Russell Breaks Drought in Montreal as McLaren Drama Steals the Spotlight

There are wins that announce a driver’s resurgence, and then there are races that echo across team dynamics. On June 15, 2025, under the summer sky over Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, George Russell claimed Mercedes’ first win of the season with a composed lights-to-flag drive — but it was the late‑race collision between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris that turned Montreal into one of the season’s most dramatic chapters.

Montreal Magic Returns to Mercedes

Starting from pole, Russell led from the outset, turning his qualifying pace into track domination. He kept Max Verstappen at bay throughout and crossed the line 0.228 seconds ahead, ending Mercedes’ winless streak and giving Russell a confidence‑boosting triumph.

Verstappen’s Consolation & Antonelli’s Breakthrough

Verstappen claimed second place, reinforcing Red Bull’s podium consistency. But the day belonged to Kimi Antonelli, who thanks to a late‑race safety car joined Russell and Verstappen on the podium — becoming the third‑youngest Formula 1 podium finisher.

McLaren Meltdown – Piastri vs Norris

Just when Piastri looked set to finish third, Norris dove down the inside on Lap 67 — only to misjudge the move and make contact with his teammate. The result? Norris was sent into the barriers and out of the race, while Piastri survived the clash, albeit with damage, and limped home in fourth. The incident triggered the safety car that set the stage for Mercedes’ iconic 1‑3 finish. Post-race, Norris held his hands up, admitting, “That was on me. A fool’s move.”

Stewards Review & Red Bull Protest Rejected

Tensions flared post-race when Red Bull protested Russell’s victory over safety car complaints. After a five‑hour steward review, the protest was dismissed and Russell’s win was confirmed.

Top Finishers in Canada

1. George Russell (Mercedes) – masterful pole-to‑flag winner.

2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) – close behind in second.

3. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – breakout rookie podium.

4. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – points salvaged amid chaos.

5. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – solid fifth.

6. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – seasoned performance in sixth.

7. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) – strong home‑race result.

8. Nico Hülkenberg (Sauber) – consistent midfield scorer.

9. Esteban Ocon (Haas) – points for Haas.

10. Carlos Sainz Jr. (Williams) – saving honor for the Grove squad.

Championship Shake-Up

The Drivers’ standings reflect the fallout:

1. Oscar Piastri – 198 pts

2. Lando Norris – 176 pts

3. Max Verstappen – 155 pts

4. George Russell – 136 pts

5. Charles Leclerc – 104 pts

In the Constructors’ race, McLaren leads on 374 pts, with Mercedes (199) and Ferrari (183) trailing, while Red Bull (162)chase in fourth.

What It Means

Russell’s win catapults Mercedes back into contention, showcasing their pace and strategy. But McLaren’s internal wreckage stole the headlines — and crucial points. Norris’s error didn’t just cost him a race; it widened the gap to Piastri in the title chase. Meanwhile, Verstappen’s runner-up is a reminder that, despite recent issues, Red Bull remains formidable.

Looking Ahead: Austrian GP Preview

Next stop: Austria. The towering straights and long brakes at Red Bull Ring promise high-speed contrasts to Montreal’s tight layout. Expect teams to shuffle setups, strategize aggressively, and aim for redemption. McLaren must desperately repair morale. Russell and Mercedes look to build on momentum. And Red Bull and Max Verstappen will be hunting for revenge.