Verstappen derives more satisfaction from second world title: 'This one feels better'

For a while it was confusing whether Verstappen had actually won the world title at Suzuka, but in the end it turned out that the race organisers had handed out the full points. Charles Leclerc crossed the finish line in second place, meaning Verstappen did not actually have enough points. Indeed, the Dutchman had the win and the fastest race lap remaining, but he did not come in for new tyres in the closing stages of the race to grab that fast lap. "If my dad had been at the pit wall I think we would have tried," Verstappen said in a conversation with Viaplay.

If the Dutchman had not won the title in Japan, there is a very good chance he would have succeeded in Austin in a fortnight's time. Still, Verstappen is glad it happened in Suzuka. "That it happened here, I do think it's very nice. Also from Honda, what they have delivered in recent years anyway. In the end, you see that the Japanese never give up. They work very hard. Also very disciplined, I find that very special to see."

Verstappen: 'You get more satisfaction out of that anyway'

There are still four races on the calendar this season, but Verstappen still wants to give everything despite his title win. "Ultimately, of course, I want to win more races. With this car, a lot is still possible. Of course, it would be nice to get more than 13 wins in a season because I don't think it's going to happen very often. Then you have to take advantage of it. In the end, the important thing is to win the constructors' championship."

In 2021, Verstappen won his first world title in the very last race in Abu Dhabi. Throughout the season, the Dutchman battled Lewis Hamilton. This season, Ferrari seemed to be a strong competitor, but it soon became clear that Red Bull and Verstappen were dominant. "This one feels better because of the season we had. Still got more out of it and still heavily dominant in the end to win the championship. You get more satisfaction out of that anyway."