Max Verstappen shared how he spotted the chance for a stunning overtake on Oscar Piastri at Imola to win the overall F1 race.
The daring move highlighted Verstappen’s precision and shifted the momentum in the drivers’ championship.
From second on the grid, Verstappen dropped to third as Mercedes’ George Russell overtook Red Bull at the start. Choosing the outside line into Turn 1, Verstappen executed a masterful pass, sweeping around McLaren’s Piastri to claim the lead.
This critical move disrupted Piastri’s race, trapping him in dirty air and traffic, unable to respond effectively.
The win narrowed Piastri’s championship lead by 10 points, intensifying the title race. Verstappen explained the split-second thinking behind the overtake to media after the race.
“It all unfolded so fast,” Verstappen said. “I was in P3 before braking, on the usual line. Coming from far back, I braked late, eased off, and felt a move was possible. I carried more speed to the apex, gaining momentum into Turn 3.”
He continued, “I knew I was ahead, but it’s a blur, you have to be spot-on and avoid running wide. The grip was there, and it stuck. It’s a tricky move, but everything aligned.”
The pass showcased Red Bull’s strategic edge and Verstappen’s ability to seize fleeting opportunities. McLaren, despite their speed, couldn’t recover, with Piastri’s attempted undercut falling short.
Red Bull’s milestone race ended in triumph, with Verstappen’s audacious drive stealing the show.
