Mika Häkkinen was left behind – Max Verstappen joined the ranks of the legends

Max Verstappen secured the third Formula One world championship of his career on Saturday in the Qatar GP sprint race.

Despite his young age, the only 26-year-old Dutchman was already in the same group with such names as Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet and Niki Lauda.

In the group of two championships, which Verstappen now left, are, among others Mika Hakkinen and still turning the wheel in the World Cup at the age of 42 Fernando Alonso.

However, Verstappen is not the youngest three-time world champion in history. Sebastian Vettel was 25 when he celebrated his third title in 2012.

Verstappen’s championship was decided when his teammate Sergio Perez drove on the sand on Saturday and had to stop. However, Verstappen has been superior all season, and the championship was only a matter of time.

– This is a fantastic feeling. It’s been an incredible year with a lot of great races. I’m super proud of our team’s work. It’s great to be part of this group and incredible to be a three-time world champion,” Verstappen said after the race.

Interviewer Nico Rosbergthe 2016 champion, asked Verstappen if he had a goal, say four or five championships.

– Let’s see what happens. I’m enjoying this moment. Let’s hope we can keep the momentum going forward, Verstappen said.