The Australian Formula 1 (F1) racer Oscar Piastri secured his first-ever F1 title victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix yesterday.
The Australian rookie led a strong McLaren one-two finish alongside the British-Belgian racer Lando Norris. However, the race became dramatic when team orders late in the race saw Norris give up the lead, overshadowing the celebration.
The drama began with McLaren’s pit stop strategy during the second round of stops. Norris was brought in first to cover off Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who was mounting a significant challenge from behind. This decision saw Norris rejoin the track ahead of Piastri, much to the Australian’s frustration.
What followed was a tense intra-team struggle. McLaren issued multiple calls for Norris to relinquish the lead back to Piastri, but Norris appeared reluctant to comply. It wasn’t until Lap 68 of the 70-lap race that Norris finally conceded, slowing down to allow Piastri to pass.
The 23-year-old Australian seized the opportunity and never looked back, crossing the finish line two seconds ahead of his teammate. Behind the McLaren duo, Lewis Hamilton secured the final podium position for Mercedes 200th career podium.