Max Verstappen clinched his third consecutive world title on Saturday when he finished second behind rookie Oscar Piastri in an incident-filled sprint race at the Qatar Grand Prix, describing his success as "fantastic".
It was a fine maiden Formula One victory for Australian 22-year-old Piastri, but his feat was overshadowed by Verstappen's achievement, the Dutchman having required only three points to take the title.
His only rival and Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez was involved in a collision and retired, making him the first "Saturday champion" since Nelson Piquet, father of his girlfriend Kelly, in South Africa in 1983. "I don't know what to say.
Incredible year. Thank you for providing me with such a car. It has been a pleasure so far this year," 26-year-old Verstappen told his team over the car radio.