The only real question from the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was: Can Max Verstappen extend his lightning-fast one-lap speed to the entire race, or will the scales tip in favor of a more stable Oscar Piastri on the longer stages?
Max Verstappen got off to a great start, but Oscar Piastri did the same, and given that these were two equally stubborn drivers, it was predictable that they wouldn't make it to the first corner without problems. So it was, Verstappen overtook Piastri, who was slightly ahead, cutting the chicane unevenly. As these images were played, the safety car was already in place, Pierre Gasly crashed into the wall, and so was Yuki Tsunoda. Neither the Frenchman nor the Japanese were able to continue the race; meanwhile, several took the opportunity to switch to hard compounds.
After the restart, which was carried out without a hitch by Red Bull, Verstappen and his team found themselves in a serious dilemma: should they give the position back to Piastri or risk a penalty? They ultimately opted for the latter for tactical reasons, but it didn't help much. During the first "real" pit stops, the RB received a five-second penalty, while Piastri took the lead. What happened in the field during this time? Aside from Charles Leclerc's long stint, there was nothing really noteworthy, although it was a pleasure to watch. The Scuderia Ferrari driver, with brilliant tire management and handling, was already threatening the podium places in the final third of the race, and with a beautiful overtake, he overtook George Russell. In addition to him, Isaac Hadjar and the two Williams also delivered above-average performances, all of them remaining in the solid points zone. In the final laps, there was little action left, one of which was the recovery of Lando Norris, who, after improving six positions, finally reached fourth place.
However, he couldn't interfere with the big boys' game, as the race was won by Oscar Piastri, who thus leads the championship in the other McLaren. Behind him, Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc were able to celebrate. There was plenty to celebrate, as everyone brought something extra to the table that day.
Photo: Planet F1/ AP Photo
