The Red Bull driver overcame a collision and a penalty to win a thr🍷illing, action-packed race on F1’s ༺return to Las Vegas and claim a record-extending 18th win of the 2023 season. 

But for much of the weekend, Verstappen had been🌸 the loudest voice against Las Vegas, describing the race as “99% show and 1% sporting event” on Wednesday. 

Verstappen went on to say he didn’t enjoy the brand new circuit after Thursday’s practice sessions and like🎀ned it t🦂o the “National League” following qualifying. 

"Monaco is like Champions League and this is National League,” said Verstappen, who added: "I feel like a show element is im🍎portant, but I lack emotion.”

The Dutchman was m😼uch happier following his latest F1 triumph, with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner suggesting after the Saturday evening’s race that Verstappen had “changed his mind about Vegas”. 

“Well I always exp𓆉ected it to be a good race today,” Verstappen said in the post-race press conference when asked if he stood by his previous comme෴nts, or if Vegas had now won him over. 

“Long straights,𝕴 low speed corners, you don’t lose a lot of downforce. That’s never been my issue. T𒀰oday was fun. That’s the only thing I want to say about. 

“Today was fun, I hope everyone enjoyed it. I th෴ink the DRS effect was strong but good. It made it for fun racing out there.”

Verstappen broke out in♕to a rendition of Elvis Presley’s 1964 hit ‘Viva Las Vegas’ over team radio following his victory. 

“Christian put me on the spot so I cannot𒊎 leave him hanging!” Verstappen laugജhed. 

“I have to sing. But I definitely need some lessons. So I need to go t🔯o Geri [H🍰alliwell-Horner] and book an appointment I guess.”