Norris Holds Off Verstappen for Thrilling Melbourne Win

Lando Norris Triumphs in a Chaotic, Rain-Hit Australian GP

Lando Norris clinched a dramatic victory in Melbourne, fending off Verstappen in a tense, rain-affected race to take the championship lead.

Lando Norris pulled off a stunning victory in Melbourne after an absolutely chaotic race at Albert Park! The McLaren driver dominated the early laps before the track dried out—only for the rain to return, forcing him to fend off Max Verstappen right up until the final meters of the race.

“It was incredible! A tough race, especially with Max right behind me—those last two laps were stressful, I won’t lie. It’s an amazing way to start the year, but it was tough. I went off into the gravel and picked up some damage, but honestly, it was fun,” Norris admitted.

When asked about McLaren’s strategic calls, the Brit highlighted how his team had learned from past mistakes:
“We got a lot of things wrong last year, but we learned. We lost races like this in Canada and Silverstone, but we made sure not to repeat those mistakes.”

Handling the pressure from both Oscar Piastri and Verstappen, Norris had no time to relax:
“I couldn’t afford to make mistakes—it was a tough race, but I have to thank McLaren for giving me an incredible car.”

With Verstappen closing in during the final laps, Norris stayed focused and kept his composure:
“I don’t know, I just drove. Max was quick, I had good pace, but I made a mistake, and suddenly he was in my DRS. I had to check my mirrors a few times, but I stayed calm—and that’s what mattered most.”

For the first time in his career, Norris now leads the F1 championship. Securing his fifth career victory, he’s thrilled to kick off the 2025 season with such a strong performance.

“This whole weekend has been amazing—from FP1 to the race. It’s not easy to put together a weekend like this, especially with the pressure from Max and Oscar. It was stressful, but I know what I’m capable of. Still, this is just the first race—the season is long, and I have to stay focused.”