The FIA rejected two protests by Mercedes against the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix result after the race ended under controversial circumstances after a late safety car.
Verstappen overtook Lewis Hamilton during a final lap sprint to the checkered flag to secure his first F1 world title after Hamilton expected complete control and victory in front of the safety car.
Mercedes’ argument that FIA Race Director Michael Masi had failed to follow correct safety car restart protocols was rejected, meaning Verstappen kept the world championship as Hamilton missed out on the record-breaking eighth world title.
“First of all, it’s exhilaration, it’s the right result,” Horner told the media after hearing the FIA’s decision.
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“You have to sum up this championship over 22 races and Max was really outstanding this year.
“He was unlucky sometimes, but he always bowed his head, he drove with heart and passion, with great skill and determination and I think he is a really deserved world champion.
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“The fact that he managed to beat and beat Lewis, who is obviously impressive, the most successful driver of all time, only makes it more valuable. All honors to Lewis for having driven superbly again this season.
“I am absolutely thrilled with the result and it will be a long evening for sure.”
Horner described the Mercedes protests as “a bit desperate”.
“We didn’t want it to end before the folders,” he added.
“They were great competitors this year and Lewis was a phenomenal driver. It had its moments, it was tense, it was tough.
“We’re just delighted with the result and very proud of Max tonight, who was phenomenal all year round.”
Horner also took a punch on Mercedes for bringing a lawyer to the final race of the season in the event of a potentially controversial outcome.
“We don’t run races with lawyers and all that,” he said. “It was a shame it ended up there, but the stewards made the right decision.
“We talked about ‘let them race’, Niki Lauda was the guy who pushed hard for it and we always talked about not finishing races under safety cars to do it right.”
Mercedes has since confirmed that it intends to appeal the stewards’ verdict, which Horner said would ultimately come as no surprise.
“I was surprised that we ended up with the trustees about the incidents. I wouldn’t be so surprised if they appeal, ”he said.
“I think the race director made his position clear, the commissioners made their position clear and the judgment is very clear.
“If you appeal, you appeal,” he added. “We will fight them in the appeals court and then in the court if they go that route.”
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