The world champion beat McLaren pole-sitter Oscar Piastri on Laurent Mekies’ first race weekend as team principal since replacing sacked Horner a fortnight ago.

Lando Norris in the other McLaren was third.

“It worked out really well, I knew it was going to be tough keeping them (the McLarens) behind,” said Verstappen.

“I couldnt afford to make any big mistakes. It’s a sprint win but it still counts,” added the Dutchman after his 12th career sprint win.

Piastri enjoyed a smooth getaway but Verstappen made his decisive pass down the Kemmel straight on the first of the 15-lap dash.

Piastri extended his lead in the drivers championship by one point to nine over Norris, with Verstappen 68 points adrift of the Australian

Qualifying for Sunday’s main race takes place later Saturday.