Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has conceded that the 2024 season was already decided with Max Verstappen set to retain his world champion crown, despite 20 races still left on the calendar. Wolff said the Red Bull driver cannot be caught after he raced to a dominant victory at Suzuka during the Japanese Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Verstappen started the race from pole and took an unassailable lead, before finishing the race more than 12 seconds clear of his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“No one is going to catch Max this year. His driving and the car are just spectacular. You can see the way he manages the tyres and basically this season now is best of the rest,"&nbsp;Wolff said.

"That’s the fact, that is all, but hopefully we can catch up to the McLarens and to the Ferraris and fight for P2. This is what it is this year and what is was last year and we had a P2 last year," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-i-would-love-him-lewis-hamilton-reveals-who-hed-want-to-replace-him-at-mercedes-next-season-707730">Also read |&nbsp;'I would love him...': Lewis Hamilton reveals who he'd want to replace him at Mercedes next season</a>

<h2>P2 is realistic target</h2>

While Red Bull were dominant, Mercedes struggled&nbsp;as George Russell finished seventh, followed by Lewis Hamilton in the ninth spot. Wolff said his team had accepted the reality and that challenging for P2 was the target.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If I was to look from a pure ­sporting point of view it is P1 which matters, not P2, P3 or P4, but this is the reality that we are facing at the moment. We’re trying to do the best out of this new reality and that is to beat our competitors whilst acknowledging that somebody is just doing a better job and setting the benchmark that we eventually need to set ourselves again," said&nbsp;Wolff.

Ever since the new racing regulations were introduced in 2022, Mercedes have struggled to put out a comparative car that can challenge Verstappen and Red Bull's domination. Wolff has indicated that Mercedes were considering the next main regulation change of 2026 as the opportunity to catch Red Bull.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-is-flirting-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-on-vettel-replacing-lewis-hamilton-next-season-708075">Also read |&nbsp;'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season</a>

However, the challenge&nbsp;for the German team has only increased after Hamilton announced he was set to leave the team after the end of the season to join&nbsp;Ferrari.

Mercedes are yet to announce Hamilton's replacement but Wolff has been in talks with former four-time champion Sebastian Vettel over a potential comeback.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has conceded that the 2024 season was already decided with Max Verstappen set to retain his world champion crown, despite 20 races still left on the calendar.

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has conceded that the 2024 season was already decided with Max Verstappen set to retain his world champion crown, despite 20 races still left on the calendar. Wolff said the Red Bull driver cannot be caught after he raced to a dominant victory at Suzuka during the Japanese Grand Prix. Verstappen started the race from pole and took an unassailable lead, before finishing the race more than 12 seconds clear of his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez. “No one is going to catch Max this year. His driving and the car are just spectacular. You can see the way he manages the tyres and basically this season now is best of the rest," Wolff said. "That’s the fact, that is all, but hopefully we can catch up to the McLarens and to the Ferraris and fight for P2. This is what it is this year and what is was last year and we had a P2 last year," he added. Also read | 'I would love him...': Lewis Hamilton reveals who he'd want to replace him at Mercedes next season P2 is realistic target While Red Bull were dominant, Mercedes struggled as George Russell finished seventh, followed by Lewis Hamilton in the ninth spot. Wolff said his team had accepted the reality and that challenging for P2 was the target. “If I was to look from a pure sporting point of view it is P1 which matters, not P2, P3 or P4, but this is the reality that we are facing at the moment. We’re trying to do the best out of this new reality and that is to beat our competitors whilst acknowledging that somebody is just doing a better job and setting the benchmark that we eventually need to set ourselves again," said Wolff. Ever since the new racing regulations were introduced in 2022, Mercedes have struggled to put out a comparative car that can challenge Verstappen and Red Bull's domination. Wolff has indicated that Mercedes were considering the next main regulation change of 2026 as the opportunity to catch Red Bull. Also read | 'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season However, the challenge for the German team has only increased after Hamilton announced he was set to leave the team after the end of the season to join Ferrari. Mercedes are yet to announce Hamilton's replacement but Wolff has been in talks with former four-time champion Sebastian Vettel over a potential comeback. (With inputs from agencies)

'No one's catching him': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff hands 2024 F1 title to Max Verstappen after four races

Red Bull were once again fastest in the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Formula One championship leader Max Verstappen topping the charts ahead of team mate Sergio Perez and George Russell of Mercedes in the final session before qualifying.

Verstappen had also set the fastest time in Friday's first free practice session but the Dutchman opted to sit out the rain-hit second session. The 26-year-old, who is chasing a third straight victory in Japan, lapped the Suzuka circuit with a best time of one minute 29.563 seconds on the soft tyres on an overcast but dry day.

Perez was 0.269 off the pace in second, with Russell 0.355 behind in third. Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton was fourth-fastest.

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, who finished in the top 6 on Friday, were seventh and 10th respectively, with Leclerc voicing his frustration over the team radio at the end of the session, saying: "What are we doing... come on!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-is-flirting-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-on-vettel-replacing-lewis-hamilton-next-season-708075">'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season</a>

RB's Daniel Ricciardo spun off the track in the final session, and finished in 13th, again behind his less experienced team mate Yuki Tsunoda up in 9th.

The pressure is on Ricciardo to keep his seat with highly regarded reserve driver Liam Lawson waiting in the wings.

Red Bull were once again fastest in the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Formula One championship leader Max Verstappen topping the charts ahead of team mate Sergio Perez and George Russell of Mercedes in the final session before qualifying.

Red Bull were once again fastest in the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Formula One championship leader Max Verstappen topping the charts ahead of team mate Sergio Perez and George Russell of Mercedes in the final session before qualifying. Verstappen had also set the fastest time in Friday's first free practice session but the Dutchman opted to sit out the rain-hit second session. The 26-year-old, who is chasing a third straight victory in Japan, lapped the Suzuka circuit with a best time of one minute 29.563 seconds on the soft tyres on an overcast but dry day. Perez was 0.269 off the pace in second, with Russell 0.355 behind in third. Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton was fourth-fastest. Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, who finished in the top 6 on Friday, were seventh and 10th respectively, with Leclerc voicing his frustration over the team radio at the end of the session, saying: "What are we doing... come on!" Also read: 'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season RB's Daniel Ricciardo spun off the track in the final session, and finished in 13th, again behind his less experienced team mate Yuki Tsunoda up in 9th. The pressure is on Ricciardo to keep his seat with highly regarded reserve driver Liam Lawson waiting in the wings.

Japanese GP: Red Bull's Max Verstappen fastest in final practice in Japan

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for a third straight year at the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Sergio Perez qualifying second to ensure a Red Bull front-row lockout. Verstappen who set the pace with a lap of one minute 28.197 seconds, 0.066 seconds clear of Perez, becomes the first driver to take pole in the opening four races of a season since Lewis Hamilton nine years ago.

"It was very close in the end, nevertheless most importantly to be on pole - of course you want every lap to be perfect but at a track like this it isn't always the case," said Verstappen, looking to bounce back from a mechanical issue which saw him fail to finish the race last time out in Melbourne.

McLaren's Lando Norris will start Sunday's race in third, qualifying 0.292 seconds behind Verstappen. "We had a good car today, we could fight," said Norris. "We are trying to catch up to the Red Bulls but they are doing a good job so hats off to them."

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, who won the last race in Australia after Verstappen's withdrawal, qualified in fourth. But his teammate Charles Leclerc was frustrated by a difficult drive which will see him start back in eighth on Sunday. "That's the best I can do. Honestly, I don't get it" Leclerc said over the team radio towards the end of qualifying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-gp-red-bulls-max-verstappen-fastest-in-final-practice-in-japan-708257">Japanese GP: Red Bull's Max Verstappen fastest in final practice in Japan</a>

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso and McLaren's Oscar Piastri, celebrating his 23rd birthday, finished in fifth and sixth respectively.

Seven-times world champion Hamilton and George Russell, both of Mercedes, finished in seventh and ninth, with local hero Yuki Tsunoda getting one of the biggest cheers of the day sneaking into the final round of qualifying and starting 10th tomorrow.

RB's Tsunoda once again finished ahead of his more experienced team mate Daniel Ricciardo, heaping pressure on the Australian driver whose seat is at risk with the highly regarded reserve driver Liam Lawson waiting in the wings.

Alonso's Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll also struggled and was knocked out in the first round of qualifying. He will start near the back of the grid in 16th.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for a third straight year at the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Sergio Perez qualifying second to ensure a Red Bull front-row lockout.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for a third straight year at the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday, with Sergio Perez qualifying second to ensure a Red Bull front-row lockout. Verstappen who set the pace with a lap of one minute 28.197 seconds, 0.066 seconds clear of Perez, becomes the first driver to take pole in the opening four races of a season since Lewis Hamilton nine years ago. "It was very close in the end, nevertheless most importantly to be on pole - of course you want every lap to be perfect but at a track like this it isn't always the case," said Verstappen, looking to bounce back from a mechanical issue which saw him fail to finish the race last time out in Melbourne. McLaren's Lando Norris will start Sunday's race in third, qualifying 0.292 seconds behind Verstappen. "We had a good car today, we could fight," said Norris. "We are trying to catch up to the Red Bulls but they are doing a good job so hats off to them." Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, who won the last race in Australia after Verstappen's withdrawal, qualified in fourth. But his teammate Charles Leclerc was frustrated by a difficult drive which will see him start back in eighth on Sunday. "That's the best I can do. Honestly, I don't get it" Leclerc said over the team radio towards the end of qualifying. Also read: Japanese GP: Red Bull's Max Verstappen fastest in final practice in Japan Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso and McLaren's Oscar Piastri, celebrating his 23rd birthday, finished in fifth and sixth respectively. Seven-times world champion Hamilton and George Russell, both of Mercedes, finished in seventh and ninth, with local hero Yuki Tsunoda getting one of the biggest cheers of the day sneaking into the final round of qualifying and starting 10th tomorrow. RB's Tsunoda once again finished ahead of his more experienced team mate Daniel Ricciardo, heaping pressure on the Australian driver whose seat is at risk with the highly regarded reserve driver Liam Lawson waiting in the wings. Alonso's Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll also struggled and was knocked out in the first round of qualifying. He will start near the back of the grid in 16th.

Formula One: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen takes pole at Japanese GP for third year in a row

On Sunday (March 24), Ferrari's Carlos Sainz clinched the Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, to put an end to Red Bull's Max Verstappen's glorious title-run in recent times. What makes Sainz's win even more special is that he was on a comeback trail from a medical absence which forced him to skip the Saudi Arabian GP, early this month.&nbsp;

Sainz's teammate, Charles Leclerc finished below him, handing the first one-two of the season for the team. Coming back just two weeks after having an appendix surgery, the 29-year-old Spaniard was elated after his effort in Melbourne. He told the reporters, &nbsp;"What happened at the beginning of the year, then the podium in Bahrain, then the appendix, the comeback, the win. It's a rollercoaster, but I loved it. I'm extremely happy."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-aus-open-winner-jannik-sinner-claims-thriller-in-miami-open-gauff-swiatek-also-move-ahead-703955">Tennis: Aus Open winner Jannik Sinner claims thriller in Miami Open, Gauff &amp; Swiatek also move ahead</a>

He further opined, "Very proud of the team, happy to be in a one-two with Charles here. It shows that the hard work pays off. Life, sometimes it's crazy."

With his F1 future under dark clouds, Sainz said the win would certainly not hurt his chances of picking up another drive.

"For sure it does no harm, that is 100% (sure). I am still without a job for next year. Everyone more or less knows what I'm capable of doing. I don't race to prove to team principals my value. I race for myself ... That's the mentality and approach I have and will continue to."

Talking about the race, world champion Verstappen had to retire due to a brake problem whereas Sainz overtook the Red Bull driver on the third lap. Later, he&nbsp;held off Leclerc until a last-lap George Russell crash brought out the virtual safety car, ensuring&nbsp;a sweet victory for Sainz (his third overall).

On Sunday (March 24), Ferrari's Carlos Sainz clinched the Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, to put an end to Red Bull's Max Verstappen's glorious title-run in recent times.

On Sunday (March 24), Ferrari's Carlos Sainz clinched the Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, to put an end to Red Bull's Max Verstappen's glorious title-run in recent times. What makes Sainz's win even more special is that he was on a comeback trail from a medical absence which forced him to skip the Saudi Arabian GP, early this month. Sainz's teammate, Charles Leclerc finished below him, handing the first one-two of the season for the team. Coming back just two weeks after having an appendix surgery, the 29-year-old Spaniard was elated after his effort in Melbourne. He told the reporters, "What happened at the beginning of the year, then the podium in Bahrain, then the appendix, the comeback, the win. It's a rollercoaster, but I loved it. I'm extremely happy." Also read: Tennis: Aus Open winner Jannik Sinner claims thriller in Miami Open, Gauff & Swiatek also move ahead He further opined, "Very proud of the team, happy to be in a one-two with Charles here. It shows that the hard work pays off. Life, sometimes it's crazy." With his F1 future under dark clouds, Sainz said the win would certainly not hurt his chances of picking up another drive. "For sure it does no harm, that is 100% (sure). I am still without a job for next year. Everyone more or less knows what I'm capable of doing. I don't race to prove to team principals my value. I race for myself ... That's the mentality and approach I have and will continue to." Talking about the race, world champion Verstappen had to retire due to a brake problem whereas Sainz overtook the Red Bull driver on the third lap. Later, he held off Leclerc until a last-lap George Russell crash brought out the virtual safety car, ensuring a sweet victory for Sainz (his third overall).

Formula One: 'Life is crazy' - Ferrari's Carlos Sainz reflects on Australian GP win after appendix surgery

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz won the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 24) morning as&nbsp;the capacity crowd at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne was treated to some intriguing storylines unfolding in real-time. Sainz won the GP after returning from a medical absence which forced him to skip the Saudi Arabian GP, earlier this month.&nbsp;

The Spaniard's teammate, Charles Leclerc finished behind him, giving the first one-two of the season for Ferrari. After a stellar performance during the qualifying session on Saturday (Mar 23), Sainz showed clinical application while leading the race and ensured he secured his third podium after winning the Singapore GP last year and the British GP in 2022.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CARLOS SAINZ WINS IN AUSTRALIA! 🤩 
 
The Smooth Operator seals a sensational win Down Under just two weeks after emergency surgery 👏👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/97Rt3AtbCL">pic.twitter.com/97Rt3AtbCL</a>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1771771064655258036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Starting second on the grid, Sainz overtook Max Verstappen in the second lap as the Red Bull driver suffered from mechanical issues before retiring with a rear brake failure as his car caught fire.

It was the first time in two years that Verstappen had to retire his car. The retirement also ended his streak of nine successive race wins as fellow teammate Sergio Perez also struggled with the race pace and finished fifth.&nbsp;

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was also forced to retire early after his Mercedes car suffered a power unit failure. Mercedes' problems were compounded as George Russell had a major shunt on the final lap and crashed out of the race which meant the German team returned with no points.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-ferraris-carlos-sainz-out-of-saudi-arabian-gp-know-why-698065">Also read |&nbsp;F1: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz ruled out of Saudi Arabian GP. Know why</a>

<h2>Verstappen on car issues</h2>

Verstappen revealed that the car did not feel alright from the get-go and that it was like driving with a 'handbrake' on.&nbsp;

"What we could see so far in the data is as soon as the lights went off the right rear brake just stuck on, and of course the temperature kept on increasing," Verstappen told reporters.

"So it was also basically driving with the handbrake on and that's why already it felt the car was really weird to drive in some corners. It was just very snappy."

Top 10

1) Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)

2)&nbsp;Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)

3)&nbsp;Lando Norris (McLaren)

4) Oscar Piastri (McLaren)

5.)&nbsp;Sergio Perez (Red Bull)

6) Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)

7) Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)

8)&nbsp;Yuki Tsunoda (RB)

9) Nico Hulkenberg (Haas)

10) Kevin Magnussen (Haas)

(With inputs from agencies)

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz won the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 24) morning as the capacity crowd at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne was treated to some intriguing storylines unfolding in real-time.

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz won the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 24) morning as the capacity crowd at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne was treated to some intriguing storylines unfolding in real-time. Sainz won the GP after returning from a medical absence which forced him to skip the Saudi Arabian GP, earlier this month. The Spaniard's teammate, Charles Leclerc finished behind him, giving the first one-two of the season for Ferrari. After a stellar performance during the qualifying session on Saturday (Mar 23), Sainz showed clinical application while leading the race and ensured he secured his third podium after winning the Singapore GP last year and the British GP in 2022. CARLOS SAINZ WINS IN AUSTRALIA! 🤩 The Smooth Operator seals a sensational win Down Under just two weeks after emergency surgery 👏👏👏#F1 #AusGP pic.twitter.com/97Rt3AtbCL — Formula 1 (@F1) March 24, 2024 × Starting second on the grid, Sainz overtook Max Verstappen in the second lap as the Red Bull driver suffered from mechanical issues before retiring with a rear brake failure as his car caught fire. It was the first time in two years that Verstappen had to retire his car. The retirement also ended his streak of nine successive race wins as fellow teammate Sergio Perez also struggled with the race pace and finished fifth. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was also forced to retire early after his Mercedes car suffered a power unit failure. Mercedes' problems were compounded as George Russell had a major shunt on the final lap and crashed out of the race which meant the German team returned with no points. Also read | F1: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz ruled out of Saudi Arabian GP. Know why Verstappen on car issues Verstappen revealed that the car did not feel alright from the get-go and that it was like driving with a 'handbrake' on. "What we could see so far in the data is as soon as the lights went off the right rear brake just stuck on, and of course the temperature kept on increasing," Verstappen told reporters. "So it was also basically driving with the handbrake on and that's why already it felt the car was really weird to drive in some corners. It was just very snappy." Top 10 1) Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) 2) Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) 3) Lando Norris (McLaren) 4) Oscar Piastri (McLaren) 5.) Sergio Perez (Red Bull) 6) Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) 7) Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) 8) Yuki Tsunoda (RB) 9) Nico Hulkenberg (Haas) 10) Kevin Magnussen (Haas) (With inputs from agencies)

F1: Carlos Sainz wins Australian GP in comeback race; Verstappen, Hamilton retire

Red Bull's Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday with Carlos Sainz qualifying alongside on the front row for Ferrari two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis.

Verstappen's team mate Sergio Perez qualified third but will start sixth after stewards imposed a three-place grid penalty for impeding Haas's Nico Hulkenberg in the first session of qualifying.

That promoted both McLaren drivers, with Lando Norris to start third and Oscar Piastri fifth behind Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.

Verstappen had bemoaned handling problems through practice but put together a sizzling lap of one minute, 15.915 seconds on a glorious afternoon at Albert Park to be 0.27 seconds clear of Sainz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-dont-mess-with-the-england-flag-says-pm-rishi-sunak-as-kit-gets-update-703382">Football: Don't mess with the England flag, says PM Rishi Sunak as kit gets update</a>

It was the irrepressible Dutchman's third pole for the Formula One season and fourth in succession.

"It was a bit unexpected today in qualifying, but very happy with Q3," said the triple world champion, who won the race last year after his maiden pole at Albert Park.

"It was a bit of a tricky weekend so far but we managed to be there at the end, so very happy with that.

"(Ferrari) seem very quick, also in the long runs. So a bit of a question mark tomorrow but that makes it exciting."

Sainz, who missed the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix while recovering from surgery, said he was happy with Ferrari's pace and to be challenging the Red Bulls.

"To make it to this weekend and then obviously to put it on the front row after leading through qualifying, I was almost not believing it, especially after how tough it’s been," he added.

<h2>'DIFFICULT TO SWALLOW'</h2>

It was a tough afternoon for Mercedes, with seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton suffering his worst qualifying at Albert Park in over a decade.

Hamilton failed to make the third session of qualifying (Q3) and will start 11th on the grid, his worst result at Albert Park since qualifying 11th in the 2010 race.

The Briton was 0.77 seconds off Sainz's best (1:16.189) in Q2, and he has been outqualified in every race this season by team mate George Russell, who will start seventh on Sunday.

"It felt great in P3, and it was strange because we were right there with these guys and we didn't really understand why," said Hamilton, who was fourth quickest in the final practice earlier on Saturday.

"And then going to qualifying and just the inconsistency within the car is ... it really messes with the mind."

Fernando Alonso had to abort his first lap in Q3 after a skid through gravel at turn six and qualified 10th, behind Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll.

Only one Williams car featured in qualifying and will race on Sunday, with Alex Albon swapping into Logan Sargeant's car after wrecking his own during Friday practice.

The England-born Thai will start 12th on the grid.

Home racer Daniel Ricciardo of RB was eliminated in Q1 in a massive blow and will start 18th after his fastest lap was deleted for going off-track at turn five.

Yuki Tsunoda, his less experienced team mate, will start from eighth on the grid and has outqualified Ricciardo in every race this season.

"It’s very difficult to swallow but that’s the way it is," said RB team boss Laurent Mekies.

"Daniel was doing a very good job, it was probably his best lap so far of the weekend."

Red Bull's Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday with Carlos Sainz qualifying alongside on the front row for Ferrari two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis.

Red Bull's Formula One world champion Max Verstappen took pole position for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday with Carlos Sainz qualifying alongside on the front row for Ferrari two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis. Verstappen's team mate Sergio Perez qualified third but will start sixth after stewards imposed a three-place grid penalty for impeding Haas's Nico Hulkenberg in the first session of qualifying. That promoted both McLaren drivers, with Lando Norris to start third and Oscar Piastri fifth behind Ferrari's Charles Leclerc. Verstappen had bemoaned handling problems through practice but put together a sizzling lap of one minute, 15.915 seconds on a glorious afternoon at Albert Park to be 0.27 seconds clear of Sainz. ALSO READ: Football: Don't mess with the England flag, says PM Rishi Sunak as kit gets update It was the irrepressible Dutchman's third pole for the Formula One season and fourth in succession. "It was a bit unexpected today in qualifying, but very happy with Q3," said the triple world champion, who won the race last year after his maiden pole at Albert Park. "It was a bit of a tricky weekend so far but we managed to be there at the end, so very happy with that. "(Ferrari) seem very quick, also in the long runs. So a bit of a question mark tomorrow but that makes it exciting." Sainz, who missed the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix while recovering from surgery, said he was happy with Ferrari's pace and to be challenging the Red Bulls. "To make it to this weekend and then obviously to put it on the front row after leading through qualifying, I was almost not believing it, especially after how tough it’s been," he added. 'DIFFICULT TO SWALLOW' It was a tough afternoon for Mercedes, with seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton suffering his worst qualifying at Albert Park in over a decade. Hamilton failed to make the third session of qualifying (Q3) and will start 11th on the grid, his worst result at Albert Park since qualifying 11th in the 2010 race. The Briton was 0.77 seconds off Sainz's best (1:16.189) in Q2, and he has been outqualified in every race this season by team mate George Russell, who will start seventh on Sunday. "It felt great in P3, and it was strange because we were right there with these guys and we didn't really understand why," said Hamilton, who was fourth quickest in the final practice earlier on Saturday. "And then going to qualifying and just the inconsistency within the car is ... it really messes with the mind." Fernando Alonso had to abort his first lap in Q3 after a skid through gravel at turn six and qualified 10th, behind Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll. Only one Williams car featured in qualifying and will race on Sunday, with Alex Albon swapping into Logan Sargeant's car after wrecking his own during Friday practice. The England-born Thai will start 12th on the grid. Home racer Daniel Ricciardo of RB was eliminated in Q1 in a massive blow and will start 18th after his fastest lap was deleted for going off-track at turn five. Yuki Tsunoda, his less experienced team mate, will start from eighth on the grid and has outqualified Ricciardo in every race this season. "It’s very difficult to swallow but that’s the way it is," said RB team boss Laurent Mekies. "Daniel was doing a very good job, it was probably his best lap so far of the weekend."

Formula 1: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen takes pole position at Australian Grand Prix

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has ruled out&nbsp;a move to a rival outfit amid the ongoing Red Bull saga.&nbsp;Max has been flying on the track, having won the opening two races of the calendar but the&nbsp;controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner refuses to leave him alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Quizzed at the Australian Grand Prix ahead of Free Practice 1 if he intended to honour the Red Bull contract signed till 2028, Verstappen cleared the air and said he was committed to the team.&nbsp;

“Of course, that is why I signed the contract in the first place," said Verstappen.

“For sure, with the deal in place, that is my intention, to be here until the end. It would be a great story for me to see it out till the end because it would mean I’ve been part of one family and one team."&nbsp;

“I feel we all want the same, we all want to perform on the track, that’s what we want to focus on as a team.&nbsp;In general, when you have a successful team, when you have a good group of central people, it is important to keep them together and happy and in the same roles," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-mercedes-team-principals-wife-files-criminal-complaint-against-fia-702555">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA</a>

<h2>Verstappen's threat</h2>

Verstappen's fresh comments come&nbsp;after he suggested the situation would not be good if Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko was let go due to his opposition to Horner.

"It's very important that he stays within the team. If such an important pillar falls away, that's not good for my situation as well. So, for me, Helmut has to stay, for sure," said Verstappen.&nbsp;

Red Bull's initial plan was to suspend Marko but after Verstappen publically lent his support, the team canned the proposal.&nbsp;

Amid the drama, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear that he would be happy to take Verstappen in his corner, if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-max-verstappens-father-says-red-bull-in-danger-of-being-torn-apart-if-christian-horner-stays-696194">Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays</a>

Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said: "It doesn't have any impact on me on what I would do. It's always nice to hear that."

"Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything."

Lewis Hamilton is quitting Mercedes at the end of season for Ferrari, leaving an empty seat at the German team. Wolff has remained tight-lipped on a new signing as the Red Bull drama&nbsp;unfolds.&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has ruled out a move to a rival outfit amid the ongoing Red Bull saga. Max has been flying on the track, having won the opening two races of the calendar but the controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner refuses to leave him alone.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has ruled out a move to a rival outfit amid the ongoing Red Bull saga. Max has been flying on the track, having won the opening two races of the calendar but the controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner refuses to leave him alone. Quizzed at the Australian Grand Prix ahead of Free Practice 1 if he intended to honour the Red Bull contract signed till 2028, Verstappen cleared the air and said he was committed to the team. “Of course, that is why I signed the contract in the first place," said Verstappen. “For sure, with the deal in place, that is my intention, to be here until the end. It would be a great story for me to see it out till the end because it would mean I’ve been part of one family and one team." “I feel we all want the same, we all want to perform on the track, that’s what we want to focus on as a team. In general, when you have a successful team, when you have a good group of central people, it is important to keep them together and happy and in the same roles," he added. Also read | Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA Verstappen's threat Verstappen's fresh comments come after he suggested the situation would not be good if Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko was let go due to his opposition to Horner. "It's very important that he stays within the team. If such an important pillar falls away, that's not good for my situation as well. So, for me, Helmut has to stay, for sure," said Verstappen. Red Bull's initial plan was to suspend Marko but after Verstappen publically lent his support, the team canned the proposal. Amid the drama, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear that he would be happy to take Verstappen in his corner, if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season. Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said: "It doesn't have any impact on me on what I would do. It's always nice to hear that." "Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything." Lewis Hamilton is quitting Mercedes at the end of season for Ferrari, leaving an empty seat at the German team. Wolff has remained tight-lipped on a new signing as the Red Bull drama unfolds. (With inputs from agencies)

F1: Amid Red Bull turmoil, Verstappen vows to see out contract till 2028

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen has said his son doesn't like the persistent questioning as the Red Bull fiasco continues to unravel.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen has said his son doesn't like the persistent questioning as the Red Bull fiasco continues to unravel. Jos said he fears it might take "some time" for the situation to simmer down. Max has been flying on the track, having won the opening two races of the calendar but the off-track controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner refuses to leave him alone. “I can’t say much about it. Hopefully, they can concentrate on racing again soon, because that’s what it’s all about. The important thing is that he [Max] keeps winning, whatever he does. The car is running very well and between the engineers and him there is also nothing wrong," Jos told Sporza in response to the apparent power struggle within the team. “Max can switch off a certain part, only he gets a lot of questions about it. He doesn’t like that, but it’s part of Formula 1," he added. Also read | F1: Woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour files official complaint to FIA Jos Verstappen's vocal Horner criticism Jos has been vocal about the situation at Red Bull and was one of the first voices to lay it clear that the team might explode if Horner stays at the helm. "There is tension here while he remains in position. The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems," said Jos during the pre-season testing. Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays There have been reports that Jos held a meeting with Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff, with the agenda being Max's shock move to the German team to replace Lewis Hamilton. With Hamilton set to join Ferrari in 2025 and Wolff yet to announce his replacement, a move to Mercedes may not be ruled out for Max, especially if the controversy refuses to die down. Horner has already said Max remains free to leave the team if he desires and that he wouldn't stand in his way. "It's like anything in life. You can't force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper. If somebody didn't want to be at this team, then you know, we're not going to force somebody against their will to be here," said Horner. While Horner was given a clean chit by Red Bull following an internal investigation, the woman accuser last week submitted an official complaint to the FIA with the ethics committee set to take cognisance of it. (With inputs from agencies)

After calling Christian Horner out, Jos Verstappen provides update on son Max Verstappen's situation

In a sensational twist to the ongoing Red Bull drama, team principal Christian Horner has said Max Verstappen can leave the team if he desires and that he won't stand in his way as no individual is bigger than the team.&nbsp;

Speaking after a successful weekend at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix where Max took first place on the podium, Horner gave his piece of mind.&nbsp;

"It's like anything in life. You can't force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper.&nbsp;If somebody didn't want to be at this team, then you know, we're not going to force somebody against their will to be here," said Horner.&nbsp;

"That applies whether it's a machine operator or a designer or somebody in one of the support functions, that runs through the business."

Horner hoped that Max would stay with the team and see out his contract which runs till 2028, adding that no individual was bigger than the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"He's been here since he was 18 years of age. And I have no doubt of his commitment and passion going forward. But you know, that's pretty much the way it is. No individual is bigger than the team."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-redbull-suspends-woman-who-accused-christian-horner-of-inappropriate-behaviour-in-shock-twist-697677">Also read |&nbsp;F1: Red Bull suspend woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour in shock twist</a>

<h2>Red Bull at risk of being torn apart</h2>

Ever since allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Horner against a female employee at Red Bull surfaced, the team has been under extreme duress. Despite Horner being given a clean chit in the internal investigation by Red Bull, the controversy refuses to die down.&nbsp;

A day before the race, amid rumours that Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko was on his way out of the paddock, Verstappen said it wouldn't be good for his 'situation'.&nbsp;

"It's very important that he stays within the team. If such an important pillar falls away, that's not good for my situation as well. So, for me, Helmut has to stay, for sure."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-max-verstappens-father-says-red-bull-in-danger-of-being-torn-apart-if-christian-horner-stays-696194">Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays</a>

Red Bull's initial plan was to suspend Marko but after Verstappen publically lent his support, the team canned the proposal.&nbsp;

Amid the drama, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear that he would be happy to take Verstappen in his corner, if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In a sensational twist to the ongoing Red Bull drama, team principal Christian Horner has said Max Verstappen can leave the team if he desires and that he won't stand in his way as no individual is bigger than the team.

In a sensational twist to the ongoing Red Bull drama, team principal Christian Horner has said Max Verstappen can leave the team if he desires and that he won't stand in his way as no individual is bigger than the team. Speaking after a successful weekend at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix where Max took first place on the podium, Horner gave his piece of mind. "It's like anything in life. You can't force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper. If somebody didn't want to be at this team, then you know, we're not going to force somebody against their will to be here," said Horner. "That applies whether it's a machine operator or a designer or somebody in one of the support functions, that runs through the business." Horner hoped that Max would stay with the team and see out his contract which runs till 2028, adding that no individual was bigger than the team. "He's been here since he was 18 years of age. And I have no doubt of his commitment and passion going forward. But you know, that's pretty much the way it is. No individual is bigger than the team." Also read | F1: Red Bull suspend woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour in shock twist Red Bull at risk of being torn apart Ever since allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Horner against a female employee at Red Bull surfaced, the team has been under extreme duress. Despite Horner being given a clean chit in the internal investigation by Red Bull, the controversy refuses to die down. A day before the race, amid rumours that Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko was on his way out of the paddock, Verstappen said it wouldn't be good for his 'situation'. "It's very important that he stays within the team. If such an important pillar falls away, that's not good for my situation as well. So, for me, Helmut has to stay, for sure." Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays Red Bull's initial plan was to suspend Marko but after Verstappen publically lent his support, the team canned the proposal. Amid the drama, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear that he would be happy to take Verstappen in his corner, if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season. (With inputs from agencies)

Max Verstappen to leave Red Bull? Team principal Christian Horner drops a hint

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen&nbsp;and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'.

Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good."

It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028.

It is&nbsp;believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen&nbsp;clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/important-for-f1-to-show-its-values-seven-time-world-champion-lewis-hamilton-on-recent-controversies-697505">Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies</a>

While Verstappen&nbsp;agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari,&nbsp;has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly.

"Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen&nbsp;told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added.

In addition, Verstappen&nbsp;reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'. Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good." It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028. It is believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question). Also read: Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies While Verstappen agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari, has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly. "Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added. In addition, Verstappen reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Anything is possible: Lewis Hamilton makes BIG claim, does not rule out Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes

Red Bull risk being torn apart as a team and will 'explode' if Christian Horner stays as principal, the Daily Mail newspaper quoted the father of triple world champion Max Verstappen as saying on Saturday. Horner, 50, was cleared last week by an independent investigation into allegations of misconduct made by a female employee. The inquiry dominated the pre-season and Horner has remained in the spotlight after an email from an anonymous sender, purporting to contain evidence submitted to the investigation, was distributed to media and key figures in the sport.

"There is tension here while he remains in position," former F1 racer Verstappen told the British newspaper at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where his son dominated Saturday's season-opening race. "The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the&nbsp;one&nbsp;causing the problems."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-max-verstappens-father-says-red-bull-in-danger-of-being-torn-apart-if-christian-horner-stays-696194">Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays</a>

Horner could not be contacted immediately, with Verstappen's comments appearing at around 0100 on Sunday local time in Bahrain, and a team spokesman did not respond to a query. Asked after the race about the email, Horner told reporters he would not comment "on what motives whatever person may have for doing this. "I have the support of an incredible family, of an incredible wife, of an incredible team and everybody within that team and my focus is on going racing and winning races and doing the best that I can."

Verstappen senior also denied involvement in the anonymous email. "That wouldn't make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?," he said. Verstappen has won the last three championships in a row and Saturday's victory was the 55th of his career, all of them with Red Bull.

Red Bull risk being torn apart as a team and will 'explode' if Christian Horner stays as principal, the Daily Mail newspaper quoted the father of triple world champion Max Verstappen as saying on Saturday.

Red Bull risk being torn apart as a team and will 'explode' if Christian Horner stays as principal, the Daily Mail newspaper quoted the father of triple world champion Max Verstappen as saying on Saturday. Horner, 50, was cleared last week by an independent investigation into allegations of misconduct made by a female employee. The inquiry dominated the pre-season and Horner has remained in the spotlight after an email from an anonymous sender, purporting to contain evidence submitted to the investigation, was distributed to media and key figures in the sport. "There is tension here while he remains in position," former F1 racer Verstappen told the British newspaper at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where his son dominated Saturday's season-opening race. "The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems." Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays Horner could not be contacted immediately, with Verstappen's comments appearing at around 0100 on Sunday local time in Bahrain, and a team spokesman did not respond to a query. Asked after the race about the email, Horner told reporters he would not comment "on what motives whatever person may have for doing this. "I have the support of an incredible family, of an incredible wife, of an incredible team and everybody within that team and my focus is on going racing and winning races and doing the best that I can." Verstappen senior also denied involvement in the anonymous email. "That wouldn't make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?," he said. Verstappen has won the last three championships in a row and Saturday's victory was the 55th of his career, all of them with Red Bull.

Formula One: Jos Verstappen's outburst on Christian Horner raises big questions for Red Bull

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner.

Verstappen shut out all the off-track speculation surrounding the Horner inquiry to lead home Sergio Perez for a crushing Red Bull 1-2.

Pole sitter Verstappen held off the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to lead into the first corner, and it was business as usual for the Dutchman from there to the flag as he enjoyed the perfect start to his quest for a fourth consecutive world title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-on-when-will-nca-clear-rishabh-pant-ahead-of-ipl-2024-695930">Sourav Ganguly on when will NCA clear Rishabh Pant ahead of IPL 2024</a>

In a statement of emphatic superiority, the 26-year-old Dutchman came home 22.5 seconds clear of Perez, who started from fifth, to ease some of the pressure on Horner and repeat his statement triumph last year.&nbsp;

By claiming the 33rd&nbsp;pole of his career, fastest lap and race win, Verstappen delivered the 12th&nbsp;‘hat-trick’ of his career leaving only the seven-time champions Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton ahead on 22 and 19 trebles respectively.

"That was simply lovely," Horner told his ace driver.

"To get pole, fastest lap, and a 1-2, a brilliant start to the year, thank you very much."&nbsp;

It was Verstappen’s 55th&nbsp;race victory and 99th&nbsp;podium finish as Red Bull dominated an uneventful race on a cold evening at Sakhir’s Bahrain International Circuit.

It also extended his run as championship leader to 40 races since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Carlos Sainz, whose seat at Ferrari is to be taken by Hamilton next year, finished a pugnacious third ahead of team-mate Leclerc, who profited from a rare error by Mercedes' George Russell in the closing laps.

Russell finished fifth ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, Hamilton in the second Mercedes, Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and the Aston Martin duo two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.&nbsp;

<h2>Horner show of unity</h2>

After days of speculation, Red Bull boss Horner arrived hand in hand with his wife, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell – a show of unity following the release on Thursday of a cache of alleged messages from him to a female member of staff.

On track, the team showed no apparent distraction as Verstappen topped qualifying to secure his 33rd&nbsp;pole position – and lead the pack when the lights went out in cold, dry conditions in the desert.&nbsp;

The Dutchman made a clean start and led Leclerc, Russell and Perez through Turn One while Stroll spun and dropped to the back of the field after contact with Hulkenberg, who pitted for a new front wing and hard tyres. The entire field started on softs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On lap three, Russell passed Leclerc on the outside of Turn Four to take second and Norris seized sixth from Alonso, but Verstappen stretched his lead to two seconds.&nbsp;

By lap six, it was 4.8 seconds and clear that the Red Bull were in a race of their own. Perez endorsed this as he swept past Leclerc inside turn 11 for second on lap seven.&nbsp;

Hamilton, ninth, appeared to be stuck behind Alonso before squeezing through on lap 10, as Verstappen stretched his lead to 6.9 seconds.

The pit-stops began on lap 11 with Russell and Leclerc, with brake problems, going first of the leading group, re-joining 12th&nbsp;and 14th. Perez and Hamilton soon followed, all going for hards.&nbsp;

When Verstappen finally pitted he had bulit up a 31 second lead.&nbsp;

For Horner and Red Bull, it was as good as it gets, the Dutchman in command by seven seconds ahead of team-mate Perez and the feisty Sainz with Russell fourth after the first round of stops. Crisis? What crisis?

For Mercedes, problems were piling up – overheating engines, power-unit issues and then, for Hamilton, a broken seat, with 28 laps remaining while Alex Albon’s Williams flashed a message “car too hot’.

Verstappen came in for a final set of new softs at the end of lap 37 and re-joined with a 17-second cushion ahead of Perez. It was a commanding performance from the champion, decorated with a fastest lap of 1:32.608 as he cruised through the final 16 laps: a lap that was fully 1.5 seconds quicker than any other.

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner.

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner. Verstappen shut out all the off-track speculation surrounding the Horner inquiry to lead home Sergio Perez for a crushing Red Bull 1-2. Pole sitter Verstappen held off the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to lead into the first corner, and it was business as usual for the Dutchman from there to the flag as he enjoyed the perfect start to his quest for a fourth consecutive world title. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly on when will NCA clear Rishabh Pant ahead of IPL 2024 In a statement of emphatic superiority, the 26-year-old Dutchman came home 22.5 seconds clear of Perez, who started from fifth, to ease some of the pressure on Horner and repeat his statement triumph last year. By claiming the 33rd pole of his career, fastest lap and race win, Verstappen delivered the 12th ‘hat-trick’ of his career leaving only the seven-time champions Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton ahead on 22 and 19 trebles respectively. "That was simply lovely," Horner told his ace driver. "To get pole, fastest lap, and a 1-2, a brilliant start to the year, thank you very much." It was Verstappen’s 55th race victory and 99th podium finish as Red Bull dominated an uneventful race on a cold evening at Sakhir’s Bahrain International Circuit. It also extended his run as championship leader to 40 races since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix. Carlos Sainz, whose seat at Ferrari is to be taken by Hamilton next year, finished a pugnacious third ahead of team-mate Leclerc, who profited from a rare error by Mercedes' George Russell in the closing laps. Russell finished fifth ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, Hamilton in the second Mercedes, Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and the Aston Martin duo two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Horner show of unity After days of speculation, Red Bull boss Horner arrived hand in hand with his wife, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell – a show of unity following the release on Thursday of a cache of alleged messages from him to a female member of staff. On track, the team showed no apparent distraction as Verstappen topped qualifying to secure his 33rd pole position – and lead the pack when the lights went out in cold, dry conditions in the desert. The Dutchman made a clean start and led Leclerc, Russell and Perez through Turn One while Stroll spun and dropped to the back of the field after contact with Hulkenberg, who pitted for a new front wing and hard tyres. The entire field started on softs. On lap three, Russell passed Leclerc on the outside of Turn Four to take second and Norris seized sixth from Alonso, but Verstappen stretched his lead to two seconds. By lap six, it was 4.8 seconds and clear that the Red Bull were in a race of their own. Perez endorsed this as he swept past Leclerc inside turn 11 for second on lap seven. Hamilton, ninth, appeared to be stuck behind Alonso before squeezing through on lap 10, as Verstappen stretched his lead to 6.9 seconds. The pit-stops began on lap 11 with Russell and Leclerc, with brake problems, going first of the leading group, re-joining 12th and 14th. Perez and Hamilton soon followed, all going for hards. When Verstappen finally pitted he had bulit up a 31 second lead. For Horner and Red Bull, it was as good as it gets, the Dutchman in command by seven seconds ahead of team-mate Perez and the feisty Sainz with Russell fourth after the first round of stops. Crisis? What crisis? For Mercedes, problems were piling up – overheating engines, power-unit issues and then, for Hamilton, a broken seat, with 28 laps remaining while Alex Albon’s Williams flashed a message “car too hot’. Verstappen came in for a final set of new softs at the end of lap 37 and re-joined with a 17-second cushion ahead of Perez. It was a commanding performance from the champion, decorated with a fastest lap of 1:32.608 as he cruised through the final 16 laps: a lap that was fully 1.5 seconds quicker than any other.

Formula 1: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen begins title defence with comfortable win in Bahrain Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth.

Seven-times world champion Hamilton lapped the 5.4km floodlit Sakhir desert track in a best time of one minute 30.374 seconds with Russell 0.206 seconds adrift and Aston Martin’s double world champion Fernando Alonso in third.

Reigning triple world champion Verstappen, who won in Bahrain last year and chalked up 19 victories in 22 races, was 0.477 off the pace.

"It's a shock to see us where we are but we'll take it for now," said Hamilton.

"But we can't get ahead of ourselves. We need to keep our heads down and keep working on the setup...I think our long run pace is nowhere near the Red Bulls for example so we've got some work to do there."

Verstappen, who has led the Formula One standings for a record 39 races going back to May 2022, had headed into the weekend favourite to open his pursuit of a fourth consecutive title with victory on Saturday.

He ended up sixth in both sessions.

Carlos Sainz was fourth for Ferrari ahead of Australian Oscar Piastri in his McLaren.

Nico Hulkenberg put Haas in seventh ahead of Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll.

Charles Leclerc was ninth in the other Ferrari while Verstappen’s team mate Sergio Perez rounded out the top 10.

Mercedes, who endured their first winless campaign since 2011 last year, have redesigned their car for the 2024 season to make it less "spiteful".

Their practice showing will offer Russell and Hamilton, who last won a race in 2021 and is replacing Sainz at Ferrari next year, encouragement of a return to the top step of the podium.

Hamilton said he was much happier in the car than last year, with a more comfortable seat position.

"I've got a better feel for the car approaching the corners but there are other areas that have been fixed and improved. It feels like a racecar for once and the last two cars didn't feel like that," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurel-can-reach-the-standards-of-ms-dhoni-former-spinner-anil-kumbles-big-claim-695400">IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel can reach the standards of MS Dhoni - Former spinner Anil Kumble's BIG claim</a>

Russell refused to get carried away by the timesheets even if the qualifying pace looked strong.

"We still need to try and understand why it was so good, we made some changes from the test and it exceeded our expectations but ultimately (on) the long run pace, which is where it all happens, Max was still ahead of us," said the Briton.

"It was very close with Fernando, with Lando and the Ferraris and Lewis and I were very similar as well so we've got a real fight on our hands."

Daniel Ricciardo ended the day 12th for rebranded Red Bull sister team RB. The Australian had gone fastest in the opening session of practice, run in unrepresentative conditions.

The race in Bahrain and the following round at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are being held on a Saturday to allow the Middle Eastern kingdoms to host races before the start of Ramadan.

Qualifying will be held on Friday.

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth.

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth. Seven-times world champion Hamilton lapped the 5.4km floodlit Sakhir desert track in a best time of one minute 30.374 seconds with Russell 0.206 seconds adrift and Aston Martin’s double world champion Fernando Alonso in third. Reigning triple world champion Verstappen, who won in Bahrain last year and chalked up 19 victories in 22 races, was 0.477 off the pace. "It's a shock to see us where we are but we'll take it for now," said Hamilton. "But we can't get ahead of ourselves. We need to keep our heads down and keep working on the setup...I think our long run pace is nowhere near the Red Bulls for example so we've got some work to do there." Verstappen, who has led the Formula One standings for a record 39 races going back to May 2022, had headed into the weekend favourite to open his pursuit of a fourth consecutive title with victory on Saturday. He ended up sixth in both sessions. Carlos Sainz was fourth for Ferrari ahead of Australian Oscar Piastri in his McLaren. Nico Hulkenberg put Haas in seventh ahead of Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll. Charles Leclerc was ninth in the other Ferrari while Verstappen’s team mate Sergio Perez rounded out the top 10. Mercedes, who endured their first winless campaign since 2011 last year, have redesigned their car for the 2024 season to make it less "spiteful". Their practice showing will offer Russell and Hamilton, who last won a race in 2021 and is replacing Sainz at Ferrari next year, encouragement of a return to the top step of the podium. Hamilton said he was much happier in the car than last year, with a more comfortable seat position. "I've got a better feel for the car approaching the corners but there are other areas that have been fixed and improved. It feels like a racecar for once and the last two cars didn't feel like that," he added. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel can reach the standards of MS Dhoni - Former spinner Anil Kumble's BIG claim Russell refused to get carried away by the timesheets even if the qualifying pace looked strong. "We still need to try and understand why it was so good, we made some changes from the test and it exceeded our expectations but ultimately (on) the long run pace, which is where it all happens, Max was still ahead of us," said the Briton. "It was very close with Fernando, with Lando and the Ferraris and Lewis and I were very similar as well so we've got a real fight on our hands." Daniel Ricciardo ended the day 12th for rebranded Red Bull sister team RB. The Australian had gone fastest in the opening session of practice, run in unrepresentative conditions. The race in Bahrain and the following round at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are being held on a Saturday to allow the Middle Eastern kingdoms to host races before the start of Ramadan. Qualifying will be held on Friday.

Formula One: Mercedes dominate Bahrain practice, Red Bull's Max Verstappen finishes sixth

Triple&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season. The 26-year-old Red Bull driver starts on Saturday as clear favourite, chasing his fourth successive championship, but even with his streak of success has found the calendar expansion to be wearing thin.

"From my side I’ve said it before -- this is not sustainable," Verstappen told reporters at the Bahrain International Circuit. "I love racing a lot and I do it a lot also outside of&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One. "But, if people in the sport start shortening their careers because it’s too much I think that’s a shame and so hopefully of course we can have a look at that for the future."

Formula&nbsp;One’s popularity has soared in recent years, driven in part by the success of Netflix show 'Drive to Survive'. The sport’s commercial rights holders Liberty Media have capitalised by adding new venues in the Middle East, some returning classics in Europe and three races in America, with Miami and Las Vegas joining long-time fixture Austin.

Teams have begun to rotate personnel to cope with the demands of such a long calendar while pre-season testing this year was reduced to just three days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-red-bull-boss-christian-horner-cleared-in-inappropriate-behaviour-case-694913">Formula 1: Red Bull boss Christian Horner cleared in 'inappropriate behaviour' case</a>

Spain's double world champion Fernando Alonso, 42, a veteran of the sport who made his debut in 2001, echoed Verstappen and recalled the days when the calendar featured less than 20 races.

"When I started we had 16 races, then it was 18 at some point, and then I think when Liberty came it was like a message that we have 20&nbsp;one&nbsp;season and that was absolutely the limit, 20 races," said the Aston Martin driver. "And now we are up to 24 and this is not sustainable for the future. "Even the world champion thinks this is a little bit long, the season. "Imagine for the rest of us, we go to the races in the second half for nothing, there is no incentive to fight for anything."

Triple Formula One champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season.

Triple Formula One champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season. The 26-year-old Red Bull driver starts on Saturday as clear favourite, chasing his fourth successive championship, but even with his streak of success has found the calendar expansion to be wearing thin. "From my side I’ve said it before -- this is not sustainable," Verstappen told reporters at the Bahrain International Circuit. "I love racing a lot and I do it a lot also outside of Formula One. "But, if people in the sport start shortening their careers because it’s too much I think that’s a shame and so hopefully of course we can have a look at that for the future." Formula One’s popularity has soared in recent years, driven in part by the success of Netflix show 'Drive to Survive'. The sport’s commercial rights holders Liberty Media have capitalised by adding new venues in the Middle East, some returning classics in Europe and three races in America, with Miami and Las Vegas joining long-time fixture Austin. Teams have begun to rotate personnel to cope with the demands of such a long calendar while pre-season testing this year was reduced to just three days. Also read: Formula 1: Red Bull boss Christian Horner cleared in 'inappropriate behaviour' case Spain's double world champion Fernando Alonso, 42, a veteran of the sport who made his debut in 2001, echoed Verstappen and recalled the days when the calendar featured less than 20 races. "When I started we had 16 races, then it was 18 at some point, and then I think when Liberty came it was like a message that we have 20 one season and that was absolutely the limit, 20 races," said the Aston Martin driver. "And now we are up to 24 and this is not sustainable for the future. "Even the world champion thinks this is a little bit long, the season. "Imagine for the rest of us, we go to the races in the second half for nothing, there is no incentive to fight for anything."

Bahrain GP: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen says F1 is over the limit with 24-race calendar

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season.

Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes.

"Lets see the car that rocks out on day&nbsp;one&nbsp;at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious.

"If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car."

Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-red-bull-team-boss-christian-horner-declares-business-as-normal-despite-allegations-691692">F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct</a>

PECKING ORDER

Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be.

There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with&nbsp;one&nbsp;car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races.

That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10.

Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track.

"I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season. Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes. "Lets see the car that rocks out on day one at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious. "If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car." Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. Also read: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct PECKING ORDER Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be. There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with one car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races. That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10. Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track. "I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Questions hang over Red Bull before F1 testing in Bahrain

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title. His on-track exploits helped Red Bull clinch the Constructor’s Championship while underling his legacy as one of the greatest racers of all time.

<h2>Verstappen’s record-breaking year</h2>

Starting the 2023 Formula One season as a favourite, Verstappen recorded 19 wins across 22 different tracks. He finished on the podium in all but one grand prix which saw him stamp his authority during the season. Coupled with his 19 grand prix wins, he also won four sprint races as his&nbsp;dominance surfaced&nbsp;in all departments. In fact, his victory at the Qatar sprint race saw him clinch the 2023 Formula One season.

The 25-year-old smashed for most consecutive grand prix wins during the campaign as he secured the top prize starting from Miami to Italy. His record point tally of 575 out of 620 is the most efficient scoring rate for any driver in the history of the championship (92.7%). He won the championship with six races left in the season at the Qatar GP, again a new record.

Having led 1003 laps, Verstappen showcased why he is the modern-day great as he set a new record. Interestingly, his closest rival for most laps led was Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez who clocked 146 laps, a massive difference of 857. Comparing his dominance on the track, he was 290 points ahead of second-placed Perez while he bagged 17 wins more than the Mexican driver (2). Verstappen also amassed nine fastest laps in the campaign, keeping him way ahead of other drivers on the circuit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-blow-to-pakistan-as-seamer-khurram-shahzad-doubtful-for-melbourne-test-671683">AUS vs PAK: Blow to Pakistan as seamer Khurram Shahzad doubtful for Melbourne Test</a>

2023 also saw Verstappen go level with some greats of the game as equalled Michael Schumacher’s record for most races left before winning the title. He also equalled the German for being the only driver since the turn of the millennium to complete all the laps of a Formula One season. With 39 consecutive races as championship leader, he broke Schumacher’s record of 37 races set in 2002.

He also smashed record books to get the better of former Red Bull driver and F1 legend Sebastian Vettel. With a 290-point winning margin, he broke the legendary Vettel’s previous tally of 155 points. With 12 wins from pole position, he also broke Vettel’s tally of nine wins set in 2011 when he won his second title.

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title.

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title. His on-track exploits helped Red Bull clinch the Constructor’s Championship while underling his legacy as one of the greatest racers of all time. Verstappen’s record-breaking year Starting the 2023 Formula One season as a favourite, Verstappen recorded 19 wins across 22 different tracks. He finished on the podium in all but one grand prix which saw him stamp his authority during the season. Coupled with his 19 grand prix wins, he also won four sprint races as his dominance surfaced in all departments. In fact, his victory at the Qatar sprint race saw him clinch the 2023 Formula One season. The 25-year-old smashed for most consecutive grand prix wins during the campaign as he secured the top prize starting from Miami to Italy. His record point tally of 575 out of 620 is the most efficient scoring rate for any driver in the history of the championship (92.7%). He won the championship with six races left in the season at the Qatar GP, again a new record. Having led 1003 laps, Verstappen showcased why he is the modern-day great as he set a new record. Interestingly, his closest rival for most laps led was Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez who clocked 146 laps, a massive difference of 857. Comparing his dominance on the track, he was 290 points ahead of second-placed Perez while he bagged 17 wins more than the Mexican driver (2). Verstappen also amassed nine fastest laps in the campaign, keeping him way ahead of other drivers on the circuit. ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Blow to Pakistan as seamer Khurram Shahzad doubtful for Melbourne Test 2023 also saw Verstappen go level with some greats of the game as equalled Michael Schumacher’s record for most races left before winning the title. He also equalled the German for being the only driver since the turn of the millennium to complete all the laps of a Formula One season. With 39 consecutive races as championship leader, he broke Schumacher’s record of 37 races set in 2002. He also smashed record books to get the better of former Red Bull driver and F1 legend Sebastian Vettel. With a 290-point winning margin, he broke the legendary Vettel’s previous tally of 155 points. With 12 wins from pole position, he also broke Vettel’s tally of nine wins set in 2011 when he won his second title.

Max Verstappen - Story for ages after smashing records left, right and centre in 2023 Formula One season

World champion Max Verstappen has given his support to rival Carlos Sainz after the Ferrari driver was hit with a ten-place grid penalty at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Sainz's car hit a loose drain cover in Thursday's abandoned first practice and suffered damage. Ferrari had to change a host of power unit components in order for the Spaniard to continue.

But with Sainz using his third energy store of the season, one more than is allowed by regulations, he was handed the penalty - despite not being at fault himself. Race stewards had said that sanction was mandatory but there have been reports that some teams may have lobbied to ensure there was no leniency.&nbsp;

"Personally, I do think it's very harsh on Carlos, but in this political environment that we are in, of course every team thinks about themselves, and they're of course going to say 'yes, take the penalty'," said Verstappen.

Sainz finished second in qualifying on Friday but will start in 11th place on the grid in Saturday's race.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-would-like-to-win-ballon-dor-with-psg-ronaldinho-665780">I would like Kylian Mbappe to win Ballon d’Or with PSG: Ronaldinho</a>

Red Bull's Verstappen suggested the rules need to be re-examined.

"It's the same if you get taken out, and you have a big accident; you can lose parts, engine, energy store, these kinds of things," Verstappen explained.

"First of all, that needs to change so that these things can be taken into consideration, that if you can take a free, let's say, penalty or not. "And besides that, I think the teams should not be allowed to have a say in these kinds of things because, for sure, they're going to vote against that," he said.

Sainz was unsurprisingly bitter about the punishment. "There was clearly a safety issue with the track. That safety issue destroyed my car. My mechanics had to invest five hours in putting together a completely new car and, on top of that, we get a 10-place penalty for something that we have nothing to do (with)," he said.

"Just disappointed. At the same time, not surprised because there's been many cases this year that I think the sport has proven that it can do things a lot better. "I'm surprised the governing body doesn't have the power, in cases of force majeure, to let's say overrule a bit in this kind of situation, where it's so clear that it's completely out of the team's control, completely out of the driver's control. "I don't know. The rules, the governing body, the teams, I don't know. I expected more from the sport in this situation," he said.

World champion Max Verstappen has given his support to rival Carlos Sainz after the Ferrari driver was hit with a ten-place grid penalty at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

World champion Max Verstappen has given his support to rival Carlos Sainz after the Ferrari driver was hit with a ten-place grid penalty at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Sainz's car hit a loose drain cover in Thursday's abandoned first practice and suffered damage. Ferrari had to change a host of power unit components in order for the Spaniard to continue. But with Sainz using his third energy store of the season, one more than is allowed by regulations, he was handed the penalty - despite not being at fault himself. Race stewards had said that sanction was mandatory but there have been reports that some teams may have lobbied to ensure there was no leniency. "Personally, I do think it's very harsh on Carlos, but in this political environment that we are in, of course every team thinks about themselves, and they're of course going to say 'yes, take the penalty'," said Verstappen. Sainz finished second in qualifying on Friday but will start in 11th place on the grid in Saturday's race. Also Read: I would like Kylian Mbappe to win Ballon d’Or with PSG: Ronaldinho Red Bull's Verstappen suggested the rules need to be re-examined. "It's the same if you get taken out, and you have a big accident; you can lose parts, engine, energy store, these kinds of things," Verstappen explained. "First of all, that needs to change so that these things can be taken into consideration, that if you can take a free, let's say, penalty or not. "And besides that, I think the teams should not be allowed to have a say in these kinds of things because, for sure, they're going to vote against that," he said. Sainz was unsurprisingly bitter about the punishment. "There was clearly a safety issue with the track. That safety issue destroyed my car. My mechanics had to invest five hours in putting together a completely new car and, on top of that, we get a 10-place penalty for something that we have nothing to do (with)," he said. "Just disappointed. At the same time, not surprised because there's been many cases this year that I think the sport has proven that it can do things a lot better. "I'm surprised the governing body doesn't have the power, in cases of force majeure, to let's say overrule a bit in this kind of situation, where it's so clear that it's completely out of the team's control, completely out of the driver's control. "I don't know. The rules, the governing body, the teams, I don't know. I expected more from the sport in this situation," he said.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen urges change in rule-book following Carlos Sainz's accident

Charles&nbsp;Leclerc&nbsp;claimed his third&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position of the season on Friday as Max&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp; had his best lap deleted and slipped to&nbsp;sixth&nbsp;on the grid in a dramatic qualifying at this weekend’s United States Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver showed commanding pace as he clocked a fastest lap in one minute and 34.723 seconds to outpace McLaren’s Lando Norris by a tenth with resurgent seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes taking third.&nbsp;

Carlos Sainz was fourth in the second Ferrari ahead of George Russell in the second Williams and&nbsp;Verstappen, whose late best lap was quick enough for&nbsp;pole&nbsp;before it was rubbed out after he exceeded track limits at Turn 19.&nbsp;

It was the 21st&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position of&nbsp;Leclerc’s career and gives him a chance of frustrating newly-crowned three-time champion&nbsp;Verstappen’s bid for a 50th&nbsp;career victory in Sunday’s race. "I am very happy with my qualifying and to take&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position," said&nbsp;Leclerc.&nbsp;

“It was a really good lap and the team did a great job. We had a very clean FP1, which is so important on these sprint weekends.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-sore-hip-sidelines-san-antonios-victor-wembanyama-for-first-time-in-career-665303">NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career</a>

Norris described his front-row start as a "bonus for the team”. He said: “I think I was quick enough to get&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position. I know Charles said he made a few mistakes, but so did I! And anyway, I am happy with second nevertheless.”

Hamilton, who relished the performance of his car’s upgrades at one of his favourite circuits, said: "I love being here at this circuit and I love the country. This is such an incredibly challenging circuit and one of my favourites, up there with Silverstone.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'My best shot' -</h2>

"We’ve taken a step closer to these guys this weekend, thanks to everyone in the factory who have been pushing so hard. I will give it my best shot tomorrow.” Behind a grumbling&nbsp;Verstappen, who complained on team radio, the Alpines of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon were seventh and eighth ahead of Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull and Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren.&nbsp;

The session began in glorious sunshine with a track temperature of 42 degrees Celsius and the air at 35, conditions to challenge tyres and cars at the Circuit of the Americas.&nbsp;Leclerc&nbsp;set an early fastest lap before&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;and then Nico Hulkenberg took command, the German making the most of a major upgrade package for his Haas on home soil.&nbsp;

Both Ferraris then swept to the top with Sainz leading&nbsp;Leclerc&nbsp;by two-tenths ahead of Gasly’s Alpine, with everyone running on softs, before they began their second Q1 runs.&nbsp;Sainz chose to save tyres and miss a second run as&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;went top by almost half a second only to be outpaced by Hamilton, on new tyres, who beat him by two-tenths. Norris was second.&nbsp;

At the bottom end, it was bad news for Aston Martin, despite an upgrade package, as both two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll failed to make the cut.&nbsp;Alonso was 17th&nbsp;and eliminated from Q1 for the first time this year along with Hulkenberg, in his Haas, Stroll, 19th, and the Williams pair Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant.&nbsp;

Stroll had missed most of practice due to brake problems, which also afflicted Alonso. For the Canadian son of team owner Lawrence Stroll, it was a fifth consecutive Q1 flop.&nbsp; In Q2, Mercedes set the pace until&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;seized the initiative in a close scrap that saw nine cars separated by less than four-tenths before their second runs saw Ferrari shine again.&nbsp;

Leclerc&nbsp;topped&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;ahead of Hamilton and Sainz while Alpha Tauri’s Yuki Tsunoda, Zhou Guanyu and his Alfa Romeo team-mate Valtteri Bottas, Kevin Magnussen of Haas and Daniel Ricciardo, in the second Alpha Tauri, were knocked out.&nbsp; All this left 10 cars from five teams in Q3’s shootout.

Leclerc&nbsp;topped the first runs ahead of Hamilton by 0.056 seconds with&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;third and Sainz fourth. Russell’s lap was deleted for exceeding track limits, leaving him 10th&nbsp;before the final showdown.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Charles Leclerc claimed his third pole position of the season on Friday as Max Verstappen had his best lap deleted and slipped to sixth on the grid in a dramatic qualifying at this weekend’s United States Grand Prix.

Charles Leclerc claimed his third pole position of the season on Friday as Max Verstappen had his best lap deleted and slipped to sixth on the grid in a dramatic qualifying at this weekend’s United States Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver showed commanding pace as he clocked a fastest lap in one minute and 34.723 seconds to outpace McLaren’s Lando Norris by a tenth with resurgent seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes taking third. Carlos Sainz was fourth in the second Ferrari ahead of George Russell in the second Williams and Verstappen, whose late best lap was quick enough for pole before it was rubbed out after he exceeded track limits at Turn 19. It was the 21st pole position of Leclerc’s career and gives him a chance of frustrating newly-crowned three-time champion Verstappen’s bid for a 50th career victory in Sunday’s race. "I am very happy with my qualifying and to take pole position," said Leclerc. “It was a really good lap and the team did a great job. We had a very clean FP1, which is so important on these sprint weekends.” Also Read: NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career Norris described his front-row start as a "bonus for the team”. He said: “I think I was quick enough to get pole position. I know Charles said he made a few mistakes, but so did I! And anyway, I am happy with second nevertheless.” Hamilton, who relished the performance of his car’s upgrades at one of his favourite circuits, said: "I love being here at this circuit and I love the country. This is such an incredibly challenging circuit and one of my favourites, up there with Silverstone. - 'My best shot' - "We’ve taken a step closer to these guys this weekend, thanks to everyone in the factory who have been pushing so hard. I will give it my best shot tomorrow.” Behind a grumbling Verstappen, who complained on team radio, the Alpines of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon were seventh and eighth ahead of Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull and Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren. The session began in glorious sunshine with a track temperature of 42 degrees Celsius and the air at 35, conditions to challenge tyres and cars at the Circuit of the Americas. Leclerc set an early fastest lap before Verstappen and then Nico Hulkenberg took command, the German making the most of a major upgrade package for his Haas on home soil. Both Ferraris then swept to the top with Sainz leading Leclerc by two-tenths ahead of Gasly’s Alpine, with everyone running on softs, before they began their second Q1 runs. Sainz chose to save tyres and miss a second run as Verstappen went top by almost half a second only to be outpaced by Hamilton, on new tyres, who beat him by two-tenths. Norris was second. At the bottom end, it was bad news for Aston Martin, despite an upgrade package, as both two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll failed to make the cut. Alonso was 17th and eliminated from Q1 for the first time this year along with Hulkenberg, in his Haas, Stroll, 19th, and the Williams pair Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant. Stroll had missed most of practice due to brake problems, which also afflicted Alonso. For the Canadian son of team owner Lawrence Stroll, it was a fifth consecutive Q1 flop. In Q2, Mercedes set the pace until Verstappen seized the initiative in a close scrap that saw nine cars separated by less than four-tenths before their second runs saw Ferrari shine again. Leclerc topped Verstappen ahead of Hamilton and Sainz while Alpha Tauri’s Yuki Tsunoda, Zhou Guanyu and his Alfa Romeo team-mate Valtteri Bottas, Kevin Magnussen of Haas and Daniel Ricciardo, in the second Alpha Tauri, were knocked out. All this left 10 cars from five teams in Q3’s shootout. Leclerc topped the first runs ahead of Hamilton by 0.056 seconds with Verstappen third and Sainz fourth. Russell’s lap was deleted for exceeding track limits, leaving him 10th before the final showdown. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Formula One: Charles Leclerc claims pole at United States GP, Verstappen slips to sixth on grid

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The three-time world champion came home 17.993 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc whose bold drive was not enough for the Italian team to claim the runners-up place in the constructors’ championship.

That went, finally, to Mercedes by just three points as although Sergio Perez came home second behind Verstappen on the road he was relegated to fourth with a five-second penalty, for a mid-race clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris, which promoted George Russell to third.

Norris was fifth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, Yuki Tsunoda of Alpha Tauri and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes.

Verstappen ended the season as the only driver to complete every lap of the season, more than 1000 laps led, and also broke Jim Clark’s 1963 record for the highest percentage of laps led in a season.

“An incredible season,” said Verstappen, who also paid tribute to retirement-bound Alpha Tauri boss Franz Tost who nurtured his early F1 career. “I felt quite emotional on the in-lap as it’s the last time in this car that has given me such a lot.

Russell said: “It was really tense at the end as the tyres were dropping off, but it’s a massive relief to bring the car home P3. It means a huge amount to so many people back at the factory.”

Leclerc, who slowed to allow Perez to pass him in the closing laps, said: “He had a penalty and we had to help him finish in front of George with the five seconds… but, unfortunately, it wasn’t enough… It’s a shame we finished third.”

The race began in hot conditions, with an air temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and the track cooling rapidly as the sun went down and the floodlights blazed on the Yas Marina Circuit. The top 12 cars started on medium compound tyres.

The Dutchman led from pole and fended off three early challenges from Leclerc to open up a one second lead before Drag Reduction System (DRS) was enabled on lap three when Perez swept inside Hamilton for ninth and Norris passed Piastri for third, having already passed Russell.

As the leaders all pitted for hards, Yuki Tsunoda took over on lap 18, giving Alpha Tauri and Tost a memorable moment, only the second time a Japanese driver had led a Formula One race.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-lakers-beat-cavaliers-for-third-straight-win-on-road-76ers-hold-off-oklahoma-city-thunder-662957">Lakers beat Cavaliers for third straight win on road; 76ers hold off Oklahoma City Thunder</a>

He stayed there as Verstappen weaved his way back to the front, finally taking control again on lap 23 when Tsunoda pitted, returning in 12th behind Hamilton, who survived an early bump into the rear of Pierre Gasly’s Alpine with front wing damage.

By lap 30, it was a familiar story. Verstappen led Leclerc by 6.5 seconds with Russell 2.1 behind in third and Norris fourth. Hamilton was eighth and Sainz 14th.

As the second stops began, Norris pitted again on lap 34, taking fresh hards. He re-joined 10th. Mercedes responded, bringing Russell in – and he came out in P9 while Hamilton battled Alonso for ninth and Sainz, on an aggressive strategy, rose to eighth.

As it stood, it was advantage Ferrari again while, at the front, Verstappen came in again on lap 44, retaining his lead to emerge with a 15-lap cruise to the flag before Hamilton passed Sainz for ninth with 10 laps to go.

It was advantage Mercedes again, but when Russell was passed by Perez, for third, the ‘silver arrows’ hopes hung on the five-second penalty the Mexican was given for an earlier clash with Norris as the flag came out for Verstappen.

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The three-time world champion came home 17.993 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc whose bold drive was not enough for the Italian team to claim the runners-up place in the constructors’ championship. That went, finally, to Mercedes by just three points as although Sergio Perez came home second behind Verstappen on the road he was relegated to fourth with a five-second penalty, for a mid-race clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris, which promoted George Russell to third. Norris was fifth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, Yuki Tsunoda of Alpha Tauri and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes. Verstappen ended the season as the only driver to complete every lap of the season, more than 1000 laps led, and also broke Jim Clark’s 1963 record for the highest percentage of laps led in a season. “An incredible season,” said Verstappen, who also paid tribute to retirement-bound Alpha Tauri boss Franz Tost who nurtured his early F1 career. “I felt quite emotional on the in-lap as it’s the last time in this car that has given me such a lot. Russell said: “It was really tense at the end as the tyres were dropping off, but it’s a massive relief to bring the car home P3. It means a huge amount to so many people back at the factory.” Leclerc, who slowed to allow Perez to pass him in the closing laps, said: “He had a penalty and we had to help him finish in front of George with the five seconds… but, unfortunately, it wasn’t enough… It’s a shame we finished third.” The race began in hot conditions, with an air temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and the track cooling rapidly as the sun went down and the floodlights blazed on the Yas Marina Circuit. The top 12 cars started on medium compound tyres. The Dutchman led from pole and fended off three early challenges from Leclerc to open up a one second lead before Drag Reduction System (DRS) was enabled on lap three when Perez swept inside Hamilton for ninth and Norris passed Piastri for third, having already passed Russell. As the leaders all pitted for hards, Yuki Tsunoda took over on lap 18, giving Alpha Tauri and Tost a memorable moment, only the second time a Japanese driver had led a Formula One race. ALSO READ: Lakers beat Cavaliers for third straight win on road; 76ers hold off Oklahoma City Thunder He stayed there as Verstappen weaved his way back to the front, finally taking control again on lap 23 when Tsunoda pitted, returning in 12th behind Hamilton, who survived an early bump into the rear of Pierre Gasly’s Alpine with front wing damage. By lap 30, it was a familiar story. Verstappen led Leclerc by 6.5 seconds with Russell 2.1 behind in third and Norris fourth. Hamilton was eighth and Sainz 14th. As the second stops began, Norris pitted again on lap 34, taking fresh hards. He re-joined 10th. Mercedes responded, bringing Russell in – and he came out in P9 while Hamilton battled Alonso for ninth and Sainz, on an aggressive strategy, rose to eighth. As it stood, it was advantage Ferrari again while, at the front, Verstappen came in again on lap 44, retaining his lead to emerge with a 15-lap cruise to the flag before Hamilton passed Sainz for ninth with 10 laps to go. It was advantage Mercedes again, but when Russell was passed by Perez, for third, the ‘silver arrows’ hopes hung on the five-second penalty the Mexican was given for an earlier clash with Norris as the flag came out for Verstappen.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen caps off majestic season with record-breaking win at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Legendary Mercedes Formula One driver and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on his unlikely Red Bull switch as he aimed at defending champions Max Verstappen before the Abu Dhabi GP. In news recently for an unlikely switch, Hamilton has been linked with several teams including Verstappen’s Red Bull. However, after his latest remarks on Thursday against Verstappen, both legends likely stay divided and not united before the 2024 Formula One season takes center stage.

<h2>Hamilton aims at Verstappen</h2>

"I 100 per cent would be more than happy to race against him (Verstappen) in an equal car," Hamilton told Sky Sports.

"For me, Red Bull has done an amazing job and it is an incredible team. And any driver would love to drive for such a great group of people.

"I think moving from a car that's not so great to a winning car, from my perspective, that's not a dream. The dream is always to start where we kind of are and build up to then winning. That's why I've stayed with Mercedes."

He concluded to the written press in Abu Dhabi: "I don't think he wants me to be his team-mate."

The Verstappen-Hamilton rivalry has been the recent big thing in Formula One, but 2023 was no- nonsense for the former as he won the Championship with four races to spare. The two were closet in 2021 fighting until the last turn when Verstappen piped Hamilton to clinch the Formula One World Championship.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-300-million-fans-watch-india-vs-australia-odi-world-cup-final-on-tv-posts-jay-shah-662007">RECORD-BREAKING 300 million fans watched India vs Australia ODI World Cup final on TV, says Jay Shah</a>

<h2>Hamilton in 2023</h2>

On Sunday both Hamilton and Verstappen will race on the same circuit of Abu Dhabi where they tussled for the championship. Compared to recent seasons, Hamilton has been below-par this campaign with just six podium finishes with his best coming at the Australian GP, Spanish GP and Mexican GP where he finished second. At the Hungarian GP, he ended a spell of 33 races without a pole position, his first since the 2021 Saudi Arabia GP and his record-extending 104th of his illustrious career. Currently, he has guaranteed a third-place finish with 232 points with one final race to go on Sunday.

Legendary Mercedes Formula One driver and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on his unlikely Red Bull switch as he aimed at defending champions Max Verstappen before the Abu Dhabi GP.

Legendary Mercedes Formula One driver and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on his unlikely Red Bull switch as he aimed at defending champions Max Verstappen before the Abu Dhabi GP. In news recently for an unlikely switch, Hamilton has been linked with several teams including Verstappen’s Red Bull. However, after his latest remarks on Thursday against Verstappen, both legends likely stay divided and not united before the 2024 Formula One season takes center stage. Hamilton aims at Verstappen "I 100 per cent would be more than happy to race against him (Verstappen) in an equal car," Hamilton told Sky Sports. "For me, Red Bull has done an amazing job and it is an incredible team. And any driver would love to drive for such a great group of people. "I think moving from a car that's not so great to a winning car, from my perspective, that's not a dream. The dream is always to start where we kind of are and build up to then winning. That's why I've stayed with Mercedes." He concluded to the written press in Abu Dhabi: "I don't think he wants me to be his team-mate." The Verstappen-Hamilton rivalry has been the recent big thing in Formula One, but 2023 was no- nonsense for the former as he won the Championship with four races to spare. The two were closet in 2021 fighting until the last turn when Verstappen piped Hamilton to clinch the Formula One World Championship. ALSO READ | RECORD-BREAKING 300 million fans watched India vs Australia ODI World Cup final on TV, says Jay Shah Hamilton in 2023 On Sunday both Hamilton and Verstappen will race on the same circuit of Abu Dhabi where they tussled for the championship. Compared to recent seasons, Hamilton has been below-par this campaign with just six podium finishes with his best coming at the Australian GP, Spanish GP and Mexican GP where he finished second. At the Hungarian GP, he ended a spell of 33 races without a pole position, his first since the 2021 Saudi Arabia GP and his record-extending 104th of his illustrious career. Currently, he has guaranteed a third-place finish with 232 points with one final race to go on Sunday.

F1: Max Verstappen doesn't want me to be his teammate - Lewis Hamilton opens up on unlikely Red Bull switch

World champion Max Verstappen claimed the 18th win of his record-breaking season, with victory in a thrilling Las Vegas Grand Prix on Saturday.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc overtook Red Bull's Sergio Perez on the last lap to grab second place ahead of the Mexican with French driver Esteban Ocon of Alpine finishing fourth.

Verstappen had been highly critical of the return of Formula One to Vegas after a 41-year absence but as he drove past the finish line he celebrated with a chorus of 'Viva Las Vegas' on the team radio.

The pre-race grid was packed with a host of celebrities from the world of music, sport and entertainment as memories of the embarrassment of the opening practice session on Thursday being stopped early due to a loose water valve on the track, faded.

When the race was under way, the low grip on the track made sure there was no shortage of incident, overtaking and lead changes, as the night race delivered the entertainment the American promotors had craved from the new event.

The Dutchman won by 2.070 over Leclerc but had to work for his victory in what was the latest starting race in F1 history

"It was a tough one. I tried to go for it at the start. We both braked quite late and I just ran out of grip, so we ended up a bit wide," said the triple world champion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/140-crore-indians-are-cheering-for-you-pm-modi-wishes-team-india-ahead-of-cwc-2023-final-vs-australia-660333">140 crore Indians are cheering for you: PM Modi wishes Team India ahead of CWC 2023 final vs Australia</a>

<h2>A lot of fun</h2>

"The stewards gave me a penalty for that and it put us on the backfoot. I had to pass quite a few cars and there was the Safety Car, so at that point there was a lot going on.

"Then we went flat out. I had to pass a few cars to get into the battle with them. The DRS around here was very powerful. Even when you would take the lead, if the guy behind stays in the DRS, he would still have the opportunity to come back to you, so it created a lot of good racing today. Definitely a lot of fun," he said.

The Dutchman, starting second on the grid, grabbed the lead in the first turn of the opening lap but was penalised five seconds for pushing Leclerc wide.

But Ferrari's Monegasque driver Leclerc kept in close touch and was able to get the lead back, overtaking Verstappen on lap 16.

Verstappen had to serve his penalty in the pit, leaving him plenty of work to do to regain his lead and when Leclerc went into the pits on lap 22, Perez took over at the front.

Mercedes' George Russell made contact with Verstappen, clipping his front wing, an incident which resulted in a five second penalty for the British driver.

Leclerc and Perez jousted for the lead but Verstappen was ominously gaining ground and after he passed Perez he then made his decisive move on lap 37.

From then on, Verstappen never looked back, Leclerc slipping into third spot after he out-braked himself and allowed Perez to fly by.

But there was one more twist in the tale as Leclerc brilliantly moved past Perez to&nbsp;grab second place.

"What a race. I enjoyed it so much. I'm of course disappointed to only finish second, but that's the best we could do," said Leclerc.

"And we needed it. The weekend didn't start the way we wanted it to start but I am so happy it ended that way. It's such an incredible sport. The energy around the city is incredible and I at least really enjoyed today," he said.

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, who had started in 12th place after being sanctioned with a harsh ten-place grid penalty, rose to finish sixth behind Aston Martin's Lance Stroll.

The Mercedes pair of Lewis Hamilton and Russell finished seventh and eighth with Aston Martin's veteran Spaniard Fernando Alonso ninth and McLaren's Australian Oscar Piastri tenth.

World champion Max Verstappen claimed the 18th win of his record-breaking season, with victory in a thrilling Las Vegas Grand Prix on Saturday. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc overtook Red Bull's Sergio Perez on the last lap to grab second place ahead of the Mexican with French driver Esteban Ocon of Alpine finishing fourth.

World champion Max Verstappen claimed the 18th win of his record-breaking season, with victory in a thrilling Las Vegas Grand Prix on Saturday. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc overtook Red Bull's Sergio Perez on the last lap to grab second place ahead of the Mexican with French driver Esteban Ocon of Alpine finishing fourth. Verstappen had been highly critical of the return of Formula One to Vegas after a 41-year absence but as he drove past the finish line he celebrated with a chorus of 'Viva Las Vegas' on the team radio. The pre-race grid was packed with a host of celebrities from the world of music, sport and entertainment as memories of the embarrassment of the opening practice session on Thursday being stopped early due to a loose water valve on the track, faded. When the race was under way, the low grip on the track made sure there was no shortage of incident, overtaking and lead changes, as the night race delivered the entertainment the American promotors had craved from the new event. The Dutchman won by 2.070 over Leclerc but had to work for his victory in what was the latest starting race in F1 history "It was a tough one. I tried to go for it at the start. We both braked quite late and I just ran out of grip, so we ended up a bit wide," said the triple world champion. ALSO READ | 140 crore Indians are cheering for you: PM Modi wishes Team India ahead of CWC 2023 final vs Australia A lot of fun "The stewards gave me a penalty for that and it put us on the backfoot. I had to pass quite a few cars and there was the Safety Car, so at that point there was a lot going on. "Then we went flat out. I had to pass a few cars to get into the battle with them. The DRS around here was very powerful. Even when you would take the lead, if the guy behind stays in the DRS, he would still have the opportunity to come back to you, so it created a lot of good racing today. Definitely a lot of fun," he said. The Dutchman, starting second on the grid, grabbed the lead in the first turn of the opening lap but was penalised five seconds for pushing Leclerc wide. But Ferrari's Monegasque driver Leclerc kept in close touch and was able to get the lead back, overtaking Verstappen on lap 16. Verstappen had to serve his penalty in the pit, leaving him plenty of work to do to regain his lead and when Leclerc went into the pits on lap 22, Perez took over at the front. Mercedes' George Russell made contact with Verstappen, clipping his front wing, an incident which resulted in a five second penalty for the British driver. Leclerc and Perez jousted for the lead but Verstappen was ominously gaining ground and after he passed Perez he then made his decisive move on lap 37. From then on, Verstappen never looked back, Leclerc slipping into third spot after he out-braked himself and allowed Perez to fly by. But there was one more twist in the tale as Leclerc brilliantly moved past Perez to grab second place. "What a race. I enjoyed it so much. I'm of course disappointed to only finish second, but that's the best we could do," said Leclerc. "And we needed it. The weekend didn't start the way we wanted it to start but I am so happy it ended that way. It's such an incredible sport. The energy around the city is incredible and I at least really enjoyed today," he said. Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, who had started in 12th place after being sanctioned with a harsh ten-place grid penalty, rose to finish sixth behind Aston Martin's Lance Stroll. The Mercedes pair of Lewis Hamilton and Russell finished seventh and eighth with Aston Martin's veteran Spaniard Fernando Alonso ninth and McLaren's Australian Oscar Piastri tenth.

Formula One: Max Verstappen battles through to win Las Vegas Grand Prix thriller

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has slammed the Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled for later in the weekend, saying the event is "99 per cent show" and that he isn't looking forward to the race.&nbsp;

The Grand Prix weekend kick-started on Wednesday evening with a lavish and rather over-the-top opening ceremony that featured performances from popular celebrities.&nbsp;

"It's 99 per cent show and one per cent sporting event.&nbsp;Not a lot of emotions to be honest. I mean I don't like...I just want to always focus on the performance side of things, I don't like all the things around it anyway," said Verstappen.&nbsp;

The Red Bull driver said he didn't have a chat with the F1 organisers about his views but doubted his views would have an impact on the proceedings.&nbsp;

"I don't know. I guess they still make money if I like it or not, so it's not up to me. But I'm also not going to fake it," he said.

<h2>No interesting: Verstappen on street circuit&nbsp;</h2>

Quizzed about the street circuit that has been laid across the Las Vegas strip, much to the inconvenience of the locals, Verstappen was blunt in his response.&nbsp;

"Yeah, not very interesting...it's just not many corners to be honest," Verstappen said, adding that he wasn't particularly looking forward to the race.

"No. No, but I'm looking forward to trying to do the best I can, but I'm not looking forward to this," he said, pointing to the hospitality areas above the paddock.

While F1's owners Liberty Media have grown the sport ever since taking over in 2016, the over-commercialisation has led to calls from the spectators to dial it down a bit.&nbsp;

The US has been given three races apart from the traditional race in Austin by the American owners in an attempt to tap the market. Mimai GP was introduced last year amid much criticism but Liberty Media have gone ahead and given the nod to Las Vegas GP as well, congesting the already cramped calendar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-to-let-anyone-max-verstappen-invites-critics-to-drive-his-f1-car-for-this-reason-650374">Also read |&nbsp;'Happy to let anyone...': Max Verstappen invites critics to drive his F1 car for THIS reason</a>

Having won the World Championship in Qatar in October, Verstappen would still be hoping to win the penultimate race before moving to Abu Dhabi where he has some fond memories of winning the maiden championship.&nbsp;

Verstappen won the Brazil Grand Prix earlier this month rather comfortably with McLaren's Lando Norris and Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso finishing behind him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has slammed the Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled for later in the weekend, saying the event is "99 per cent show" and that he isn't looking forward to the race.

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has slammed the Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled for later in the weekend, saying the event is "99 per cent show" and that he isn't looking forward to the race. The Grand Prix weekend kick-started on Wednesday evening with a lavish and rather over-the-top opening ceremony that featured performances from popular celebrities. "It's 99 per cent show and one per cent sporting event. Not a lot of emotions to be honest. I mean I don't like...I just want to always focus on the performance side of things, I don't like all the things around it anyway," said Verstappen. The Red Bull driver said he didn't have a chat with the F1 organisers about his views but doubted his views would have an impact on the proceedings. "I don't know. I guess they still make money if I like it or not, so it's not up to me. But I'm also not going to fake it," he said. No interesting: Verstappen on street circuit Quizzed about the street circuit that has been laid across the Las Vegas strip, much to the inconvenience of the locals, Verstappen was blunt in his response. "Yeah, not very interesting...it's just not many corners to be honest," Verstappen said, adding that he wasn't particularly looking forward to the race. "No. No, but I'm looking forward to trying to do the best I can, but I'm not looking forward to this," he said, pointing to the hospitality areas above the paddock. While F1's owners Liberty Media have grown the sport ever since taking over in 2016, the over-commercialisation has led to calls from the spectators to dial it down a bit. The US has been given three races apart from the traditional race in Austin by the American owners in an attempt to tap the market. Mimai GP was introduced last year amid much criticism but Liberty Media have gone ahead and given the nod to Las Vegas GP as well, congesting the already cramped calendar. Also read | 'Happy to let anyone...': Max Verstappen invites critics to drive his F1 car for THIS reason Having won the World Championship in Qatar in October, Verstappen would still be hoping to win the penultimate race before moving to Abu Dhabi where he has some fond memories of winning the maiden championship. Verstappen won the Brazil Grand Prix earlier this month rather comfortably with McLaren's Lando Norris and Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso finishing behind him. (With inputs from agencies)

F1: 'I'm not going to fake it', Max Verstappen slams soulless Las Vegas GP

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took a record-extending 17th win of the Formula One season in Brazil on Sunday while Fernando Alonso provided the thrills in a red-flagged and re-started Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

McLaren's Lando Norris finished second, 8.2 seconds behind but with a bonus point for fastest lap, while Aston Martin's Alonso took third place by a whisker from Red Bull's Sergio Perez.

Verstappen, now fourth in the all-time list of winners and ahead of French great Alain Prost after his 52nd career victory, clinched the title in Qatar last month while Red Bull have also retained their constructors' title.

The champions have won 19 of the 20 races so far, including the last five in a row.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-blast-pgmol-for-referring-controversy-in-newcastle-game-655507">Premier League: Arsenal blast PGMOL for referring controversy in Newcastle game</a>

"Well done Max, that was absolutely clinical once again," said team boss Christian Horner over the radio as Verstappen took the chequered flag from pole position at Interlagos.

The victory stretched his lead over Perez to 266 points, with the Mexican now 32 clear of Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton in the battle for second overall.

"The starts were very important today. Both of them were I think very good. After that the whole race was about the management of the tyres," said Verstappen, who also won Saturday's sprint race.

While the Dutch driver's victory always looked inevitable, Alonso provided the late thrills with a dramatic battle with Perez in which he showed all the attacking fire and defensive skill of a double world champion.

The Spaniard crossed the finish line just 0.053 seconds ahead of the Mexican after Perez passed him on the penultimate lap and Alonso, the oldest man in the race at 42, grabbed the place back on the last.

"It was like 30 laps when I had the pressure from Checo (Perez)," he said. "When he passed me two laps to the end, I thought 'okay, this is gone, the podium is not possible anymore'.

"This is a phenomenal result for the team. We have been struggling for a couple of months, especially the last two events with two retirements."

Norris, who started Saturday's sprint on pole, said his result was "as good as we can get nowadays and for the time being".

The podium was the 13th of the Briton's career, equalling Nick Heidfeld's unwanted record of the most top-three finishes without a win.

<h2>FERRARI BLOW, MERCEDES MISERY</h2>

Aston Martin's Lance Stroll was fifth, ahead of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Hamilton, whose Mercedes team had their worst result of the season so far.

Yuki Tsunoda was ninth for AlphaTauri and Esteban Ocon took the final point for Alpine.

George Russell, last year's winner for Mercedes, retired from 11th place with an overheating power unit facing imminent failure.

Ferrari suffered a blow before the race had even started when Charles Leclerc, who had qualified on the front row, crashed out on the formation lap but still gained ultimately on Mercedes in the standings.

Norris was the big beneficiary, powering from sixth to second into the first corner and speeding past the two Aston Martins on the inside while Hamilton did the same on the outside.

A collision into the first corner involving Haas pair Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg and Williams's Alex Albon triggered the safety car before the race was red-flagged for repairs to the tyre barrier.

Verstappen again led cleanly away from the standing re-start, with Norris holding second place and putting some initial pressure on the Red Bull driver before the challenge faded, while Alonso passed Hamilton for third.

The red flags helped McLaren's Australian rookie Oscar Piastri who was caught up in the first-lap carnage but whose mechanics then had time to repair the damage and get him back out from a pitlane start.

Compatriot Daniel Ricciardo, whose AlphaTauri's rear wing was broken by a bouncing tyre at the first start, was also given a second chance.

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took a record-extending 17th win of the Formula One season in Brazil on Sunday while Fernando Alonso provided the thrills in a red-flagged and re-started Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took a record-extending 17th win of the Formula One season in Brazil on Sunday while Fernando Alonso provided the thrills in a red-flagged and re-started Sao Paulo Grand Prix. McLaren's Lando Norris finished second, 8.2 seconds behind but with a bonus point for fastest lap, while Aston Martin's Alonso took third place by a whisker from Red Bull's Sergio Perez. Verstappen, now fourth in the all-time list of winners and ahead of French great Alain Prost after his 52nd career victory, clinched the title in Qatar last month while Red Bull have also retained their constructors' title. The champions have won 19 of the 20 races so far, including the last five in a row. ALSO READ: Premier League: Arsenal blast PGMOL for referring controversy in Newcastle game "Well done Max, that was absolutely clinical once again," said team boss Christian Horner over the radio as Verstappen took the chequered flag from pole position at Interlagos. The victory stretched his lead over Perez to 266 points, with the Mexican now 32 clear of Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton in the battle for second overall. "The starts were very important today. Both of them were I think very good. After that the whole race was about the management of the tyres," said Verstappen, who also won Saturday's sprint race. While the Dutch driver's victory always looked inevitable, Alonso provided the late thrills with a dramatic battle with Perez in which he showed all the attacking fire and defensive skill of a double world champion. The Spaniard crossed the finish line just 0.053 seconds ahead of the Mexican after Perez passed him on the penultimate lap and Alonso, the oldest man in the race at 42, grabbed the place back on the last. "It was like 30 laps when I had the pressure from Checo (Perez)," he said. "When he passed me two laps to the end, I thought 'okay, this is gone, the podium is not possible anymore'. "This is a phenomenal result for the team. We have been struggling for a couple of months, especially the last two events with two retirements." Norris, who started Saturday's sprint on pole, said his result was "as good as we can get nowadays and for the time being". The podium was the 13th of the Briton's career, equalling Nick Heidfeld's unwanted record of the most top-three finishes without a win. FERRARI BLOW, MERCEDES MISERY Aston Martin's Lance Stroll was fifth, ahead of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Hamilton, whose Mercedes team had their worst result of the season so far. Yuki Tsunoda was ninth for AlphaTauri and Esteban Ocon took the final point for Alpine. George Russell, last year's winner for Mercedes, retired from 11th place with an overheating power unit facing imminent failure. Ferrari suffered a blow before the race had even started when Charles Leclerc, who had qualified on the front row, crashed out on the formation lap but still gained ultimately on Mercedes in the standings. Norris was the big beneficiary, powering from sixth to second into the first corner and speeding past the two Aston Martins on the inside while Hamilton did the same on the outside. A collision into the first corner involving Haas pair Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg and Williams's Alex Albon triggered the safety car before the race was red-flagged for repairs to the tyre barrier. Verstappen again led cleanly away from the standing re-start, with Norris holding second place and putting some initial pressure on the Red Bull driver before the challenge faded, while Alonso passed Hamilton for third. The red flags helped McLaren's Australian rookie Oscar Piastri who was caught up in the first-lap carnage but whose mechanics then had time to repair the damage and get him back out from a pitlane start. Compatriot Daniel Ricciardo, whose AlphaTauri's rear wing was broken by a bouncing tyre at the first start, was also given a second chance.

Formula 1: Red Bull's Max Verstappen grabs 17th win of season at Sao Paulo Grand Prix in sprint race

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is willing to lend his powerful R19 Formula 1 car to anyone if they want to test the track limits and see if they can do better than the three-time world champion.

Verstappen is of the view that it is difficult for drivers to monitor the track limits at certain tracks and that pundits went overboard with the criticism.&nbsp;

“I will happily let anyone else drive my car, see if they can do better with track limits. Some tracks, yeah, just a lot of runoff, so naturally you are a bit…you find probably the limits a bit easier because we never really talk about track limits, for example, in Suzuka and that’s probably a bit more of an old-school track.”

Ever since the white line was set as the standard limit across all tracks by the FIA, it has become one of the big topics of discussion. The Austrian driver said owning to the new regulations, drivers were playing safe and not pushing these powerful machines to their limits.

“The latest kind of track standards, they have a thing to do with it and it’s a bit of a shame," Verstappen said.

"I feel like with some of these new tracks that you’re more focused on a qualy lap to not go over a white line than actually finding the limit or just the pure enjoyment of pushing. It’s more like you’re looking at: ‘did I make it or not?’ Oh, yeah, I made it’.”

During the US Grand Prix qualifying, Verstappen earned a P3 spot on the grid but his final qualifying lap was deleted after he went a fraction wide on turn 19. Consequently, he started the race from P6.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-max-verstappen-grabs-50th-career-win-at-us-grand-prix-lewis-hamilton-disqualified-after-post-race-checks-650125">Also read |&nbsp;F1: Max Verstappen grabs 50th career win at US Grand Prix; Lewis Hamilton disqualified after post-race checks</a>

<h2>Verstappen booed</h2>

Having won the World Championship in Qatar earlier this month, Verstappen refused to lift the foot off the pedal at the US GP where he claimed an impressive fightback victory.&nbsp;

Verstappen managed to keep a charging Lewis Hamilton at bay to secure his 50th career win from sixth on the grid. However, the crowd in Austin was loudly booed when he took to the podium to receive the trophy.&nbsp;

Fans were heard chanting Verstappen's Red Bull teammate&nbsp;Sergio Perez's name while Hamilton and Lando Norris were both met with applause.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is willing to lend his powerful R19 Formula 1 car to anyone if they want to test the track limits and see if they can do better than the three-time world champion.

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is willing to lend his powerful R19 Formula 1 car to anyone if they want to test the track limits and see if they can do better than the three-time world champion. Verstappen is of the view that it is difficult for drivers to monitor the track limits at certain tracks and that pundits went overboard with the criticism. “I will happily let anyone else drive my car, see if they can do better with track limits. Some tracks, yeah, just a lot of runoff, so naturally you are a bit…you find probably the limits a bit easier because we never really talk about track limits, for example, in Suzuka and that’s probably a bit more of an old-school track.” Ever since the white line was set as the standard limit across all tracks by the FIA, it has become one of the big topics of discussion. The Austrian driver said owning to the new regulations, drivers were playing safe and not pushing these powerful machines to their limits. “The latest kind of track standards, they have a thing to do with it and it’s a bit of a shame," Verstappen said. "I feel like with some of these new tracks that you’re more focused on a qualy lap to not go over a white line than actually finding the limit or just the pure enjoyment of pushing. It’s more like you’re looking at: ‘did I make it or not?’ Oh, yeah, I made it’.” During the US Grand Prix qualifying, Verstappen earned a P3 spot on the grid but his final qualifying lap was deleted after he went a fraction wide on turn 19. Consequently, he started the race from P6. Also read | F1: Max Verstappen grabs 50th career win at US Grand Prix; Lewis Hamilton disqualified after post-race checks Verstappen booed Having won the World Championship in Qatar earlier this month, Verstappen refused to lift the foot off the pedal at the US GP where he claimed an impressive fightback victory. Verstappen managed to keep a charging Lewis Hamilton at bay to secure his 50th career win from sixth on the grid. However, the crowd in Austin was loudly booed when he took to the podium to receive the trophy. Fans were heard chanting Verstappen's Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez's name while Hamilton and Lando Norris were both met with applause. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Happy to let anyone...': Max Verstappen invites critics to drive his F1 car for THIS reason

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took the 50th win of his Formula One career, and record-equalling 15th of the season, at the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday while Lewis Hamilton was disqualified from second after post-race checks.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, who finished sixth, was also excluded for excessive wear of the mandatory wooden plank under the car's floor.

"Others got it right where we got it wrong and there's no wiggle room in the rules. We need to take it on the chin, do the learning, and come back stronger next weekend," said Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.

Hamilton's exclusion meant McLaren's Lando Norris moved up from third to second with Ferrari's Carlos Sainz completing the podium, even if the ceremonies were long over by then.

The victory was Verstappen's third in a row at Austin's Circuit of the Americas and equalled, with four races to spare, the record the Dutch 26-year-old set last year for most wins in a single season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manuel-locatelli-wins-it-for-juventus-against-10-man-ac-milan-in-blockbuster-serie-a-clash-650120">Manuel Locatelli wins it for Juventus against 10-man AC Milan in blockbuster Serie A clash</a>

Dominant Red Bull and Verstappen, who started in sixth place and whose win was the first in Austin by a driver not on the front row, have already secured the constructors' and drivers' titles.

"The whole race, I was struggling a lot with the brakes," said Verstappen, who was booed by some of the crowd as he stood on the podium. "You could see it was very close to the end."

Norris, lining up on the front row, seized the lead from pole-sitter Leclerc into the first corner but his hopes of a first win in his 100th start had faded by the half distance.

On the plus side, his points haul allowed McLaren to leapfrog Aston Martin for fourth in the constructors' standings.

Verstappen was fifth by the end of lap one and used the DRS drag reduction to take the lead from Norris on the 28th of 56 laps.

He did not just disappear into the distance, as so often this season, instead complaining over the radio about the brakes and giving Mercedes hope that they might be able to reel him in with their upgraded car.

"We changed the brakes after yesterday and it was not good," he said, referring to the Saturday 19-lap sprint that he won from pole.

"I had no good feeling under braking and I couldn't really get on top of it for the whole race, so this is something we need to understand."

<h2>MORE LAPS</h2>

Seven times world champion Hamilton provided excitement at the end as he chased Verstappen, starting the last lap only 1.8 seconds behind after being 5.3 adrift when he passed Norris with seven laps remaining.

"We were catching them towards the end and I was hopeful but we needed some more laps," said Hamilton before the summons to stewards.

Red Bull's Sergio Perez moved up to fourth with George Russell fifth for Mercedes ahead of Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Aston Martin's Lance Stroll, who started from the pit lane.

AlphaTauri's Yuki Tsunoda moved up to eighth and also took a bonus point for fastest lap right at the finish.

Williams duo Alex Albon and rookie Logan Sargeant bagged unexpected points with ninth and 10th, the latter scoring for the first time and in his home race.

Verstappen increased his unassailable lead over Mexican Perez to 226 points and became only the fifth Formula One driver to reach 50 wins. Perez in turn moved 39 clear of closest rival Hamilton.

If Verstappen wins in Mexico next weekend he will match the tally of four times world champion Alain Prost and could overtake former Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel's 53 wins before the end of the season.

Alpine's Esteban Ocon and McLaren's Oscar Piastri collided and retired, as did Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took the 50th win of his Formula One career, and record-equalling 15th of the season, at the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday while Lewis Hamilton was disqualified from second after post-race checks.

Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen took the 50th win of his Formula One career, and record-equalling 15th of the season, at the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday while Lewis Hamilton was disqualified from second after post-race checks. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, who finished sixth, was also excluded for excessive wear of the mandatory wooden plank under the car's floor. "Others got it right where we got it wrong and there's no wiggle room in the rules. We need to take it on the chin, do the learning, and come back stronger next weekend," said Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Hamilton's exclusion meant McLaren's Lando Norris moved up from third to second with Ferrari's Carlos Sainz completing the podium, even if the ceremonies were long over by then. The victory was Verstappen's third in a row at Austin's Circuit of the Americas and equalled, with four races to spare, the record the Dutch 26-year-old set last year for most wins in a single season. ALSO READ: Manuel Locatelli wins it for Juventus against 10-man AC Milan in blockbuster Serie A clash Dominant Red Bull and Verstappen, who started in sixth place and whose win was the first in Austin by a driver not on the front row, have already secured the constructors' and drivers' titles. "The whole race, I was struggling a lot with the brakes," said Verstappen, who was booed by some of the crowd as he stood on the podium. "You could see it was very close to the end." Norris, lining up on the front row, seized the lead from pole-sitter Leclerc into the first corner but his hopes of a first win in his 100th start had faded by the half distance. On the plus side, his points haul allowed McLaren to leapfrog Aston Martin for fourth in the constructors' standings. Verstappen was fifth by the end of lap one and used the DRS drag reduction to take the lead from Norris on the 28th of 56 laps. He did not just disappear into the distance, as so often this season, instead complaining over the radio about the brakes and giving Mercedes hope that they might be able to reel him in with their upgraded car. "We changed the brakes after yesterday and it was not good," he said, referring to the Saturday 19-lap sprint that he won from pole. "I had no good feeling under braking and I couldn't really get on top of it for the whole race, so this is something we need to understand." MORE LAPS Seven times world champion Hamilton provided excitement at the end as he chased Verstappen, starting the last lap only 1.8 seconds behind after being 5.3 adrift when he passed Norris with seven laps remaining. "We were catching them towards the end and I was hopeful but we needed some more laps," said Hamilton before the summons to stewards. Red Bull's Sergio Perez moved up to fourth with George Russell fifth for Mercedes ahead of Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Aston Martin's Lance Stroll, who started from the pit lane. AlphaTauri's Yuki Tsunoda moved up to eighth and also took a bonus point for fastest lap right at the finish. Williams duo Alex Albon and rookie Logan Sargeant bagged unexpected points with ninth and 10th, the latter scoring for the first time and in his home race. Verstappen increased his unassailable lead over Mexican Perez to 226 points and became only the fifth Formula One driver to reach 50 wins. Perez in turn moved 39 clear of closest rival Hamilton. If Verstappen wins in Mexico next weekend he will match the tally of four times world champion Alain Prost and could overtake former Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel's 53 wins before the end of the season. Alpine's Esteban Ocon and McLaren's Oscar Piastri collided and retired, as did Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

F1: Max Verstappen grabs 50th career win at US Grand Prix; Lewis Hamilton disqualified after post-race checks

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture.&nbsp;

The Dutch driver has been in a class of his own ever since he won the first title in 2021, in&nbsp;a rather controversial manner against Lewis Hamilton. He won the third championship last week at the Qatar Grand Prix, with four races still left in the calendar.&nbsp;

“It has an incredible history in this sport and is a great opponent to compete against. Future at Ferrari? When my current contract expires I will be 31 years old and I think I can still do well," Verstappen was quoted as saying by Sportweek.&nbsp;

Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2016 and the two have enjoyed a highly fruitful partnership over the years. Despite rumours surrounding a Ferrari move, Verstappen added that he was happy with Red Bull and felt at home with the current team.&nbsp;

"It would be a beautiful story if I could drive here forever, that's for sure, something that will be amazing. I'm really happy with where I am. I feel at home, I feel really happy with the people who are very close to me here in the team. For me, this is not something that I need to seek. I have a few more years left on my contract anyway, so I'm just enjoying the moment."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-womens-f1-academy-to-support-seven-grand-prix-in-next-season-648304">Also read |&nbsp;Motor Racing: Women's F1 Academy to support seven Grand Prix in next season</a>

<h2>Ferrari's title drought&nbsp;</h2>

While Red Bull has been enjoying a stellar run on the F1 grid, Ferrari has been struggling. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have struggled to land consistent podiums this season, primarily due to deficiencies in the car. The last driver to win the championship&nbsp;with Ferrari remains Kimi Raikkonen, who won it in 2007.&nbsp;

Regarding the lack of competition around him, Verstappen wished to have more challenge.&nbsp;

"I mean, yes, to fight different teams. But on the other hand, I also really challenge myself. I really try to get the best out of myself every single weekend. I try to look at things that I can do better and I try to improve as a driver, which I think is also great because you have all this success, right?"

At the back end of the season, Mercedes and McLaren have emerged as the two rivals that can potentially challenge Verstappen next year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture. The Dutch driver has been in a class of his own ever since he won the first title in 2021, in a rather controversial manner against Lewis Hamilton. He won the third championship last week at the Qatar Grand Prix, with four races still left in the calendar. “It has an incredible history in this sport and is a great opponent to compete against. Future at Ferrari? When my current contract expires I will be 31 years old and I think I can still do well," Verstappen was quoted as saying by Sportweek. Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2016 and the two have enjoyed a highly fruitful partnership over the years. Despite rumours surrounding a Ferrari move, Verstappen added that he was happy with Red Bull and felt at home with the current team. "It would be a beautiful story if I could drive here forever, that's for sure, something that will be amazing. I'm really happy with where I am. I feel at home, I feel really happy with the people who are very close to me here in the team. For me, this is not something that I need to seek. I have a few more years left on my contract anyway, so I'm just enjoying the moment." Also read | Motor Racing: Women's F1 Academy to support seven Grand Prix in next season Ferrari's title drought While Red Bull has been enjoying a stellar run on the F1 grid, Ferrari has been struggling. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have struggled to land consistent podiums this season, primarily due to deficiencies in the car. The last driver to win the championship with Ferrari remains Kimi Raikkonen, who won it in 2007. Regarding the lack of competition around him, Verstappen wished to have more challenge. "I mean, yes, to fight different teams. But on the other hand, I also really challenge myself. I really try to get the best out of myself every single weekend. I try to look at things that I can do better and I try to improve as a driver, which I think is also great because you have all this success, right?" At the back end of the season, Mercedes and McLaren have emerged as the two rivals that can potentially challenge Verstappen next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Will Max Verstappen join Ferrari? Three-time world champion weighs in on his future

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won his third consecutive Formula One Championship after finishing second in the Qatar GP Sprint race on Saturday (Oct 7). The seven-point win saw the Belgian-Dutch speedster officially clinch his third title having first tasted success in 2021. With 407 points Verstappen’s close compatriot and teammate at Red Bull, Sergio Perez (223) would no longer overtake him in the standings, which guaranteed him the world title before the main race in Sunday’s Qatar GP.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MAX VERSTAPPEN. 
 
THREE-TIME WORLD CHAMPION! 👑👑👑 <a href="https://t.co/IvcQOA5wu4">pic.twitter.com/IvcQOA5wu4</a>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1710719079592726890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Max takes home the title</h2>

Heading into the Qatar GP, Verstappen had an unprecedented lead of 177 points over second place Perez. With 180 points to race for before the Sprint Race, Perez needed the gap to be narrowed down to 171 points or less to take the championship fight to the main race day of Qatar GP. However, Perez’s poor finish coupled with the 25-year-old’s second place finish in the Sprint Race saw the gap widen to 184 points. With just 172 points to play for after the Sprint Race, Verstappen remains the outright leader of the Driver’s Championship, making it mathematically impossible for any other driver to leapfrog him.

The championship title sees him add to his titles from 2021 and 2022, with the former being a closer encounter with Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton. This season, Verstappen has won 13 races including seven races with the fastest lap while taking the pole position in 10 races including Sunday’s Qatar GP. Astonishingly, Verstappen ended with 15 podium finishes, a new F1 record with six races remaining in the season. The now triple-time World Champion also won the two Sprint Races in Belgium and Austria to add to his impressive tally.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-seeing-indias-flag-hoist-high-was-proudest-moment-of-my-life-palak-gulia-on-asian-games-success-643693">EXCLUSIVE | Seeing India's flag hoist high was proudest moment of my life - Palak Gulia on Asian Games success</a>

Along with teammate Perez, they guaranteed Red Bull the Constructors Championship after the conclusion of the Japanese GP earlier in September. Red Bull won 15 races this season with Max and Sergio on the podium multiple times. The win was also Red Bull’s sixth championship as they have dominated the moto sport once again.

With five complete races still to go, the Dutch champion will now look to put the icing on the cake with cherries on the top on Sunday when he takes pole position in Qatar GP’s main race.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won his third consecutive Formula One Championship after finishing second in the Qatar GP Sprint race on Saturday (Oct 7). The seven-point win saw the Belgian-Dutch speedster officially clinch his third title having first tasted success in 2021.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won his third consecutive Formula One Championship after finishing second in the Qatar GP Sprint race on Saturday (Oct 7). The seven-point win saw the Belgian-Dutch speedster officially clinch his third title having first tasted success in 2021. With 407 points Verstappen’s close compatriot and teammate at Red Bull, Sergio Perez (223) would no longer overtake him in the standings, which guaranteed him the world title before the main race in Sunday’s Qatar GP. MAX VERSTAPPEN. THREE-TIME WORLD CHAMPION! 👑👑👑 pic.twitter.com/IvcQOA5wu4 — Formula 1 (@F1) October 7, 2023 × Max takes home the title Heading into the Qatar GP, Verstappen had an unprecedented lead of 177 points over second place Perez. With 180 points to race for before the Sprint Race, Perez needed the gap to be narrowed down to 171 points or less to take the championship fight to the main race day of Qatar GP. However, Perez’s poor finish coupled with the 25-year-old’s second place finish in the Sprint Race saw the gap widen to 184 points. With just 172 points to play for after the Sprint Race, Verstappen remains the outright leader of the Driver’s Championship, making it mathematically impossible for any other driver to leapfrog him. The championship title sees him add to his titles from 2021 and 2022, with the former being a closer encounter with Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton. This season, Verstappen has won 13 races including seven races with the fastest lap while taking the pole position in 10 races including Sunday’s Qatar GP. Astonishingly, Verstappen ended with 15 podium finishes, a new F1 record with six races remaining in the season. The now triple-time World Champion also won the two Sprint Races in Belgium and Austria to add to his impressive tally. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Seeing India's flag hoist high was proudest moment of my life - Palak Gulia on Asian Games success Along with teammate Perez, they guaranteed Red Bull the Constructors Championship after the conclusion of the Japanese GP earlier in September. Red Bull won 15 races this season with Max and Sergio on the podium multiple times. The win was also Red Bull’s sixth championship as they have dominated the moto sport once again. With five complete races still to go, the Dutch champion will now look to put the icing on the cake with cherries on the top on Sunday when he takes pole position in Qatar GP’s main race. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Formula One: Max Verstappen wins third consecutive world title after second place finish in Qatar Sprint race

Ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix where Max Verstappen might be crowned world champion for a third consecutive time, Mercedes has already conceded defeat and set sights on the 2024 season.&nbsp;Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes' trackside engineering director told Sky that the car will have considerable changes next year.&nbsp;

Despite the hype at the beginning of the season, Mercedes performed rather underwhelmingly as both Lewis Hamilton and George Russel struggled with the W14.&nbsp;Shovlin admitted that W14 did not have enough stability as both drivers remained reluctant to attack high-speed corners, throughout the season.

However, the Mercedes backroom staff is confident of next year and has already set themselves "very ambitious targets" to improve things for 2024.&nbsp;

"We are changing the car quite considerably for next year.&nbsp;Whether or not we can solve all the issues that we've got on the handling, that will depend on a number of projects delivering," said&nbsp;Shovlin.&nbsp;

"Those projects are underway. They are not complete, but we have got some good directions to try and improve that."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-max-verstappen-slams-mercedes-team-boss-toto-wolff-over-wikipedia-remark-636096">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Max Verstappen slams Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff over 'Wikipedia' remark</a>

Reflecting on the seasons when Mercedes produced its best cars, Shovlin said&nbsp;that even then the team engineers remained oblivious to the fate of the car.&nbsp;

"When we launched our best cars, 2015 or 2019, those years, we didn't know they were going to be great cars when we developed them, you are just working as hard as you can trying to find as much performance as you can."

Despite looking forward to the 2024 car, Shovlin maintains that the eight-time constructor champions are pushing to keep Ferrari at bay whilst occupying the second position on the table,&nbsp;

Currently, Mercedes' advantage over Ferrari is 20 points but the Scuderia have more than halved their deficit to their rivals in the four races since the summer break.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-david-coulthard-on-indias-f1-journey-571651">Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: David Coulthard on India's F1 journey</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-david-coulthard-on-indias-f1-journey-571651/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After the Suzuka race,&nbsp;Rosie Wait, the team's head of race strategy during a debrief said the team hoped that the new parts installed in the car could show the desired performance, going into the fag end of the season.&nbsp;

"The new parts we bring to the track do both; hopefully they add performance and make the current car go faster, but they are all specifically targeted around areas where we need to further our understanding,:" said Wait.&nbsp;

Notably, Red Bull driver Verstappen only needs to finish in the top six in this week's sprint race at the Qatar Grand Prix to secure the 2023 F1 drivers' title. The Dutch has already won 13 of the 15 races as well as two of three sprints this season.&nbsp;

Barring the aberration at Singapore, where Verstappen had a drop in performance, he has been truly consistent - often pulling away from the rest of the grid, without breaking any sweat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix where Max Verstappen might be crowned world champion for a third consecutive time, Mercedes has already conceded defeat and set sights on the 2024 season.

Ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix where Max Verstappen might be crowned world champion for a third consecutive time, Mercedes has already conceded defeat and set sights on the 2024 season. Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes' trackside engineering director told Sky that the car will have considerable changes next year. Despite the hype at the beginning of the season, Mercedes performed rather underwhelmingly as both Lewis Hamilton and George Russel struggled with the W14. Shovlin admitted that W14 did not have enough stability as both drivers remained reluctant to attack high-speed corners, throughout the season. However, the Mercedes backroom staff is confident of next year and has already set themselves "very ambitious targets" to improve things for 2024. "We are changing the car quite considerably for next year. Whether or not we can solve all the issues that we've got on the handling, that will depend on a number of projects delivering," said Shovlin. "Those projects are underway. They are not complete, but we have got some good directions to try and improve that." Also read | Formula One: Max Verstappen slams Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff over 'Wikipedia' remark Reflecting on the seasons when Mercedes produced its best cars, Shovlin said that even then the team engineers remained oblivious to the fate of the car. "When we launched our best cars, 2015 or 2019, those years, we didn't know they were going to be great cars when we developed them, you are just working as hard as you can trying to find as much performance as you can." Despite looking forward to the 2024 car, Shovlin maintains that the eight-time constructor champions are pushing to keep Ferrari at bay whilst occupying the second position on the table, Currently, Mercedes' advantage over Ferrari is 20 points but the Scuderia have more than halved their deficit to their rivals in the four races since the summer break. Watch | WION Exclusive: David Coulthard on India's F1 journey × After the Suzuka race, Rosie Wait, the team's head of race strategy during a debrief said the team hoped that the new parts installed in the car could show the desired performance, going into the fag end of the season. "The new parts we bring to the track do both; hopefully they add performance and make the current car go faster, but they are all specifically targeted around areas where we need to further our understanding,:" said Wait. Notably, Red Bull driver Verstappen only needs to finish in the top six in this week's sprint race at the Qatar Grand Prix to secure the 2023 F1 drivers' title. The Dutch has already won 13 of the 15 races as well as two of three sprints this season. Barring the aberration at Singapore, where Verstappen had a drop in performance, he has been truly consistent - often pulling away from the rest of the grid, without breaking any sweat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Changing the car considerably...': Mercedes sets 2024 plans as Verstappen closes in on third title

Max Verstappen helped Red Bull clinch the Formula One constructors' championship and took a giant step towards his third straight drivers' title by winning the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.

Runaway championship leader Verstappen finished ahead of McLaren pair Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and can lift the title at next month's Qatar Grand Prix.

Verstappen's win helped Red Bull clinch their second straight constructors' title even though teammate Sergio Perez retired from the race.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-maria-sakkari-beats-caroline-dolehide-in-guadalajara-open-for-second-wta-title-639064">Tennis: Maria Sakkari beats Caroline Dolehide in Guadalajara Open for second WTA title</a>

"You have built a rocket ship of a car," he told his team over the radio after crossing the line.

Nearest challengers Mercedes were unable to stay in contention, with Lewis Hamilton finishing fifth and George Russell placing seventh.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was fourth, while teammate Carlos Sainz was sixth.

Verstappen was back to his breathtaking best after a disappointing fifth-place finish at last week's Singapore Grand Prix.

He held off a double challenge from McLaren to take the lead ahead off Norris at the first turn.

First the Dutchman veered right to squeeze out Piastri, who was starting from second on the grid, then moved left to stop Norris from darting through the gap.

The safety car came out soon after, with Alfa Romeo's Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu taking damage at the start of the race.

Perez got into trouble when he picked up a five-second penalty for a safety car infringement.

The Mexican retired from the race a few laps later, telling his team "the car doesn't feel right".

He later came back out, ensuring that he would not have to serve his time penalty at the next race.

Russell and Hamilton tried to chase Leclerc but Sainz got himself in the mix by going past Russell late on.

Bottas, Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and Williams pair Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant failed to finish the race.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Max Verstappen helped Red Bull clinch the Formula One constructors' championship and took a giant step towards his third straight drivers' title by winning the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.

Max Verstappen helped Red Bull clinch the Formula One constructors' championship and took a giant step towards his third straight drivers' title by winning the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday. Runaway championship leader Verstappen finished ahead of McLaren pair Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and can lift the title at next month's Qatar Grand Prix. Verstappen's win helped Red Bull clinch their second straight constructors' title even though teammate Sergio Perez retired from the race. Also Read: Tennis: Maria Sakkari beats Caroline Dolehide in Guadalajara Open for second WTA title "You have built a rocket ship of a car," he told his team over the radio after crossing the line. Nearest challengers Mercedes were unable to stay in contention, with Lewis Hamilton finishing fifth and George Russell placing seventh. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was fourth, while teammate Carlos Sainz was sixth. Verstappen was back to his breathtaking best after a disappointing fifth-place finish at last week's Singapore Grand Prix. He held off a double challenge from McLaren to take the lead ahead off Norris at the first turn. First the Dutchman veered right to squeeze out Piastri, who was starting from second on the grid, then moved left to stop Norris from darting through the gap. The safety car came out soon after, with Alfa Romeo's Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu taking damage at the start of the race. Perez got into trouble when he picked up a five-second penalty for a safety car infringement. The Mexican retired from the race a few laps later, telling his team "the car doesn't feel right". He later came back out, ensuring that he would not have to serve his time penalty at the next race. Russell and Hamilton tried to chase Leclerc but Sainz got himself in the mix by going past Russell late on. Bottas, Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and Williams pair Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant failed to finish the race. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen wins Japanese Grand Prix, Red Bull clinch constructors' championship

The Formula One 2023 Championships has turned out to be a one-horse race as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leads the standings with 374 points before he takes centre stage at the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, September 17. The Dutchman has been breaking records left, right, and centre throughout the season as he targets an 11th straight win at the Singapore GP. With an unprecedented 145-point lead over second place Sergio Perez and eight races to go, it is a matter of time before he clinches his third consecutive Formula One Championship.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
✋ 10/10 for <a href="https://twitter.com/Max33Verstappen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Max33Verstappen</a> 🤚<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ItalianGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ItalianGP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/redbullracing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbullracing</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mm99Txt31k">pic.twitter.com/Mm99Txt31k</a>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1698657925743427706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Max hunts for history</h2>

The 25-year-old has been in the form of his life for Red Bull this season and could be seen scripting history and joining the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, and Lewis Hamilton for winning three consecutive Formula One Championships. Enjoying the form of his life, Max has so far won 12 races and has finished on the podium every time he has completed the race this season. So with eight races to go what are the permutations that could see Verstappen seal the title at the earliest?

<h2>Detailed analysis</h2>

Currently, with eight races to go Max will be pushing for an early championship win with races coming thick and fast. In detail, each Formula One race winner will earn 25 points with an additional point for the fastest lap, which could account for a total of 26 points. Additionally, a sprint race (an additional form of race on Saturday with short distances) could see a driver earn eight more points to add to his tally. For example, if Verstappen wins the sprint race on Saturday and couples it with victory in the main race with the fastest lap, he will earn 34 points (25 points for the main race win, one point for the fastest lap, and eight points for the sprint race win).

On the contrary, the second-place driver could earn a maximum of 25 points (18 for finishing second in the main race and max. seven in the sprint race). This could see Verstappen increase his advantage by nine points (34 – 25 = 9 Points) every sprint race weekend. In the eight remaining Formula One races, there will be three sprint races – Qatar, Brazil, and the USA.

Five races in Singapore, Japan, Las Vegas, Mexico, and Abu Dhabi won’t have sprint races. So a driver winning the race on a normal weekend with the fastest lap could earn a maximum of 26 points while the second-place driver will earn 18 points. This could see the winner of the main race increase the gap by eight points (26-18= 8) on a non-sprint weekend.

<h2>How many points remain to play for?</h2>

As things stand, the maximum points collected by a driver could be 34 on a sprint race weekend and 26 points for a non-sprint race weekend. With five non-sprint races and three sprint races a maximum of 232 points could be collected by a driver if he wins all the races with the fastest lap and sprint race win (5 x 26 + 3 x 34 = 232).

<h2>When could Verstappen seal the title?</h2>

Currently, Verstappen has 364 points in 14 races while his close compatriot and Red Bull colleague Sergio Perez has 219 points in the second place. For Verstappen to win the championship, the gap between him and Perez should be more than the number of points available in the rest of the races. For example, currently, the gap between Verstappen and Perez is 145 points which is smaller than 232 points (points still available this season) and will see the Championship race continue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-weather-update-from-colombo-on-asia-cup-2023-india-vs-sri-lanka-final-match-636498">IND vs SL weather update: What will happen if Asia Cup 2023 final is washed out due to rain?</a>

If Verstappen wins the next two races in Singapore and Japan (non-sprint weekend) with the fastest point, he will increase his lead over Perez by 16 points (eight points advantage for every winner on non-sprint weekend). This could see the gap widen to 161 points (145+16 = 161) while there will be 180 points still available, this will make it practically impossible for Verstappen to win the Championship in Japan.

However, if Verstappen wins the Qatar GP on 8th October with the sprint race and fastest lap, Verstappen will have an unprecedented lead of 170 points (161 + 9 = 170). With just 146 points available after the Qatar GP and a lead of 170 points, Verstappen will win the Formula One Championship even if does not start any one of the remaining five races in the remainder of the season.

The two-time defending champion can also see the title race sealed in the Japanese GP if he wins the race and Perez fails to complete one of the next two races. For example, if Verstappen wins the next two races with the fastest lap, he will have 416 points (374 + 52). Perez on the other hand will have 234 points if he fails to finish one race and finishes third (15 points for third place finish) in another race. With only 180 points to race for after the Japanese GP, it would be practically impossible for Perez to catch Verstappen even if he wins all the races with the fastest lap and sprint wins, as he will finish with a tally of 414 points (234 + 180).

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Formula One 2023 Championships has turned out to be a one-horse race as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leads the standings with 374 points before he takes centre stage at the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, September 17.

The Formula One 2023 Championships has turned out to be a one-horse race as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leads the standings with 374 points before he takes centre stage at the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, September 17. The Dutchman has been breaking records left, right, and centre throughout the season as he targets an 11th straight win at the Singapore GP. With an unprecedented 145-point lead over second place Sergio Perez and eight races to go, it is a matter of time before he clinches his third consecutive Formula One Championship. ✋ 10/10 for @Max33Verstappen 🤚#ItalianGP #F1 @redbullracing pic.twitter.com/Mm99Txt31k — Formula 1 (@F1) September 4, 2023 × Max hunts for history The 25-year-old has been in the form of his life for Red Bull this season and could be seen scripting history and joining the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, and Lewis Hamilton for winning three consecutive Formula One Championships. Enjoying the form of his life, Max has so far won 12 races and has finished on the podium every time he has completed the race this season. So with eight races to go what are the permutations that could see Verstappen seal the title at the earliest? Detailed analysis Currently, with eight races to go Max will be pushing for an early championship win with races coming thick and fast. In detail, each Formula One race winner will earn 25 points with an additional point for the fastest lap, which could account for a total of 26 points. Additionally, a sprint race (an additional form of race on Saturday with short distances) could see a driver earn eight more points to add to his tally. For example, if Verstappen wins the sprint race on Saturday and couples it with victory in the main race with the fastest lap, he will earn 34 points (25 points for the main race win, one point for the fastest lap, and eight points for the sprint race win). On the contrary, the second-place driver could earn a maximum of 25 points (18 for finishing second in the main race and max. seven in the sprint race). This could see Verstappen increase his advantage by nine points (34 – 25 = 9 Points) every sprint race weekend. In the eight remaining Formula One races, there will be three sprint races – Qatar, Brazil, and the USA. Five races in Singapore, Japan, Las Vegas, Mexico, and Abu Dhabi won’t have sprint races. So a driver winning the race on a normal weekend with the fastest lap could earn a maximum of 26 points while the second-place driver will earn 18 points. This could see the winner of the main race increase the gap by eight points (26-18= 8) on a non-sprint weekend. How many points remain to play for? As things stand, the maximum points collected by a driver could be 34 on a sprint race weekend and 26 points for a non-sprint race weekend. With five non-sprint races and three sprint races a maximum of 232 points could be collected by a driver if he wins all the races with the fastest lap and sprint race win (5 x 26 + 3 x 34 = 232). When could Verstappen seal the title? Currently, Verstappen has 364 points in 14 races while his close compatriot and Red Bull colleague Sergio Perez has 219 points in the second place. For Verstappen to win the championship, the gap between him and Perez should be more than the number of points available in the rest of the races. For example, currently, the gap between Verstappen and Perez is 145 points which is smaller than 232 points (points still available this season) and will see the Championship race continue. ALSO READ | IND vs SL weather update: What will happen if Asia Cup 2023 final is washed out due to rain? If Verstappen wins the next two races in Singapore and Japan (non-sprint weekend) with the fastest point, he will increase his lead over Perez by 16 points (eight points advantage for every winner on non-sprint weekend). This could see the gap widen to 161 points (145+16 = 161) while there will be 180 points still available, this will make it practically impossible for Verstappen to win the Championship in Japan. However, if Verstappen wins the Qatar GP on 8th October with the sprint race and fastest lap, Verstappen will have an unprecedented lead of 170 points (161 + 9 = 170). With just 146 points available after the Qatar GP and a lead of 170 points, Verstappen will win the Formula One Championship even if does not start any one of the remaining five races in the remainder of the season. The two-time defending champion can also see the title race sealed in the Japanese GP if he wins the race and Perez fails to complete one of the next two races. For example, if Verstappen wins the next two races with the fastest lap, he will have 416 points (374 + 52). Perez on the other hand will have 234 points if he fails to finish one race and finishes third (15 points for third place finish) in another race. With only 180 points to race for after the Japanese GP, it would be practically impossible for Perez to catch Verstappen even if he wins all the races with the fastest lap and sprint wins, as he will finish with a tally of 414 points (234 + 180). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | When could Max Verstappen clinch 2023 Formula One Championship?

Carlos Sainz led from start to finish to win a dramatic Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday after a charging George Russell crashed his Mercedes from third place on the final lap.

Lando Norris was second in a McLaren with Lewis Hamilton crossing the line in third. Championship leader Max Verstappen was fifth as Red Bull failed to win a race for the first time this season.

Sainz controlled the pace of the night race brilliantly from pole position to take only his second win, the first coming at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone last year.

It ended Red Bull's hopes of sweeping every race in 2023 as Verstappen, who has won the last 10 races in a row, could only work his way up from 11th on the grid into the top five.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-capable-of-being-in-team-if-says-former-pakistan-batter-younis-khan-on-skipper-babar-azam-636790">'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam</a>

Sainz seemed set for a comfortable win until a virtual safety car period 20 laps from the end gave the two Mercedes the chance to change to fresh medium compound tyres.

Russell and Hamilton soon reeled in and passed the second Ferrari of Charles Lelerc, who finished fourth.

But when they got on the heels of the top two they could not get past as Sainz cleverly kept his former teammate Norris within DRS range so the Englishman could defend second place.

Russell was all over the back of Norris until his challenge ended in the wall at turn eight of the final lap, handing Hamilton the final podium place.

Carlos Sainz led from start to finish to win a dramatic Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday after a charging George Russell crashed his Mercedes from third place on the final lap.

Carlos Sainz led from start to finish to win a dramatic Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday after a charging George Russell crashed his Mercedes from third place on the final lap. Lando Norris was second in a McLaren with Lewis Hamilton crossing the line in third. Championship leader Max Verstappen was fifth as Red Bull failed to win a race for the first time this season. Sainz controlled the pace of the night race brilliantly from pole position to take only his second win, the first coming at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone last year. It ended Red Bull's hopes of sweeping every race in 2023 as Verstappen, who has won the last 10 races in a row, could only work his way up from 11th on the grid into the top five. ALSO READ | 'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam Sainz seemed set for a comfortable win until a virtual safety car period 20 laps from the end gave the two Mercedes the chance to change to fresh medium compound tyres. Russell and Hamilton soon reeled in and passed the second Ferrari of Charles Lelerc, who finished fourth. But when they got on the heels of the top two they could not get past as Sainz cleverly kept his former teammate Norris within DRS range so the Englishman could defend second place. Russell was all over the back of Norris until his challenge ended in the wall at turn eight of the final lap, handing Hamilton the final podium place.

Formula One: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz wins Singapore GPA to end Red Bull win streak

max-verstappen

Max Verstappen, News on Max Verstappen, stories on Max Verstappen, articles on Max Verstappen, Max Verstappen stories at Wion, Max Verstappen news, Max Verstappen latest news

max verstappen