FORMULA 1

Max Verstappen Happy With Belgian GP Podium Despite Missed Victory Chance

July 19, 2026
Max Verstappen Happy With Belgian GP Podium Despite Missed Victory Chance

Max Verstappen finished the Belgian Grand Prix in third place, securing another podium finish in his season record. Following the race, the Red Bull Racing driver said he was satisfied with the result considering the circumstances and challenges faced throughout the weekend.
Verstappen explained that the opening phase of the race went smoothly, allowing him to maintain a strong pace during the first stint. However, after the tyre change, the situation became more difficult, while the timing of the Virtual Safety Car period affected the strategy of several front-running drivers and limited his chances of fighting for a higher position.
Despite the challenges, the reigning champion viewed third place as a positive outcome. He highlighted that the team collected valuable points and that he had extracted the maximum possible performance from the car. Verstappen also praised teammate Isack Hadjar for an impressive recovery drive, with the young driver finishing sixth after gaining numerous positions from his starting place.

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