"verstappen"

Pre-race rain soaked the track, prompting most drivers to choose Intermediate tires. George Russell of Mercedes, starting from pole position, led the first 21 laps before being overtaken by McLaren's Lando Norris

Verstappen, aiming for a record-equalling 10th consecutive win, initially led from pole position. However, he encountered issues early in the race, allowing Sainz to seize the opportunity and challenge for the lead after a compromised second lap.

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Verstappen joins the elite ranks of three-time F1 champions, alongside legends like Brabham, Stewart, Lauda, Piquet, and Senna, with Prost and Vettel holding four titles each in the all-time standings.

Verstappen said, "Most important for me was lap one to stay in front. After that we could do our own race. Our stints were perfect and I enjoyed it a lot."

Cheered to the echo on Sunday evening by 65,000 passionate spectators at Zandvoort, Verstappen headed off title rival Lewis Hamilton at the first corner and was never headed as he completed a pole-to-flag victory.

Due to this collision, Verstappen was sent crashing out of the British GP in just the very first lap of the race.

The Red Bull driver took a four-point lead over seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton in the standings.