MAX VERSTAPPEN claimed his first-ever Formula One world championship today with a sensational last-lap overtake on title rival Lewis Hamilton to claim a controversial victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Red Bull driver stormed past Hamilton in the closing stages of the season-ending race at the Yas Marina Circuit having benefited from a late safety car that bunched up the pack.

Hamilton appeared to be charging to glory, easily holding Verstappen at bay in the closing laps only for a crash for the Williams of Nicholas Latifi to change the course of events.