Our triple header came to an end this weekend in Barcelona. Highlights included Antonelli and Albon DNF (unfortunately), a very late safety car that ended with just six laps left in the race, Verstappen and Russell colliding with one-another, Verstappen being the only driver on hard tires, and Hulkenburg getting P5 for the race, therefore becoming his best race finish since 2015. 

Antonelli’s DNF was unfortunately due to a loss of oil pressure. This directly preceded his other DNF in Imola, due to issues with the car’s throttle. It seems like he’s been pretty unlucky during this triple header, with a DNF in Imola and P18 in Monaco. To this he says “Overall, it has been a difficult triple header for us. Now though we have some time to reset. I am really looking forward to heading to Montreal for my first Canadian Grand Prix. It is a different track and a different tarmac to here in Barcelona.” 

Albon’s DNF was due to front wing damage and a collision with Lawson. Initially, Albon had to replace his front wing but after that he understeered into Lawson with a desire to gain positions, and his front wing was damaged again. Unfortunately he was forced to retire in lap 29. In general Williams had a very tough race in Spain. Sainz started P18 and finished P14 and did not make it into the points. 

There was also a very late safety car, resulting in only 6 laps left of the race. Those six laps became the most entertaining laps of the race. Verstappen and Russell collided with one-another, and there is some resentment being built up amongst the two of them.
Verstappen faced a 10-second penalty for the collision, resulting in him getting P10. Verstappen was also the only driver on hard tires after pitting during the safety car. It was the only set of tires available to him due to RedBull’s three-stop strategy. However, other drivers who pit during the safety-car, such as Leclerc for example, got newer soft compounds and gave them a better advantage. 

Lastly we do need to recognize the exceptional job done by Hulkenburg today. It was his first time in the points since 2019. Him battling it off with Hamilton was definitely not on my bingo card for the Spanish GP. Overall I’d say the race was interesting, especially the ending, after the safety car. Looking forward to seeing how Canada goes!