Max Verstappen won a rain-soaked Japanese Grand Prix overshadowed by a terrifying close call in the first few minutes of the race – and the Dutchman was then crowned the 2022 Formula 1 world champion.
All the build up to the race at Suzuka was focussed on the Dutchman being able to confirm his status as world champion if he beat Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez by enough points.
Heavy rain at Suzuka meant the race was shortened to 29 laps. That resulted in confusion over whether full points would be awarded to winner Verstappen and it was only after the race that his world championship title was confirmed. However, the Monday morning headlines will be stolen by the run-in Pierre Gasly very nearly had with a recovery vehicle.
