Daniel Ricciardo led a historic 1-2 finish for McLaren at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix, his first win for the team, while championship rivals Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton collided on Lap 26, resulting in a double retirement. Valtteri Bottas completed the podium after a strong recovery drive.
The 2021 Russian Grand Prix was defined by a dry-track tactical battle followed by a chaotic late-race downpour. The crucial differentiator was the timing of the transition to Intermediate tyres, which saw Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen capitalize while others, most notably Lando Norris, lost out by remaining on slick tyres too long.
Max Verstappen secured pole position for the 2021 Austrian Grand Prix, continuing his dominant run in the 2021 season.