Max Verstappen wins Spanish GP from pole for 40th career victory

Max Verstappen of Red Bull won the Spanish Grand Prix from pole position on Sunday to strengthen his hold on the Formula One championship.

The two-time defending champion was never challenged on the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya after beating Carlos Sainz's Ferrari to the first turn.

Lewis Hamilton crossed the finish line second in his Mercedes to equal his best finish of the season. Fellow Mercedes driver George Russell completed the podium.

Verstappen has won five of seven races this season.

His 40th career win, including his third in Barcelona, leaves Verstappen one win behind the late Ayrton Senna's total of 41. He also seems well on course to matching Senna's three world titles.

Verstappen's Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez, who finished fourth, has won the other two races.

The Dutchman grew his lead over Perez to 55 points.

Canada's Lance Stroll finished sixth on Sunday.