Verstappen enters record books with 10th straight win in Monza

Max Verstappen etched his name in the Formula 1 history books after fending off a stern challenge from Ferrari to clinch a record-extending 10th successive race victory at the 2023 Italian Grand Prix.

The reigning champion overcame a captivating early battle with Carlos Sainz to beat Sergio Perez and Charles Leclerc at the Temple of Speed.

Delayed start and early lead battle

The Grand Prix began in dramatic fashion as Yuki Tsunoda's car stopped on track, causing a delayed start and reduced race distance.

When the lights went out, Sainz bolted away from pole position to cover off Verstappen into the first chicane.

The Ferrari driver defended with vigor in the opening laps to maintain his lead ahead of the champion.

Verstappen pressured Sainz constantly, but the Spaniard rebuffed him through bold defensive driving.

This tenacious battle allowed Sainz to stay ahead for 15 nail-biting laps.

Verstappen strikes for the lead

On lap 15, Verstappen attacked Sainz once more into Turn 1. This time, a lock-up from the Ferrari driver allowed Verstappen through to snatch the race lead.

Once ahead, the masterful Dutchman immediately pulled away, opening a 2.5 second advantage as Sainz's tires faded. By lap 19, Ferrari had no choice but to pit Sainz for fresh rubber.

Verstappen followed suit a lap later, maintaining his net race lead despite both drivers now being on the harder tire compound.

Red Bulls vs Ferraris

With Sainz rejoining just ahead of teammate Leclerc, a tantalizing battle for the podium spots took shape.

Verstappen continued to pull away from the squabble behind him. On lap 47, Perez finally used DRS to barge past Sainz for 2nd position going into Turn 1.

But the drama wasn't over. A charging Leclerc piled the pressure on Sainz, and the two Ferraris went wheel-to-wheel in a battle of wills on the final lap.

After several heart-stopping moments, Sainz narrowly edged Leclerc by 0.2 seconds at the line.

In front, Verstappen cruised to an historic 10th straight victory, beating Perez by 5.2 seconds.

With this dominant Monza win, Verstappen has cemented his legacy as one of F1's greatest champions. Meanwhile, Ferrari's valiant challenge proves they have the pace to take the fight to Red Bull as the championship heads towards its climax.

Though disappointed to miss out on home glory, Ferrari will gain confidence from their stellar showing in front of the passionate Tifosi fans.

Charles Leclerc in particular displayed the racing spirit of a champion-in-waiting through his relentless pursuit of Sainz in the final laps.