Max Verstappen Wins Belgian Grand Prix
Red Bull driver earns 13th win of the 2023 Formula 1 World Championship
Verstappen started the race in sixth position due to a grid penalty
Spa-Francorchamps, BELGIUM - Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing has won the 2023 Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix, marking his 13th victory of the season. Despite starting the race in sixth position due to a grid penalty for a power unit change, Verstappen was able to overcome the deficit and secure the win.
Verstappen had topped qualifying but was penalized ten grid places for exceeding his engine parts allotment. The race began with a wet track, and Verstappen took advantage of the conditions to make up positions on the first lap. He then continued to push hard, passing several cars and eventually taking the lead on lap 12.
Verstappen maintained his lead for the rest of the race, withstanding challenges from Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton. He crossed the finish line first, earning his ninth win of the season and extending his lead in the drivers' championship.
The victory gives Verstappen a commanding lead in the championship standings, with 258 points to Leclerc's 178. Hamilton is third with 168 points. Red Bull Racing also leads the constructors' championship with 426 points to Ferrari's 314 and Mercedes' 270.
The next race on the Formula 1 calendar is the Dutch Grand Prix, which will be held at Zandvoort on September 4.
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