Max Verstappen claimed victory at the Qatar Grand Prix on Sunday, capitalizing on a costly McLaren strategy error that affected both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The result sets up a thrilling three-way showdown for the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship at next weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Verstappen’s win in Lusail marked his 70th career victory, narrowing the championship gap as Norris maintains the lead with 408 points, followed by Verstappen on 396 and Piastri on 392. With 25 points available for a race win, all three drivers remain in contention for the title.
Piastri, who started on pole, finished second after McLaren’s strategic calls left him vulnerable following his final pit stop. Norris, who had qualified second, was stuck behind slower cars after his last stop and ended fourth. Carlos Sainz completed the podium in third.
“Really well done with the strategy, guys,” Verstappen said over team radio after crossing the finish line. “We keep staying in it! That’s a very lovely race.”
The race featured a safety car on Lap 7 due to a crash between Nico Hulkenberg and Pierre Gasly, prompting Verstappen to pit early. Both McLaren drivers stayed out, a decision that ultimately cost them positions. Piastri described the outcome as “tough to swallow,” while Norris acknowledged it was “not McLaren’s finest day” but remained confident heading into Abu Dhabi.
Verstappen’s comeback has been remarkable, having trailed the championship by 104 points midseason. The final race will determine whether Verstappen can secure his fifth consecutive world championship—a feat previously achieved only by Michael Schumacher—or if Norris or Piastri will claim their first F1 title.
Next weekend in Abu Dhabi promises a high-stakes finale, with all three drivers mathematically eligible to win the championship, making it the first F1 title decider since 2021 involving more than two contenders.
“Need to just go give Oscar and Lando big hugs, because they did their job this weekend,” Brown said.
