Jos Verstappen was 'in disbelief' over outcome of Japanese GP

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Jos Verstappen says his initial reaction to the news that his son had clinched his second world title in Japan last weekend was one of disbelief given the confusion surrounding the race's final result.

Commentators and fans alike were convinced that reduced points would be awarded to drivers in the shortened event at Suzuka, not to mention the case involving Charles Leclerc's demotion from second to third as the result of a post-race five-second time penalty handed to the Ferrari driver.

In parc fermé, speaking to Sky's Johnny Herbert, Max Verstappen himself casually recounted his afternoon but made no mention of winning the title.

However, when confirmation of Leclerc's penalty filtered through and when F1's giant screens displayed Verstappen as the 2022 world champion, the Dutchman warmed up to the idea.

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But back home in the Netherlands, Jos Verstappen, who hadn't traveled to Suzuka, was still confused.

"Certainly in recent years and previous races, I always am there," Jos told Viaplay.

"I don’t have to be there [to celebrate], I get just as much at home – although there was some disbelief as we didn’t know exactly what was going on at the finish.”

"I was in contact with Red Bull and Raymond Vermeulen [Max's manager], but eventually the word came."

When his son's coronation became official, Verstappen sent the newly crowned F1 world champion a four-word text message: "You are the best!"

"Last year there was an incredible emotion but now we knew it was going to happen, just not when," added Jos.

"But he drove a very strong race, especially when you remember he pulled out 26 seconds in a race about 40 minutes long.

"These kind of conditions are Max’s speciality – from an early age he had something extra in the rain.

"I spoke to him and called him and I already sent him a text message. I told him he is the best – but I say that almost every weekend."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.