Max Verstappen runs out of superlatives for Antonelli: “I’m very proud”

Antonelli needed only a ninth-place finish to secure the title, but crossed the line in third. The Mercedes driver became world champion in his second Formula 1 season. After the race, Verstappen watched the Italian celebrate his success with his team and family.

"It's incredible, of course. What a season he had," Verstappen said. "To do that also at such an age is really, really impressive."It's amazing to see the whole team celebrating with him, his family is here as well. I'm sure this is a very emotional day for him and I'm very proud of him."

Verstappen started fifth because of his grid penalty, but was already up to second after the opening lap. He made up two places at the first corner, then passed Hamilton when the Ferrari driver ran off track while battling Charles Leclerc.

"It was very hectic out there today. The first start already made the race for me. I just had a very good first lap, let's say like that," Verstappen explained. "After that we had a bit of a different strategy. I do think we lacked a little bit of pace, but we just hung in there and made the right calls at the right time."

Leclerc was given a five-second penalty for cutting the track on the opening lap. When he and Verstappen made their first pit stops at the same time, the Dutchman was able to get ahead because Leclerc first had to serve his penalty. After a red flag and a later safety car, Verstappen still had to defend the lead twice.

"Of course, the penalty for Charles then put us in the lead, Verstappen continued. "Then you could see they were always staying with me. It was tough. I was sweating at the end to try and keep Lewis behind."