McLaren Expresses Major Surprise After Pivotal Max Verstappen Defeat in Imola

McLaren boss Andrea Stella expressed the team's surprise at being defeated by Max Verstappen and Red Bull in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Despite Oscar Piastri being on pole position, Verstappen took the lead at Turn 1 and led throughout the race, also setting the fastest lap.

McLaren expected to be strong at Imola given the track layout and hot weather conditions, similar to Miami where they achieved a one-two finish. However, Verstappen displayed superior race pace, pulling away from Piastri and then Norris after a safety car restart.

Reflecting on the defeat, Stella noted the positive effect of Red Bull's upgrades.

"After coming from the race in Miami, where our pace was very strong, we knew that due to the track layout and the slightly different ambient conditions, this race would be more balanced... But I have to say we were a little surprised by the pace of the Red Bull, which was very competitive."

He added that the race was decided by Verstappen taking the lead at Turn 1, and McLaren simply didn't have enough pace to beat him after that.