Norris Takes Australian Grand Prix Win Over Verstappen

TDT | Manama
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McLaren driver secures victory in challenging Melbourne conditions

Lando Norris opened the 2025 Formula 1 season with a win at the Australian Grand Prix, beating Max Verstappen in a rain-affected race at Albert Park. The McLaren driver managed difficult conditions to claim top spot, finishing ahead of the defending champion and Mercedes’ George Russell.

Early Chaos Sets the Tone

The race began under pressure, with Isack Hadjar spinning into the barriers on the formation lap. Lap one saw Jack Doohan and Carlos Sainz retire after crashes, thinning the field early. Norris took the lead, followed by teammate Oscar Piastri, as rain loomed over the circuit. Later incidents—Fernando Alonso’s spin on lap 34, and Gabriel Bortoleto and Liam Lawson’s exits—brought out the safety car, leaving 14 cars by the end. Norris stayed composed throughout, finishing 57 laps unscathed. “It was tricky with Max close at the end, but we got it done,” he said post-race.

Piastri’s Home Hopes Fade

Oscar Piastri, chasing a podium in front of his home crowd, ran strongly until lap 44. A sudden rain shower saw him slide off track, dropping him out of contention. He recovered to ninth, earning two points, but was left frustrated. “I drove well for all but one lap—disappointing to finish like that,” Piastri noted. Norris also faltered briefly in the wet but held on, a difference that proved decisive.  

Verstappen and Russell in Pursuit

Max Verstappen mounted a late challenge, briefly leading after Piastri’s exit and Norris’ spin on lap 44. Red Bull kept him out on medium tyres as others pitted, a move that didn’t quite deliver the win. “It was worth a try—P2’s solid points,” Verstappen said, noting his 18-point gain compared to last year’s zero in Melbourne. George Russell took third for Mercedes, pleased with the result. “Good to be up there—not our quickest day, but it worked out,” he commented.

Mixed Fortunes for Ferrari and Others

Ferrari struggled with their strategy when rain hit. Charles Leclerc finished eighth, overtaken by Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg in seventh, while Lewis Hamilton led briefly before settling for tenth. “We could’ve done better,” Hamilton remarked over the radio. Alexander Albon secured fourth for Williams, and Kimi Antonelli marked his debut with fifth for Mercedes, showing early promise.

Race Results

Here’s how the field finished after 57 laps at Albert Park:

A Measured Start to 2025

Norris’ win, confirmed with a podium alongside Verstappen and Russell, gives McLaren an edge heading into China next week. The team’s pace stood out, though Ferrari’s missteps and the tight midfield—Williams and Sauber included—suggest a competitive season ahead. “The car was strong—credit to the team,” Norris said. For now, he holds the early lead in a championship that’s only just begun.