Max Verstappen secured a spectacular victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix after a dramatic late-race overtake on Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, capping off an electrifying night under the neon lights of the Nevada desert.
Race Drama Unfolds on The Strip
The Red Bull driver, starting from a competitive grid position, engaged in a fierce battle with Leclerc throughout the evening, with the lead changing hands multiple times during the 50-lap contest. The race delivered exactly the spectacle Formula 1 organisers had hoped for when they brought the sport back to Las Vegas.
Safety Car interventions played a crucial role in the race strategy, shaking up the order and creating opportunities for drivers to gain positions through alternative pit stop approaches. Several teams had to think quickly to adapt their plans when the yellow flags emerged.
Late Race Heartbreak for Ferrari
Charles Leclerc appeared to be heading for victory after executing a brilliant overtaking move earlier in the race, but the Monegasque driver couldn't hold off the charging Verstappen in the final stages. The Dutchman made his decisive move with just a handful of laps remaining, much to the disappointment of the Ferrari team.
Leclerc managed to secure second place after fending off a late challenge from his teammate Carlos Sainz, who completed the podium in third position. This Ferrari double-podium provided some consolation for the Italian team after missing out on the top step.
Mercedes driver George Russell put in a strong performance to finish fourth, while Red Bull's Sergio Perez recovered well from his grid penalty to take fifth place after starting further down the field.
Mixed Fortunes for British Drivers
Lewis Hamilton's evening proved challenging, with the seven-time world champion struggling to make progress through the field and ultimately finishing outside the points. The Mercedes driver expressed frustration over team radio about the car's performance on the street circuit.
McLaren's Lando Norris showed impressive pace at times but couldn't convert it into a strong result after being caught out by one of the Safety Car periods. The British driver finished in seventh position, collecting valuable championship points.
The Las Vegas circuit, racing down the famous Strip past iconic casinos and hotels, provided a stunning backdrop for what many are calling one of the most entertaining races of the 2025 season. The combination of high-speed straights and technical sections created multiple overtaking opportunities throughout the field.
Formula 1's return to Las Vegas after its successful inaugural event last year has cemented the race's place on the calendar, with organisers delighted by the global television audience and the vibrant atmosphere created by fans both in the grandstands and watching from the casino rooftops.
