Spanish Grand Prix 2021 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton outfoxed Max Verstappen through superior strategy at the Spanish Grand Prix, claiming his third consecutive victory and extending his championship lead. Mercedes' two-stop strategy proved decisive at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, with Hamilton executing a perfectly-timed overtake to snatch victory from Verstappen's grasp.

Verstappen led the opening stages after overtaking pole-sitter Hamilton at the start, appearing in control as he built a comfortable advantage. However, Mercedes sprung a strategic surprise by pitting Hamilton for a second time on lap 43, fitting fresh medium tires. The move initially seemed risky with Hamilton emerging 22 seconds behind Verstappen, but the pace advantage on newer rubber was immediately apparent. Hamilton carved through the gap with relentless speed, catching and passing Verstappen on lap 60 of 66 with a clinical move into Turn 1.

Valtteri Bottas completed the podium in third for Mercedes after Red Bull opted not to pit Verstappen for fresh tires, gambling that track position would be enough. The decision backfired as Verstappen's older tires couldn't resist Hamilton's charge. Verstappen claimed fastest lap but finished second, 15 seconds behind. The victory showcased Mercedes' strategic prowess and Hamilton's tire management skills, extending his championship lead to 14 points and demonstrating that Red Bull's early-season advantage was far from insurmountable.