Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen both were absent at the end of season F1 drivers’ dinner but they did celebrate Max’s title hattrick at a party of their own.
Verstappen cutting the RB19 cake (Credits: YouTube)
Max Verstappen demonstrated his dominance throughout the 2023 season, securing his third consecutive world title in grand style. The celebration following his triumph at the Abu Dhabi GP was nothing short of spectacular, as the Dutch driver, flanked by his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez and his girlfriend Kelly Piquet, indulged in the festivities surrounding his historic achievement, cutting a uniquely designed cake resembling the iconic Red Bull RB19 car.
Verstappen’s season was marked by unparalleled success, with a record-setting 19 victories, including the season finale in Abu Dhabi, where he continued the now-traditional donuts celebration. The Dutchman shattered numerous records, making his season one for the history books and arguably the most dominant individual driver season ever witnessed.
In contrast, Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Perez faced a roller-coaster season where he emerged as a formidable challenger after the initial four races. Despite his commendable start, Perez couldn’t sustain his championship bid, but he did secure multiple podium finishes, contributing significantly to Red Bull’s success in the Constructors’ Championship.
Following the Abu Dhabi GP, Verstappen was spotted at a celebration hosted by the renowned fashion house Dior. Accompanied by his girlfriend and Perez, the trio enjoyed the festivities at an upscale restaurant. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a cake shaped like the RB19 car, symbolizing Verstappen’s triumph and Perez’s vice-champion status. Additionally, Verstappen received a personalized painting, which he graciously signed.
Max Verstappen seemingly missed the F1 drivers’ end-of-season dinner for this celebration
A captivating drone show illuminated the Abu Dhabi night sky in honor of Verstappen’s victory. Drones formed an intricate display, initially portraying Verstappen’s face before transforming into the numbers “21, 22, 23,” representing each of the three seasons in which the Dutchman secured a championship title.
The end of season dinner which Max Verstappen had missed (Credits: Instagram)
Verstappen’s post-season celebrations continued with the traditional donuts at Yas Marina. However, he notably skipped the F1 drivers’ end-of-season dinner, a move deemed a breach of an “unwritten rule.” This decision fueled speculation, especially when his girlfriend shared a photo of him in a similar outfit, raising questions about whether the absence from the dinner was intentional.
Verstappen's Dinner Absence Stirs Debate on Tradition and Sportsmanship: The Red Bull ace did not appear at the traditional end-of-season driversand#039; dinner https://t.co/eRIfJOs8jg #news #Redbull pic.twitter.com/VSg6oCOjSu
— Sport World News (@SportWorldNews3) November 29, 2023
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, both Verstappen and Perez have committed to Red Bull. Verstappen extended his contract until 2025, while Perez secured a two-year deal with the team. As they prepare to defend their titles and navigate the challenges posed by new regulations, the duo anticipates renewed competition from their rivals in the upcoming season.
