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How 87 seconds from Max Verstappen sent a clear F1 title message

Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen (Getty Images)
  • Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the Japanese Grand Prix, his first victory of the season, after a remarkable qualifying lap.
  • His pole position time, a new lap record, was achieved by a stunning final sector where he overcame a significant deficit.
  • Verstappen's performance was praised by other drivers, including Fernando Alonso, and his team.
  • McLaren, who had been dominant in practice, were narrowly beaten by Verstappen's exceptional lap.
  • Verstappen's win puts him one point behind championship leader Lando Norris, setting up a close title fight with Norris and Oscar Piastri.
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