McLaren’s Oscar Piastri wins Hungarian Grand Prix

Hungary, 

Sunday, 21 July, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

McLaren’s Oscar Piastri won his first Formula One race at the Hungarian Grand Prix after teammate Lando Norris handed him back the lead to seal a McLaren’s double at the podium. 

Pole sitter Lando Norris started ahead of Piastri but the latter beat him to the first turn. 

Norris reclaimed the lead after a pit-stop strategy that favored him despite being behind his teammate, but he eventually listed to team orders and let Piastri take the victory.

Lewis Hamilton finished third on the Podium just weeks after winning the British Grand Prix. 

This was a historic moment for Hamilton as he sealed his record-extending 200th career podium.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen finished fifth behind Ferrari's Charles Leclerc but still leads the standings with 265 points to Norris’ 189. This is the third race for Verstappen without a victory. 

At first, the team told Piastri that the pit strategy was to ensure Norris could keep Hamilton at bay, while asking Norris to give the place back “at his convenience.”

As the laps ticked by and Norris didn’t budge, McLaren told Piastri that he could get back in front when he caught up with Norris. Finally, the team turned to pleading with Norris just to let Piastri by.

The tension was building until Norris eased up and allowed Piastri past with two laps to go.

Piastri and Norris exchanged a brief handshake while taking off their helmets and after both were congratulated by McLaren staff and other drivers.