Lights out and away we go—Formula 1 is back, and the 2025 season is already delivering drama! One team that has set the paddock on fire? McLaren. Kicking off the season with a spectacular win at the Australian Grand Prix, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri proved that McLaren is here to fight.
The Australian Grand Prix was anything but predictable. Right from the formation lap, chaos ensued. New Visa Cash App RB driver Isack Hadjar suffered a heartbreaking DNF before the race even started. And let’s talk about the weather, it was relentless. Rain, dry patches, and everything in between made this one of the most challenging races in recent memory. The tricky conditions led to several retirements, including Jack Doohan, Liam Lawson, and Gabriel Bortoleto. Even seasoned veterans like Carlos Sainz making his debut with Williams and Fernando Alonso fell victim to the slippery track. It was a crushing moment for Sainz, who had looked promising all weekend in free practice.
Despite the chaos, one of the biggest talking points was the battle between Norris and reigning world champion Max Verstappen. It was a nail-biting chase, with Verstappen relentlessly hunting Norris down like a shark eyeing its prey. However, Norris held his ground, managing the gaps beautifully even when Verstappen had DRS advantage. It was an intense showdown that showcased just how much McLaren has closed the gap to Red Bull over the off-season.
Another standout performance came from Oscar Piastri. The young Australian was putting in a strong drive until a late-race slip sent him off into the grass, forcing him to reverse back onto the track. This put him a lap down, but thanks to multiple safety cars, he fought his way back and finished ninth still in the points. It was an impressive recovery, though it could have been a double podium opportunity for McLaren or a first time Aussie win in Australia.
The race had countless DNFs, unpredictable weather shifts, and exhilarating battles on track. One moment it was pouring rain, the next it was bone dry. It was hot and cold, lap after lap. But for McLaren fans, this race was a dream start to the season.
With only two races down, the season is just getting started. What are your predictions? Which teams do you think will rise to the challenge? One thing’s for sure—if the Australian Grand Prix was any indication, 2025 is going to be a season to remember!