Verstappen stunned by Leclerc's Belgian GP start: 'I saw a red rocket coming!'

The Dutchman moved past Antonelli before Eau Rouge, but in doing so used too much battery between Turns 1 and 2, leaving him with little energy on the run towards Les Combes. Speaking after the race, Verstappen explained that he immediately realised the situation after checking his battery status at the exit of Eau Rouge and expected Antonelli to overtake him.

Instead, he was surprised to also see Leclerc rapidly closing in, describing the Ferrari's straight-line speed as remarkable. With both cars approaching at such a speed, Verstappen decided to hold his line, believing any sudden move could have resulted in a major accident.

The four-time world champion may not have had the pace to challenge the two drivers ahead for victory, but he fought tooth and nail to defend his podium position, first from Oscar Piastri and later from a charging Lewis Hamilton, who received a five-second penalty after being found responsible for the opening-lap collision with George Russell.

After the race, Verstappen said he did everything he could to maximise the result, explaining that the opening stint was reasonably competitive before the second half of the race became more difficult. He also felt both he and Antonelli were unfortunate with the timing of the Virtual Safety Car, believing it did not work in their favour.

Despite that, the Dutchman was satisfied to come away with a podium finish, insisting he had given everything throughout the race and that third place was ultimately a good result.