Speaking after the race, the four-time world champion admitted he had considered several scenarios for influencing the race outcome, but with Piastri starting on hard tyres and many opting for a two-stop strategy, slowing the pack proved difficult.

The Dutchman acknowledged the impressive performance of the Monegasque, who in the opening laps seriously challenged Norris for a podium—an effort that could have handed Verstappen a fifth consecutive title.

In the end, however, the Monegasque couldn’t keep pace with the MCL39, despite delivering one of his best races of the year, finishing seven seconds off the podium.

"I think Charles drove his heart out today to try and get onto that podium, so that was also impressive to see," Verstappen added.

The four-time world champion came agonizingly close to defending his crown but ultimately fell short by just two points. Norris, remaining composed under pressure, finished third in the final race—a result that was enough to secure the championship and guarantee he will carry the coveted No. 1 on his car next season.

For the Dutchman, who has sported the top-spot number on his car for the past four years, this marks the end of an era.

He admitted he is still contemplating which number he will choose to race with in the upcoming season, leaving fans curious about how he will mark the next chapter of his career.