Oscar Piastri Edges Out Lando Norris As McLaren Claim 1-2 Finish At Belgian Grand Prix
Piastri won the Belgian Grand Prix, outpacing McLaren teammate Norris after a rain delay. Charles Leclerc held off Max Verstappen for third, marking a crucial podium for Ferrari.
Oscar Piastri claimed a hard-fought victory at the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday, outpacing his McLaren teammate and title rival Lando Norris after a weather-interrupted start at Spa-Francorchamps.
Following a delay of over an hour due to heavy rain, the race eventually got underway behind the safety car. Once green-flag conditions resumed on lap four, Piastri wasted no time overtaking Norris and taking control at the front.
The Australian then built a solid lead, managing his pace expertly even as his tire wear became an increasing concern in the closing laps. Norris, despite closing the gap late in the race, could not mount a serious challenge, and Piastri crossed the line first to take his second career win.
Norris, who had started alongside his teammate on the front row, remained within striking distance for much of the race but ultimately ran out of time—and tire life—to make a move.
'I gave it everything," Norris said post-race. 'Oscar did a great job today. It was tricky out there with the conditions and the tire wear, but we brought it home for a strong result for the team."
Despite being the pre-race favorite, Verstappen struggled to find the pace in race trim and ultimately had to settle for fourth. Leclerc's result marks a crucial podium for Ferrari, who continue to battle Mercedes and Red Bull in the Constructors' Championship.
A day earlier, Verstappen had managed to beat both McLaren drivers in the Sprint Race, finishing ahead of Piastri and Norris. However, McLaren's performance over the weekend confirmed the team's growing consistency and momentum in the championship fight.
(with agency inputs)
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July 27, 2025, 21:31 IST
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