As the championship battle draws to an exciting end, the anticipation is at an all-time high. Will Max Verstappen impede his rival’s reign over the sport, or will Lewis Hamilton do what has never been done in F1? Nonetheless, every F1 fan can’t wait to see their favorite lift the championship trophy. However, there will be some more waiting time after the final race in Abu Dhabi.

As the custom goes, despite the champion being announced after the final race, the gigantic trophy isn’t given to the titleholder immediately. The world champion does receive the trophy and will keep it for a year, after which the trophy goes to the new champion.

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When does the F1 champion get the trophy?

The official trophies are given after the season ends, at the annual FIA Award Ceremony. The gala not only honors the F1 world champions but also title holders from other FIA championships. However, the F1 trophy remains the showstopper.

This year, the FIA will hold the event a week after the race in Abu Dhabi. On December 16th, 2021, either Hamilton or Verstappen will lift the championship trophy in Paris, France.

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Why is this customary?

Anything is possible in Formula 1. As a result, the possibility of a changed result is always looming. The sport has seen many last-minute podium changes in its history; including the 2021 Hungarian GP.

As Sebastian Vettel gave up his P2 position, if the same took place in a title-deciding race, there would be chaos. Above all, it would be both painful and embarrassing if a driver would have to give away his trophy later on to a rival.

Further, the International Sports Code also gives teams and drivers the right to re-examine if new information emerges that could affect a steward’s decision. However, the final application would have to be submitted four days before the awards ceremony.

Looking at this season, the final race is four days before the ceremony. Hence, if any team has any doubts, it would have to be resolved on the same day.

With the way the 2021 season has gone by, anything is possible. Will Hamilton keep his trophy, or will Verstappen take home some silverware? Two weeks to find out.

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