

However, the FIA did not hand out fewer points, just the full amount. Somewhat remarkable, but also quite logical if we look at the rules. In a statement, the FIA writes why they came to this decision. "The rules regarding reduced points allocation (as described in Article 6.5) only apply in the event of race suspension that cannot be resumed, and therefore the full points are awarded and Max Verstappen is WDC," it said. 

The race in Japan was restarted with 40 minutes left on the clock. So the race was not fully run, but because the drivers passed under the finish flag, FIA regulations dictate that it is "just" a completed race, just like all other weekends earlier this year.