Lando Norris of McLaren claimed victory in a thrilling, rain-soaked Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park on March 16, fending off reigning champion Max Verstappen to begin the 2025 Formula One season on a high note. This eventful race saw only 14 of the 20 cars finish, demonstrating the treachery of the track conditions.

Norris, already a pre-season favorite, kicked off the season as he ended the last, clinching victory from pole position, while his teammate Oscar Piastri finished ninth after an unfortunate skid. “It was amazing. Tough race, especially with Max behind me,” Norris reflected on the challenging competition. “I was pushing, especially in the last two laps. It was a little bit stressful, not going to lie.”

The win not only marked the first for Norris in Melbourne but also ended Verstappen's lengthy reign at the top of the championship standings, a position he maintained since May 2022. Despite the intense pressure, Norris adeptly navigated the race, saying, “This time we got it right and ended on top so I’m happy.”

Red Bull gambled by keeping Verstappen on slick tires in hopes of rain relief, but the strategy faltered, leading to a pit stop that cost potential speed. “It was quite spicy on the slick tyres. It was alright in the end,” Verstappen commented, acknowledging the unpredictability of racing in changing conditions.

Making his debut for Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton encountered a tough outing, finishing 10th and expressing frustration regarding his car's handling and the team's decision-making during the rain. “It was very tricky, and it went a lot worse than I thought it would go," Hamilton remarked, reflecting on the challenges faced.

The chaotic racing began even before the official start when rookie Isack Hadjar crashed on the formation lap. The race included multiple safety cars, including disruptions caused by other rookies such as Jack Doohan, and significant incidents that emphasized the demanding conditions of the day.

By the end of the race, while Norris enjoyed triumph, the day proved challenging for many, with safety concerns and the unpredictability of the weather highlighting the trials of **Formula One** racing on delicate tracks. As the teams prepare for the next race in China, the adrenaline of the Australian Grand Prix promises to set the stage for an exhilarating season.

For further details, refer to the full report from Channel News Asia.