ABU DHABI, Dec 12: Max Verstappen ripped a record eighth title away from Lewis Hamilton with a pass on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi GP to close one of the most thrilling Formula One seasons in years as the first Dutch world champion.
Hamilton was cruising past Michael Schumacher’s record of seven titles Sunday in a race he controlled until Nicholas Latifi crashed with five laps remaining.
Hamilton and Verstappen started side-by-side for one final trip around Yas Marina Circuit and the British driver surged to the lead. Verstappen stalked him through the first four turns then made his pass in turn five and pulled away.
It was a fitting end to a season that saw the two go wheel-to-wheel over 22 races spanning four continents and arrive in Abu Dhabi tied in the championship standings. It marked the first time the contenders were equal at the season finale since 1974. “Oh my God!” Verstappen screamed over his radio.
Red Bull won its first F1 title since 2013; Mercedes had won every championship since. (AP)
