Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen has won the first edition of the Miami Grand Prix ahead of Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. It is the third victory for the Dutchman this season and he reduces his deficit to World Cup leader Leclerc to nineteen points (104 to 85). In addition to the points for the overall victory, he earned an extra point by setting the fastest lap of the entire field.
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Verstappen started from third behind Leclerc and Sainz and overtook Sainz in turn two. In the ninth lap he also passed Leclerc and then did not relinquish the lead, despite the fact that it became tense after the intervention of the safety car. “It was a great grand prix, which was very physical,” said Verstappen after the race. “I think we made it interesting to the end. I’m happy with the win and it was a great Sunday for us.”
The reigning world champion also won the Saudi Arabia GP and the Emilia-Romagna GP earlier this season, but failed to score points in the other two races due to bad luck. The win in Miami was Verstappen’s 23rd Formula 1 victory of his career and he is on a level with Nico Rosberg and his father-in-law Nelson Piquet.