Collision with Antonelli forces Verstappen out of Austrian GP

Max Verstappen had to end his Austrian GP early after an incident with Andrea Kimi Antonelli at turn 3 on the opening lap.

Antonelli, starting from ninth position, lost control on the uphill approach to turn 3 — the rookie driver locked his brakes and crashed into the rear of Verstappen’s car. Both vehicles suffered severe damage and had to retire from the race.

After the safety car came in on lap 4, Lando Norris maintained his lead position, followed by his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri who managed to pass Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton and George Russell engaged in an intense battle for fourth position.

The opening incident will be investigated by FIA stewards after the race — Antonelli faces potential grid penalties at next week’s British GP.