I didn't support calls for Bottas to be replaced after the summer break, but I'm wondering if I was wrong. IMV Bottas showed a complete lack of racecraft here, and let the Merc team down badly. How the hell can you start from pole, and end up last facing the wrong way before you've even got round turn 1.
From the on car footage it's obvious he braked at least 10m before Hamilton, and 20m before Verstappen. Ultimatley braking early caused Ricciado to clip him and spin him round. Whilst I accept that was Ricciado was to blame, it doesn't happen unless you put yourself in a position for it to happen. The racecraft way when you are level with cars either side of you is to keep in a straight line, keep your foot in and brake as late as you dare into turn 1. Don't panic and brake early. The only 'rule' is don't hit your team mate - the stewards will accept you running wide in turn 1 to avoid a collision.
And then at the end of the race it took him 2 sets of softs to set fastest lap.
As it played out, I don't think there was any way for Hamilton to win this one. If Max hadn't got past at the start, he'd have had enough pace for the undercut to work at the first pit stop. I don't think an on track overtake would have been required. The only way for Hamilton to win would have been fortunate safety car timing during the pit stop windows.
Can't see how Hamilton can win the WDC now without a DNF for Max. 19 points ahead, 4 races to go and Red Bull hot favorites in Brazil. Hamilton needs to win all 4, and hope Max finishes lower than 2nd in one of those races. The WCC may also be gone for Merc unless Bottas can buck his act up and beat Perez in the remaining races.
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Topic: US Grand Prix (possible spoiler)... (Read 2811 times)