Piastri extends his lead with win in Miami

McLaren managed to place both of its drivers in the top positions at the Miami Grand Prix. Oscar Piastri crossed the finish line first ahead of Lando Norris, while George Russell in the Mercedes completed the podium, leaving Max Verstappen in fourth position.

Race start with setbacks

The race began with contact between Jack Doohan and Liam Lawson that triggered the virtual safety car to clear debris from the track. Meanwhile, Verstappen defended the lead against Norris, who had to open his line and dropped to sixth position.

When racing resumed on lap 4, the McLarens began setting faster lap times. Piastri gained positions until he was right behind Verstappen's Red Bull.

Piastri takes the lead

The Australian capitalized on his opportunity on lap 14. After a braking mistake by the Dutch driver, he executed an outside pass that proved decisive. From that point, Piastri built a lead that no one could reduce.

The McLarens showed their strength when Norris, after recovering ground, also caught up to Verstappen. His first attempt on lap 17 failed, having to concede the position after both went off track. However, on the following lap he successfully overtook him.

Russell's well-timed decision

George Russell managed his options intelligently during the race. Maintaining consistent pace brought him close to the front positions. His moment came when Oliver Bearman's engine developed issues, causing another virtual safety car intervention.

This circumstance benefited Russell by allowing a more favorable tire change than his rivals, moving him up to third. From there, he maintained his pace to secure the podium, while Verstappen finished fourth.

Albon's solid performance

Less noticeable but equally commendable was Alex Albon's drive for Williams. The driver delivered an impressive performance to finish fifth, demonstrating the team's improvements this season.

Ferrari's team decisions

Ferrari chose to alternate positions between Leclerc and Hamilton on lap 39 for strategic reasons, repeating the move on lap 53 when Hamilton couldn't pass Antonelli after several attempts. They ultimately finished seventh and eighth respectively.

Carlos Sainz in the Williams took ninth place, followed by Yuki Tsunoda, who held tenth by just one tenth despite receiving a 5-second penalty for exceeding the pit lane speed limit.

Changes in the standings

Piastri's victory tightens the championship battle. The Australian extends his lead to 16 points over Norris, while Verstappen now trails by 32 points. Russell sits 38 points behind the leader.

Formula 1 will return in two weeks for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola