Max Verstappen faced tough competition from Oscar Piastri at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, where a five-second penalty cost him the lead and allowed Piastri to claim victory and the championship lead for the first time. This win positioned Piastri 10 points ahead of Lando Norris, with Verstappen trailing closely.
Christian Horner acknowledged the strength of Piastri, emphasizing his mental fortitude and impressive pace. Piastri’s recent successes, including three wins compared to Norris’s one, have solidified his status as the driver in top form.
Meanwhile, McLaren’s Lando Norris faced setbacks, starting from the 10th position and ultimately finishing fourth after a collision during qualifying. Piastri’s strategic overtake on Lewis Hamilton showcased his skill and confidence, earning praise from McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.
READ MORE: Sherborne Community Revives Green Shed to Launch Men’s Shed Project
READ MORE: Man Targeted in Aggravated Burglary by Five Masked Men
Piastri’s back-to-back wins and his lead in the championship mark a significant achievement, making him the first Australian to hold this position since Mark Webber in 2010. Despite the marginally missed opportunity for Red Bull, Horner noted the team’s improved performance and promising pace during the event.