Lewis Hamilton declared ‘people’s champion’ but FIA backed over Max Verstappen controversy

Max Verstappen prevails in world title shoot-out

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Lewis Hamilton was deemed the ‘people’s champion’ by Express Sport readers despite his failure to capture the F1 world title at Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In a sensational finale, it was Max Verstappen who was crowned champion after he overtook the Mercedes man on the final lap of an exhilarating race.

The race was not without controversy though, with Hamilton seemingly certain to take the chequered flag and title when he led Verstappen by 11 seconds in the latter stages.

It was then however, a crash for Williams driver Nicholas Latifi changed the landscape of everything, and after a safety car was deployed, Verstappen opted to take the gamble of pitting to put on fresh tyres.

That move appeared futile when race director Michael Masi ordered that the lapped cars between Hamilton and Verstappen could not overtake the safety vehicle, meaning there wouldn’t be time for any further racing, only to then change his mind under pressure from Christian Horner.

It meant the Dutchman was able to get on the tail of the Mercedes as the safety car left the track ahead of the final lap.

JUST IN: Michael Masi ‘faces F1 sacking’ after Abu Dhabi Grand Prix final lap debacle

On newer tyres, an overtake was inevitable, and the 24-year-old was able to celebrate a maiden title victory.

Despite Verstappen’s obvious popularity, an Express Sport poll asking if the right driver won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw readers favour Hamilton, with 9,499 people – 64% – answering no.

There was also a flashpoint on lap one of the race after Hamilton had passed Verstappen on the opening corner, only for the latter to seemingly take him back – before the seven-time champion ran wide of the track and then appeared to cut a corner to get back on.

Race stewards deemed no investigation was necessary and the poll also asked if Hamilton should have given the lead back to Hamilton afterwards, but this time opinion was truly split with 53% of the 14,822 who voted saying no.

DON’T MISS:
Lewis Hamilton’s bitter clash with Michael Masi – ‘Can criticise all you want!’
Daniel Ricciardo confused by ‘weird’ Michael Masi decision on final lap of Abu Dhabi GP
Max Verstappen given ‘justice’ as Fernando Alonso sides with Red Bull after FIA drama

Changes were made to the Yas Marina circuit for the season finale, and it was also put to readers whether or not the alterations were for the better.

The answer was unanimous, with 14,080 responses, 10,130 of which were in favour, amounting to 72%.

Perhaps most significantly though, the question was also asked as to whether the FIA allowed for the correct amount of racing laps following Latifi’s accident.

There were 13,144 answers were given, with readers choosing between one, two, three, or four.

A total of 5,536 – and 42% – thought one was the correct choice.

The choice of four laps took 24% of the vote, while 22% opted for two.

Only 11% thought three would have been the right amount.

Source: Read Full Article