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Verstappen delivers SHOCK Abu Dhabi 2021 admission after Hamilton controversy
Max Verstappen has made a surprising admission regarding the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a race that has since become one of the most contentious moments in Formula 1 history. The Dutch driver, who clinched his first world championship in that race, revealed that although the event was significant in his career, he would not want to go through it again.
The 2021 season finale was an epic showdown between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, both of whom entered the race tied on points, making it one of the most anticipated title deciders in recent memory. Hamilton, aiming for a record-breaking eighth world championship, led the race as the clock ticked down. Verstappen, however, was determined to make a last-ditch effort for the championship and was positioned to capitalize on any opportunities.
The dramatic turn of events began when Nicholas Latifi crashed into the barriers, bringing out a late safety car and dramatically altering the dynamics of the race. Hamilton chose to remain on the track with older tyres, while Verstappen made the crucial decision to pit for fresh tyres, giving him a significant advantage as the safety car period concluded.
However, the controversy erupted when race director Michael Masi made the decision to allow one more racing lap, despite the fact that not all lapped cars had been allowed to un-lap themselves, which many felt violated the race’s regulations. This led to heated debates and widespread criticism, with some accusing the FIA of bending the rules to ensure Verstappen had a chance to race Hamilton for the title in the final lap.
As a result, Verstappen overtook Hamilton on the final lap and won his first Formula 1 championship, but the incident sparked a storm of criticism regarding the fairness and integrity of the race’s conclusion. Many fans and analysts believed that the decisions made during the safety car period were not in line with standard procedures, making the race an enduring point of controversy.
Despite the historical significance of the race, Verstappen has now expressed his discomfort with how it played out. He admitted that while he looks back on the event as an important moment in his career, he would not want to relive the stress and uncertainty that came with it. His comments suggest that while the victory was rewarding, the contentious nature of the race took away from the joy of winning the title in such dramatic circumstances.
The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix continues to be a topic of debate among fans and pundits, with many still questioning whether the race’s outcome was decided fairly. Verstappen’s admission adds another layer to the ongoing discussion about one of the most controversial races in Formula 1 history.