Piastri’s Strategic Triumph: Oscar Piastri delivered a masterful performance at the Chinese Grand Prix, securing his third career victory. He expertly managed his tyres and pace to win from pole position, leading a McLaren 1-2.
Start Drama and Hamilton-Leclerc Clash: Piastri made a clean start, leading Norris and Russell. Max Verstappen, starting fourth, struggled off the line, losing two places to the Ferraris of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. A collision between Hamilton and Leclerc resulted in damage to Leclerc’s front wing, but the Ferrari driver showcased impressive pace despite the setback.
McLaren’s Pace and Russell’s Challenge: Piastri established a small lead over Norris, with Russell trailing. Norris briefly lost second place to Russell after the first pit stops, but quickly reclaimed the position with a decisive overtake.
Verstappen’s Recovery and Ferrari’s Strategy: Verstappen, initially struggling, began to recover, closing in on the Ferraris. Ferrari, anticipating a Verstappen challenge, opted to pit Hamilton for fresh tyres, setting up a late-race charge. Verstappen then overtook Leclerc for fourth place.
McLaren 1-2 and Late-Race Drama: Piastri controlled the race from the front, securing victory. Norris, managing brake issues, held off Russell for second place. Leclerc finished fourth, followed by Hamilton. Esteban Ocon secured points for Haas, while Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Alex Albon also finished in the points.
Post-Race Disqualifications: In a dramatic turn of events, Pierre Gasly, Charles Leclerc, and Lewis Hamilton were disqualified after the race. Gasly and Leclerc’s cars were found to be underweight, while Hamilton’s car was deemed to have excessive skid wear. This marks the first time Ferrari teammates have been disqualified in the same race.
Revised Race Results:
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren/Mercedes)
- Lando Norris (McLaren/Mercedes)
- George Russell (Mercedes)
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull/Honda RBPT)
- Esteban Ocon (Haas/Ferrari)
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- Alexander Albon (Williams/Mercedes)
- Oliver Bearman (Haas/Ferrari)
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin/Mercedes)
- Carlos Sainz (Williams/Mercedes)
- Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls/Honda RBPT)
- Liam Lawson (Red Bull/Honda RBPT)
- Jack Doohan (Alpine/Renault)
- Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber/Ferrari)
- Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber/Ferrari)
- Yuki Tsunoda (Racing Bulls/Honda RBPT)
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin/Mercedes) – Retirement
Disclaimer: Race results and disqualifications are based on the provided report and are subject to official FIA confirmation.
