MAX VERSTAPPEN won the Japanese Grand Prix to make it a hat-trick for the season.
The Dutchman, who won the opening two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia before being forced to retire with brake failure in Melbourne, drove a faultless race.
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Max Verstappen romped to victory in SuzukaCredit: Getty
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The Dutchman returned to winning ways in JapanCredit: Getty
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Verstappen celebrates on the podium with Sergio Perez and Carlos SainzCredit: Getty
The 26-year-old started on pole, took the win and got the bonus point for setting the fastest lap.
Verstappen finished ahead of his team-mate Sergio Perez, who was second to give Red Bull another one-two finish, and moved the Mexican into second-place in the drivers’ championship.
Carlos Sainz, who won in Australia, continued his excellent run by finishing in third place.
Verstappen, who beat Perez by over 12 seconds, said: “It was very nice. The critical bit was the start to stay ahead and after that the car got better and better for me throughout the race.