For the first time in years, Max Verstappen will have to miss the gala of the FIA, the governing body of motorsport. The organization hosts this elegant event annually to present the trophy to the world champion and the awards to the second and third place finishers in the championship. This year, Lando Norris will receive his first world cup during the gala in Uzbekistan.
Lando Norris had to wait a little less than a week, but tonight he will officially be crowned world champion. The Brit clinched the title last Sunday by crossing the finish line third in Abu Dhabi. Max Verstappen – the runner-up in the championship – and Oscar Piastri – the third-place finisher – will also receive awards in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, but the Dutchman will have to pass on the gala this year.
Verstappen is reportedly down with the flu, according to De Telegraaf, and therefore will not be present at the event in Tashkent. This is the first time in years that the Dutchman has been absent. During the galas in France (2021), Italy (2022), Azerbaijan (2023), and Rwanda (2024), Verstappen was present and even received the world cup himself.
Action of the Year
In addition to his award for second place in the championship, Verstappen could win another prize at the gala. The Dutchman was also nominated in the ‘Action of the Year’ category for his overtaking maneuver on Oscar Piastri during the GP Emilia-Romagna. Lando Norris – for his overtaking move again on Piastri in Austria – and Oliver Bearman – for his overtaking move on Verstappen in Mexico City – are also contenders.
