In a stunning display of skill and determination, Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing achieved a historic victory at the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix.
The Dutch prodigy’s remarkable overtaking manoeuvre against his title rival, Lewis Hamilton, at the start of the race led to his ninth win of the season and an incredible seventh consecutive victory for the Red Bull team.
Starting from pole position, Hamilton seemed poised to maintain his lead, but Verstappen had other plans.
In a daring move at Turn 1, Verstappen outmanoeuvred the seven-time world champion, causing Hamilton to drop to fourth place behind McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.
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This strategic manoeuvre allowed Verstappen to seize control of the race and pave the way for a historic triumph.
Addressing the media after the race, Verstappen described the pivotal moment of the race, providing insights into his thought process during the crucial overtaking move: “As soon as I released the clutch, immediately I felt like I had good bite, no wheelspin like in Silverstone.
“I had a good run, then I knew I had the inside, and that was going to be my corner in Turn 1.
“We braked quite late but then yeah, did my thing through Turn 2 as well, and from then onwards, I could just build up the pace slowly.”
Reflecting on the significance of the victory, Verstappen acknowledged that days like these are rare in Formula 1: “They are very rare, days like this.
“I think last year, Spa, for example, was probably pretty similar – but then of course I had to start from the back, so yeah, it is very rare.
“Normally, it’s not that easy or straightforward.”
Verstappen’s triumph extended his exceptional winning streak, securing his ninth win of the current season and setting a new record with Red Bull’s 12th consecutive victory.
The young driver’s impressive performance on the track showcased his unmatched skills and solidified his position as a top contender for the 2023 championship.
Moreover, Verstappen’s 44th career F1 victory added a touch of symbolism to his achievement as it coincided with the iconic race number of his rival, Hamilton, who has been a formidable competitor throughout their rivalry.
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Playfully commenting on reaching this milestone, Verstappen joked, “Hopefully, I don’t stay on 44. That would be terrible. I need to get 45 quickly.”
As the Hungarian Grand Prix concluded, the Formula 1 world hailed Verstappen’s spectacular display, recognising his prowess as one of the sport’s brightest talents.
With the title race intensifying, fans eagerly anticipate the next rounds, as Verstappen and Hamilton continue to battle for supremacy on the track.