Verstappen breaks Schumacher's record of 896 days as top F1 driver

Max Verstappen made Formula 1 history on Sunday, not only winning the Brazilian Grand Prix but also breaking Michael Schumacher's record for the longest streak of consecutive days leading the race series' driver standings. With 897 days at the top, Verstappen surpassed Schumacher’s 896-day reign, a record held since 2003.

The Dutch Red Bull driver’s eighth win of the season came after a ten-race drought, solidifying his dominance in the 2023 Formula 1 season. Starting in 15th place after a challenging qualifying session, Verstappen skilfully completed the race at São Paulo’s Interlagos Circuit. Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly of Alpine finished second and third, respectively, while Verstappen’s closest rival, Lando Norris, fell to sixth place after starting from pole position.

With this victory, Verstappen now holds a 62-point lead over Norris, firmly positioning himself to secure another championship title. Norris, who struggled with poor tire strategy and a difficult restart, now sits at 331 points. Verstappen, with 393 points, is poised to clinch the title as early as the Las Vegas Grand Prix in three weeks.

The race was marked by several dramatic moments, including a red flag following a crash by Franco Colapinto and multiple safety cars. Verstappen's tactical decision to delay his tire change allowed him to retain his advantage over Ocon after the restart, leading him to victory.

Breaking Schumacher's record

Verstappen’s Brazilian Grand Prix win not only extended his points lead but also marked his surpassing of Michael Schumacher's long-standing record for consecutive days leading the Formula 1 championship. Since taking the lead from Charles Leclerc at the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen has maintained his grip on the top spot, winning back-to-back world titles.

If Verstappen secures this season’s title, he will become the first driver in history to hold the championship lead for over 1,000 days.