Max Verstappen and Red Bull bounced back from their struggles in Monaco by taking a hard-fought victory at a rain-hit Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. The reigning world champion had to overcome challenging weather conditions, Safety Car periods, and tough competition to stand on the top step of the podium.

The race started in wet conditions, with Mercedes driver George Russell leading Verstappen in the early stages. However, a charging Lando Norris in the McLaren temporarily took the lead by passing both cars as the track dried. An ill-timed Safety Car then dropped Norris back to third behind Verstappen and Russell.

As the conditions continued shifting between wet and dry, there were multiple tire changes and strategic calls required. Verstappen made the right moves, mastering the restarts and managing the changing grip levels to retain his lead through to the end.

Norris recovered to finish an impressive second, while Russell had to fend off hard-charging Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton to claim the final podium spot. The other McLaren of Oscar Piastri completed the top five.

It was an action-packed, dramatic race from start to finish at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Aside from the changing weather, there were collisions, spins, penalties and a string of retirements, including Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.

Verstappen’s measured drive and Red Bull’s strategic calls allowed them to capitalize on rivals’ misfortunes. The Dutchman now holds a commanding 56-point lead in the drivers’ championship over Leclerc after nine rounds.

The 2024 F1 season continues in two weeks with the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. But for now, Verstappen can savor a well-earned victory from an extraordinarily eventful day in Montreal.