The Hungarian Grand Prix 2024 will go down in history not just for Oscar Piastri’s first Formula 1 victory but for the rollercoaster of drama that unfolded both on and off the track. Here’s the lowdown on what transpired during this nail-biting race.
Piastri’s Maiden Victory and McLaren’s Team Orders
Oscar Piastri, the young sensation from McLaren, clinched his first-ever Formula 1 victory, marking a historic moment as the first winner born in the 21st century. However, this triumph didn’t come without its fair share of controversies. The race saw team orders from McLaren instructing Lando Norris to let Oscar Piastri pass. Initially, Norris had led the race after a strategic pit stop sequence during the second round of stops, but team orders came into play as McLaren directed Norris to return the lead to Piastri. Norris, who appeared reluctant to comply immediately, eventually ceded the position on Lap 68 of 70, allowing Piastri to secure his maiden victory
McLaren’s Strategic Masterstroke
McLaren’s strategic calls were under the microscope throughout the race. The timing of the pit stops and the decision to let Piastri pass Norris were pivotal in securing the win. Piastri’s early pit stop, followed by Norris’s, saw a reshuffling of positions that initially favoured Norris.
However, team orders soon came into play, with McLaren instructing Norris to let Piastri through, a move that sparked debate and tension within the team but ultimately led to Piastri’s victory
Hamilton vs. Verstappen: A Battle for the Ages
Adding to the excitement was the intense battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. Hamilton secured a podium finish after a “hair-raising” duel with Verstappen. The Red Bull driver, despite his aggressive start, found himself struggling to keep up with the pace set by McLaren. This race highlighted a rare moment where Verstappen’s Red Bull seemed outmatched, leading to a visibly frustrated Verstappen who finished fifth.
Red Bull’s Struggles and Verstappen’s Frustration
Red Bull had a race to forget, with Verstappen finishing fifth and Sergio Perez in seventh. Verstappen was vocal about his dissatisfaction with the car’s performance, admitting that McLaren had overtaken them in terms of competitiveness. This race underscored a challenging period for Red Bull, who have dominated in recent years but now face fierce competition from McLaren.
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Amidst all the drama and strategic brilliance at the Hungarian GP, fans are eagerly looking forward to the next race on the calendar, the Belgian Grand Prix. With the championship battle heating up and rivalries intensifying, the upcoming race promises to deliver even more high-octane drama and thrilling moments. Stay tuned, and maybe place a bet or two with Easybet to be part of the action!
