Verstappen: I want to thank the Orange Army

Verstappen, the first Dutch F1 World Champion was awarded this royal decoration today by the country's Minister for Sport Conny Helder, in the presence of the Red Bull driver's family and close friends.

The 24-year-old did not forget to thank the Orange Army, his loyal fans who travel the world in support of their hero in great numbers, donning bright orange Max T-shirts, firing orange smoke bombs in his honour.

The Order of Orange-Nassau is awarded for longstanding meritorious service to society, the State or the Royal House, criteria which clearly Verstappen has met.

Candidates, who have rendered outstanding service to society, are nominated via the mayor of the municipality where they live. Foreign nationals may also receive an honour, for which they are nominated via the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Speaking about the appointment, Minister for Sport Helder: “It takes a lot more than just talent to become a champion. Many years of hard work, of pushing and persevering.

"With this you are a great inspiration to many. And in the end, as first Dutchman ever, you drove to the Formula 1 world title. What an amazing achievement. With this you put the Netherlands on the map.”

Verstappen said of the accolade: “It is a great honour to receive this appointment. I am very thankful to my family and close friends for their support, from my very first racing years until now.

"I also want to thank Red Bull and my personal sponsors. Without all this support I would not be where I am today. In addition, I want to thank my fans worldwide and in particular the Orange Army.

"Their encouragements time after time are overwhelming and it is incredible to see so many Dutch people involved in the sport. I am looking forward immensely to my home race this coming weekend, the Dutch Grand Prix."

Verstappen heads to Zandvoort, a full house of loyal Dutch fans will be there to welcome him for the first time as an F1 World Champion. Last year he delighted them with a pole to top step of the podium victory, welcoming the venue back form exile since the eighties.

This year he has all but been declared 2022 F1 champion with a 93 points lead over Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez, and his real closest challenger Ferrari's Charles Leclerc is 98 points adrift after 14 of the 22 rounds.