Verstappen Dominates Influencer Go-Kart Race at Silverstone

Max Verstappen outpaced 100 influencers to win a chaotic exhibition go-kart race at Silverstone on Wednesday. The Red Bull driver began at the rear of the field and, within 14 laps, secured victory in the event streamed live on Disney+.

Verstappen quickly climbed through the ranks, reaching 37th place after the first lap. During his ascent, he overtook Daily Mail Sport presenter Henry Williams, who had qualified in 73rd. The pass involved Verstappen leaving the track at the second corner, an action described as controversial amidst the race's general carnage.

By lap 10, Verstappen had advanced to fourth position. A rule stipulated that any driver overtaken by Verstappen had to retire from the race. On the final lap, he passed Dutch journalist Jacky Martens to claim the win.

"When I went to the grid and I saw where I had to start, with 100 karts in front of me, I was a little bit worried," Verstappen said after the race. "After my first lap with all the carnage, I did think 'OK, we have got this under control'. From there on, I could really have a lot of fun trying to hunt them all down."

He added, "Once I started getting into a rhythm and was able to overtake them one by one and saw the gap closing, that was really exciting. It was great to just be back in a go-kart again and go back to basics, it reminded me of racing back in the day. It's a really beautiful track and well designed. I had a great day and it was good to come out with the win."

Williams commented on the experience, stating, "It was really fun to be part of. Verstappen was a good sport."

The 28-year-old Verstappen, who began his racing career in karting before transitioning to Formula One, found the event reminiscent of his early days in the sport.