Back-to-Back Drama: Piastri Shines in Bahrain, Verstappen Dominates Japan
Image Credit: Michael Potts/Shutterstock
The 2025 Formula 1 season is already shaping up to be one for the books.
In the span of two weekends, Formula 1 fans have witnessed a changing of the guard moment in Bahrain and a return to business as usual in Japan. The narratives unfolding from these races are setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable season—and the biggest takeaway? There’s no longer a guaranteed script.
Piastri’s Bahrain Breakthrough
Oscar Piastri stamped his name into the history books with a sensational maiden victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix. The young Australian showcased poise and maturity beyond his years, controlling the race from start to finish in what was McLaren’s first Grand Prix win at the Sakhir circuit.
While many expected Red Bull or Ferrari to dictate the pace in Bahrain, it was McLaren who executed the cleaner strategy and delivered the sharper performance. George Russell kept the pressure on late in the race, but the Mercedes couldn’t quite match McLaren’s straight-line speed or Piastri’s precision.
Lando Norris made an impressive recovery from a sixth-place start but was penalized five seconds for incorrect grid positioning. He later finished just behind second-place George Russell, who controversially avoided a penalty despite briefly engaging the Drag Reduction System (DRS) illegally, claiming it was accidental.
Charles Leclerc brought Ferrari home in fourth, marking a solid—if unspectacular—start to his season. Lewis Hamilton completed the top five, showcasing experience by overtaking both Jack Doohan and Verstappen.
Max Verstappen endured a difficult weekend, finishing sixth after a series of setbacks with his Red Bull car, including pit stop malfunctions and poor overall performance.
Verstappen Rebounds at Suzuka
Just one week later, Verstappen issued a swift and dominant response at the Japanese Grand Prix, proving that Bahrain was a blip, not a trend.
The Red Bull driver was in a league of his own in Suzuka, cruising to his fourth consecutive win at the iconic Japanese circuit. From lights out to the chequered flag, Verstappen never looked threatened—delivering a reminder that, despite growing competition, he’s still the gold standard in F1.
Lando Norris finished second, making it back-to-back podiums for McLaren and signaling just how real their title ambitions are in 2025. His drive was smooth, mistake-free, and showed that McLaren’s strong start isn’t just a one-off.
Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz secured the final podium spot after a strategic battle in the midfield, further solidifying Ferrari’s consistency through the early stages of the season.
Notably absent from the front? Sergio Pérez, who was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda in the Red Bull seat following the first two rounds of the season. Tsunoda, racing at home, finished just outside the points in 12th—respectable, but a clear sign Red Bull is still adjusting to the mid-season change.
What We’re Seeing So Far
Oscar Piastri is more than just a rising star—he’s arrived.
McLaren is officially back in the conversation for wins and podiums.
Verstappen still holds the edge, but he no longer owns the season narrative.
With multiple teams now capable of challenging for podiums and wins, the 2025 season is already delivering the unpredictability fans have craved. And as new names climb the ladder and veterans get tested, we’re seeing a genuine shift in competitive balance.
Next Up: Saudi Arabia
All eyes now turn to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on April 20. The ultra-fast street track will push drivers to the limit and could offer another chance for surprises.
Will Verstappen continue his charge back to the top?
Can McLaren keep the pressure on?
And will Ferrari finally make their move?
There’s no telling how it will shake out—but one thing’s for sure: the 2025 F1 season is wide open.