P1racenews AI automatic summary:
‘Fired up’ Verstappen told Horner he’d win by 20 seconds in pre-Japan padel game
Verstappen dominated the race in Suzuka, securing his 13th win of the season and helping Red Bull win the constructors’ championship for the sixth time. He finished nearly 20 seconds ahead of Lando Norris from McLaren. Verstappen had predicted his winning margin during a padel tennis game with team principal Christian Horner, after a disappointing race in Singapore. He showcased his focus and determination throughout the weekend, setting an outstanding lap time in qualifying and maintaining his lead despite a less-than-perfect start. Verstappen dismissed theories linking Red Bull’s drop in performance in Singapore to a new FIA technical directive, stating that he was simply motivated to continue his successful season.
Source: Crash
