In contrast to the stubborn celebrities of the other teams, Adrian Newey’s latest creation is proving to be the most cooperative dance partner with a fondness for the young Dutchman’s style.
The biggest test for the current Formula 1 World Champion over the weekend was not distancing himself from the competition, but rather keeping them within reach. Finishing thirteen seconds ahead of his teammate and eighteen seconds ahead of Charles Leclerc was deceivingly impressive. It deceived Sergio Perez and Ferrari, that is. I have no doubt that Verstappen could have easily doubled that lead if he or the team had desired.
Meanwhile, rumors of a potential departure from Red Bull, a “Mexit,” continued to circulate within the F1 Paddock. Astute management and commercial foresight are transforming the twenty-four-year-old into a corporation.
With a GT3 team already in the works, we can envision Verstappen F1 Racing in the misty future. However, much of this progress could be undone if he continues to align himself with Helmut Marko and leave Red Bull.
A defiant leap into the arms of Mercedes or any other team would create an opportunity for several other drivers capable of taking his place.
Verstappen should bear in mind that George Russell, Alex Albon, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri all have the potential to win the World Championship in the RB20. They may not dominate, but that is not a prerequisite for either Red Bull or F1. In fact, FOM et al. may support this notion.
Nevertheless, a move elsewhere may undermine Max’s perception of invincibility when faced with a car that does not align with his preferences. Red Bull undoubtedly wishes to retain his services, but not at any cost. The only constants in the team’s success have been Christian Horner and Helmut Marko. And Marko’s reign is nearing its end regardless. Perhaps it is wiser to keep Horner if a choice must be made.
Wow, Oliver Bearman was the crowd favorite at the conclusion of the race weekend. Making an impressive debut at a circuit that challenges anyone not at the top of their game. The question now, however, is what comes next?
There is no available seat with the prestigious prancing horse team in the foreseeable future, and another year in F2 is not a viable path forward. This leaves the second seat at the Haas team, powered by Ferrari, as a potential option.
Despite Kevin Magnusson’s recent efforts to act as a mobile roadblock and propel “the Hulk” into the points, it is he who may be replaced.
Despite VCARB’s forgettable performance over the weekend, they should not overlook Liam Lawson’s achievements from last year and make a comparison.
Daniel Ricciardo’s performance has been underwhelming, resembling Nyck De Vries more than his former self. His unforced spin towards the end of the race spoke volumes. Despite being Christian Horner’s close friend, he should not be on the team anymore, as the Good Doctor has been suggesting for a while. It’s time to make a drastic change.
In a shocking turn of events, one of the cars in the world’s most expensive train set derailed early in the race. While Fernando Alonso maintained a strong pace at the front, “Junior” tested the durability of his Aston Martin’s steering arm by hitting the wall. As a result, he also put the Tec pro to the test. Fortunately, the latter held up, unlike his car and any hope of achieving a top position. Formula 1 is a ruthless world!