In a display of strategic prowess, Max Verstappen triumphed at the Spanish Grand Prix, claiming his seventh victory of the 2024 Formula 1 season and solidifying his lead in the World Championship. Starting from the second position, Verstappen overcame an initial challenge from Lando Norris, who had secured pole position but ultimately finished 2.2 seconds behind in second place. Lewis Hamilton, who rounded out the podium in third place, expressed surprise at his performance and was pleased with the unexpected points haul.The race was not without its drama, as a fire at the McLaren motorhome on Saturday caused a stir, prompting an evacuation and a delay. Despite the chaos, Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri managed to secure a new place to stay and remained focused on the race. Verstappen’s win was a testament to his team’s strategy and tire management, which were critical in maintaining the lead over Norris, who admitted frustration with his start. Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez, who had been penalized in the previous race, finished in eighth place, while George Russell’s promising start did not translate into a podium finish.The Spanish Grand Prix also marked the return of Flavio Briatore to Formula 1 as a consultant for Renault, with Alpine drivers Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon finishing in the top ten. Nico Hülkenberg, penalized for speeding in the pit lane, finished outside the top ten. As the Formula 1 circuit moves on to the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen leads the championship with 219 points, 71 points ahead of Norris, who is now in second place.
Key points
- Max Verstappen won the Spanish Grand Prix, marking his seventh win of the season and extending his championship lead to 71 points over Lando Norris.
- Lando Norris, starting from pole, finished second after a late pit stop strategy did not pay off against Verstappen’s tire management.
- Lewis Hamilton completed the podium in third place, while George Russell had a strong start but ultimately fell back.
- A fire in the McLaren motorhome caused a delay, but the team remained focused and secured a new place to stay.
- The Formula 1 championship continues to be a tight contest, with the next race scheduled for the Austrian Grand Prix.
