Within the last two race weekends in Formula One, Max Verstappen and Oracle Red Bull Racing have claimed both the drivers and world constructors championships. After what can be argued as an extremely close first championship battle, Max Verstappen dominated the 2022 season of Formula One. Verstappen's victory in the Circuit of the Americas makes that his thirteenth of the season, equalling the all time record of Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher.
Sunday's race in Japan started in uneasy and wet conditions as Max Verstappen remained ahead into turn two of his championship rival Charles Leclerc. A disatrous first lap caused by aquaplaining and poor visibility unleashed a safety car as Ferrari's Carlos Sainz spun and hit the barriers. The repairs to the barriers caused a significant delay to the race leaving 40 minutes of track time for Max Verstappen to clinch his second world title. After finishing a 28 lap race, there was still confusion to whether Verstappen had won the title. However, a call by the FIA to confirm full points coupled with a last lap time penalty by Leclerc handed Verstapen a full points win and the title in Suzuka.
After claiming the world contructors's title this year, 2022 has become Red Bull's most successful season since 2013. Max Verstappen took his thirteenth victory in Austin and led Red Bull to their 5th world title. However, this victory was not the easiest for the two time world champion. A safety car caused by Valteri Bottas collected the pack. But a collision with Lance Stroll on the back straight caused a flying Alonso and extended the safety car period. A slow pitstop from Verstappen set him back to 6th place and further from victory. However, Verstappen battled Leclerc and chased down the Mercedes of Sir Lewis Hamilton to take victory with 6 laps remaining. The Red Bull driver cealed both championships in Texas to make him and the team double champions in Formula One.
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