WATCH: Oscar Piastri wins dramatic Azerbaijan Grand Prix after shocking last lap crash - Results

Oscar Piastri emerged victorious at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after an intense race filled with drama and a spectacular last-lap crash. The McLaren driver showcased immense skill and composure as he fended off multiple challenges from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, eventually claiming victory at the Baku City Circuit.

The race got off to a thrilling start with Leclerc maintaining his pole position as the lights went out, while Piastri settled into second place. The Red Bulls of Sergio Pérez and Max Verstappen had a strong opening lap, each gaining a position to move into third and fifth, respectively. However, Verstappen’s race was far from smooth, with the reigning world champion complaining about his car’s handling throughout.

Here is the winning moment: 

The moment Oscar Piastri clinched his second Grand Prix victory! 🏆🏁#F1 #AzerbaijanGP pic.twitter.com/eudpFHsCKP

— Formula 1 (@F1) September 15, 2024

The first pit stops were triggered by Red Bull, with Verstappen and George Russell switching to hard tyres on lap 13. Hamilton, starting from the pit lane, followed suit. Pérez pitted shortly after his teammate and was on course to challenge for the podium. Meanwhile, McLaren opted to keep Piastri out, allowing Pérez to close in on Lando Norris. McLaren instructed Norris to slow down Pérez, which proved to be a decisive strategy, helping Piastri stay in contention.

Oscar Piastri had a stressful outing!

Piastri’s persistence paid off on lap 22 when he passed Leclerc in a daring move at Turn 1, taking the lead. The battle between the two drivers raged on, but as the race entered its final stages, Leclerc’s tyres began to degrade, allowing Piastri to extend his lead.

The final laps saw a dramatic turn of events when Carlos Sainz and Sergio Pérez collided while battling for third place. The crash resulted in a virtual safety car, promoting Mercedes’ George Russell to the podium. Meanwhile, Lando Norris capitalized on the chaos, making a late-race move on Verstappen to finish fourth. Fernando Alonso also had a strong race, securing sixth place—his best result since Canada.

The crash between Pérez and Sainz allowed Williams to secure a solid finish, with Alexander Albon and rookie Franco Colapinto taking seventh and eighth, respectively. Lewis Hamilton, recovering from his pit lane start, finished ninth, while Haas debutant Oliver Bearman claimed his first Formula 1 point by finishing 10th.

Final Results: