F1 | THE BRITISH GP, THE POINT BY GIAN CARLO MINARDI “CHAOS AND SPECTACLE: MCLAREN DOMINATED, HULKENBERG ON THE PODIUM, DISASTER FOR FERRARI”
Silverstone gave us a race that was as crazy as it was spectacular, marked by many mistakes by teams and drivers, with Ferrari and Mercedes among the protagonists in the negative way.
The absolute star of the weekend was McLaren that showed a race pace two seconds per lap faster than its rivals. A disarming, and in some ways worrying, superiority built on an excellent aerodynamic downforce. It was a shame for Oscar Piastri who compromised his race when the safety car returned; a trivial mistake, but one that cost him dearly. More than a win for Norris, it seemed like a race lost by the Australian.
Applause also for Sauber and Nico Hulkenberg, starting 19th, the German finished on the podium behind the two McLarens, taking the first podium of his career. His was an impeccable race in which he knew how to make the most of the mistakes by others.
Disappointment for both Ferrari and Mercedes, where Hamilton, without the mistake, could easily have aimed for the podium. It went even worse for Charles Leclerc, sunk by questionable strategy and by a few personal mistakes: it was a Sunday to forget.
Kimi Antonelli was also unlucky, forced to refire after being rear ended by Lawson who badly damaged the rear of the Mercedes. Once again, the young Italian talent found himself out of position due to faulty strategy.
After Saturday’s extraordinary pole position Max Verstappen finished fifth. He was penalized by a spin and a setup that was too focused on dry conditions. The Red Bull, lacking downforce, suffered in the wet conditions.
Such unusual conditions often give us unpredictable placings: aside from the first two places, standing out are the names of teams and drivers that seemed destined for anonymity after qualifying. Shining were Sauber and Alpine which were able to capitalize on the opportunity. Aston Martin took home valuable points with Stroll in seventh place and Alonso in ninth
The next round, Spa-Francorchamps at the end of July.
Gian Carlo Minardi