FORMULA 1: HAMILTON WINS AHEAD OF A COMEDY OF ERRORS! PART 2

Verstappen’s sly tactics allowed him to stay ahead of Vettel. Race control indicated that the incident would be addressed after the race. But, the race was in progress. Verstappen remaining ahead of Vettel allowed the fast-charging Ricciardo to dismiss the gap between them (Vettel and Ricciardo) and then launch P3-seeking missiles.

Vettel, still fuming from Verstappen’s insolence, was forced to defend against Ricciardo. Vettel, laden with defiance, moved under braking which inititated contact between the two when Ricciardo went for the gap.

Vettel’s fuel-laced tirade, like the atmosphere, is everywhere now. Can he be blamed? Race control applied Verstappen’s 5 seconds time-penalty after the race. Verstappen wiped embarrassment from his brow and exited the pre-podium room. Vettel, who was some distance away, ran to emerge on the podium and accept his hard fought P3.

Ricciardo had an issue though. Vettel’s move under braking when Ricciardo attacked, earned a 10 seconds time-penalty. Ricciardo was subsequently awarded P3. Vettel was relegated to P5, behind Verstappen – P4.

RICCIARDO

Justice might be  missing here and fair play suggests that the addition is inaccurate. Bear in mind that the events were triggered by Verstappen’s breach, which then allowed Vettel to fall into Ricciardo’s trap. And Vettel, who should have been ahead of Verstappen, if race control acted swiftly, eventually found himself and the Tifosi, behind both Red Bull machines. Incredible!

Two rounds remain. Hamilton delivered, as was expected, but with Rosberg snatching P2, even if summoned, I do not think Churchill will be able to stop the German!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer