18.3 C
Manchester
Friday, April 4, 2025
Other SportsChinese Grand Prix 2024: 'Huge step' for Hamilton but Verstappen takes sprint...

Chinese Grand Prix 2024: ‘Huge step’ for Hamilton but Verstappen takes sprint honours

Lewis Hamilton said he had taken a “huge step” despite missing out on top spot in Saturday’s sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen fighting past his old rival to take the honours.

Hamilton started the first sprint race of the season second on the grid, behind only Lando Norris, and he passed the McLaren driver on the first corner to take control.

However, after a testing start, the Red Bulls’ pace was there for all to see, Verstappen fighting his way from fourth to seize the lead before the halfway stage of the 19-lap race then cruising home.

Read our other sports news stories here:
No point to prove for Palmer in FA Cup semi-final, says Pochettino
Manchester City v Chelsea: Guardiola to wait on Haaland and De Bruyne
IPL 2024: Delhi Capital v Sunrisers Hyderabad – preview, free bets and offers

Hamilton was able to split the Red Bulls, though, clinging on for second ahead of Sergio Perez, which he described as his most positive performance in a difficult season to date.

“That’s the best result I’ve had in a long time so I am super happy and grateful, this is a huge step and improvement,” he told Sky Sports.

“The race was tough and if I was further back I would have struggled to progress, I found a lot about this car through this short stint so I am excited about tomorrow.”

Verstappen stands as the clear favourite for Sunday’s race, though, after overcoming early complaints over his battery to win by 13.043 seconds.

“The first few laps were quite hectic. They were pushing quite hard up front and I had Carlos [Sainz] behind with new tyres and it was very difficult to keep him behind,” Verstappen said.

“Then as the race went on we became stronger and I felt more comfortable with the balance of the car and could look after my tyres. Very pleased with that.”

There was plenty of drama behind the top two, meanwhile, with Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin sustaining race-ending damage when he collided with Sainz on turn nine, with Perez taking advantage to pass both drivers.

Sainz was later involved in another incident involving Charles Leclerc, with the Spaniard bumping and pushing his Ferrari team-mate off the track at the final hairpin in a failed attempt to hold onto fourth.

Leclerc did overhaul Sainz before the Spaniard offered a post-race apology.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Sainz said: “I was doing everything I could to defend and I had a bit of a moment with Charles, so I apologise if I did something over the limit. I was doing everything to keep it under control.”

Harry Carr
Harry Carr
Harry is a freelance sports journalist with experience of working for the Racing Post, Stats Perform, Opta Analyst and more, covering major events across all sports but holding a particular love for the beautiful game.
Latest

Bolton police uncover more than 200 cannabis plants

Police in Bolton uncovered a cannabis farm after a tip-off this morning. A warrant was carried out at Blackshaw House, Thornbank North, at 8.30am. Inside, 220...

People’s History Museum introduces its re-launched venue hire offer

People’s History Museum (PHM) has relaunched its venue hire offer, comprising the very best of both its heritage and contemporary multi-use spaces. The transformation has been...

Manchester prepares to mark VE Day

Celebrations to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day are set to take place throughout Manchester. On May 8, 80 years will have passed since...

Man jailed for campaign of abuse

A man has been jailed for a campaign of physical and sexual abuse. Ryan Schofield (34) of Whiteacre Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, was sentenced to life imprisonment...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Manchester launches vision for new national hub for hydrogen

Manchester is placing itself in prime position to become the home of a new national facility that will be central to the UK’s ambition...

People’s History Museum introduces its re-launched venue hire offer

People’s History Museum (PHM) has relaunched its venue hire offer, comprising the very best of both its heritage and contemporary multi-use spaces. The transformation has been...

Argella Moves Global Base to Dubai, Strengthening Focus on Digital and AI Growth

Technology advisory firm Argella has announced the relocation of its global headquarters from London to Dubai, cementing its commitment to the region as a...

Daredevil Malcolm Guest forsakes wheelchair for charity zip wire challenge

Malcolm Guest is taking to the skies for a zip wire challenge in aid of the MS Therapy Centre. On April 15, the 64-year-old from...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final...