The four-time world champion couldn’t complete his title comeback despite a stunning second half of the season from Zandvoort onward, ultimately conceding the crown to new world champion Lando Norris.

In the usual post-race conference, he was asked about the now-infamous clash with George Russell in Spain, where the Dutchman went from securing fourth place to finishing tenth following the penalty he received.

"You forget all the other stuff that happened in my season. The only thing you mention is Barcelona. I knew that would come," he responded bluntly.

He further pressed the journalist: "Are you giving me a stupid grin now? I don't know. It's part of racing in the end. You live and learn. Championship is won over 24 rounds. I've also had a lot of early Christmas presents given to me in the second half, so you can also question that."

The four-time world champion ultimately lost out by just two points to Norris, who kept his cool and secured a third-place finish that was enough to clinch the title.

This means that next year, the No. 1 on the car could be carried by the British driver, with the Dutchman, after racing with the top-spot number on his car for the past four years, admitting he’s still thinking about which number to use next season.