Max Verstappen delivered a masterclass at Imola, storming to his second win of the season and fourth straight victory at the circuit, in a race packed with drama, strategy twists, and high-stakes action. Red Bull’s 400th Grand Prix was one to remember.
The race ignited from the very first corner. Despite Oscar Piastri launching well from pole, Verstappen snatched the lead in spectacular fashion with a bold move through Tamburello – a statement of intent from the reigning World Champion.
As strategies diverged early, Piastri blinked first with a Lap 14 pit stop that ultimately cost him. Verstappen stayed out, turning fast laps and pulling away – and then came the chaos.
On Lap 29, Esteban Ocon’s off-track excursion triggered a Virtual Safety Car, handing Verstappen the perfect window to pit and emerge with a staggering 20-second lead. Just when things looked settled, more drama struck.
A full Safety Car on Lap 46 – thanks to rookie Kimi Antonelli’s stricken Mercedes – turned the race on its head once more. Verstappen and Norris pitted again, while Piastri stayed out, setting up a tantalizing team dynamic at McLaren.
But there was no stopping Verstappen. He nailed the restart and cruised to victory, cementing his dominance at Imola. Behind him, Norris made the move on his teammate to secure P2, while Piastri held off a charging Lewis Hamilton to clinch a well-earned podium.
