The Formula 1 race in Japan at the famous Suzuka circuit was hit by heavy rain and was red-flagged already on the second lap after Carlos Sainz crashed his Ferrari car and several other drivers spun off.

Then it took just over two hours before the race could be restarted.

However, due to the interruption, the race was shortened, which normally gives less points to the winner.

Therefore, there was great confusion when, in the first interview, Max Verstappen was declared world champion, after Charles Leclerc received a penalty and dropped from second to third place.

However, the Dutchman himself was unsure whether he had really secured the title.

- But I'm not a champion, am I?

Am I?

Are you sure?, says Verstappen in the driver's room when he is informed that it is in fact ready.

In the end, the Dutchman had to do a victory interview as world champion.

- Mixed feelings, clearly.

But it feels fantastic, it's been a fantastic season.

Don't know the rules

The reason for the confusion was that many, including the employees of Verstappen's team, did not fully understand the regulations.

Although the race was shortened, full points were awarded due to the fact that the race could be completed to the end.

If the race had been broken with the same number of laps completed, but then never started, full points would not have been awarded - and Verstappen would not have become champion.

- Very special to do this in front of these fantastic fans, said Verstappen.

After winning at Suzuka, he has now won the championship, despite four races remaining.

Teammate Sergio Perez was moved up to second place behind

CLIP: Max Verstappen winner at Monza (September 11, 2022)

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Max Verstappen won at Monza after safety car - runner-up Leclerc annoyed afterwards.

Photo: BILDBYRÅN