Mexican Perez had to settle for second behind Verstappen with Carlos Sainz third for Ferrari.
Lando Norris started third but finished only ninth following a poor opening lap, while George Russell and Lewis Hamilton crossed the line in eighth and 10th respectively on another underwhelming day for Mercedes.
In damp conditions at the Red Bull Ring, pole-sitter Verstappen fell behind Perez as they blasted away from their marks.
The Dutch driver moved to his right on the run down to the opening corner, but Perez squeezed his way through to take the lead.
However, he ran wide on the exit of the first bend allowing Verstappen the opportunity of a slingshot back past on the straight.
This story is from the July 02, 2023 edition of Daily Star Sunday.
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This story is from the July 02, 2023 edition of Daily Star Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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