Max Verstappen finally has his first podium of the 2026 F1 season, pleasing the four-time world champion in Montreal.
Max Verstappen has praised his Canadian Grand Prix podium as an “extremely positive” result, with it being Red Bull’s first podium since becoming an F1 manufacturer. Verstappen’s excellent drive from sixth on the grid to third at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a significant milestone for the team, which had struggled to challenge for podiums this season. He capitalized on McLaren’s tyre strategy and benefitted from George Russell’s retirement due to a Mercedes power unit failure, enhancing his chance for a podium finish. Although Verstappen briefly overtook Lewis Hamilton, he had to settle for third behind the Briton. Verstappen expressed satisfaction with the result, highlighting the positive aspects of the race and the intense battle with Hamilton during the closing laps. This podium finish is crucial for Red Bull as they aim to close the gap with their competitors and continue improving in the upcoming races.
