Oscar Piastri wins Belgian Grand Prix

The win at Spa-Francorchamps propels Piastri 16 points ahead in the F1 Drivers’ Championship standings, strengthening his position as a serious contender for the world title.

The 13th round of the Formula 1 2025 calendar was marred by heavy rainfall that caused an 80-minute delay. Fans watched anxiously as the race began under safety car conditions, with four formation laps behind the safety car before competitive action resumed with a rolling start.

Pole-sitter Lando Norris, who had looked strong throughout the weekend, struggled early with reported battery issues. This allowed Piastri, who started just behind, to seize the lead on the opening lap. From that moment, the 23-year-old Aussie never looked back.

Related News: Oscar Piastri cruises to victory at Spanish Grand Prix

“I knew lap one was going to be my best shot at winning the race,” said Piastri post-race. “We executed well and controlled things from the front.”

McLaren’s double podium in Belgium continues a stunning mid-season run, underlining their dominant pace and strategic sharpness. Norris, while visibly frustrated by technical issues, acknowledged his teammate’s performance, stating: “Oscar did a good job; nothing more to say.”

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc rounded out the podium in third place, securing vital points in the Constructors’ Championship as the Scuderia aim to stay within touching distance of Red Bull and McLaren.

Verstappen off the Podium as Red Bull transition begins

In a rare sight this season, reigning world champion Max Verstappen finished fourth, unable to match the pace of the McLaren duo. The Dutch driver had triumphed in Saturday’s sprint race but struggled with tire wear and changing track conditions during the main event.

This race also marked a new chapter for Red Bull Racing, with Laurent Mekies overseeing his first full weekend as team principal following the dramatic departure of Christian Horner just two weeks prior. While Verstappen’s result wasn’t disastrous, Red Bull will be concerned about McLaren’s growing consistency and speed.

Belgian Grand Prix 2025 – Key Moments

• Delayed Start: Torrential rain pushed the start back by over an hour, with safety protocols ensuring driver safety.
• Turn 1 Drama: Piastri overtook Norris on lap one after the McLaren #4 car reported battery complications.
• Midfield Battles: Notable tussles occurred between Mercedes’ George Russell and Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, but neither team could mount a podium challenge.
• Red Bull Under Pressure: Verstappen’s P4 finish may raise questions as McLaren continue their ascendancy.

McLaren’s Golden Run: Is the Title Within Reach?

With six 1-2 finishes in 13 races, McLaren are looking increasingly like the team to beat in the 2025 season. Piastri’s calm, tactical driving style continues to complement Norris’s aggression, making them a formidable pairing.

As the F1 circus heads to the next stop, all eyes will be on whether Red Bull can respond and whether Piastri can keep his cool with the world title now in his grasp.

SportsLigue