By Matt Morlidge
Last Updated: 12/12/21 7:33pm
Formula 1 stewards have rejected both of Mercedes’ protests over the dramatic late stages of the Abu Dhabi GP, confirming Max Verstappen as the race winner and 2021 world champion ahead of Lewis Hamilton.
Mercedes still have the right to appeal the verdicts, which were released long after an extraordinary and controversial race finale, although Red Bull and Verstappen were celebrating his maiden F1 title on Sunday night.
Stewards decision is explained here. @MercedesAMGF1 protest is dismissed. #skyf1 #AbuDhabiGP pic.twitter.com/zEYSd9Z5y3
“It’s disappointing we had to go through that,” Red Bull boss Christian Horner told Sky Sports News.
“It’s been an amazing year, I’m proud of Max and the whole team. He’s the world champion and the deserving world champion.”
“Relieved,” said Verstappen. “It’s been a very stressful day.”
Mercedes lodged two official protests following an incredible title decider that ended with Verstappen passing Hamilton on the very last lap – one regarding the restart procedure from F1 race director Michael Masi and another alleging that Verstappen overtook Hamilton under the Safety Car.
The team were particularly infuriated by the fact five of the lapped cars that initially separated Hamilton and Verstappen under the Safety Car were allowed to un-lap themselves before the race soon restarted again for the final lap.
The stewards deliberated for over three hours before dismissing both protests.
Mercedes are yet to confirm whether the will lodge an appeal, but they have an hour after the verdict to lodge that intention.
More to follow.