By Michael Madyira
Max Verstappen asserted his Formula One dominance after taking the chequered flag at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.
It was a resounding Red Bull one-two finish for the third time this season after Sergio Perez took second position 12 seconds later at Suzuka.
Carlos Sainz then edged his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc for the final podium berth.
The Suzuka triumph was Verstappen’s third victory of the season in four races and a perfect bounce back following a disappointing brake-related retirement at the Australian Grand Prix a fortnight ago.
The Dutchman recovered in dominant style to become the only other driver to win the Japanese Grand Prix for a third successive time after Michael Schumacher’s 2000-02 feat.
“Very lovely! It’s fantastic to win here in front of all these amazing fans. A great Red Bull team result,” Verstappen said, sharing his joy on social media.
There was early drama when the race was red-flagged in the first lap following a collision between Daniel Ricciardo and Alex Albon, forcing a 20-minute stoppage.
But after the race resumed, Verstappen led the way throughout, with Perez backing him up in a race marked by a variety of tyre strategies.
“It was very nice. The critical bit was the start, to stay ahead, and after that, the car got better and better for me,” the Dutchman said as per Red Bull.
“Everything just went really well, pit stops, strategy. Couldn’t have been any better.”
Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso settled for sixth spot while Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes sat ninth.
Pictured above: Max Verstappen after winning the Japanese Grand Prix
Image source: Max Verstappen
