Verstappen makes one demand regarding becoming a four-time Formula One champion

Max Verstappen may have basked in the joy of probably his biggest F1 triumph, but he has one important demand for this season that goes beyond becoming a four-time champion.

Verstappen became only the sixth driver in F1 history (a total of 1,122 grands prix) to take the chequered flag from 17th or lower on the grid, thanks to his incredible performance at Interlagos.

Despite challenging conditions, the Red Bull driver posted 17 fastest laps and won by about 20 seconds over Alpine’s Esteban Ocon.

Red Bull and Verstappen had been criticised for their driving standards following collisions with McLaren’s Lando Norris in the United States and Mexico City GPs. However, they finally won after a 10-year drought.

Verstappen delivered on track when it meant the most, but despite recent difficulties and tribulations, he now has just one wish as he sits on the verge of his fourth title, leading Norris by 62 points with only 86 to go. He might accomplish so at the upcoming race in Las Vegas.

When asked if his triumph in São Paulo was a significant event, Verstappen responded: “Looking back, it was incredibly important because in a way I was expecting to lose points.”

“So, from now on, I just want clean races until the end of the season. I’m not thinking about winning the championship in Vegas or something. “I only want clean races.”

The triumph not only sent a message to all of the doubters who had dared to question Verstappen, but it also boosted the spirit of a squad that had been wondering if it would compete this season.

The RB20’s performance improved dramatically, as seen by Verstappen’s comfortable speed in the dry during the Saturday sprint against Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and McLaren’s Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Verstappen expressed the significance of the victory and what it means for the next three races in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, saying: “I wanted to win earlier, but it’s been difficult for us.

“We always pushed. We didn’t understand why the others were so fast in the race, particularly. I’ve tried several things to improve the automobile.

“Starting P17, it didn’t look like we’d win again, so this is a great achievement for us. A huge boost for the team, as it’s been difficult.

“However, the team’s ability to remain calm and focus solely on performance and improvement is a significant strength. And I am confident.

“I’m confident for the last three races that we can fight again, and especially in the race that we will be more competitive.”