Despite so much being at stake at the Mexican Grand Prix, it seemed to feel like your average weekend: a big build-up of hype, drivers talked about in the market etc. It was poised to be spectacular and well, let’s just say I am anxiously awaiting Brazil with a wet towel to slap across my face when I fall asleep!
Okay. Let’s not be too critical. The race had it’s moments at the hectic start to the Grand Prix and that amazing finale when three drivers were awarded third place at some point. Coming to Vettel first.
What has happened to him. Is he crumbling under the pressure of expectations at Ferrari? It certainly seemed so because Vettel didn’t have a poor race. He had a meltdown. Of course, we had the usual complaints about traffic, but his ‘Verstappen-styled’ defensive maneuver drew question marks and his antics on the radio were somewhat amusing, in the aspect of how ridiculous his comments were.
Verstappen will be disappointed that his podium position was taken away from him, first losing it to Vettel and then his team-mate. The Dutchman too vented his frustration with Vettel and the two were spotted exchanging hand gestures crossing the finish line. Not a great day for either of them while in the background, someone else stole their limelight.
Daniel Ricciardo is one of the top drivers in Formula One and his Mexico performance displayed that. His strategy of pitting early onto the mediums worked as he, (rather luckily) got onto the podium.
Regardless of the luck, he drove well and kept a cool head when tapping wheels with Vettel. A real fan favourite is Daniel Ricciardo, and a very strong driver.
Nico Hulkenberg has come alive since his Renault announcement. After a couple of years of being outshined by team-mate Sergio Perez, Hulkenberg has put in two noticeably stellar weekends. His qualifying performance on Saturday I would rate as high as his infamous pole position.
Ahead of the two Ferrari’s? I know they’re struggling but come on, the Force India definitely isn’t as quick on raw pace!
Another worthy mention is Marcus Ericsson, who just like Hulkenberg, put in two great weekends in succession. Getting out of Q1 again, and finishing the race in 11th was a good race for Ericsson and he is an unsung hero in 2016 in my opinion.
Pascal Wehrlein showed us again that he has great qualifying pace, getting his Manor out of Q1. The youngster is also the rumour of a promotion to Force India but we’ll wait and see.
Oh yeah, Lewis Hamilton was first and Nico Rosberg second. *yawn*
Inside Line Opinion by Fergal Walsh
Read the full story at GRAND PRIX 247
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