Max Verstappen wins Chinese Grand Prix sprint race with thrilling battle

Verstappen’s thrilling victory in the Chinese Grand Prix sprint race has set the stage for an exciting main event on Sunday. The Red Bull driver fought past Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso to claim the top spot on the podium, showcasing his exceptional driving skills and determination.

Pole-sitter Lando Norris faced a setback early in the race as he slid wide at the first corner while trying to fend off Hamilton. Verstappen took advantage of the situation and gradually closed in on his rivals, eventually securing the lead and pulling away from the pack.

Alonso put up a strong fight but was forced to retire due to damage sustained during a clash with his teammate Carlos Sainz. This opened the door for Sainz and Red Bull’s Sergio Perez to battle for the final podium positions, with Perez ultimately finishing in third place.

Hamilton’s second-place finish marked a significant improvement for Mercedes, which has been struggling with their new car this season. The seven-time world champion expressed his satisfaction with the result and his eagerness to continue pushing for better performances in the upcoming races.

The intense competition and dramatic overtakes throughout the sprint race have set the stage for an action-packed main event on Sunday. With Verstappen looking strong and determined to extend his lead in the championship standings, fans can expect a thrilling battle for the top positions at the Shanghai International Circuit. Stay tuned for all the live action on 5 Live and the BBC Sport website at 08:00 BST.