I have been covering a bit more F1 recently so I decided to do a recap of the US grand prix
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In a display of absolute dominance, Max Verstappen continued his extraordinary 2022 season by securing his 13th victory, equalling the record jointly held by the legendary Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel for most wins in a single season. With just three races left on the calendar, Verstappen seems poised to shatter that record after his commanding performance at the United States Grand Prix, held at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas. With this win, his 33rd career triumph, and teammate Sergio Perez securing a commendable fourth place, Red Bull Racing clinched their first constructor’s championship since 2013. This monumental achievement came on the heels of the unfortunate passing of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz just a day prior to the race, making the victory particularly poignant for the team.
Lewis Hamilton, who has been uncharacteristically winless this season, managed to secure his third second-place finish of the year, providing an unexpected twist in the championship standings. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc maintained his consistent form by finishing third, adding to his tally of nine podium finishes this season.
George Russell, the young British sensation, followed Perez home to secure his 16th top-five finish of the year. Lando Norris maintained his starting position by finishing sixth, while Fernando Alonso put on a remarkable performance by climbing from 14th on the grid to cross the finish line in seventh, despite a dramatic collision with Lance Stroll on lap 22 that sent his car airborne and into the guardrails.
Sebastian Vettel, in his final appearance at the United States Grand Prix, had a race filled with “what ifs.” After pitting from a strong third position, a sluggish pit stop cost him precious time, dropping him to 13th place. Kevin Magnussen managed to hold on in the latter half of the race, securing ninth place and marking his sixth points finish of the season. Yuki Tsunoda claimed the final points-scoring position by finishing 10th, marking only his fourth points finish in 2022.
The Race Unfolded
The race got off to an intriguing start as Carlos Sainz struggled with wheel spin from his pole position, allowing Max Verstappen to surge ahead by turn one. George Russell attempted to capitalize on the situation and make a move for third place but ended up colliding with Sainz instead, promoting Lewis Hamilton to second. Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll and Sebastian Vettel managed to maintain their positions in fifth and sixth by lap five, showcasing solid starts. Charles Leclerc, who qualified second but had a grid penalty, steadily worked his way through the field and found himself in seventh by lap 8. Sergio Perez also demonstrated improved pace, climbing to fourth on the same lap.
Max Verstappen, however, appeared unstoppable, effortlessly extending his lead over Hamilton to nearly four seconds by lap 10. While Verstappen made it look effortless, Lando Norris found himself engaged in an intense battle to keep ninth place from Valtteri Bottas, providing one of the race’s more exciting position battles. Unfortunately, on lap 18, Bottas lost control of his Alfa Romeo and ended his race in a gravel trap, necessitating the deployment of the safety car. Charles Leclerc capitalized on this situation, vaulting from seventh to fourth during the safety car period.
As the race reached its halfway point, Verstappen encountered a slow pit stop that temporarily dropped him down the order, sparking hopes that Hamilton might secure his first win of the season. However, Verstappen quickly fought his way back into contention, with his overtake on Leclerc being the pivotal moment in his pursuit of Hamilton. With just ten laps remaining, Hamilton held a slim two-second lead, but Verstappen’s pass for the lead seemed inevitable, and by lap 50, he had reclaimed the top spot.
The Triumph and the Struggle
Max Verstappen’s exceptional performance in 2022 has left fans and pundits in awe. This year has been nothing short of a dream story for the two-time world champion. While dominance in sports can be frustrating for non-fans of the dominant entity, Verstappen’s reign aligns beautifully with F1’s rich history of exceptional talent.
Lewis Hamilton’s performance this season deserves admiration, considering Mercedes struggled with an underperforming car. Hamilton’s ability to lead and challenge the formidable Red Bull team is a testament to his remarkable talent and a reminder to savor the remaining years of his illustrious career.
The Controversial Moments
However, the race was not without controversy. Lance Stroll’s ill-advised move, drifting in front of Fernando Alonso, violated the rule that permits drivers to make only one defensive move. This move, which nearly led to a catastrophic incident, warrants a more severe penalty than the three-place grid drop and two license points handed to Stroll. Safety should always be paramount.
George Russell’s five-second penalty for his collision with Carlos Sainz raised eyebrows. The incident initially seemed minor but resulted in a terminal radiator puncture for Sainz. Russell’s actions left many questioning his decision-making on the track and did little to console Sainz, who suffered his sixth Did Not Finish (DNF) of the season.
The Driver of the Day
In a well-deserved recognition, Sebastian Vettel was named Driver of the Day. Vettel’s impressive recovery from 13th to eighth showcased his enduring talent, despite being hampered by a struggling car. It was a testament to his skill and determination.
Quotes from the Drivers
Max Verstappen, reflecting on his victory, stated, “It was not an easy race for us, but I’m extremely happy to win, especially during this emotional weekend. I think this is a race Dietrich Mateschitz would have loved to witness.”
Carlos Sainz expressed his frustration, saying, “There have been so many races this year where I haven’t even completed one lap. It’s been a frustrating season despite having the speed, but luck hasn’t been on my side.”
Fernando Alonso remained unfazed, commenting, “It was a scary moment when my car went airborne, but I landed on the track. I decided to change tires and the front wing and continued the race.”
