The second race of the season, in Saudi Arabia partially confirms the values seen in Bahrain: a brace from a Red Bull in the sprint and an Aston Martin stopped only by penalties from Fernando Alonso and the retirement of Stroll. A bitter pill for the Spaniard who, after celebrating his 100th podium, next door Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez learned of the 10-second penalty that dropped him to fourth, overtaking Russell. Mercedes therefore returned to the podium after having found a performance that was at least more satisfactory than that of Ferrari, which was also penalized by the Safety Car. Between DNFs, penalties and super comebacks let's see our tops and flops at Fanta F1.
Our TOPs
Max Verstappen: Excellent comeback for Max Verstappen who also conquering the additional point for the fastest lap remains in the lead in the drivers' championship. From P15 to P2, with an elusive Red Bull in the head-to-head. The Dutchman also challenged fate, wanting to get as close as possible to his teammate, considering the problems he had yesterday and the fear of a new DNF.
Sergio Perez: Pole and victory number 5 for Perez, the first of the season. The Mexican doesn't want to abandon the fight for the title and is making the most of this weekend. He knows he has a real jewel in his hands, a single-seater that aspires to absolute domination. His challenge can only be with his teammate who has already been crowned world champion for two years in a row but who doesn't give up an inch. Will he be able to keep up this pace until the end in order to have a fratricidal fight like in 2016?
George Russell: His podium may not have arrived on merit but a podium at Mercedes after yet another misstep in the design of the single-seater is a real injection of confidence for the entire team. Mercedes emerged as third force in Jeddah, beating Ferrari – in what was the best possible scenario.
Bonuses
Kevin Magnussen: The Haas Viking brings home a precious point, the first for the team, won in a close fight in the final. Steiner will be proud!
Our FLOPs
Alexander Albon: Albon's retirement is certainly one of the biggest disappointments. The Fantamanagers who had fielded him hoped for a linear race, seeing the good pace of Williams but they found themselves with a DNF due to a problem with the brakes and a handful of flies.
Nico Hulkenberg: Not an exciting race for Hulkenberg, who proved to be more solid in qualifying than in the race.
McLaren: The black period continues for McLaren. Norris he persists in not calling it a crisis, but even today the team finished at the bottom of the standings. The two riders challenge each other and put on a show but in one fight an end in itself by staying away from the points area. It's a shame because Piastri started in an excellent position today. At zero points there are them and AlphaTauri.
