The closing stages of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was surrounded by controversy. Formula One race director, Michael Masi made some controversial decisions that turned the tables in the championship. As the chequered flag brought the race to an end, it was Max Verstappen who was crowned world champion.

However, the Formula One community isn’t happy with Masi’s decision during the closing stages of the race. But, Verstappen understands how difficult the job can be, and hopes that fans don’t hate him for the events of the Abu Dhabi GP.

Max Verstappen understands how tough Michael Masi’s job is in F1

The race director made a few decisions towards the end of the race, which played into Red Bull’s favor; ultimately giving Max his first F1 title. But, fans bombarded Masi with hate, but Verstappen feels that is unnecessary, and sympathies with him.

Speaking to BBC, Verstappen said, “It’s a really tough job he has. People say maybe he needs help. Yeah, fair point. Everyone needs help. I need help as well.”

“Michael is a nice guy and he tries his very best and it’s very unfair to now start hating on him because it is a very tough job,” Max concluded.

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An intense end to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The Red Bull driver started from pole position for Sunday’s race, but Hamilton took the lead as soon as the lights went out. However, Red Bull’s Sergio Perez, blocked the Mercedes driver, so that Max could catch up; however, the strategy backfired as Lewis overtook the Mexican driver.

Max’s championship aspirations appeared to be dwindling until a Nicholas Latifi collision brought out a safety car. Both championship candidates were neck-and-neck for the last laps of the race, due to a contentious decision by the FIA.

Lewis tried but failed to hold Verstappen in his rearview mirror, allowing Max to take the lead all the way to the finish line. With such an exciting finish to the season, the Formula One world is looking forward to what the 2022 season has in store. What are your predictions for the next year? Let us know in the comments section below.

Read More: Martin Brundle Explains What Michael Masi & F1 Could’ve Done Differently in Abu Dhabi Amidst Verstappen-Hamilton Controversy