Verstappen takes F1 lead with win in Spain

MANU FERNANDEZ/ POOL/ AFP

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen won the Spanish Grand Prix in a Red Bull one-two and seized the overall lead in the standings on an agonising Sunday for Ferrari's luckless Charles Leclerc.

The win ahead of Mexican team mate Sergio Perez completed a hat-trick for Verstappen, his third in a row after Imola and Miami, and sent the Dutch driver six points clear of Leclerc after six races.

Britain's George Russell finished third for a revived Mercedes with Perez taking the fastest lap bonus point.

Leclerc was earlier forced to retire from the race after losing power while leading from pole position.

The Monegasque returned to the pits after slowing on the 27th of 66 scheduled laps.

"No, no, no! Lost power," the Ferrari driver exclaimed as the car suddenly slowed.

Leclerc had a 19 point lead over Verstappen before the race at the Circuit de Catalunya.

The retirement was Leclerc's first in six races this season.

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