China: 2018 Flashback and Winner Prediction
Symbolic or anecdotal milestone, the 1000th Grand Prix will be reached this Sunday at 8:10 a.m. French time. Before that, a quick look back at the previous edition of the Chinese Grand Prix and of course, the editorial team will reveal its predictions for this very special anniversary weekend for Formula 1.
2018 in broad strokes
Vettel on the edge for a 100% Scuderia front row
It was on barely warmed asphalt at 16°C that the qualifications took place last year in Shanghai. Lagging behind at the beginning of the 2018 season, the Mercedes were less competitive with the Ferraris, and the Scuderia Reds were much more comfortable. In Q3, Kimi Räikkönen surprised with the best absolute time at the end of the session, but it was not taking into account an ultimate flying lap from Sebastian Vettel, which allowed the German to secure the pole by 87 thousandths. Over five-tenths behind, Valtteri Bottas was ahead of Lewis Hamilton, the latter feeling the setback, helmeted in his box, after aborting his last attempt.
📽 A mighty effort from Sebastian Vettel sees him pip Kimi Räikkönen to pole #ChineseGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/Y4xZYBir54
— Formula 1 (@F1) April 14, 2018
Ricciardo flamboyant and victorious
Starting from pole, Sebastian Vettel lost a lot in the race. The German initially lost his lead during the pit stops and, largely aided by Max Verstappen, continued his downfall after a collision caused by the Dutchman. On the other hand, Daniel Ricciardo started 6th, miraculously in qualifying after his mechanics barely repaired his car following an engine bay fire in FP3. An unexpected pit stop on lap 31 due to contact between Gasly and Hartley allowed him to put on soft tires and fight his way to victory, overtaking all his opponents on track, including Valtteri Bottas despite a strong defense from the Finn.
Special delivery! Sender marked ‘@danielricciardo‘ 📨#ChineseGP 🇨🇳 #F1 pic.twitter.com/AwefO1QVjQ
— Formula 1 (@F1) April 8, 2019
The Editorial Team’s Prediction
For this third season prediction exercise, the editorial team is mostly betting on three drivers. Unsurprisingly, given the 2018 qualifications and the successful start to this season, the Ferrari drivers have received the most votes for the pole position, with an advantage for Sebastian Vettel over Charles Leclerc.
For the victory, opinions are a bit more divided with some choosing Lewis Hamilton, but once again the Scuderia stays ahead. Charles Leclerc wins the most votes after his performance in the Bahraini desert, ahead of his seniors Vettel and Hamilton tied.
