March 05, (THEWILL) – The 2023 season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix saw Red Bull’s Max Verstappen dominate the race to win ahead of teammate Sergio Perez and Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso.
The defending champion Verstappen started from pole position and led easily throughout the race, while Perez lost second place to Charles Leclerc, after a slow start.
Despite a minor downshift issue causing occasional rear-locking, Verstappen remained in control and won by 11.9 seconds after completing two pitstops to finally take the hards. Leclerc lost a nailed-on podium to an engine issue and retired from the race on lap 40, triggering a brief virtual safety car.
Meanwhile, Alonso charged after his compatriot, Carlos Sainz, to score a podium on his first appearance for Aston Martin, after losing a place to Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes on the first lap.
Alonso engaged in a thrilling fight with Hamilton over what was then fifth place, ultimately passing him in a brilliant Turns 9/10 dive to take third place. Hamilton finished in fifth place as Red Bull showed that they intend to continue their dominance from last year.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
