Australian Grand Prix 2024 Preview

Verstappen's Winning Streak Snapped in Melbourne

Final Race Results and Championship Standings

Max Verstappen's impressive nine-race winning streak in Formula One came to an abrupt end at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix. The reigning world champion was forced to retire from the race due to a mechanical issue, handing the victory to Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes.

Hamilton's win marked his first of the season and moved him into the lead of the championship standings. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished second, while Red Bull's Sergio Perez completed the podium.

The Australian Grand Prix was a thrilling race from start to finish, with several lead changes and intense battles throughout the field. Leclerc started from pole position, but was overtaken by Verstappen at the start of the race. However, Verstappen's lead was short-lived, as he was forced to pit early due to a slow puncture.

This gave Hamilton the lead, which he held until the end of the race. Leclerc put pressure on Hamilton throughout the race, but was unable to find a way past the Mercedes driver. Perez also made a strong charge in the final laps, but ultimately had to settle for third place.

The Australian Grand Prix was a disappointing race for Verstappen, but it was a brilliant day for Hamilton and Mercedes. The victory gives Hamilton a 10-point lead in the championship standings, while Mercedes now lead the constructors' championship by 20 points.