Oscar Piastri Dominates in Spain, Verstappen Caught in Controversy
McLaren are riding high once again this Formula 1 season, with Oscar Piastri claiming a commanding victory at the Spanish Grand Prix. The Australian sensation, who now leads the Drivers’ Championship, was followed home by teammate Lando Norris, completing a dominant 1-2 for the Woking-based outfit.
But while McLaren soared, it was a day to forget for Max Verstappen. The reigning World Champion was on course for a podium finish until a late-race safety car turned the Grand Prix on its head. On the restart, Verstappen lost third place to Charles Leclerc of Ferrari, and then became embroiled in a heated scrap with George Russell of Mercedes.
The Red Bull driver made contact with Russell instead of conceding the position, leading to a 10-second time penalty. That incident dropped Verstappen all the way down to P10, barely salvaging a single point in a race full of drama and frustration for the Dutchman.
Meanwhile, there was cause for celebration at Sauber, as Nico Hülkenberg delivered a stunning drive to finish fifth — outpacing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in the final stages.
Spanish Grand Prix – Final Race Results (Top 10)
1. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 66 laps
2. Lando Norris (McLaren) +2.471s
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) +10.455s
4. George Russell (Mercedes) +11.359s
5. Nico Hülkenberg (Sauber) +13.648s
6. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) +15.508s
7. Isack Hadjar (RB) +16.022s
8. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) +17.882s
9. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) +21.564s
10. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) +21.826s
