Verstappen crowned F1 champion amid confusion after Japan victory

Max Verstappen was crowned Formula One world champion in confusing circumstances as he won a rain-affected Japanese Grand Prix.

There were only 28 laps completed in Suzuka but full points were awarded as the race was resumed after a red flag had caused a delay of over two hours.

Verstappen took the chequered flag following a fine display after the restart and was crowned champion as Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez was promoted to second after the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc has penalised for gaining an advantage having run off the track at the final corner.

MAX VERSTAPPENTWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION!!!#2TheMax #F1 pic.twitter.com/eOlI6B6un1

— Formula 1 (@F1) October 9, 2022

Even though the title was decided, the race will be overshadowed by a near miss between Pierre Gasly and a recovery tractor – which left the sport with questions to answer over the safety of their drivers.

The incident was condemned up and down the pitlane as the teams and drivers waited for a restart announcement that came at 16:15 local time.

Verstappen led from the front to claim victory, Perez completing a Red Bull one-two after Leclerc was handed a five-second penalty having run wide at the final corner and gaining an advantage.

Confusion hit the paddock as it was unclear if Verstappen had been awarded half-points due to the truncated nature of the race – before it was confirmed full points were given.

Even Red Bull’s social media accounts delayed announcing their man as double world-champion as his title victory – much like in Abu Dhabi last year – was anything but clear.

Max Verstappen, you are a DOUBLE WORLD CHAMPION