LEWIS HAMILTON sealed a stunning fifth straight win in Spain as he overtook Max Verstappen with just SIX laps remaining for victory.

The Mercedes ace was beaten off the line by his Red Bull rival, who led in Barcelona for most of the race.

But Hamilton took advantage of two pit stops and much better tyres to close down Verstappen's 22-second lead.

And Hamilton eventually overtook his chief title rival with six laps left to secure a third win in the season's opening four races.

The victory sees Hamilton extend his lead over the Red Bull star to 14 points – with the Dutchman claiming the fastest lap bonus.

Hailing his team's strategy, Hamilton told his team over the radio: "Great job with that strategy. Definitely had to work for it".

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff told him: "Lewis perfect combination. Great strategy, bold and great driving."

Valterri Bottas finished third with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in fourth.

Sergio Perez was fifth ahead of Daniel Ricciardo in sixth, Carlos Sainz in seventh and Lando Norris eighth.

Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly picked up the final points.

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Hamilton said after the race: "First I want to acknowledge the fans that are here. It is great to see. I saw a British flag out there which I haven't seen for a long, long time. I feel great after this. I feel like I could go again.

"I was so close [behind Verstappen] for so long but just managed to keep the tyres in somehow. 22 seconds was a long way to come back but it was a good gamble – a really great strategy from the team.

"I was about to get a shot to get past him as I pitted. I was really conflicted – 'do I come in or ignore the call'. I did what the team asked because there is a great trust between us. Remarkable job by everyone in this team. What a day."

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