HOT TAKE: Mercedes updates won't make Verstappen sweat
F1 News
- GPblog.com
Max Verstappen hurt Mercedes mentally again during the Austrian Grand Prix. Where the Dutchman also won convincingly last weekend, Mercedes had nothing to contribute on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Bull Racing driver is on an excellent run. Verstappen won the French GP two weeks ago and was again the strongest in the two races in Austria. The way in which Verstappen achieved his victories was particularly noteworthy. Mercedes simply had little to contribute during the races and had to allow Verstappen to increase his lead in the world championship again.
Lewis Hamilton did not even manage to set the fastest lap in Austria. That too was for Verstappen, who put a 26 point race to his name. He lost another 14 points to his competitor, increasing his lead in the championship to 32 points. After nine races, there are no conclusions to be drawn, but Verstappen no doubt feels comfortable with the lead.
Verstappen versus Hamilton
Mercedes will bring a number of updates to the Silverstone circuit in two weeks time, but it does not seem to be enough to make Verstappen sweat. The Austrian formation has shown they can compete at all tracks this season. Verstappen's confidence is in good shape for now, while Hamilton is starting to resent his team more and more. In Austria, Verstappen dealt another blow to his rival and it looks like it will not be the last.