P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen was not present at the FIA’s prize-giving gala in Uzbekistan.
Max Verstappen has revealed that doctors advised him against traveling to Tashkent for the FIA prize-giving ceremony. The absence of the four-time F1 champion resulted in Lando Norris being officially crowned as the 2025 champion in Uzbekistan. Verstappen’s illness also led to him withdrawing from a sim racing esports finale in Madrid. However, he managed to make his presence felt in Tashkent by sending a video message explaining the doctor’s orders and congratulating President Mohammed Ben Sulayem on his re-election. In the video, he expressed regret for his absence and congratulated all the winners while giving a special mention to McLaren and Lando Norris for their outstanding season.
