Piastri dominated Sunday’s 56-lap race at the Shanghai International Circuit, maintaining flawless control from start to finish in a more composed second round of the season, where pit stop strategy—one or two stops—became the main talking point.
The McLaren driver fended off a strong challenge from Mercedes’ George Russell, delivering a remarkable start to the season for the reigning constructors’ champions, who have now claimed pole position in both races so far.
The victory comes as a huge boost for Hamilton, who endured a difficult outing in Australia, where he struggled to get comfortable in the SF-25. After his disappointing performance in Melbourne, critics were quick to question whether he could adapt to his new surroundings at Ferrari.
The Australian race, usually the season-opener, was delayed from March to November, but no new date was set for the Chinese Grand Prix, normally held in April
