Ferrari Roars to Victory Down Under

Carlos Sainz seals dramatic win in Melbourne as Red Bull’s Verstappen exits early

Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz defied the odds Sunday, clinching first place at the Australian Grand Prix just two weeks after appendicitis surgery—and sending Red Bull’s reigning champ Max Verstappen packing with a rare mechanical failure. The Spaniard, who missed the Saudi Arabian GP due to recovery, led a Ferrari 1-2 finish alongside teammate Charles Leclerc, marking the team’s first victory of 2024.

‘It was a really good race—I felt really good out there,’ Sainz said post-race, acknowledging his physical challenges. ‘Managing the pace and tires was key, and having Charles right there made it extra special.’

The race’s climax came when Mercedes’ George Russell crashed on the final lap, triggering a virtual safety car that eased Sainz’s path to the checkered flag. Verstappen, who hadn’t retired from a race since 2022, faced a abrupt end after a fiery brake issue.

With this win, Ferrari leapfrogs Red Bull in the constructors’ standings, proving even superheroes (or F1 champions) have off days.

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Ferrari finish 1-2 in Australia after Verstappen retires

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