If Max Verstappen‘s masterful pole position on Saturday evening was already a ‘Miracle of Jeddah’, then a victory on Sunday would be part two. Because it would be miraculous if he could repeat the feat of two weeks ago (GP Japan). This article discusses the danger for Verstappen, the challenge from McLaren, and more: here’s what to watch for during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
1. Verstappen on Repeat
Perhaps his best lap ever was two weeks ago, on the Suzuka circuit. But the ‘pole lap’ from then almost pales in comparison to Saturday’s in Jeddah. Once again, Verstappen proved to be a cut above the rest. Repeating what he did in Japan (winning) in Sunday’s race will be tough. But, those who know Verstappen know: it’s not impossible. The reigning and four-time world champion is a master at defending, managing tires, and thus the perfect driver to maintain a lead and cross the finish line first.
The Jeddah circuit is also more suited for this than, for example, the one in Bahrain. The RB21 fell short there, but Verstappen and Red Bull have things better sorted in Saudi Arabia. The car is more responsive to his commands, although it’s still not perfect. But the Red Bull vehicle is also better suited to the circuit, both in terms of tire degradation and layout with many high-speed sections.
So, don’t be surprised if a repeat of the GP of Japan unfolds. And then Verstappen could ‘just like that’ have his second victory in the bag.
Potential for Piastri
Oscar Piastri has the task of securing a victory for McLaren this Sunday in Jeddah. Starting from P2, he must outmaneuver Max Verstappen. And there lies an opportunity. Both in terms of the car and for the Australian as a driver. First about the car: the MCL39 has been the best, the fastest all season. But it was already evident in Japan that this doesn’t necessarily mean you can easily outperform Verstappen. The speed is there: in the long runs in the free practice sessions, McLaren was the best. This can give Piastri confidence.
As a driver, it also presents him with a great opportunity: he wants to become world champion and to do that, you must be able to beat the best in the world in a direct battle. That battle is coming, with Verstappen. So, Piastri can show what he’s made of this Sunday in Jeddah in his pursuit of his potential first Formula 1 world title. Difficult? Certainly. But many believe that a champion resides in Piastri. It could very well be that we see him in action in a cool and clinical manner against Verstappen this Sunday in Saudi Arabia.
Revenge for Norris and Ferrari
For Lando Norris, this Sunday is about sporting revenge on himself. The Brit made a mistake during Q3 of the qualification, crashed, and therefore only starts as tenth. A catch-up race awaits. But a win? No, according to Norris himself, that’s a bridge too far. Perhaps a podium finish is still possible, but we might be underestimating the unleashed Mercedes leader George Russell (starting from P3).
What About Ferrari?
So, what’s the situation with Ferrari? The midfield is where Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will be racing this weekend. And, much to the disappointment of many Ferrari fans, it’s where they currently belong.
Strategy and Safety Car
The weather in Saudi Arabia is sunny, warm, and dry. The exact impact on the tyres, and thus the teams’ strategies, is not yet entirely clear. According to Pirelli, there are plenty of possibilities. Take a look at the overview below.
Additionally, there’s the chance of a safety car. In every race on the street circuit in Jeddah so far, there has been a 100% chance of a safety car. You can bet that the teams have various scenarios prepared for the inevitable moment when Bernd Mayländer is allowed to send his car onto the track.
Additional Information
The circuit is 6174 meters long, there were 52 overtaking maneuvers last year, there are 27 turns, the most on the calendar, and a pit stop lasts an average of 19.2 seconds in total.
