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Pastor Maldonado grabbed his first victory in Formula One in an historic afternoon in Barcelona.
It is the first time a Venezuelan driver has ever won in F1 and he did so in style, fending off a resolute Fernando Alonso and giving Sir Frank Williams’ team their first victory in eight years.
It marked an impressive weekend for Maldonado, who was promoted to pole after Lewis Hamilton was dropped to the back of the grid after Saturday’s qualifying.
Hamilton also impressed, carving his way through the field to ultimately finish eighth.
It wasn’t an entirely complete day for Williams though, after Bruno Senna was forced to retire following a collision with Michael Schumacher, who once again looked out of sorts in his Mercedes.
However, the weekend belonged to Maldonado, who managed to force his way back into the race after being overtaken by Alonso on the opening lap.
Alonso threatened to run away with the lead, but the Venezuelan kept within touching distance, closely followed by Kimi Raikkonen, who was tipped by many for victory.
After deciding to pit slightly earlier than scheduled, Maldonado was able to jump Alonso and was able to comfortably keep the two-time world champion at arm’s length until the chequered flag.
