The penultimate round of the Formula 1 season didn’t crown a new world champion, but it guaranteed something extraordinary: for the first time in 15 years, three drivers will enter the final Grand Prix with a real shot at the title. Drama, tension and high stakes — the 2025 season is heading for a historic finish.

The pivotal moment of the Qatar Grand Prix came as early as lap seven. Following the crash of Nico Hülkenberg, McLaren opted not to pit — a decision that immediately swung the momentum. Red Bull seized the opportunity, bringing in Max Verstappen for fresh tyres. The strategy proved decisive: Verstappen surged ahead in the second half of the race and became untouchable for Oscar Piastri, who ultimately crossed the line in second.

Championship leader Lando Norris suffered even more from McLaren’s miscalculation, finishing fourth. The Brit only climbed to P4 on the penultimate lap after a mistake from Kimi Antonelli. The surprise of the afternoon came from Carlos Sainz, who delivered a stellar drive for Williams to secure third — the team’s second podium of the 2025 campaign.

Heading into the season-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Norris leads the standings with Verstappen just 12 points behind. Piastri remains firmly in the hunt as well, sitting 16 points off the top. These three — Norris, Verstappen and Piastri — will battle for the crown on December 7 in what promises to be an unforgettable finale.

Qatar Grand Prix 2025 — Race Top 10

1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
3. Carlos Sainz (Williams)
4. Lando Norris (McLaren)
5. Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
6. George Russell (Mercedes)
7. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
8. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
9. Liam Lawson (RB)
10. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull)