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Oscar Piastri continues his dream start to 2025, dominating the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and seizing the top spot in the drivers' standings. With his third win in five races, the McLaren driver proves once again he’s the man to beat this season. Max Verstappen finishes second after a five-second penalty, while Charles Leclerc delivers a sensational drive to secure third — Ferrari’s first podium of the year.
Under scorching humidity in Jeddah, the race got off to a dramatic start. At Turn 1, Piastri challenged Verstappen, who cut the chicane to stay ahead. The stewards penalized the Red Bull driver, a decision that shaped the race’s outcome. A crash between Gasly and Tsunoda triggered a safety car, and from there, strategy battles took center stage.
Ferrari played its cards right with Leclerc, extending his opening stint and unleashing an impressive pace mid-race. After rejoining in fifth, he overtook Russell and held off Lando Norris, who had climbed through the field but fell short of the podium. “I was expecting to fight for fifth, not third,” said a delighted Leclerc. “We nailed the strategy, but we still have work to do.”
Kimi Antonelli once again impressed with a strong sixth-place finish, battling physical discomfort to stay ahead of Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion struggled with balance all weekend and could only manage seventh. Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon finished outside the spotlight, while Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar delivered a solid performance in the points.
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur remained grounded: “We still need to improve, especially in qualifying. Charles was fantastic, but this is a team effort. As for Hamilton, he needs more consistency. Upgrades? Miami is tricky with the Sprint, so we’re aiming for Imola. The title race? We take it one weekend at a time.”
Next stop: Miami, May 2–4, where the second Sprint event of the season awaits. For now, Ferrari breathes again — and Piastri leads the charge.
