Verstappen Wins Qatar Grand Prix as Title Battle Intensifies Before Final Round

Sports

Max Verstappen delivered a commanding performance under the Lusail lights to win the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix, igniting the championship fight and ensuring a dramatic three way showdown at the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

Starting behind the McLarens, Verstappen executed a flawless race built on tyre management, smart strategy, and precise overtaking. A perfectly timed pit sequence combined with strong pace in clean air allowed him to take control of the race after the halfway mark. From there, the Dutchman never looked threatened, crossing the line to take a crucial victory that puts him firmly back in contention for the world title.

Oscar Piastri finished second after starting from pole. The Australian drove a clean and composed race, but he lacked the long run pace to match Verstappen once the Red Bull settled into its rhythm. His podium keeps him well within reach of the championship, setting up an explosive final-round battle.

Carlos Sainz produced one of the standout drives of the evening to claim third. The Spaniard was aggressive from the start, made key overtakes in the early laps, and held firm in the closing stages to secure his first podium of the season, providing a major boost for his team.

Lando Norris endured a more difficult race, finishing fourth after struggling with tyre degradation in the final stint. The result significantly reduces his championship advantage, shifting the pressure onto the McLaren driver as he heads into the title decider with Verstappen and Piastri closing in fast.

Kimi Antonelli impressed once again with a solid fifth-place finish for Mercedes, showing maturity and consistency beyond his years. George Russell followed in sixth after a challenging evening managing brake temperatures and traffic.

The Qatar Grand Prix reshaped the title landscape in dramatic fashion. With just one race remaining, the gap between Norris, Piastri, and Verstappen has tightened to one of the closest margins seen in years. Everything now hinges on Abu Dhabi, where the 2025 world championship will finally be decided under the Yas Marina lights.