F1: Max Verstappen wins as Mercedes struggle at Hungarian GP

Verstappen cruises to victory at the Hungaroring

Max Verstappen has won the Hungarian Grand Prix, with Mercedes struggling for pace at the Hungaroring. The Red Bull driver led from start to finish, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finishing second and Lewis Hamilton taking third.

It was a disappointing afternoon for Mercedes, with Valtteri Bottas finishing fourth and George Russell sixth. The team had looked strong in qualifying but struggled with tire degradation in the race.

Verstappen dominant throughout

Verstappen was in a class of his own throughout the race. He started from pole position and led every lap, setting the fastest lap of the race in the process.

Leclerc was unable to match Verstappen's pace but did enough to secure second place. Hamilton was third but was never really in contention for the win.

Mercedes struggles continue

Mercedes' struggles were evident from the start of the race. Bottas and Russell were both passed by Leclerc on the opening lap and were never able to recover.

The team's tire degradation was a major issue, with both drivers having to make three stops during the race. This left them vulnerable to attack from the Red Bulls and Ferraris.

Verstappen extends championship lead

Verstappen's victory extends his lead in the championship to 80 points. Leclerc is now 63 points behind in second, with Hamilton a further 19 points back in third.

The next race is the Belgian Grand Prix on August 28.