Verstappen honored with nomination: "We fought for it for many years"

On Wednesday it was announced that Max Verstappen has a chance to win the prestigious Laureus award for Sportsman of the Year 2021. The brand new world champion has since responded to the nomination.

Verstappen, who was already nominated in the "Breakthrough of the Year" category in 2016, is known for not paying much attention to award ceremonies. Nevertheless, he has since issued a response, saying he is grateful for the nomination.

"It's great to be nominated for this award after the intense Formula 1 2021 season," explains the Dutchman on Verstappen.com. In doing so, he thanks his team and engine supplier Honda for the winning car they gave him. "For many years the team has fought and pushed to get better and close the gap, and at last we managed it," says the Red Bull Racing driver.

Of course, his own Orange Army should not be forgotten either. "Also a big thanks for my fans for supporting me, it’s really great to see the Orange Army all over the world," concludes the world champion.

Verstappen will compete against 20-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic and Polish Bundesliga top scorer Robert Lewandowski, among others. The award winners, chosen by the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy, will be announced at a virtual ceremony in April.