FORMULA 1 : VETTEL DRAWS FIRST BLOOD IN AUSTRALIA!

I wonder if Vettel and the Scarlet Gang at Scuderia Ferrari were informed about the question I asked at the end of the previous blog. Apparently, the team decided to answer my rather insolent question without the use of an Oxford dictionary (words). Instead they chose the route a determined, fearless warrior would choose every time – action!

During preseason testing there was some degree of evidence that the Scarlet Gang was on to something. The machine was rather rapid and they tried to sweep the evidence under the asphalt and played it cool. We all know that during testing the ace in the deck is not revealed so there was still some amount of doubt regarding the actual package that would show up on race day.

Qualifying attempted to resurrect the status quo – Hamilton on pole. But, Vettel inserted the prancing horse at P2 which must have raised a few eyebrows at Mercedes GP.

HAMILTON

Hamilton held his nerve, his machine responded appropriately and he was able to maintain the lead into corner 1 with Vettel in tow.  It was quickly apparent though that Vettel’s pace was real. A pace which offered no comfort for Hamilton. And if that was not enough the Ferrari was treating its tyres with massage therapy while the Mercedes was hurling its tyres into the incinerator!

In racing, especially at this level, tyre management is a critical component of victory coordination. And in Australia, Scuderia Ferrari was playing their A-game. Hamilton sought relief and dived to the pit-box first. Vettel remained in cruise control-mode and when he eventually went for the tyre-swap he eased into the lead ahead of a frustrated Hamilton who was trapped behind an unsympathetic Verstappen.

VETTEL

The lead earned and collected, Vettel’s afterburners were engaged and he romped home to a well-deserved victory – Hamilton – P2 and a charging Bottas – P3. Personally I am elated that Mercedes’ dominance was dealt a win-snapping blow. How will they respond? The next round should be more than interesting.We all know that Hamilton hates being upstaged.

Did you see the images of 2016 World Champion, Nico Rosberg watching the race. How did he react when Vettel snatched P1 after the pit-stop? Someone send me that pic please!

The Australian GP was a refreshing event for F1 aficionados and we are hoping that this stunning start by Ferrari is a sign of more to come from the Scarlet Gang. So, Vettel has shown that the machine can win. The pass, however, was made via a pit-stop. Will we see the Mercedes being passed on track in 2017?

The Chinese GP is next!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer