Formula 1 2025 - Spanish Grand Prix

Normally the only interesting thing about the Barcelona circuit is any upgrades to the cars. But, was it me, or was that actually an interesting race, or do I just have low expectations for the Barcelona track?

Upgrades 

The upgrades themselves seem to have done nothing, McLaren are still miles ahead of the other cars, which suggest the wing flapping is not the only thing making them go faster. 

Qualifying 

Leclerc's race proved that you get no points for qualifying. I, alongside most other people, wondered why the (blank) he just sat back and didn't do another lap in Q3. I underestimated him and the Ferrari strategy team. I think I'm being nice about the Ferrari strategy team. It feels both good and unexpected. 

Mercedes 

That's two races in a row where a Mercedes engine has gone kaboom. Not good times. 

Haas

That was definitely a lurking Valtteri Bottas at Haas. I'm wondering if it's to coach Bearman or as a potential replacement for one of the drivers. 

Hülkenboom 

How good was Hülkenberg? 15th to 5th in a Sauber and denied 'Driver of the Day' only by the Max fan army, who are, if nothing else, fanatical about their guy. 

I am just so happy for Hülkenberg. 

I am hoping Audi will be good next season and then he might finally get his race podium. If he wins a race, I will be unspeakable for at least a week. 

Verstappen lunacy 

Running into Russell, even if Verstappen was angry because his own mistake lead to Leclerc overtaking him, was a truly idiotic move. Idiotic, and somehow more idiotic than Red Bull's tyre strategy. 

When someone missing the race because they punched something in their garage (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/articles/c14kmj8rd87o) is not the most idiotic rage-induced incident during a race weekend, you know you've screwed up. 

I understand Verstappen's frustration with Red Bull's tyre strategy. It was most inexplicable, and Red Bull are normally good at strategy. It's such a fall off in strategy terms that I'm wondering if someone has left from their strategy team?

 

from Imgflip Meme Generator

There's something rotten in the state of Red Bull anyway, judging by that second car. I can believe one driver is that much better than the other but not that Verstappen is that much better than Ricciardo, Perez and Tsunoda.