Emilia Romagna Grand Prix 2021 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Max Verstappen claimed his first victory of 2021 in a chaotic Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, capitalizing on mistakes from both Mercedes drivers to take the championship lead. The race, run in treacherous wet conditions, produced drama from start to finish and showcased Verstappen's composure under pressure at the challenging Italian circuit.

Starting from third on the grid behind pole-sitter Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen seized the lead early and controlled the race despite two Safety Car periods. The pivotal moment came when Hamilton made a rare error, sliding off into the gravel trap at Tosa on lap 31 while trying to lap the backmarkers. The seven-time champion managed to reverse out and rejoin, but dropped to ninth position. Meanwhile, Valtteri Bottas had his own nightmare, colliding with Williams driver George Russell in a high-speed crash that brought out a red flag. Both drivers blamed each other in the immediate aftermath, though stewards deemed it a racing incident.

Hamilton's recovery drive through the field salvaged crucial championship points, finishing second after a late pit stop for fresh tires earned him the fastest lap bonus. Lando Norris delivered a superb performance to claim his first podium of the season in third for McLaren. The race demonstrated that even Hamilton wasn't immune to mistakes under pressure, while Verstappen's flawless drive in difficult conditions announced Red Bull as genuine title contenders. The victory gave Verstappen a one-point championship lead heading into the Portuguese Grand Prix.