Brundle Hails Verstappen's 'Historic' Brazilian GP Charge
Martin Brundle has hailed Max Verstappen's drive from the pit lane to a podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix as an 'historic' and one of the most impressive performances ever seen in Formula 1. Despite a puncture and starting from the back, Verstappen showcased "pure pace" and clinical overtakes in a highly competitive, dry race, reinforcing his status as a true F1 legend.
Max Verstappen's drive from the pit lane to a podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix has been lauded by Martin Brundle as one of the most impressive performances in F1 history. Despite starting from the back due to a setup change and new engine, Verstappen meticulously navigated the field, demonstrating "pure pace" in challenging, dry conditions.
Why it matters:
Martin Brundle's assertion that this race belongs "in the history books" underscores the magnitude of Verstappen's achievement. In a season often dominated by his front-running prowess, this performance highlights his exceptional skill in overcoming adversity and showcases why he is considered one of the sport's all-time greats. Such drives elevate F1 by demonstrating raw talent even when circumstances are against a driver.
The details:
- Verstappen started from the pit lane after a disastrous qualifying session prompted a complete car setup overhaul and a new engine fitment.
- He expertly avoided early race incidents involving Sainz, Hamilton, Stroll, and Bortoleto, benefiting from a Safety Car period that closed the gap to the leaders.
- Mid-Race Setback: Despite his rapid progress, Verstappen suffered a puncture, forcing an unscheduled pit stop and dropping him far down the order.
- This setback, however, allowed him to attack on fresh tires, unleashing "lightning-fast" pace.
- Relentless Overtakes: Brundle noted Verstappen's "clinical overtakes and relentless pace," which quickly made a podium finish seem inevitable.
- Strategic Advantage: Red Bull's strategy was also key. Verstappen utilized a new set of soft tires, saved from his Q1 exit in qualifying, for the final 17 laps.
- These tires allowed him to push "flat out" from the moment he exited the pit lane.
The big picture:
Verstappen's Brazilian GP performance wasn't a fluke born of weather or red flags, but a testament to his raw speed and unparalleled skill in a highly competitive field. This drive reinforced his status as a dominant force, capable of recovering from any grid position to challenge for the top spots.
What's next:
Lando Norris, the race winner, conceded that had Verstappen started without issues, he likely would have won. This race serves as a powerful reminder of Verstappen's capability to deliver under pressure and could influence future strategic decisions by Red Bull, giving them more confidence in aggressive setup changes when qualifying doesn't go their way. This 'historic' drive will undoubtedly be referenced when discussing the greatest comebacks in Formula 1.