Max Verstappen hailed as ‘phenomenon’ by Damon Hill after brilliant win at Monza

Max Verstappen has been hailed as a “phenomenon” and “the driver of this age” by Damon Hill following the four-time world champion’s crushing win in Italy.

Verstappen delivered Red Bull’s first victory of the post-Christian Horner era at Monza’s Temple of Speed on Sunday, taking the chequered flag 19.2 seconds clear of runner-up Lando Norris.

Red Bull’s stranglehold on Formula One has long since evaporated, with McLaren the dominant force of this season’s field, but Verstappen turned in a masterclass in his sub-par machinery. The Dutch driver’s Red Bull team-mate Yuki Tsunoda crossed the line in 13th, an eye-watering 80 seconds behind.

I know I've been critical of some of his passing and tactics, but there is not getting away from the fact that Max Verstappen is the driver of this age. He's a cut above in almost every respect. A phenomenon, actually. Nice job this weekend Max