Brazil GP – Max Verstappen amazes with third-place finish despite pit-lane start: “I didn’t expect it”. Max Verstappen delivers a remarkable performance at the 2025 Brazil GP.

Max Verstappen delivered a masterclass at the 2025 Brazil Grand Prix, finishing in third place after a race full of incidents and dramatic twists. The Dutch driver once again proved that Interlagos is one of his strongest tracks, producing an extraordinary performance throughout the weekend.

Starting from the pit-lane due to a last-minute penalty, Max Verstappen managed his race perfectly and secured a well-earned podium finish. He climbed through the field in a short time and even challenged Kimi Antonelli for second place, but the Mercedes driver was able to hold position.

Despite not achieving second, Max Verstappen remained positive at the end of the GP, stating that “at least I gave it my best.” Red Bull’s strategy also played a key role. Even with an early pit stop during the first Safety Car due to a puncture, the team helped the 28-year-old return to the front and challenge for the podium.

Max Verstappen reflects on his Brazil GP

Max Verstappen woke up that morning knowing he would start from the pit-lane, and he certainly did not expect to finish on the podium. Nor did he anticipate briefly challenging for the lead or fighting for second at the end.

“I think the race was quite eventful, with a lot of action. Starting from the pit-lane, I had to make many overtakes, obviously,” said the four-time world champion. “Throughout the stints, it was difficult to gauge my position in the traffic. A podium from the pit-lane was something I did not expect at all, especially given the early puncture that forced me into the pits.”

“So this is an incredible result for us. I’m very happy with it and very proud of everyone on the team. Yesterday was a really tough day, but we never give up. We always try to improve and find more performance, and today we managed to do that, luckily,” Max Verstappen added.

The early pit stop was a setback for Max Verstappen. He had reached 13th before the puncture dropped him to last under the Safety Car. However, he found the right balance, allowing him to overtake cars efficiently without taking unnecessary risks.

“Yes, I tried to overtake as quickly as possible because I didn’t want to lose too much time. There were also some cars in a DRS train, so it wasn’t straightforward. Considering all this, finishing just ten seconds behind the leader is incredible for us,” concluded the 28-year-old, clearly satisfied with his performance.