Max Verstappen’s victory in the thrilling race at Las Vegas marked a significant milestone in his outstanding career. Despite facing multiple challenges, including a collision and a penalty, Verstappen showcased his exceptional driving skills and determination, ultimately claiming his record-extending 18th win of the 2023 season.
The race began with Charles Leclerc securing pole position and showing great promise for a triumphant victory. However, his hopes were dashed when the timing of a Safety Car compromised his race strategy. Undeterred, Leclerc demonstrated his prowess by overtaking Sergio Perez on the final lap, securing a well-deserved second place.
Verstappen’s journey to victory was not without adversity. At the first round of pit stops, he received a five-second penalty for forcing Ferrari off track while overtaking at the first corner. Despite this setback, Verstappen seized the opportunity when the Safety Car appeared, pitting and utilizing fresher tires to speed through the field, eventually overtaking Leclerc with 13 laps remaining.
With this remarkable win, Verstappen now shares the third spot on Formula 1’s all-time list of winners with Sebastian Vettel, amassing a total of 53 career victories. Furthermore, this victory solidifies his position as the champion for the third consecutive year, a remarkable achievement indeed.
Meanwhile, Sergio Perez’s third-place finish brought him the distinction of securing second place in the world championship. This result also marked a historic moment for Red Bull Racing, as it was their first-ever one-two finish in the drivers’ standings.
Other drivers also capitalized on the chaotic nature of the race. Esteban Ocon of Alpine secured an impressive fourth-place finish, while Lance Stroll from Aston Martin showcased his skills and secured fifth place.
Carlos Sainz demonstrated his resilience by recovering from a 12th-place starting position to finish in an admirable sixth place. Sainz’s weekend had been marred by a controversial 10-place grid penalty due to exceeding his engine part allowance. Despite the setback, his determination shone through.
Lewis Hamilton, despite facing two collisions during the race, demonstrated his skill and perseverance, advancing from 10th to finish in a commendable seventh place. Unfortunately, his teammate George Russell received a five-second penalty for his collision with Verstappen, resulting in his demotion from fourth to eighth place.
Fernando Alonso showcased his expertise by recovering from a first-corner spin and securing a respectable ninth-place finish. Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri of McLaren sealed the final point, rounding off an eventful and highly competitive race.
Overall, the race in Las Vegas provided fans with a thrilling spectacle, characterized by intense battles, unexpected twists, and stunning displays of skill and resilience. Max Verstappen’s victory will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the 2023 Formula 1 season, adding another chapter to his legacy as a remarkable driver.
McLaren’s Lando Norris caused the first Safety Car after a big crash on lap 4. The British driver was taken to the hospital for precautionary checks.
Las Vegas GP result
1) Max Verstappen, Red Bull
2) Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
3) Sergio Perez, Red Bull
4) Esteban Ocon, Alpine
5) Lance Stroll, Aston Martin
6) Carlos Sainz, Ferrari
7) Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
8) George Russell, Mercedes
9) Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin
10) Oscar Piastri, McLaren
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