British Grand Prix: Verstappen and Hamilton Collide on Opening Lap

Race Ends for Verstappen, Hamilton Receives Penalty

Thrilling Start Leads to Dramatic Turn in Championship Battle

SILVERSTONE, England (July 18, 2021) - The 2021 Formula 1 world championship battle took a dramatic turn at Silverstone today when championship leader Max Verstappen collided with rival Lewis Hamilton on the opening lap. The incident ended Verstappen's race and earned Hamilton a 10-second penalty.

The collision occurred as the cars approached Copse Corner, one of the fastest corners on the calendar. Verstappen attempted to overtake Hamilton on the inside but made contact with the Mercedes driver's rear tire. The impact sent Verstappen's Red Bull into the barriers, ending his race immediately.

Hamilton was able to continue but was given a 10-second penalty for his role in the collision. The penalty dropped him to fifth place, but he fought back to overtake Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and claim a dramatic victory.