By: Osabuohien Imuetinyanosa
It was quite an atmosphere of celebration as Rwandan President Paul Kagame combine with Max Verstappen on stage as he joyfully receives Formula One champion’s trophy for the fourth year in a row, in the same vein enjoying the first ever awards ceremony held in Africa, precisely at Rwanda on Friday.
Verstappen 27, received with reflects of fulfillment the trophy which was handed over to F1 super driver by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) president Mohammed Ben Sulayem alongside Kagame, who had earlier spoken of Rwanda bidding to host a race, at the gala in Kigali which Hamilton once anounced some months ago, happily unfolding the plan of F1 to Africa.
Verstappen, who is one of only six drivers to have won four or more titles since the championship started in 1950, said he was proud of his season and everyone in the team.
“It’s amazing, four titles is definitely incredible. Of course I also hope it doesn’t stop here. I hope we can be successful for a longer period of time,” said Verstappen.
“This year the competition is very close, but then again in 2026 a lot is going to change.”
McLaren won the constructors’ title for the first time in 26 years, ending Red Bull’s reign.
“Of course we’re not standing here as constructors’ champions. In a way, I do think we deserved a little bit more in that championship. I tried my very best and we also know a lot where we have to work on for next year,” added Verstappen.
“I’m very excited about that as well because it does look like it’s going to be a proper fight between a lot of teams.”
The Dutch driver earlier attended a motorsports grassroots development programme with young people as an obligatory “work of public interest” as punishment for swearing at the Singapore Grand Prix in October.
McLaren’s Lando Norris congratulated Verstappen and looked forward to stepping up the battle next year.
For Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s Mexican teammate after a dismal season, having his future at Red Bull still uncertain , was obviously absent but still got a clinch on something special as he was voted Action of the Year winner for an overtake in China, which will definitely be a good boost of his passion for the sport besides all short comings.
And another brilliant performance from the Brazilian F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto attracted to himself a special award as well, being named Rookie of the Year. And will be making his debut with Sauber in Formula One next year or season.
