Max Verstappen takes French GP win ahead of Lewis Hamilton as Charles Leclerc crashes out

Max Verstappen won the French Grand Prix after championship rival Charles Leclerc crashed out from the lead.

Leclerc was in charge of the race before he sensationally lost control of his Ferrari through the right-hand Turn 11 and slammed into the tyre wall.

Verstappen took advantage of Leclerc's demise to race unchallenged to the chequered flag, and extend his lead over the Ferrari driver from 38 points to 63.

In his 300th Formula One appearance, Lewis Hamilton finished second to claim his best result of the season and his fourth podium in succession.

George Russell was third after he fought his way past Sergio Perez with three laps remaining. Carlos Sainz, who started last following an engine penalty, took fifth.

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And there haven't been many race weekends where you could smile if you support the Silver Arrows this season. 

Verstappen took control after Leclerc's demise but the other two spots on the podium were filled by Mercedes men, Hamilton and Russell. Both were overjoyed with their efforts and well they might. 

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I think we had really good pace on the start, I was putting pressure on Charles. We just tried to stay calm and close because we pitted a bit earlier. From there onwards you never know how the race is going to go. Unlucky for Charles, I hope he's okay.

The tyres were wearing a lot, it was all about looking after the tyres until the end. 

I was just trying to get the most points possible. Some moves you see they are on and sometimes you back out and wait for