Christian Horner: “Max Verstappen has been on another planet this year”

The question was not whether Max Verstappen was going to be titled, but where…

Christian Horner: This title is a phenomenal achievement on the part of Max and the team. We thought we were going to miss 1 point and we considered a final stop to give him a set of new tires so that he could get the point for the best lap, but we changed our mind. The risk was too great and we did not know at that time if Checo (Pérez) would be able to beat Charles (Leclerc).

Max was exceptional this year! After a few somewhat difficult races at the start of the season, the team was able to bounce back and, for its part, it led this championship as it led this race, in the most compelling way. Today, being able to push Leclerc back to 26” (before the 5” penalty. Editor’s note) in such difficult conditions in 28 laps, is a huge performance. Checo should not be forgotten, because his 2nd place is synonymous with important points in the Manufacturers' championship, and allows him to pass Charles in the Drivers' category.

Were you surprised to learn that Max Verstappen had just won the title?

CH: Yes, we found out when Jenson Button told us. We thought then that only 25% of the points would be distributed, and we thought we would be one short. On the wall, we told ourselves that we would go look for him in Austin. And then, Checo's maneuver on Charles in the final chicane meant that Max won the title. So yes, a surprise for him and for us. A most astonishing finale!

Max Verstappen “is in top form”

After the controversy in Abu Dhabi last year, is this title more jubilant?

CH: A championship is a championship. Just because the pressure has been less this season doesn't mean he has less value. It's been exceptional to see the way Max has defended his number 1. It's been a pleasure to see him reach another level this season. Sealing the championship with four legs to go is a truly remarkable performance. He's been on another planet this year with such maturity and conviction.

Double world champion at 25, where will he stop?

CH: He is in top form, his driving is remarkable and his work with the team is at an incredible level of excellence. What he brings to the organization is enormous. I believe that being titled last year, at the end of such a battle of titans, allowed him to release the pressure. I am very proud of him and the team.

Comments collected by Jean-Michel Desnoues

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