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FIA official caught celebrating Max Verstappen moment during Brazilian GP by TV cameras

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An FIA official has been caught celebrating - despite them needing to be neutral during races.

The Red Bull garage were thrilled to see their driver take the lead of the race as he completed an incredible driver through the field. Verstappen began 17th after issues in qualifying but took advantage of the wet conditions to eventually take the lead.

He dived down the inside at Turn 1 to pass Esteban Ocon, which allowed him free air to open up a huge gap as he eventually took the chequered flag. Cameras showed his Red Bull garage celebrating the move and the footage panned to an FIA official, wearing branded gear, who was seen fist pumping.

The official's - often known as a scrutineer - job is to check that competing vehicles comply with the relevant technical regulations, which help to ensure safety and fair play. Plenty of fans spotted the fact that the FIA employee was celebrating Verstappen's move with many calling him out.

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The Dutchman endured a difficult time in qualifying but was quick to make up ground on the opening laps as he soared through the field. He eventually found himself in fourth - behind Ocon, Lando Norris and George Russell.

Norris and Russell pitted, promoting him to second before a red flag halted the race. Verstappen was able to breeze passed Ocon soon after a safety car period ended and never looked back as he all but gripped one hand on the driver's championship.

The Red Bull man is eyeing his fourth title on the trot - which would emulate Sebastian Vettel who also did so whilst at the Austrian team - and now holds more than a 60 point lead with just three races remaining in the season.

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Verstappen said after his stellar win: "It is very hard to pass around here on the new tarmac, there is really only one line you can take. I just knew that I had to go for it. Of course, it is always easy to lock up the fronts. I was just trying to balance that out and I had confidence on the brakes as well, which helps. Turn one is always a great corner to pass. I hope the crowd enjoyed it."

Ocon and Pierre Gasly were able to join the Dutchman on the podium as the Alpine duo delivered a stellar result by finishing second and third.

Norris eventually came home in sixth behind George Russell and Charles Leclerc. Verstappen can now wrap up the title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix at the end of the month.

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