Winners
Max Verstappen: Verstappen’s record-breaking 16th win in a single season seemed inevitable once the race started, and his flawless performance showcased his dominance. Despite the challenges, Verstappen’s strategic acumen and exceptional pace solidified his victory.
Lewis Hamilton: Hamilton’s second-place finish highlighted his unmatched skill, especially in managing tire life. His ability to extract pace from worn-out tires showcased his expertise, leaving his competitors in awe of his performance.
Lando Norris: Norris’s impressive recovery from 17th to fifth demonstrated his determination and skill. Despite an untimely pit stop, Norris showcased McLaren’s potential, outperforming his teammate and securing a commendable position.
Daniel Ricciardo: Ricciardo’s exceptional race and his pursuit of a Mercedes car highlighted his resurgence. His stellar performance for AlphaTauri showcased his potential, making a strong case for his return to Red Bull Racing alongside Verstappen.
Losers
Sergio Perez: Perez’s aggressive approach backfired, leading to his early exit from the race. His attempts to maneuver around competitors resulted in a disaster, denting his and Red Bull’s championship aspirations. Perez’s recent struggles raise concerns about his racecraft under pressure.
Yuki Tsunoda: Tsunoda’s impulsive actions and collision with Piastri cost him a promising position. His frustration with the steward’s decision highlighted his disappointment. Despite early gains, Tsunoda’s lack of patience proved costly for AlphaTauri.
Aston Martin: Aston Martin’s decision to revert to a previous aero specification for one car showcased their uncertainty. Alonso’s struggle with confidence and spin-offs highlighted the team’s woes. The team’s performance gap and driver’s unease raise concerns about their future competitiveness.
AlphaTauri’s Rivals: AlphaTauri’s pace and Ricciardo’s resurgence indicated a potential threat to their rivals. Williams and Alfa Romeo faced frustration as their strong pre-race form faded during the race. Albon’s unfulfilled potential and Bottas’s struggles added to their disappointment. The competition for points intensifies, leaving these teams vulnerable to AlphaTauri’s resurgence.
