Verstappen takes the lead in the standings after winning the Spanish Grand Prix

With a win in the Grand Prix of Spain, Max Verstappen took the lead in the Formula 1 standings from his competitor Charles Leclerc on Sunday. The Ferrari driver was in the lead for a long time, but retired mid-race due to engine trouble. Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull, finished second ahead of Mercedes driver George Russel.

For Verstappen it is the fourth victory of this season and the third victory in a row after winning in Miami and Imola. The other two races he retired and did not score any points. The reigning world champion started the race at the track in Barcelona from second place, behind Leclerc, his biggest opponent so far this season. The difference between the two is now 6 points (110 to 104).

It was not a smooth race for Verstappen either. After ten laps, Verstappen dropped back to 4th place, because he ended up next to the track in a bend due to a gust of wind. The Dutchman eventually managed to overtake the British Russel and Perez was ordered to let his teammate pass.