Verstappen thought he would win F1 championship after French GP

Verstappen wrapped up his second F1 drivers’ crown with victory in Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix, moving into an unassailable points lead with four races remaining.

With 12 wins, Verstappen has dominated proceedings throughout the year, pulling clear of early points leader Leclerc through the summer races.

Leclerc retired while leading in both Spain and Azerbaijan due to issues on his car, but was fully responsible for the error that saw him spin off while out…