P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has been officially crowned 2023 F1 champion after being presented with the world drivers’ trophy at the FIA’s end of season prize-giving gala in Baku.
Verstappen secured his third consecutive F1 drivers’ championship in 2023, winning 19 out of 22 races and breaking numerous records. He now sits third on the all-time F1 winners list. Verstappen and his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez attended the trophy ceremony in Baku, where Verstappen received the world championship trophy and Perez received his award for finishing as the runner-up. Lewis Hamilton, who finished third in the championship, made his first appearance at the FIA prize-giving since 2020. Reflecting on the season, Verstappen emphasized the team’s success and the enjoyment of working together, not thinking about breaking records but focusing on performing at his best during race weekends. He is now preparing to defend his title when the 2024 F1 season begins in Bahrain on March 2nd.
