Once again, it was Carlos Sainz who interrupted Red Bull’s dominance. Or rather, in this case, the Milton Keynes team suffered from a technical issue, as Max Verstappen retired due to a brake problem. In any case, the Spaniard was flawless and managed to maintain the lead of the Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park circuit, capitalizing on the opportunity created in the qualifying session. As a result of the one-two finish in Melbourne, Ferrari have closed the gap with those who were already considered the 2024 Formula 1 champions.
Of course, it’s difficult and premature to talk about a battle for the Championship, given that the Dutchman remains the clear favorite. Yet, with these small flashes, it’s evident that something in Maranello is improving.
“Melbourne like Singapore. Ferrari’s recent victories are scored by Carlos Sainz, achieved with extreme mastery of the means, of mental resources. Not to mention the physical resilience shown in Australia after surgery and a complicated recovery. It’s a happy moment for Formula 1, even considering this success as inevitable, given Max Verstappen’s absence from the track, an event that happens once every two or three years. Meanwhile, a lively championship, a car, the SF-24, on a clear upward trajectory, Charles Leclerc trailing Re Max by four points,” wrote Giorgio Terruzzi for the Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera in his review of the Australian Grand Prix.
The journalist then talked about the losers in this situation, namely Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton: “We can say that Charles Leclerc is the real loser in Melbourne, kept at bay by Carlos Sainz in the race, beaten in qualifying, a domain he usually handles with the precious skill he possesses. In short, not exactly a leader’s outing, in the season where he must take charge of his men, well in advance of Lewis Hamilton’s arrival. He will react soon and he will do it well, as he knows how to and has often done it, alongside a more than stimulating teammate, who intends to close the Ferrari chapter by taking some revenge, seeking a new contract that will spare him from starting from scratch with the raw Audi project.” – the Italian journalist pointed out.
“Lewis Hamilton seems anonymous. Lost, at the moment when the two drivers penalized by his arrival in Maranello are bringing satisfaction to the Ferrari team. Oliver Bearman in Saudi Arabia, Carlos last Sunday. A curious paradox that the English driver must remove, even while driving a Mercedes ill-suited to motivate a champion who performs strongly when needed. Sir Lewis’ engagement has complex reasons, for sure. But looking ahead with this euphoria also means dispelling some doubts, distancing the shadow of premature regret.” – Giorgio Terruzzi concluded.
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