Verstappen's remarkable comeback from P9 secures Miami GP win
Max Verstappen delivered a stunning performance as he climbed from ninth on the grid to secure victory at the 2023 Miami Grand Prix. He outpaced teammate Perez for a Red Bull one-two finish, Alonso clinched third, adding to his season's impressive podium achievements.
Starting on hard tires, Verstappen expertly navigated his way through the pack. As the race progressed, he made a series of strategic overtakes, using the DRS to his advantage.
Within the first few laps, he passed both Charles Leclerc and Kevin Magnussen, moving up to sixth place.
Verstappen continued his relentless charge, overtaking George Russell and Pierre Gasly, claiming fifth and fourth place, respectively. On lap 13, he managed to pass Carlos Sainz Jnr at the hairpin, then set his sights on second-placed Fernando Alonso.
Red Bull Teammates' Showdown
As Verstappen closed in on Alonso, he utilized DRS to swiftly pass the Aston Martin driver, completing his comeback through the field. With only his teammate Sergio Perez ahead, Verstappen began closing the gap.
Perez's pit stop on lap 20 was a critical moment in the race. He switched to hard tires and rejoined the track in fourth, gradually reducing the distance between himself and Verstappen.
The Dutchman, however, maintained a comfortable lead, remaining on his initial set of hard tires for most of the race.
After pitting on lap 45, Verstappen found himself within striking distance of Perez. With DRS enabled, he executed a perfect overtake in turn one, seizing the lead from his teammate and maintaining it until the checkered flag.
Perez, who started on pole, finished second, five seconds behind Verstappen. The Red Bull duo secured a one-two finish for their team, demonstrating their dominance at the Miami Grand Prix.
Alonso Earns Another Podium Finish
Fernando Alonso finished third, 20 seconds behind the Red Bulls, adding another podium finish to his season. Alonso showcased the potential of the Aston Martin car, expertly managing his tires and fending off Carlos Sainz Jnr for the final podium position.
George Russell took fourth place for Mercedes, followed by Sainz, Lewis Hamilton, and Charles Leclerc. The Alpine duo of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon rounded out the top nine, while Kevin Magnussen salvaged a single point for Haas in tenth place.
Miami Grand Prix Results
Standings after the 2023 Miami Grand Prix
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