The last Hungarian Grand Prix saw the Papayas secure a 1-2 for the first time since Monza in 2021. But unlike the festive vibe of that day, their Hungary triumph was instead marred by a series of unfortunate team orders that rivalled the likes of Red Bull’s infamous Multi 21.
But that’s all in the past, and we now must look ahead to the always exciting Belgian Grand Prix this weekend. SBOTOP Formula 1 fans should prepare for an action-packed race with some interesting storylines ahead.
Let’s discuss these then, shall we?
McLaren need a clear-cut number one
Since they introduced their Miami upgrades, McLaren have arguably been the best car on the grid. However, they’ve only won two races in that period whilst picking up multiple podium spots—usually behind Max Verstappen.
If we’re going to talk about the hypotheticals, they probably should’ve won three or four more races at this point. They clearly have the car to do so. So, what gives?
For the longest time, the Papayas have insisted that they have no clear number one in terms of their drivers. It’s a give-and-take process, and both drivers must help each other for the betterment of the team.
But if they are deadly serious about chasing the Red Bulls ahead, they must be firm and strict as to who should really be given priority.
Looking back, the only times where teams—and their drivers—won the championship despite having tumultuous relationships internally were few and far between.
You have to be someone special to pull it off, too. Just look at the partnerships of Hamilton-Rosberg, Senna-Prost, and Alonso-Hamilton.
But most often than not, championship teams are very clear as to who their priority would be. Michael Schumacher was preferred over Rubens Barrichello, Sebastian Vettel is the clear number one over Mark Webber and Kimi Raikkonen, and Valtteri Bottas was Lewis Hamilton’s rear gunner.
Do you remember the last time Red Bull’s strategy favoured Checo over Max?
Whether the Woking-based team like to admit it or not, they must be prepared to put all their marbles on one driver if they want to secure either a drivers’ or constructors’ title.
Whether it’s Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, they must act now. They have already thrown away plenty of opportunities, and the next races will go by quickly.
Verstappen’s likely penalty
Red Bull haven’t been able to dominate lately as much as they would like. And the fans looking at them to be back at the top step of the podium perhaps might have to wait a little longer.
This comes after the Dutchman’s internal combustion engine failed in Canada, and had to be replaced with an old spec. That means he had already used up all his engine allocations, and if he is to take a new one, then a 10-place grid penalty must be served.
With Spa-Francorchamps being a power track, perhaps the defending champs would opt to take the penalty there. This is good news for Mercedes and Ferrari, who are both looking to close the gap in front.
History
Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps has long favoured cars with high speed in the straights that can also carry themselves through fast and medium-speed corners.
The car that’s fastest in a straight line most often carries the advantage in winning this race, such were the cases in its near past.
Verstappen’s dominant Red Bulls have won on this track since 2021, whilst Mercedes’ monster of a W11 cannot be caught back in 2020.
Ferrari have won back-to-back races here in 2018 and 2019 (back when their straight-line speed was top of the pecking order), although it is highly unlikely for them to be crowned victors in this year’s edition.
What are the odds?
Make no mistake; McLaren will most likely take pole position and win. Of course, there is the troubling idea that Norris will once again make a costly error to deny himself a second Grand Prix victory.
But if the Papaya fans have prayed enough, then I see no reason why McLaren cannot break away from the rest of the field.
Verstappen’s likely penalty absolutely lessens his chances of winning, and barring McLaren shooting themselves in the foot, this should be a straightforward affair.
If you are a Norris fan and you fancy him beating Piastri, then the Belgian Grand Prix 2024 odds have him as a favourite at 1.27. Piastri’s momentum may carry him over to this race, so if you back the underdog to once again nudge his British teammate over, then the Australian is priced at 3.22.
For other odds, George Russell is favoured (1.88) over Lewis Hamilton (1.94), whilst Charles Leclerc (1.77) is poised to edge Carlos Sainz Jr. out (2.05).
Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
●●●
CHECK OUT OUR BLOG FOR MORE FORMULA 1 STORIES & ODDS
Stay updated with everything sports and betting.
Follow us on social Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
