The recent Formula 1 showdown at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix showcased a clear winner and loser within McLaren due to an intra-team clash. However, many drivers had varying outcomes from their trip to Montreal. Here’s a detailed rundown.
Loser: Lando Norris
When colliding with a title-contending teammate, it’s crucial to avoid serious consequences and quickly take responsibility. Lando Norris failed to do both, crashing into Oscar Piastri, which left doubts about his racecraft and position within the team. This incident was particularly ill-timed, as Norris had an opportunity to outperform Piastri based on their previous pace.
Winner: Oscar Piastri
Despite finishing fourth, Oscar Piastri emerged as a significant victor thanks to the mistake made by teammate Norris. Piastri’s strong defense compelled Norris to make a risky move that ultimately cost him crucial championship points, enhancing Piastri’s lead and positioning him favorably in their internal team rivalry.
Loser: Ferrari
This weekend was reminiscent of a ‘greatest hits’ album for Ferrari, filled with errors, including a major crash by Charles Leclerc and strategy disputes. These blunders culminated in a poor performance that lost the team its second-place standing in the constructors’ championship to Mercedes, despite being a beacon of hope before the race.
Winner: Mercedes
Mercedes enjoyed a much-needed boost with a standout performance in Montreal. George Russell secured victory while Kimi Antonelli achieved his first podium finish. This race demonstrated that Mercedes’s W15 upgrades were effective, as they outperformed competitors like McLaren and Red Bull, marking a promising turn in their season.
Loser: Williams
Though Carlos Sainz salvaged a position from 16th to 10th on the grid, it fell short of Williams’s expectations, especially in a circuit where they usually perform better. Alex Albon’s frustrations over team decisions also painted a grim picture of their strategy’s ineffectiveness, leading to a dismal day.
Winner: Fernando Alonso
Finishing seventh might seem underwhelming given his sixth-place grid position, but Alonso’s energy and determination shone through. Despite an obstacle-filled race that kept him stuck in slower traffic, his presence indicated he felt competitive and capable within the Aston Martin team.
Loser: Lance Stroll
Lance Stroll had a disappointing weekend, characterized by missed opportunities. While he made an impressive pass during the race, his tendency to be overly passive and aggressive in critical moments reflected poorly on him once again, complicating his career trajectory.
