The confusion and controversy that should never overshadow Verstappen’s Suzuka magic
The Japanese Grand Prix had a little bit of everything – for the right and the wrong reasons. From a recovery vehicle on-track controversy to both points and penalty confusion, Formula 1 went through a difficult afternoon at a soaking Suzuka, but none of which can discredit Max Verstappen’s latest masterclass to make him a worthy 2022 world champion
The latest case of motorsport’s topflight making heavy weather of heavy weather, total fury from drivers over when recovery vehicles should be on circuit, a track limits penalty that a gravel trap might have prevented, confusion concerning the length of a race and how points are awarded, plus the champion only learning of his success between interviews. Certainly, last weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix wasn’t short of conflict and drama as the FIA has again emerged from a Formula 1 title decider being pounded with criticism.
The governing body has many questions to which it must provide satisfactory answers. Until those arrive, the fallout should not overshadow what was a mesmeric wet-weather victory from Max Verstappen. One that, unbeknown to us all at the chequered flag, had fittingly secured the Red Bull driver back-to-back world championships.
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