Australian racer Piastri wins Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix

Australian racing driver Oscar Piastri delivered a masterclass performance to win the Chinese Grand Prix, leading from pole position to secure McLaren's 50th one-two finish in Formula 1.

Teammate Lando Norris followed closely behind, taking second, while Mercedes' George Russell rounded out the podium in third, 11 seconds behind the dominant McLaren duo, Caliber.Az reports via the UK media.

Piastri’s flawless drive ensured a smooth race, with his tire management proving crucial in a somewhat uneventful affair. Norris, who suffered a late-race brake issue, did well to hold on to second place. The race marked Piastri's third career win and his first in China, as McLaren celebrated a long-awaited return to the top step at the Shanghai International Circuit, a feat not achieved since 2011 with Lewis Hamilton at the helm.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finished in fifth and sixth, respectively, after a mid-race swap failed to move them closer to the top positions. McLaren’s commanding performance emphasized their early-season dominance, a welcome contrast to previous years, with both Piastri and Norris emphasizing the need for strong starts to mount a serious title challenge.

With his win, Piastri moved up to 34 points in the World Championship standings, closing in on Norris (44 points), with Verstappen (36 points) and Russell (35 points) trailing behind.

The race started with a dramatic move from Norris, who overtook Russell on the outside of turn one to claim second place. Meanwhile, Leclerc made contact with Hamilton, damaging his front wing, and Verstappen was forced wide, dropping from fourth to sixth. McLaren quickly settled into a strong one-two position, as Piastri and Norris managed tire wear to keep Russell at bay.

By Khagan Isayev