‘Stupid grin’ – Max Verstappen snaps at reporter after Lando Norris wins F1 title
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Max Verstappen won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but Lando Norris secured the 2025 formula 1 Championship by just two points, marking the closest title fight since 2008. Verstappen’s controversial DNF at the Spanish Grand Prix proved costly, as he finished fifth initially but was penalised to tenth. Norris’s third-place finish solidified his title victory.
Source: Original report
Max Verstappen hit back at a journalist after being questioned about his Formula 1 title loss to Lando Norris following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday. Verstappen won the race, but it was not sufficient to secure his championship, as Norris finished third and claimed the title by just two points, marking the narrowest margin in F1 since 2008.
During the post-race press conference at Yas Marina, Verstappen expressed his frustration over repeated questions about a pivotal incident during the season. He faced scrutiny regarding his deliberate crash into George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, which resulted in a penalty that cost him nine essential points.
Verstappen remarked, “You forget all the other stuff that happened in my season,” after a journalist focused solely on the Barcelona incident. He added, “Championship is won over 24 rounds,” highlighting the broader context of the season.
Verstappen Congratulates Norris on His Championship
Despite the disappointment, Verstappen was quick to congratulate Norris following the race, stating that he is proud of both his and the Red Bull team’s accomplishments in 2025. He noted, “I don’t see it like losing to be honest,” and praised Norris for having a “very good season.”
Verstappen acknowledged the emotional weight of Norris winning his first title, stating, “Winning your first is always super emotional. It’s very special because everyone on the grid is always dreaming about that moment.”
The press conference concluded with Verstappen and his fellow competitor, Oscar Piastri, clearly in no mood to continue the discussion, cementing a pivotal moment in the championship race.