With the upcoming release of Brad Pitt’s F1 film, the sport continues to grow in popularity and intrigue with new and old fans alike. This week’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix was no exception. As a new (but avid) fan, this was definitely a weekend to remember.
Oliver Bearman, who will race for the American Haas F1 team next year, substituted for his future teammate, Kevin Magnussen. Magnussen received a race ban for this weekend after exceeding the maximum amount of penalty points.
Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) ruined his first practice session by crashing into one of the barriers around the track. Charles made up for this by performing well in the next practice sessions. Unfortunately, there were more shocking events in qualifying the next day.
For some racers, like Leclerc, qualifying went very well. He completed the fastest lap and gained pole position, or first-place position, for the race. For Leclerc fans like myself, this was very good news. Leclerc has actually gotten pole position for the past 4 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, but could never convert the positions to a win.
Lando Norris (Mclaren) qualified 17th and started 15th, which was a shock for him, as he was in second in the drivers championship behind Max Verstappen (Red Bull). Verstappen himself also only qualified in sixth place, which was less shocking in light of his recent performances. As a Red Bull fan, it is getting a little disheartening to watch.
Oscar Piastri (McLaren), ended up getting his second win of the season, and of his career. This was especially impressive since this is only his second season in Formula 1. Leclerc kept up his streak of losing first place, finishing second. The biggest shock of the race was third and fourth place. The positions were a battle between Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) and Checo Perez (Red Bull). On lap 50/51, they collided into the wall and out of the race. This provided a space for George Russell (Mercedes) to stand on the third place podium.
Norris, despite starting in the back, used his skills and tire strategy to achieve fourth place! This race was full of ups and downs, and turned out well for the Mclaren team and Oscar. Now, McLaren has moved past Red Bull and become the top team in the standings. On to Singapore next week!
The “High-Octane Herald” is written by Ava O’Donnell and details the latest Formula One news regarding races and current events.