I was very angry. I nearly destroyed the room, Verstappen admitted. But then I just calmed down and said, ‘OK, it is what it is. Let’s just try and make the best of it.’
Verstappen’s charge through the field to win the race was a defining moment in the championship battle, with Norris finishing outside the points for the first time since the Italian GP in September.
Reflecting on the race, Verstappen said: It was an incredible day. To come from 17th to first, especially in those conditions, was very special. It was a day that I will never forget.
The victory ultimately proved crucial in Verstappen’s successful title defense, as he held off Norris to secure his fourth consecutive championship.
My dad just sat there, watching me process my emotions. He didn’t say much, but his presence alone was enough to calm me down. It was a tough day, but seeing him there made me realize that I didn’t need to destroy my room out of anger. I could channel that energy into something positive, like focusing on the race ahead.
And in the end, it all paid off. Despite the challenging start, I was able to drive my way to the podium. It was a moment of relief and triumph, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of my dad. His calm presence in that moment was exactly what I needed to regain my composure and focus on what truly mattered.