P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has explained late-race nerves on his way to a resounding win at the Chinese Grand Prix, adding his Red Bull was “on rails” and he would “do whatever he wanted with it.”
Max Verstappen emerged victorious in the disrupted Chinese Grand Prix, capitalizing on two virtual safety car periods that transitioned into full safety cars in quick succession. The Dutch driver skillfully handled both restarts to regain his lead, which had been diminished after losing his initial 25-second advantage. Benefiting from a strategic pit stop for fresh hard tires during the first safety car period triggered by Valtteri Bottas, the three-time drivers’ champion secured his 58th grand prix victory, extending his points lead in the 2024 season to 25 points. Verstappen powered past Lando Norris and Sergio Perez to claim another dominant win, expressing his satisfaction with the weekend’s performance and the team’s handling of the race dynamics. Reflecting on his unparalleled start to the season with four wins in five races, he praised the exceptional performance of his RB20, highlighting its stability and responsiveness throughout the weekend. Despite his strong showing, Verstappen admitted feeling some apprehension towards the race’s conclusion due to concerns about potential debris affecting his tires, showcasing his meticulous approach to securing victory.