F1 Canadian Grand Prix: Russell Holds Off Verstappen for Victory; Norris Crashes Out

George Russell delivered Mercedes’ first victory of the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Canadian Grand Prix. Holding off Red Bull’s Max Verstappen over 70 laps, Russell’s performance marked a key breakthrough after recent struggles. The Montreal win followed a controversial Spanish Grand Prix, but this time, Mercedes ran a clean and controlled race. Kimi Antonelli made headlines with his maiden Formula 1 podium finish, placing third. The 18-year-old Mercedes junior showed strong race pace and composure under pressure. His result not only impressed fans but also marked his best performance in F1 so far. Antonelli’s success underlines his growing reputation as a future front-runner.

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After McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri collided, the race ended under a Safety Car. Norris attempted an aggressive overtake but retired on the spot. He was handed a five-second penalty, while Piastri recovered to finish fourth. The Australian driver extended his championship lead despite the late-race drama.\

Ferrari had another difficult weekend. Charles Leclerc finished fifth, far off the front-runners. Lewis Hamilton's race was affected after a collision with a groundhog early on, damaging his car. The seven-time champion described his Mercedes as “nowhere” and crossed the line in sixth, showing the team still has work to do.

Fernando Alonso secured seventh place for Aston Martin. Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg, Haas’ Esteban Ocon, and Williams’ Carlos Sainz rounded out the points. Haas rookie Ollie Bearman just missed out in 11th. Yuki Tsunoda impressed with a climb from 18th to 12th in his Racing Bulls car.

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Lower down the grid, Alpine’s Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly finished 13th and 15th, with Gabriel Bortoleto of Sauber in 14th. Racing Bulls driver Isack Hadjar had a difficult race, while Lance Stroll finished 17th. Alex Albon, Liam Lawson and Norris retired, closing a dramatic 2025 Canadian Grand Prix weekend.