Carlos Sainz clinched victory at the Australian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen’s early exit due to a fire.

Despite starting from pole position and leading after the first lap, Verstappen’s race ended abruptly with mechanical issues, engulfed in flames as he returned to the pits at Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit.

Following Verstappen’s misfortune, Sainz dominated the race, maintaining a comfortable lead ahead of his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc.

Despite undergoing surgery to remove his appendix just days prior, the Spaniard showcased his prowess, securing a memorable win.

A nightmare Australian Grand Prix for Max Verstappen as he’s forced to retire after an issue with his Red Bull! pic.twitter.com/mGCzzgdW9R

— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) March 24, 2024

It was a disastrous beginning in the Melbourne Grand Prix, as Max Verstappen suddenly slowed down, with smoke pouring out from the back of his Red Bull F1 car.

COmmentators first thought it was the power unit, but very quickly it was clear there was a problem with the brakes, which had melted the rear tyre.

Formula 1 Grand Prix chaos as Max Verstappen retires early. Source: Sky Sports

It was only the third lap of the race where the heat and intensity of the fire took him out.

As he pulled into the pits, Red BUll staff rushed to his car with fire extinguishers to rescue the driver, who climbed out of the car.

Verstappen in 2022

The Formula 1 season is renowned for its unpredictability, and the 2022 Grand Prix witnessed another chapter in the drama-filled saga of motorsport.

On lap 39 of the race, all eyes were on Max Verstappen as he encountered a devastating setback, retiring due to a fuel issue that sparked a fire within his car.

This unexpected turn of events not only halted Verstappen’s charge but also set the stage for a series of thrilling moments in the remaining laps.

Max Verstappen has RETIRED from the #AustralianGP. pic.twitter.com/DFpi93loFE

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) March 24, 2024

Verstappen’s retirement, attributed to a fuel issue distinct from his previous challenges in Bahrain, sent shockwaves through the racing world.

As flames engulfed his car, it marked the end of his aspirations for a podium finish, leaving fans and pundits alike pondering the implications for the championship standings.

The deployment of the virtual safety car added another layer of tension, temporarily slowing down the race and reshuffling strategies among the remaining contenders.