Australian Grand Prix 2025 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lando Norris claimed a thrilling maiden victory of 2025 at the Australian Grand Prix, holding off a relentless challenge from Max Verstappen to win by just 0.895 seconds at Albert Park. The Briton converted pole position into his first win of the campaign, delivering McLaren their third consecutive victory to open the season. George Russell completed the podium for Mercedes in third place, finishing 8.481 seconds behind as the Silver Arrows continued their strong start to the year.

The race evolved into an intense battle between Norris and Verstappen, with the Red Bull driver mounting sustained pressure throughout the 58 laps. Norris defended brilliantly through Melbourne's high-speed corners and chicanes, never allowing Verstappen close enough to attempt a decisive overtake. The narrow margin of victory showcased both Norris's maturity under pressure and McLaren's competitive advantage, while Verstappen's strong showing suggested Red Bull was closing the performance gap. Russell's podium finish maintained Mercedes' presence at the front, though the team lacked the ultimate pace to challenge for victory.

McLaren's perfect three-race start, with both drivers now having claimed victories, established an unprecedented early-season dominance. The team's one-three finish (with Piastri fourth) extended their constructors' championship lead, while Piastri remained ahead in the drivers' standings despite Norris's victory. The Australian Grand Prix delivered the first truly nail-biting finish of 2025, demonstrating that despite McLaren's superiority, Verstappen and Red Bull remained serious threats on their day.