Red Bull boss Christian Horner understands whyLewis Hamiltonand Mercedes fans were 'upset' at 2021 championship finale at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix I admit that I do.
Max Verstappen won his first world title in a dramatic and controversial situation at Yas his marina circuit. He entered the season finale with both him and title rival Hamilton tied on 8 points. The Dutchman overtook the seven-time world champion, who dominated most of the race, on the final lap after a delayed safety car and tire change turned the momentum in his favor.
The 24-year-old made a move to the British early on the lap and held on to win the first championship of his career.Mercedes' wrath was largely the FIA race director's Michael Masi, but he was concerned about setting up a final lap showdown between Hamilton and Verstappen after deciding not to allow the cars to unwrap themselves as per tradition.
Masi lost his job as a result and recently left the FIA to return to his native Australia. Horner originally sympathized with Masi, always insisting Verstappen was a worthy champion, but thought he was treated harshly. admitted he could understand why Hamilton and Mercedes fans were so upset in the aftermath of an epic 2021 season. In an interview with Sky Sports F1's Martin Brundle, Horner said:
"If you're a Lewis or Mercedes fan, I can understand you're pretty upset about what happened in Abu Dhabi. If you're a Max fan, redemption for what happened earlier this year. I feel that sports are always polarizing.
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PA)"Last year Abu Dhabi wasn't the only one.Last year it was about 22 races.Do you think Max deserves that world championship?Absolutely.So we're not going to get too hung up on Abu Dhabi." Redemption was successful in persuading Masi over the team radio to bring in the safety car early to allow one more racing lap, presumably a reference to the collision between Hamilton and Verstappen. British Grand Prix. On the first lap of the Silverstone race, Hamilton made a strange move and moved up the inside, causing Verstappen to crash into the barrier at high speed and the Englishman overcame his 10 second penalty to win.
Memories of the controversial ending of his sensational 2021 season come flooding back after Hamilton recently spoke out about the events in Abu Dhabi in an exclusive interview with Vanity His Fair. The seven-time world champion admitted he felt "cheated" by the results.
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Getty Images)"Things started to unfold and my worst fears came true. I know," said Hamilton. "I was like, 'There's no way they could cheat me.' There is no way. it won't happen. Certainly not.
``I don't know if I can really put my feelings into words. I have to get out of it, I have to get out of this thing, I have to find my strength.
"I had no power, and It was one of the most difficult moments I've experienced in a long time.
The 22-race F1 2022 campaign takes place at Spa-Francorchamps on August 28 after a four-week summer break.
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