Sun Apr 20 17:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Verstappen Wins Saudi Arabian GP Despite Penalty, Gasly and Tsunoda Crash

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia** – Max Verstappen won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, but not without drama. The Red Bull driver started from pole position, beating Oscar Piastri by a mere hundredth of a second in qualifying. However, Verstappen was later handed a penalty, briefly handing the net lead to Piastri. The race was further disrupted by a crash involving AlphaTauri teammates Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda.

Verstappen’s victory follows his stunning qualifying performance, which saw Lando Norris crash out while setting the pace in earlier practice sessions. Norris, who was fastest in FP2 and FP3, and Q2, suffered damage to his car after running off track. While released from the medical centre unscathed, he faces a challenging race recovery.

Elsewhere, the support races also delivered excitement. Richard Verschoor secured a last-lap victory in the Formula 2 Feature Race, while Gregoire Weug triumphed in Formula 1 Academy Race 2.

Aston Martin team boss Mike Cowell dismissed speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future with Red Bull, while Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reiterated Verstappen’s commitment to the team. The race highlighted the fine margins in Formula 1, with tire management proving a crucial factor as drivers battled for position.

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