United States – Race Outlook
A late return to action for Valtteri Bottas, on pole for the United States Grand Prix, will it delay the deadline for his teammate Lewis Hamilton? 292 thousandths of a second separate the five contenders for victory at the end of the qualifications. The race promises to be tight.
What about Charles Leclerc’s engine?
Charles Leclerc had to change his engine for the qualifiers. Ferrari installed an old power unit in his car to avoid a grid penalty on Sunday. Nevertheless, will it be competitive enough over time to join the battle for victory? The question of reliability also needs to be considered.
The title for Hamilton?
Hamilton wanted to be crowned with a victory. He gave it his all in Mexico last week to achieve that. By finishing third in this race, Valtteri Bottas deprived Lewis Hamilton of his title in Mexico. The Finn secured pole position this Saturday in Austin, but even if he turns that into a victory, his teammate must finish no further than 8th to be crowned. The outcome of the 2019 Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship is therefore very near.
A fierce battle to be the 5th strongest contender.
With the USA Grand Prix, there are three races left in the 2019 championship. If the top four teams seem set, the battle for fifth place is not over. Renault, Toro Rosso, and Racing Point will need to give their best until the end. Currently, nine points separate Renault (5th) from Racing Point (tied for 6th). On paper, Renault has the advantage on this American track, but everything still needs to be confirmed in the race.
Two different strategies?
The top five managed to qualify on medium tires and the gaps were very small. The rest of the drivers were on soft tires. Staggered strategies? Or completely different strategies for the leading teams? If the yellow-striped tires prove to be durable, the end of the race will be fast with potential winners on soft tires.
