Verstappen Wins Chinese GP, Adds to lead in GFT AI Driver Rankings

21 April 2024
By Bob Francis, Managing Editor
Go Full Throttle Racing News

SHANGHAI, CHINA — Max Verstappen scored his 2nd consecutive win at the Lenovo Chinese Grand Prix in China as the Dutch driver put on a clinic at the Shanghai International Circuit. The race was filled with strategy, safety cars, and close battles.

Shanghai International Circuit Map (Image Credit: formula1.com)

Verstappen, starting from pole position, taking full advantage of his qualifying speed to establish the lead on Lap 1. However, it wasn’t a straightforward journey. The race saw a dramatic mix of strategic calls and unexpected events. A virtual safety car and two full safety car periods kept the field bunched and tested the drivers’ and strategists' skills.

Max Verstappen converted pole position into victory in a Chinese Grand Prix full of incidents and overtakes, leading home McLaren’s Lando Norris (P2) and Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez (P3) (Image Credit: formula1.com)

Verstappen, however, remained calm under pressure, leading the majority of the race despite the drama unfolding behind him. McLaren’s Lando Norris impressed with a strong performance, securing a well-deserved second place. Norris’ teammate, Oscar Piastri, also showed promise by qualifying for the top ten.

Red Bull enjoyed a strong overall showing with Sergio Perez finishing third, securing a podium for the team alongside Verstappen. Ferrari, despite strong qualifying performances from Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, couldn’t match the pace of the frontrunners.

Go Full Throttle F1 AI Driver Rankings following the Chinese GP on April 21, 2024 at the Shanghai International Circuit (Image Credit: GFT Digital)

The Chinese Grand Prix served as another testament to Verstappen’s talent and Red Bull’s current dominance. Verstappen’s strategic awareness and driving ability proved itself again in securing his fourth win from five races. While McLaren’s Norris impressed, the championship battle will require Ferrari and McLaren to keep improving.

One of the most impressive paddock and main grandstands in all of F1 — the Shanghai International Circuit (Image Credit: formula1.com)

FORMULA 1 LENOVO CHINESE GRAND PRIX 2024 Race Results

Up Next:

USA! The next event on the 2024 F1 calendar is the Miami Grand Prix, May 3–5.