Max Verstappen points to pivotal moment that sealed Imola F1 victory

Max Verstappen labelled his stunning opening lap overtake on Oscar Piastri as the key to victory at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix

Verstappen clinched his 65th career victory at Imola during a weekend Red Bull celebrated its 400th race start.

It marked his second triumph of the season, adding to his win in Japan where he also led home the McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Piastri.

Verstappen started the race from second on the grid but managed to swoop around the outside of pole-sitter Piastri to take the lead.

The Dutchman then controlled the race en route to the chequered flag.

“The start itself wasn't particulary great, but I was still on the outside line, or basically the normal line,” Verstappen reflected. 

“I said, ‘well, I’m going to try and send around the outside. It worked really well and that then unleashed our pace.

“The car was good, I could look after my tyres, and we had very good pace today.

“A massive improvement from Friday, I’m very pleased with that. The VSC [virtual safety car] was quite handy to pit and even then on the hard compound, I think our pace was very strong.”

Verstappen did not have a completely stress-free run to the finish as a safety car was called to clear away the stricken Mercedes of Kimi Antonelli.

However, Verstappen survived the threat, adding: “The field was all back together but on the restart, I think we managed it all really well and brought it home.

“Incredibly proud of everyone here. It's been a very important week for us. The cars performed really well. 

“And also the whole execution of the whole race,when to pit, the pit stops themselves, they were all very good.”