Verstappen confident: Super-Max extends championship lead

After three wins in a row, Red Bull also focused on continuing the series at the home race in Spielberg. The fact that two races are taking place at the Red Bull Ring this season could play a significant role in the hands of the Austrian racing team, but also the current world championship leader Max Verstappen. Before the race weekend, the 23-year-old Dutchman was twelve points ahead of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Red Bull approached the weekend with optimism. Not only was the speed of the cars convincing, but the driver duo of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez now exude impressive consistency. However, the Mercedes team has often been dissatisfied recently, with Valtteri Bottas' role in particular being viewed critically. The Finn may be replaced by Williams driver George Russell next season.

Verstappen already dominated the free practice sessions, qualifying on Saturday was just a formality. The Dutchman grabbed pole position ahead of Bottas, with Hamilton and Lando Norris following behind. Due to his driving error in the pit lane, Bottas was penalized by three places, which is why the title duel between Verstappen and Hamilton was already reflected on the starting grid. Verstappen keeps his nerve at the start Pole-sitter Verstappen got off to a very good start and was able to immediately establish himself at the top of the field. His worst competitor Hamilton was initially in a bit of trouble, but defended his position against the attacks from behind. The duel that initially determined the race took place between Sergio Perez and McLaren driver Lando Norris. The young Brit was able to hold his own against the Mexican for a few laps, but had to admit defeat after around 12 laps. Lando Norris fought a few duels in Spielberg. © APA / GEORG HOCHMUTH

In the meantime, Verstappen completed one fast lap after the other, allowing him to continue to increase the gap to Hamilton. The pit stops, which all went smoothly, did not change this situation.

While there were no fights at the front and an unspectacular race was coming to an end, the positions in the midfield were always hotly contested. Williams driver George Russell was able to hold his own in the lower points in the points for a long time, but had to end the race early due to technical problems. The two Ferraris were able to rehabilitate themselves somewhat after the disastrous qualifying result. Sainz crossed the finish line in 6th place, Charles Leclerc followed right behind.

After 8 of 23 races this season, Verstappen is now 18 points ahead of Lewis Hamilton. He also celebrated his third success in Austria after 2018 and 2019. The second edition of Spielberg follows next weekend, where Red Bull will be aiming for a fifth win in a row.

Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

Verstappen confident: Super-Max extends championship lead

The first of two editions of the Grand Prix in Spielberg goes to World Championship leader Max Verstappen. The Dutchman drove towards a victory that was hardly in danger on Sunday. A full fifteen seconds separated him from his pursuer Lewis Hamilton.

Suggestions

Comments (0)