F1 Melbourne GP: Max Verstappen wins chaotic race filled with red flags

Melbourne’s Albert Park brings back thrilling memories for many F1 veterans, as it used to mark the start of the season before being relegated to Jeddah and Saudi. The race track is shaped for high-adrenaline racing, with long straights and tight spaces.

The reigning champion, Max Verstappen was the clear favorite coming into the race after Red Bull cashed in a 1+2 last race in Saudi Arabia. The Dutchman had a difficult start as he was surrounded by George Russel, Lewis Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso.

The Mercedes team made a surprising comeback over the weekend against all odds. After bitter disappointments in Jeddah and Saudi Arabia, Toto Wolff, and his team put in some series work on the car.

Right at the start of the race, the Mercedes duo George Russel and Lewis Hamilton took first and second place temporarily for the first time this season!

While Vertsappen's Red Bull roared in the top three, Sergio Perez did a great race, where the Mexican driver displayed some great aggressive driving. The Mexican surged up from a pit lane start to finish P5. A jaw-dropping comeback that further displays Red Bull's dominance. Checo was voted driver of the day!

It was only a matter of time before Verstappen picked up his first win of the Australian GP. He finished on the podium in 2019, but then the Covid-19 pandemic struck causing the race to be canceled twice.

It has been a long time coming for the Dutchman but finally achieved his P1! Verstappen dropped back two places on the first lap, letting Russel and Hamilton lead the race.

From that point on, he put his head down and established a commanding lead over the race. He retook first place and took off, claiming multiple fast laps in the process.

Ferrari had another unforgiving race…Charles Leclerc’s gravel beaching caused an early safety car before Alex Albon’s crash, which would result in another red flag. Ferrari’s car still lacks power, struggling behind Alonso’s Aston Martin.

After Leclerc had to abandon the race, Carlos Sainz took his shot at the podium during the second race restart. Nevertheless, Sainz clipped Alonso in turn one causing another red flag and a timed penalty for the Ferrari driver.

The FIA decision was controversial due to re-establishing the racer order according to how it was set before the restart, meaning Alonso had not lost his place, and the lap was effectively discounted.

Sainz dropped to P12 out of P4 after being handed a five-second penalty. The Spanish driver was visibly upset as he could not understand.

Fernando Alonso had another brilliant race and showing 'el plan' is working. The Spanish champion finished in P3 behind Lewis Hamilton after a 36-lap battle. Alonso's Aston Martin had a tense chess-like drive against the Mercedes, both completing the race with a one-stop strategy.

Fernando Alonso did another great performance, and it is very exciting to see Alonso and Hamilton once again fighting for poles. It is 2007 all over again! We love it!

Oscar Piatri picks up points on his home debut. The Mekbourne-born driver did not expect to finish P8 and score his maiden championship points at his home court. Big moment for the F1 rookie at McLaren, hoping for more points to come!

Congratulations to Max Verstappen on his race and what looks to be a one-way season for Red Bull. The reigning champion has a car that is light years away from the other teams, however with Mercedes doing a performance comeback, will this agitates the poles in the coming races? Will see you next Sunday!