Alonso’s final home race delivered a historic all-British podium (the first since 1968) with Lewis Hamilton claiming a highly anticipated Ferrari win, ahead of George Russell and Lando Norris. Not all left victorious, however, with a total of seven retirements, but the key talking points of the race were not these incidents themselves, but rather the strategic advantages gained through the virtual safety car. Another focus of the race was the growing tension between Mercedes teammates, George Russell and young star, Kimi Antonelli.

Results:

Top Five

1. Lewis Hamilton
2. George Russell
3. Lando Norris
4. Max Verstappen
5. Oscar Piastri

DNF/DNC (in order of finishing positions)

• Charles Leclerc
• Kimi Antonelli
• Oliver Bearman
• Alexander Albon
• Fernando Alonso
• Nico Hulkenberg
• Valtteri Bottas
• Lance Stroll
  

Race Breakdown:

How the VSC (Virtual Safety Car) favoured Hamilton

The initial virtual safety car, due to the retirement of Alonso, allowed various teams to save crucial time in the pits, notably the race winner, Lewis Hamilton. Having already pitted early, like many drivers, due to such high track temperatures on the tyres, Hamilton was looking at a 3-stop strategy for his race. Whilst the VSC didn’t alter his strategy, it enabled him to save seconds over the other front-runners who did not take advantage of the opportunity. Additionally, he pitted on to the durable hard tyre, which was better suited to the track conditions at the time, and therefore would perform better versus his opponents. The tyres also enabled him to do a longer stint before his final pit, allowing him to create a suitable gap.

The Antonelli vs Russell Problem

At Mercedes, Toto Wolff has two highly talented drivers, both of whom would like to, and are in a position, to win a World Championship title this season. Consequently, the team don’t wish to favour a driver, and instead allow the two to race. However, Sunday’s tight racing reminded us of a challenge this decision presents that could define the team’s season. We have learnt from McLaren last season the importance of controlling such racing to prevent crashes which could potentially cost the Constructor’s Title. One talking point from Sunday’s race was Antonelli’s relative lack of experience, with this being only his second season in Formula One. This draws concern, particularly when his teammate is much more experienced, perhaps pointing to him being the eventual favourite. Another concern is Antonelli’s extreme willingness and determination to race aggressively, something which may become increasingly challenging for Mercedes to manage as the championship battle develops, and these dreams become more obtainable. Whilst for viewers, such a battle is entertaining, it is something that Wolff must not consider lightly.

The Racing Brief Verdict:

Despite numerous retirements, the race itself was not the most exciting of the season. However, it was interesting to observe the dynamics within teams who swapped drivers and how this will go on to affect the rest of the season, particularly in the case of Ferrari, where Leclerc may feel the new signing is being favoured at his expense. In addition, Toto Wolff must continue to monitor the developing situation at Mercedes, particularly as the championship battle tightens. Eventually, he will be faced with a difficult decision: take a risk and treat both drivers equally or back the driver with the strongest title credentials.

Key Takeaways:

• History is made as Hamilton leads Russell and Norris for an all British Podium
• McLaren begin to close the gap at the front
• Difficult decisions face Toto Wolff as Russell and Antonelli battle for position