Max Verstappen was absent from the FIA end-of-year awards ceremony, where he was set to receive the runner-up prize for the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship. The Dutch driver stayed home due to the flu but still delivered a heartfelt message to the attendees, including a personal note to Lando Norris.
Through a video message, Max Verstappen addressed the audience, explaining the reason for his absence: “I’m very sorry I couldn’t be with you tonight. It would have been something really worth flying for.”
He began his message on a formal note, congratulating the FIA president: “First of all, I want to sincerely congratulate our president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, on his re-election. I’m sure we are heading into very exciting times together. Congratulations.”
Max Verstappen also acknowledged all the other winners honored at the ceremony: “I want to congratulate all the winners. I know everyone works incredibly hard for their success, so be very proud of yourselves and, of course, enjoy the evening.”
The most notable part of his message focused on the 2025 season and the championship battle, which was decided only at the final race. “Regarding my championship, congratulations to McLaren and especially to Lando. You had an incredible season, and it was truly amazing to be able to fight with you until the very end.”
He concluded with a personal note to the attendees: “Enjoy it, have fun, take care of yourselves. I wish you a wonderful evening, and I’ll see you in 2026.”
Max Verstappen’s gracious words underscored the mutual respect forged through one of the most intense title duels in recent F1 history, providing a fitting and sportsmanlike close to a dramatic season despite his physical absence from the celebrations.
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