Carlos Sainz Secures Ferrari Triumph as Max Verstappen Falters in Australian Grand Prix

Carlos Sainz led a Ferrari one-two victory with Charles Leclerc at the Australian Grand Prix as Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 dominance halted due to a brake failure. Sainz took control early, passing Verstappen on the second lap, while Leclerc moved up during the pit stops. The race concluded under a virtual safety car after George Russell’s crash.

Fernando Alonso was penalized for an incident involving Russell. Lewis Hamilton retired early with an engine failure, marking a disappointing day for Mercedes. Lando Norris clinched third place for McLaren while Sergio Perez failed to take advantage of Verstappen’s withdrawal.

Sainz’s victory disrupted Verstappen’s bid to equal his own winning streak record. McLaren had a strong showing, while Perez faced challenges due to a tear-off strip affecting his car’s performance. Russell’s crash led to Lance Stroll’s promotion to seventh place. Alex Albon finished 11th after replacing his teammate at Williams.