Well, after the Austrian Grand Prix and the controversy surrounding Russell’s pole position, we already have another race this weekend. This time we’re back at another European classic, heading to Silverstone, in the United Kingdom.
Alright Goguma, what can we expect?
This weekend the big change will be the weather. Although no rain is expected, temperatures are expected to drop significantly compared to what we saw in Austria, which could affect tire durability. I think it’s possible we’ll see fewer pit stops.
A very important aspect of this circuit is battery energy management, especially in the fastest section of the track, which links two long straights with little opportunity to recharge. Whichever team manages this best will score plenty of points toward victory. Also, this weekend features a Sprint race.
Sprint? What’s that?
If you follow Formula 1, you’ll already know what it is, but for newcomers, here’s the explanation. Basically, one Friday practice session was removed to make room for a race on Saturday. What I don’t like is that what we usually see on Saturday ends up being the same as Sunday. It’s a bit of a spoiler. But this is England, so weather always has to be factored in.
Alright, Goguma. Will it rain?
Honestly, I don’t know what to say, in this country the weather is always a mystery. I checked the Foreca app and it shows a chance of rain around race time on Sunday. We’ll have to wait and see.
Any upgrades this weekend?
Not much, since only a week has passed since the last race. Ferrari is the only team debuting engine upgrades, but personally I don’t expect much, even though the gaps at the front are small.
What are your expectations for this race?
I expect to see the Ferraris a bit closer to the Mercedes, especially Hamilton, who seems to be in great form right now. Leclerc’s teammate needs to step up.
Even so, and taking a wild guess here, I believe Antonelli will win. I have no real idea about Formula 1 despite the years I’ve spent watching races, but I’m willing to prove it. Last week the Italian showed he’s in great form, finishing third. In my opinion, he didn’t win because of the embarrassing Saturday qualifying session, where Russell’s lap under yellow flags shouldn’t have been valid under any circumstance. Still, Russell will likely be close, possibly with a Ferrari somewhere in between or very near. And if it rains, Verstappen can’t be ruled out either.
The truth is the frontrunners are close, and it’s not as predictable as it was a few years ago.
What about the Spanish drivers?
Fairly in line with the last few races, but now Carlos Sainz’s and Fernando Alonso’s teams (Williams and Aston Martin) are racing at home. Maybe there’s a miracle and we see a Williams in Q2, but I see it as unlikely.
Aston Martin, sadly, the goal is just to finish. I don’t expect anything. We’ll have to see once upgrades arrive, but until then, don’t expect much. Either way, they have a lot of work to do to get closer to their targets.
And what about you, who do you think will win? Leave a comment and we’ll review it on Monday.
