No challenge seems to be too difficult for the reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. The Red Bull driver emerged victorious from Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix despite starting the race ninth on the grid.
Verstappen also secured the fastest lap in Miami, earning the maximum 26 points to remain at the top of the F1 standings. His teammate Sergio Perez finished second, while Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso came in third.
Verstappen had a disappointing Q3 session on Saturday, and many believed he would face the tough task of advancing on a track that doesn’t offer much room for overtaking. But Verstappen needed only 15 laps to reach the second position behind Perez.
The two Red Bull drivers swapped positions a few times through the pit before Verstappen took the lead for good in lap 48. Verstappen came out of the pit on fresh medium tires, and Perez couldn’t get enough out of his hard tires to put up a bigger fight.
Speaking with reporters after the race, Verstappen said he was happy because of the win but that there were things he could have done better.
“I think what is important is to try to be close to 100 percent or perfect every single time. Yesterday wasn’t perfect, so overall, this weekend wasn’t perfect,” said Verstappen after the race. “It’s a long season, and I always try to be as close as possible to perfect.”
