McLaren star Norris conquers Monaco in unprecedented pit stop thriller

Lando Norris delivered a masterful performance at the Monaco Grand Prix, navigating a tactical race dictated by new mandatory pit stop requirements to secure a hard-fought victory. Starting from pole position, the McLaren driver expertly controlled the proceedings, overcoming the strategic complexities of two compulsory tire changes to claim his first win since the season-opening race in Australia. This triumph has also cut his deficit to championship leader and teammate Oscar Piastri to just three points.

Piastri himself secured a commendable third place, marking his seventh consecutive podium finish. Notably, Max Verstappen, who finished fourth, actually led the most laps of the race. However, the Red Bull driver's late final pit stop on the penultimate lap, compelled by the new regulations, ultimately cost him a podium spot.

Norris faced intense pressure from Charles Leclerc in the closing stages, particularly as Verstappen's presence behind created a strategic headache. Despite the home favorite's strong push, Leclerc was unable to find an opening and settled for the runner-up position, a strong result on his home circuit.

Hamilton on fifth place

Beyond the podium, Lewis Hamilton secured a solid fifth place for Mercedes, climbing two positions from his seventh-place start during an early pit stop phase. Rookie Isack Hadjar achieved his career-best F1 result, finishing sixth for Racing Bulls, a testament to their clever strategy which saw Liam Lawson effectively hold up the field to create a pit stop window. Lawson was also rewarded with his first points of the 2025 season, finishing eighth, just behind Haas' Esteban Ocon.

The Williams duo of Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz showcased effective teamwork, strategically finishing ninth and tenth respectively to secure double points for their team. George Russell, however, finished outside the points in eleventh place after receiving a drive-through penalty for cutting a corner, seemingly out of frustration while stuck behind the Williams cars.

The race also saw a couple of retirements, with Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso forced out due to an engine issue, and Alpine's Pierre Gasly crashing into Yuki Tsunoda early in the event. The unique conditions and new rules certainly made for a thrilling and memorable Monaco Grand Prix.

Monaco GP Result: Top 10

1. Lando Norris, McLaren
2. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
3. Oscar Piastri, McLaren
4. Max Verstappen, Red Bull
5. Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
6. Isack Hadjar, Racing Bulls
7. Esteban Ocon, Haas
8. Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
9. Alex Albon, Williams
10. Carlos Sainz, Williams

Here is the new top 5 in the drivers’ championship:

1. Oscar Piastri, McLaren: 161 pts
2. Lando Norris, McLaren: 158
3. Max Verstappen, Red Bull: 136
4. George Russell, Mercedes: 99
5. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari: 79

Top 5 standings in constructers' championship:

1. McLaren: 319
2. Mercedes: 147
3. Red Bull: 143
4. Ferrari: 142
5. Williams: 54