Max Verstappen notched up an unprecedented 18th victory in a single season at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, overcoming a five-second penalty and a drop to fifth place to claim a spectacular win.
Before the race, Verstappen had voiced his concerns that the event was “99% show,” yet the on-track action turned out to be one of the season’s highlights.
The race saw dynamic position changes among Verstappen, his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, as they vied for the podium. Verstappen eventually surged ahead with 16 laps remaining, and despite Leclerc overtaking Perez on the final lap, he secured second place.
Verstappen faced a series of challenges, including a five-second penalty for forcing Leclerc off the track, a collision with Mercedes’ George Russell that damaged his front wing, and an additional pit stop during a mid-race safety car period. Despite these setbacks, Verstappen’s dominant season form prevailed, and he regained the lead from Leclerc with 13 laps left.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix showcased intense racing throughout the field, justifying Formula 1’s substantial investment in the event, including constructing a new pit building in the heart of Las Vegas.
The race began with high drama as Verstappen, starting second, attempted to overtake Leclerc but forced both off the track. This controversial move, reminiscent of his 2021 battles with Lewis Hamilton, led to a steward-issued penalty against Verstappen.
Leclerc initially took the lead after Verstappen’s pit stop penalty, but Perez, recovering from an early collision, soon challenged him. A safety car intervention further shuffled the positions, with Perez and Verstappen pitting for new tires while Leclerc stayed out.
As the race progressed, Verstappen worked his way up from fifth, eventually overtaking both Perez and Leclerc with the help of DRS. Perez briefly reclaimed second place from Leclerc, but a daring final lap maneuver by Leclerc secured him the runner-up position.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix, long in planning, delivered on its promise with a race full of drama and excitement. The top drivers weren’t the only source of entertainment, as battles raged throughout the field.
Esteban Ocon finished fourth with Alpine, employing a similar one-stop strategy as Leclerc. Lance Stroll claimed fifth for Aston Martin, followed by Carlos Sainz and Lewis Hamilton, who both made significant progress from their starting positions.
Hamilton faced a setback with a puncture after colliding with Piastri, deviating from his planned strategy and necessitating an additional pit stop. Russell, involved in the mid-race collision with Verstappen, finished eighth after receiving a penalty, while Fernando Alonso overcame an early spin to finish ninth.
Piastri earned the final point, and despite a severe crash, Lando Norris was discharged from the hospital after thorough checks, ensuring a dramatic but safe conclusion to a race that will be remembered for its intensity and spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Las Vegas Grand Prix Victory
Who won the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
Max Verstappen claimed victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, marking his 18th win in the season despite facing a five-second penalty and a challenging race.
What challenges did Max Verstappen face during the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
Verstappen overcame a series of obstacles, including a five-second penalty for forcing Charles Leclerc off the track, a collision with George Russell resulting in a damaged front wing, and an additional pit stop during a mid-race safety car.
How did Charles Leclerc perform in the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
Charles Leclerc had a strong performance, maintaining lead positions throughout the race. He managed to overtake Sergio Perez on the final lap to secure a second-place finish.
Was there any controversy in the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
The race included a controversial moment when Max Verstappen forced Charles Leclerc off the track at the first corner, reminiscent of his previous battles with Lewis Hamilton, leading to a penalty for Verstappen.
What was unique about the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
The Las Vegas Grand Prix stood out for its high level of drama and intense racing throughout the field. It justified Formula 1’s significant investment in the event, including the construction of a new pit building in Las Vegas.
More about Las Vegas Grand Prix Victory
- Las Vegas Grand Prix Highlights
- Max Verstappen’s Season Record
- Controversies in Formula 1 Racing
- Analysis of the Las Vegas GP Strategy
- Charles Leclerc’s Performance Review
- Formula 1 Investment in Las Vegas Event
3 comments
gotta say, the Las Vegas track is something else, the drama, the lights, it’s all so perfect for F1.
Hamilton’s puncture was such bad luck, could’ve seen him in top 5 easily, tough break.
Leclerc was so close, feel bad for him but that last lap overtake was epic!