Norris Triumphs in Mexico City, Seizes Championship Lead
Lando Norris delivered a stunning performance at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, winning the Mexico City Grand Prix and overtaking McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in the 2024 F1 World Championship standings. The victory marks Norris’s third of the season and sets up a thrilling title battle with just four races remaining.
Race Recap: Norris Holds Off Verstappen
Starting P2, Norris made a daring move on Max Verstappen at Turn 1, taking the lead early. McLaren’s flawless strategy sealed the win:
– Undercut Success – Norris pitted on Lap 24 for hard tires, gaining an edge over Verstappen.
– Defensive Masterclass – Despite Red Bull’s straight-line speed, Norris managed his tires perfectly to hold off the Dutchman’s attacks.
Piastri’s Struggles Shift Championship Battle
Piastri’s race unraveled due to:
– A poor start, getting boxed in by Charles Leclerc.
– A slow pit stop (wheel gun issue), dropping him to P5.
Standings Update:
1. Norris – 242 pts
2. Piastri – 236 pts
3. Verstappen – 228 pts
Red Bull’s Mixed Day: Verstappen 2nd, Pérez Podium
- Verstappen admitted tire wear cost him a shot at victory.
- Sergio Pérez (P3) delighted home fans with his first podium since Singapore.
Midfield Highlights: Haas Surges, Ferrari Falters
- Nico Hülkenberg (P6) scored big points for Haas with a bold one-stop strategy.
- Ferrari’s disaster – Sainz retired with brake failure; Leclerc finished P8 after a clash with Hamilton.
Up Next: São Paulo GP – Title Fight Heats Up
The championship battle intensifies as F1 heads to Brazil. Can Norris extend his lead, or will Piastri strike back?
Follow NextMinuteNews for live F1 updates and expert analysis!
