Australian driver Oscar Piastri showcased exceptional skill and composure at the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday, leading McLaren to its first victory at the circuit since 2005 with a commanding 1-2 finish alongside teammate Lando Norris.
The 24-year-old Piastri crossed the finish line 2.4 seconds ahead of British rival Norris, extending his lead in the Formula One drivers’ championship to 10 points. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc secured third place after an intense battle in the final laps.
Reigning four-time world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull adopted a three-stop strategy, which ultimately cost him a podium position. A late collision with Mercedes’ George Russell, who finished fourth, resulted in Verstappen receiving a 10-second penalty and dropping to tenth place.
“This victory is a testament to the incredible teamwork and dedication we’ve put in,” Piastri said after the race. “We had great pace today, and it’s a fantastic way to bounce back after Monaco.”
Piastri’s win marks his fifth of the season and the seventh of his career. It also signifies his eighth consecutive podium finish for McLaren—a feat previously achieved only by legendary drivers Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton.
Nico Hülkenberg of Sauber made an impressive climb from 15th on the grid to finish fifth, while Ferrari’s Hamilton took sixth place. Rookie Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls earned seventh, with Alpine’s Pierre Gasly in eighth.
Local favorite and two-time champion Fernando Alonso finished ninth for Aston Martin, much to the delight of the home crowd.
The race was not without controversy, as Verstappen’s aggressive tactics drew criticism. Former world champion Nico Rosberg suggested that the Dutch driver deserved to be disqualified following the collision with Russell.
As the season progresses, Piastri’s performance has solidified his status as a rising star in Formula One. Fans around the world eagerly anticipate the next race, wondering if McLaren can maintain their momentum.
