Late on Sunday night in the lights of Las VegasA city in the desert of Nevada, USA. It is known for its casinos and gambling culture. , Max VerstappenA Belgian-Dutch driver. His father also raced in Formula 1. won his fourth Formula OneThe top international car racing series. World Championship in a row.

He did not win the race itself. But he has won enough points this season to be sure of overall victory.

But many say the championship is not Verstappen's greatest win. They think his real triumphA great achievement. is the moral victory he has won over himself.

Earlier in his career, Verstappen had a poor reputationThe beliefs or opinions that are generally held about someone or something. as a childish and angry racer. His father, former racer Jos Verstappen, who still manages his son, is famously bad-tempered.

Whenever things were not going his way he would blame it on the engineers, the weather, decisions by racing authorities, other drivers - anyone but himself.

He was in fierce competition with all-time great Lewis HamiltonThe 37-year-old British driver has been world champion seven times and won more Formula 1 races (103) than anyone else. - and it put his early wins under a cloud. On one occasion, he walked away from a crash without checking Hamilton was unhurt.

This year, however, Verstappen is a changed man. Even though he has faced difficulties with his car, he has stayed calm.

When McLaren driver Lando Norris began to threaten his title, he praised Norris rather than letting it destroy their friendship.

Some think this new, kinder, more generousGiving away what you have to others. Verstappen is not just a better person, but a better racer.

Is character more important than talent?

Yes! People of bad character will only ever be hated for their success. All the trophies in the world are worthless if people do not like you.

No! The truth is people will always love a winner - even if they are not a kind person. Verstappen has always been hugely popular.