Max Verstappen shone at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Sunday, securing a dominant victory after a bold maneuver on the first lap. The Red Bull driver overtook on the outside the leader and pole position holder, Oscar Piastri, of McLaren.
Verstappen’s audacity and determination made the difference. The move, executed with precision, demonstrated the champion’s skill.
The start was quite mediocre. It was at the first corner, and I think maybe Oscar was more focused on [Mercedes rival, George] Russell and left the slightest gap and Max simply went for it.
Christian Horner, Red Bull team principal
Horner, whose team was celebrating its 400th Grand Prix since its debut in 2005, highlighted Verstappen’s ability to identify and seize opportunities.
This victory represents Verstappen’s second of the season, exceeding expectations against a McLaren considered the favorite.
Piastri and his teammate, Lando Norris, had dominated the three practice sessions at Imola, and the Australian secured pole position.
McLaren, with a significant lead of 132 points over Mercedes after seven races, had won five out of six races before the weekend at Imola.
Verstappen has achieved four consecutive victories in Imola, an unprecedented record, and also secured Red Bull’s 100th fastest lap in F1. Of Red Bull’s 400 races, he has won 65.
Before arriving here this weekend, I didn’t really have high hopes that we could win a race here.
Max Verstappen
Verstappen continued to explain his strategy on the first lap, highlighting the importance of speed and precise execution.
Verstappen also pointed out that Red Bull’s performance still depends heavily on the specific characteristics of each circuit.
The driver added that the weekend was positive for the team.
