Chinese Grand Prix: Oscar Piastri Wins At Shanghai—Securing A One-Two Finish For McLaren

Sports

Mar 26

Written By FP Team

Piastri quickly established a lead and claimed his first win of the season.

Sports

Words by FP Team | 2 Minute Read

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Oscar Piastri clinched his third Formula 1 victory win of this career at the Chinese Grand Prix, steering McLaren to an impressive one-two finish alongside teammate Lando Norris. The race, held at Shanghai International Circuit, underscored McLaren's remarkable resurgence this season and showcased Piastri's growth behind the wheel.

Piastri, who started from pole position, maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, fending off challenges from his competitors and finishing with a comfortable margin. Norris, after a strong start, was able to secure second place, further solidifying McLaren's position as a formidable force in the championship. Behind the McLaren duo, Mercedes' George Russell finished in third, while Red Bull's Max Verstappen managed to overtake Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to claim fourth place. Lewis Hamilton, despite a promising sprint race earlier in the weekend, crossed the line in a disappointing sixth.

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The race began with an intense first lap. Norris, starting in third, quickly maneuvered past Russell at the first corner, while Hamilton attempted an ambitious move on Verstappen. In a twist of fate, this maneuver led to a slight collision with Leclerc, though both drivers continued with minor damage. Though Piastri quickly established a lead, Hamilton’s early struggle for pace soon became evident.

As the laps progressed, the Ferrari team faced its own internal dynamics. Leclerc, eager to capitalize on his teammate’s struggles, urged for a position swap with Hamilton, who consented but expressed frustration over the timing of the decision. The exchange did not alter Hamilton's difficulties, leading to further tire changes as he battled for consistency.

Turn one went to plan, and then George got me at the pit stops. I was nervous, but our pace was better in the second stint. I tried to get close to Oscar but I couldn't. He deserves the win. I am happy with second
— Lando Norris. British Racing Driver. McLaren

Despite any struggling competitors, Piastri demonstrated a masterclass in racecraft. By lap ten, he had extended his lead over Norris to two seconds, reflecting a car that performed superbly under pressure. As the race unfolded, Norris found himself grappling with brake issues in the closing laps but managed to nurse his McLaren across the finish line.