MAX VERSTAPPEN’s second world title victory sparked bedlam in the paddock at the Japanese Grand Prix.
He was joined by his Red Bull team and girlfriend Kelly Piquet who captured some behind-the-scenes footage of the celebrations.
Like his first championship win last year, Verstappen claimed his second F1 title in bizarre circumstances at the Suzuka Circuit.
The Red Bull driver breezed to an easy victory at Suzuka but was unaware he had won the championship because Charles Leclerc finished second before being bumped down a place after incurring a penalty.
Despite the initial anti-climatic realisation, Verstappen and his colleagues soon got to partying.
Team-mate Sergio Perez, who finished second as a result of Leclerc’s sanction, poured plenty of champagne over the Dutchman.
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Red Bull mechanics then hoisted the champion onto their shoulders with Kelly – daughter of ex-F1 driver Nelson Piquet – filming every moment of her boyfriend’s glory.
Away from the cameras the couple allowed the moment to sink in inside the dressing room.
They then posed for photos with Kelly giving Verstappen a kiss on the cheek as he held his trophy for winning the Japan GP above his head.
Red Bull chief Christian Horner was also quick to congratulate his driver on social media.
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And his wife, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, also wished Verstappen congratulations in a series of Instagram posts.
Verstappen said of his win: “World Champion 2022!!!
“We’ve been absolutely on it, the whole year. A season where we had a difficult start but kept it cool, bounced back and never let go.
“Thank you so much to the entire team, everybody worked tirelessly to get here and this is the ultimate reward 🏆👏 Red Bull Racing, Sergio Perez, let’s keep pushing for many more highs 💪
“To win it here in Japan makes it extra special, thank you for everything @honda. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do 🙌
“A big thank you goes out to my family, loved ones and management, they support me whatever happens. I can not do this without you ❤️
“To all fans, many many thanks for your incredible support, wherever we go, you are there! Absolutely amazing 🤩.”
Partner Kelly wrote: “He did it again ✌🏻⭐️⭐️World Champion ‘21 ‘22. Thank you Japan ❤️”
Horner said in an Instagram post: “Max Verstappen, you are a DOUBLE WORLD CHAMPION! 🏆🏆
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“A huge congratulations to Max, he has been dominant. He and the Team have raised it to another level this year.
“From the team trackside, to everyone back in Milton Keynes. To achieve this is something truly special.”
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
