2024-07-21 18:06:06
Speaking of Mercedes: The former series world champion, who had been in a serious crisis in recent years, took a big step forward in the slipstream of the duel between Red Bull and McLaren. While they only managed to snatch victory in Austria, the “Silver Arrows” then asserted their own claim to the lead again at the last race in England. Russell and Hamilton took the first two starting positions and at the end of an exciting race, Hamilton triumphed.
In the last five races, there have been four different winners. At least three cars seem capable of winning. In the twelve races so far this season, a total of six different drivers have made it to the top spot on the podium. By comparison, in the whole of last season, only three drivers were able to win a race. In addition, even races in which Verstappen wins in the end are exciting. The days of lonely dominance, when the three-time world champion drove circles around the competition, are over.
It was Verstappen himself who drew a very sobering conclusion ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix: “I think we weren’t the fastest car in the last few races, so I don’t expect that to be any different now,” he said. “The last few weekends have been a big challenge for me to get the best out of the cars,” the 26-year-old continued. “Realistically, other teams have made bigger steps.”
Of course: Verstappen still leads the drivers’ championship just as Red Bull dominates the team championship. With his 255 points, Verstappen has a generous cushion over second-placed Norris with his 171 points. Red Bull is also still 71 points ahead of Ferrari in second place in the team championship with 373 points (302). That the two world championship titles will end up in the hands of Verstappen and Red Bull again is not impossible, perhaps even likely – but no longer a given.
It is now more than clear that Red Bull itself is now beginning to worry. Sign one: According to reports, the team is now more than ever considering replacing its second driver, Sergio Pérez. The Mexican has been showing inconsistent performances for years, which could have cost him his job. But Red Bull stuck with him. The reason: The team did not need top performances from Pérez. Verstappen alone scored enough points to win the team championship. So why bring in a better driver and jeopardize the good team chemistry?