International press: 'Four factors made Verstappen's victory possible'

The French Grand Prix was visibly enjoyed by the international press. Red Bull Racing's strategy meant that it remained exciting until the final laps of the race. In the end it was Max Verstappen who was able to beat his title rival Lewis Hamilton.

Marca

Spanish newspaper Marca saw Verstappen convert Saturday's pole position into a victory. "Another Red Bull victory in the French Grand Prix was in the offing on Saturday and this time Max Verstappen did not disappoint. He drove the RB16B to victory with two laps to go overtaking Lewis Hamilton. Who, being the legendary driver that he is, had to defend himself without tyres. F1's new value is determined to go for the world championship."

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Despite Verstappen being ahead in the standings, the Italians see it mainly as a 3-3 draw between the Dutchman and Hamilton. "Max Verstappen wins, and we are 3-3! From Le Castellet another wonderful verdict for this 2021 World Championship, which is increasingly illuminated thanks to the super challenge between Red Bull's Dutchman and Lewis Hamilton, who today fought like a lion as ever, but could do nothing against Max. The decisive overtake in the French GP came two laps from the end, with Hamilton using the hard tyres to the end of their lives, while Red Bull used a two-stop strategy to dominate the GP superbly."

Sky Sports

Sky Sports saw a hard-fought victory for Verstappen, allowing him to extend his lead in the championship. "Max Verstappen increased his lead in the championship by beating Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting F1 duel at the French GP. On the penultimate lap of the race at Paul Ricard he passed his title rival in magnificent fashion."

"On an afternoon that was ultimately dictated by team strategy, with the Red Bull and Mercedes cars closely matched on track, Verstappen used his fresh tyres after his second stop to steam up behind a stopping Hamilton in the closing stages, overtaking his prey on lap 52 of 53."

Auto, Motor und Sport

According to Auto, Motor und Sport, there were four factors that played into Verstappen's victory on Sunday. "Red Bull and Mercedes fought the following battle. After 53 laps, Max Verstappen was the first driver to see the chequered flag - ahead of world championship rival Lewis Hamilton. Red Bull's tactics were perfect. Four other factors made the third win of the season possible: the stronger Honda engine, the small rear wing, the careful handling of the tyres - and above all the teammate."

L'Equipe

L'Equipe once again highlights Verstappen's hat trick. "The 2021 French Grand Prix will be remembered above all for another duel between Hamilton and Verstappen and a breathtaking finish. Red Bull's strategy paid off and Max Verstappen took advantage to win this Sunday in Le Castellet, thanks to an overtaking move on Lewis Hamilton on the penultimate lap. A fine performance from the Dutchman, who finished the weekend with pole position, fastest race lap and victory."