Early Crossover at Turn 1
Austrian Grand Prix offered a blistering duel when Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes slipped wide at Turn 1 on lap 8, allowing Max Verstappen to close to within a second of the seven‑time champion.
By lap 11 the intensity grew; Verstappen plunged inside Turn 3, seized second place, and Hamilton counter‑attacked along the outside of Turn 4.
Turn 6 and the Late‑Race Duel
The Dutchman launched another aggressive move at Turn 6, attempting an outside pass that skidded off onto gravel; he claimed track enforcement, yet stewards ruled that no inquiry was required.
Lap 22 replicated the earlier rhythm: Verstappen again dove inside Turn 3 while Hamilton pursued the position around Turn 4, but Red Bull’s driver successfully guarded the slot.
Fan Echoes and Stewards’ Verdict
Fans erupted on social networks: one Reddit user wrote, “God, I miss these two fighting race after race,” while another added, “The fight they had was the most beautiful thing I saw today. The drone shot only enhanced it.”
Another commentator noted, “Hamilton and Verstappen are in their own league in terms of racecraft. Absolutely fantastic to watch them.”
Further praise came with remarks such as, “Every time they come close on track, F1 instantly peaks for me. Two of the greatest drivers battling out…” and, “It makes me genuinely happy to see them getting along.”
Stewards declined to pursue further investigation on Verstappen’s gravel incident, deeming the action unremarkable under track‑use regulations.
The hard‑fought exchanges warrant another Hamilton‑vs‑Verstappen showdown for the championship.
Photo by Andy Hone/LAT Images via Getty Images.
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