Fans are buzzing this week in the US as F1 returns to Austin. The popularity of the sport has massively increased in the US in the last few years. If last year’s race is anything to go by, we’re set for another exciting race on the cards. Max Verstappen triumphed over Lewis Hamilton last time out. Moreover, he was awarded the trophy by NBA legend and one of the greatest players to grace the basketball courts, Shaquille O’Neal.

When you stand 216cms tall, it’s hard for people to not notice. However, even without taking advantage of his towering stature, the three-time NBA Finals MVP surely knows how to make jaw drops and make a grand entrance. Max Verstappen might have won the race in an epic battle with Lewis Hamilton last year. But it was Shaquille O’Neal who stole the show.

The four-time NBA winner arrived for the ceremony in an open-top car with the winner’s trophy. Furthermore, he had to duck on his way into the garage to get to the top of the podium. The height difference between him and 7-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was astonishing and didn’t take long to become a popular meme template.

Shaq stood taller than the Mercedes driver, despite Hamilton standing on the podium.

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F1 posted a throwback video of Shaq arriving at COTA (Circuit of The Americas) last year. He was also spotted clicking pictures with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.

However, Shaq’s connection with F1 isn’t over just yet. The former Lakers player will be partaking in this year’s race as well.

Shaquille O’Neal will return to COTA as DJ Diesel

DJ Diesel aka Shaquille O’Neal will return to Austin this year to partake in this year’s US Grand Prix. The former NBA legend is a man of many talents. He will entertain the American crowd as DJ Diesel in a curated set for F1 fans on October 23 immediately following the race.

COTA stated, “This year he will perform on a lofted stage above the podium when fans are invited onto the track to celebrate.”

They further mentioned, “These newly added performances are set to take place on multiple stages throughout COTA grounds during Austin’s Formula 1 USGP weekend.”

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Max Verstappen won his 12th race of the season in Suzuka and he’ll be looking to add to his race wins this season. Do you think he can break the record for most wins in a season by getting his tally up to 14?