Norris Dominates Mexico City GP, Takes F1 Title Lead from Piastri

Lando Norris delivered a dominant and statement win in the Mexico City Grand Prix, reclaiming the leadership of the world championship from McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri by a single point with just four races remaining in the season. This victory marks Norris's first since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, capping a stunning weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

Why it matters:

• Norris's victory has significantly intensified the championship battle, putting him back at the top of the standings for the first time since April and setting up a thrilling end to the season.
• McLaren's strong performance, despite Piastri's struggles, highlights their potential as a leading contender in F1.
• Max Verstappen's consistent points haul keeps him in the hunt, ensuring the championship remains a multi-driver battle.

The Details:

• Norris beat Ferrari's Charles Leclerc by a commanding 30-second margin, showcasing exceptional pace and race management.
• Podium Finishers: Leclerc held on to second place, narrowly fending off Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who finished third.
• Championship Standings: Norris now leads Piastri by one point. Verstappen, though third in this race, reduced his deficit to the championship leader and is currently 36 points back, keeping his title hopes alive.
• Piastri's Performance: Oscar Piastri finished fifth, struggling throughout the Mexico City weekend but still securing valuable points.
• Surprise Performance: Haas's Oliver Bearman achieved an impressive fourth place, marking the best result of his nascent career and matching Haas's best historical finish.
• Mercedes' Struggle: Kimi Antonelli and George Russell finished sixth and seventh respectively, after a race where they twice swapped positions but ultimately failed to secure a stronger result for Mercedes.
• Hamilton's Penalty: Lewis Hamilton finished eighth after receiving a 10-second penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage during an early duel with Verstappen at Turn Four. Hamilton's wait for his first podium with Ferrari continues.
  • The incident occurred after the two title rivals made contact at the start of the same lap when Verstappen attempted an inside move.

What's next:

Formula 1's thrilling title race continues in Brazil with a Sprint weekend at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 7-9. The tight points difference among the top drivers guarantees intense competition and strategic battles in the remaining races. Norris will look to consolidate his lead, while Piastri and Verstappen will be eager to reclaim or gain ground in the championship.