Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc wins Formula 1 Australian GP

By COURTNEY WALSH
Associated Press

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Charles Leclerc has completed a dominant weekend in his Ferrari after converting pole position into a comprehensive triumph at the Australian Grand Prix. The 24-year-old Leclerc extended his lead in the drivers’ championship when claiming his second victory of the season after also winning the season-opening race in Bahrain. Leclerc was able to hold off Red Bull rival Max Verstappen during the opening laps and defended well mid-race under safety car conditions to pull away for a decisive 20.524-second victory. Sergio Perez overcame a slow start to secure second ahead of the Mercedes duo of George Russell, who secured his first podium finish of the season, and Lewis Hamilton.