Australian GP: Lando Norris triumphs in season opener despite chaos

Dominika Jordan
Mar 16, 2025, 02:24 AM ET

MELBOURNE -- Preseason favorite Lando Norris secured victory at the thrilling Australian Grand Prix on Sunday, holding off reigning world champion Max Verstappen in a race marred by chaotic conditions and multiple safety car interventions.

Norris, starting from pole position, exhibited exceptional driving to keep Verstappen's charging Red Bull at bay, ultimately crossing the finish line just 0.8 seconds ahead. The race was a showcase of resilience amid unpredictable weather and numerous crashes that disrupted the flow.

"It was amazing," Norris commented post-race. "It was a tough race, especially with Max behind me. Pushing those last two laps was a bit stressful, but it’s an amazing way to start the year."

The early part of the race saw Norris and his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri dominate proceedings, pulling ahead of the pack. However, as rain intensified around Lap 44, both drivers struggled, with Piastri veering off track, which dashed McLaren's hopes for a one-two finish. Despite the challenging conditions, Norris avoided a similar fate and claimed his fifth career victory, setting a strong foundation for his championship bid.

"We made some big mistakes, but these tricky conditions are enjoyable and unpredictable. This time, we got it right, and I'm very pleased," added Norris.

Behind Norris, Verstappen finished second, while George Russell of Mercedes claimed the third spot on the podium. The race saw young talents and seasoned drivers alike grappling with the elements and strategic decisions.

Williams driver Alex Albon secured a commendable fifth place, while newcomer Andrea Kimi Antonelli, standing in for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, initially finished fourth but was relegated to fifth after a five-second penalty for an unsafe release. The penalty was later overturned following an appeal.

Hamilton’s debut race for Ferrari was less eventful, as the seven-time world champion settled for 10th place after a captivating overtake maneuver by Piastri. Hamilton's teammate, Charles Leclerc, finished eighth, hindered by a late spin during the changing conditions.

The race was plagued by incidents, including an emotional pre-race accident involving Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar, who crashed on the formation lap. Alpine's Jack Doohan and Williams' Carlos Sainz also crashed out early, triggering safety car deployments that added to the day's drama.

In the chaotic final stint, McLaren managed to maintain their lead as the field bunched up under safety car conditions. With the onset of rain, the challenge escalated, leading to incidents involving rookies Gabriele Bortoleto and Liam Lawson, who both retired following crashes on the damp track.

Despite a late charge from Verstappen, Norris held his nerve to secure the win, marking a significant start to the season for both him and McLaren.

Norris' commanding performance at the Australian GP sets the tone for an exhilarating season ahead, with McLaren demonstrating their readiness to challenge for the championship amidst unpredictable and demanding racing conditions.