As we settle into the rhythm of the Spanish GP, it’s business as usual at the front of the pack
As we settle into the rhythm of the Spanish GP, it’s business as usual at the front of the pack – with fairly even gaps, tyre preservation, and minimal attacking, unless you’re driving for Ferrari. The battle for 12th, 13th, and 14th positions is heating up, with Fernando Alonso losing two places to teammate Lance Stroll and Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas.
Alonso’s start and Verstappen’s move
Replays of Alonso’s start reveal a good launch, but a massive swing at the rear forced him across the chicane. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen, who already has a one-second lead, has been noted for forcing Lando Norris off the track on the opening lap. Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Pérez, has failed to make progress and remains in 11th place.
Verstappen seizes an opportunity to use DRS and goes around the outside of Turn 1, closing the gap to George Russell’s Mercedes to just 0.6 seconds. The British driver, in turn, is 1.3 seconds ahead of Pérez. DRS will be enabled at the end of this lap.
Alonso’s continued troubles
Alonso’s early troubles continue, with the Spaniard forced to the runoff area at Turn 1, losing two places and dropping to 12th. Despite this, it’s been a relatively clean start to the race.
“The Formula 1 standings could be set to change dramatically today, as the top five drivers are all closely matched, with four different manufacturers represented.”
Strategy will play a crucial role
Strategy will play a crucial role, with some teams opting for two-stop plans and others for three-stop plans. The abrasive track surface at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya adds an extra layer of complexity to the race.
As we countdown to the start, the drivers have completed their formation lap and are now lining up on the grid. It’s almost time to find out who will claim victory in this unpredictable Spanish Grand Prix. Can Verstappen maintain his lead, or will Norris, Hamilton, or another driver pip him to the post? The tension is building.
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