P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Rating the 2024 F1 Australian GP race
The Red Bull driver’s brake problem at the beginning of the race allowed his Ferrari rival to grab the lead swiftly and hold onto it, securing his first victory since the previous year’s Singapore GP. Charles Leclerc settled for second place in the first one-two finish for Ferrari this season, with McLaren’s Lando Norris in third, followed by Oscar Piastri and Sergio Perez leading a subdued Red Bull performance without Verstappen. The third round of the 2024 season was analyzed by our writers, noting a lack of wheel-to-wheel action and critiquing the Albert Park circuit’s narrow layout. Despite some highlights like Verstappen’s retirement and George Russell’s crash, the Australian GP was considered the most engaging race so far in a lackluster season. The unexpected winner, Carlos Sainz’s emotional victory, and Yuki Tsunoda’s standout performance added excitement, even with Mercedes facing double retirements. The championship battle seemed more lively, with Checo Perez closing in on Max, offering a welcome change from Verstappen’s dominance. Ferrari’s strong showing and Sainz’s commanding win extinguished hopes of a post-Verstappen thriller at the Australian Grand Prix.