The 2025 Formula 1 season commenced with the Bahrain Grand Prix on April 13, delivering a race filled with unexpected turns, standout performances, and significant setbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the key winners and losers from the event.
Winners
Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
Oscar Piastri clinched his maiden Formula 1 victory in a commanding fashion, leading the race from start to finish. This triumph not only marks a personal milestone for Piastri but also underscores McLaren’s resurgence as a formidable contender in the championship race.
Building on a strong pre-season, McLaren’s performance in Bahrain was exemplary. The team’s strategic decisions and car reliability played a pivotal role in securing the top spot on the podium, signaling their intent to challenge for the Constructors’ Championship this season.
Ferrari (Charles Leclerc & Lewis Hamilton)
Ferrari showcased significant improvements, with Charles Leclerc finishing fourth and newcomer Lewis Hamilton securing fifth place. Hamilton’s performance, in particular, highlighted his growing synergy with the Ferrari machinery, offering optimism for the team’s prospects in upcoming races.
❌ Losers
Red Bull Racing
Red Bull faced a disastrous outing in Bahrain. Daniel Ricciardo retired early due to a sudden power loss, while Max Verstappen suffered a puncture following contact with Lewis Hamilton, leading to transmission damage and eventual retirement. This marked Red Bull’s first double retirement since the 2010 Korean Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen
Beyond the immediate race setback, Verstappen’s position in the championship standings has been compromised. Currently third, eight points behind leader Lando Norris, Verstappen’s frustrations are mounting, especially given the performance clause in his contract that could influence his future with Red Bull.
Williams Racing
Williams endured a challenging weekend, with both drivers struggling to find pace. The team remains the only one yet to score a point this season, highlighting the need for significant improvements to compete effectively.
