Max Verstappen explains Abu Dhabi 'complication' as F1 reign ends

Max Verstappen has revealed that Oscar Piastri being on a different strategy "complicated" his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where his reign as defending champion ended. 

Verstappen converted pole position into victory with ease at the Yas Marina Circuit but fell two points short of a record-equalling fifth consecutive F1 drivers' title. 

The Dutchman lost out on the title due to Lando Norris finishing in a comfortable third, with Oscar Piastri in second. 

Ahead of the race, it had been questioned whether Verstappen would attempt to hold the pack up, in hope of Norris being overtaken. 

However, Piastri caused major issues for Red Bull, as not only did he start on the hard compound compared to most others on the medium but he also passed Norris on the first lap. 

It meant Verstappen could not risk holding the pack up, as the 28-year-old could not afford Piastri getting past him.

In the end, the four-time world champion had no choice but to break away and hope bad luck struck Norris, which did not happen.

"Well, honestly, we maximised everything that we could," said Verstappen. "We put it on pole, and we won the race. And I think also in the race, we had very strong pace. 

"So, there’s really not much that I could have done different. I think what complicated it a bit was that Oscar was on a different strategy. 

"So, you never know, of course, when he then pits, how much pace he has in hand to catch up again. That also complicates a bit trying to keep the pack together or whatever. 

"But, yeah, overall, just very proud again of the weekend that we had. We put it all out there, and, yeah, the car was actually enjoyable to drive."