It was a moment that halted the Formula 1 world in its tracks. Shortly after the Mexico City Grand Prix concluded, renowned F1 journalist Albert Fabrega’s cryptic tweet sent shockwaves through the paddock. Translation: “I don’t want to believe the rumor that they have told me now in the paddock. No.”
Speculation quickly ran wild as F1 enthusiasts attempted to decipher the meaning behind Fabrega’s enigmatic message. Was it a signal of Sergio Pérez’s potential replacement at Red Bull? Given the ongoing rumors surrounding his future with the team, this theory gained traction, especially after F1 analyst Will Buxton quoted Fabrega’s tweet, alluding to a story by Luke Smith at The Athletic, which highlighted Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner’s praise for Daniel Ricciardo’s performance in Mexico City.
As some F1 writers delved into the mystery, fueled by late-night caffeine, the rumors multiplied. There were whispers of Fernando Alonso making a shocking move to Red Bull or even a potential Aston Martin sale. Yet, as we stand today, the exact nature of the rumor remains unknown, leaving everyone to wonder if it will ever materialize.
One thing is certain; this storyline will continue to linger, casting a shadow over the upcoming weekend in Brazil.
Questioning the resurgence of Daniel Ricciardo
Speaking of Daniel Ricciardo, he had a standout performance for AlphaTauri throughout the Mexico City race weekend. From a promising P6 finish in the second practice session to securing a spot on the second row of the grid alongside Max Verstappen in qualifying, Ricciardo demonstrated his potential. During the race, he further proved himself, finishing seventh and engaging in a thrilling battle with Mercedes’ George Russell in the closing laps.
Ricciardo’s impressive showing did not go unnoticed, drawing praise from Christian Horner himself, who remarked, “Fighting a Mercedes in an AlphaTauri for their best result of the year was a great performance.” Needless to say, that comment sparked further speculation surrounding Ricciardo’s future.
The Mercedes-Ferrari Battle Continues
Following a week marred by post-race inspection failures, both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc found their way back to the podium in Mexico City. Their respective second and third-place finishes contributed significantly to their teams’ championship ambitions. However, the battle for second place in the Constructors’ Championship remains intensively fought, with Mercedes holding a narrow 22-point advantage over Ferrari.
As the two teams head to São Paulo, the question lingers: Can Mercedes widen the gap, will Ferrari close in, or will there be a dramatic shift in power? The upcoming race in Brazil promises to reveal vital insights into this gripping championship battle.
Plank Checks: Still a Controversial Theme
The disqualifications of Hamilton and Leclerc following the United States Grand Prix continue to dominate discussions ahead of the Brazilian race. This incident raised concerns about the inconsistency in inspections, particularly regarding the planks—essential components sitting beneath the car’s floor.
While only two cars are typically inspected after a race, the failures prompted questions as to why team affiliates, such as George Russell and Carlos Sainz Jr., were not subject to subsequent checks. FIA Technical Director Tim Goss clarified that the inspection process is time-consuming, making a thorough examination of all 20 cars impractical. While questions remain, the majority of the grid hopes that the gravity of a potential disqualification will drive teams to comply with regulations.
Reflecting on Last Year: Verstappen and Pérez Dynamics
Recalling last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix, tensions surrounding Red Bull teammates Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez took center stage. Verstappen disregarded team orders to let Pérez pass him, reigniting speculations about their relationship. Ultimately, Verstappen’s decision did not impact Pérez’s chances in the championship, as he still lost second place to Charles Leclerc by a single point.
Although Red Bull sought to unite after the incident, a lingering frostiness cast doubts on their harmony. Now, with Pérez vying with Lewis Hamilton for second place in the Drivers’ Championship, the looming question is whether a similar team order will emerge this year.
As the São Paulo Grand Prix approaches, F1 enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of these captivating storylines. The unknown rumor, Ricciardo’s resurgence, the Mercedes-Ferrari rivalry, and the possibilities of team dynamics will all play a crucial role in shaping the coming races. Stay tuned as the mystery deepens and the excitement continues to thrive in the world of Formula 1.
The Business Press 