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via Imago

via Imago

Just when the world thought Lando Norris would win his second Grand Prix, the Dutch Anthem enveloped Barcelona. Through multiple highs and lows the race week in Spain, ended on a positive note. Meanwhile, George Russell shocked everyone by moving from P4 to P1 at the start, dethroning Norris. Although he couldn’t retain his position, the incident caused some stir among the viewers. Russell skillfully used the slipstream to swoop around the outside of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, a risky move indeed!

The race weekend turned out to be one of the most interesting ones as Lewis Hamilton secured his first podium of the season. And both the Ferraris went head-on against each other, marking an overall thriller for the weekend. Following these incidents, former Ferrari boss and F1 pundit Peter Windsor shared his thoughts. He not only analyzed the entire but also recalled a horrific crash from the past, and applauded George Russell for showing sensibility in the race.

George Russell and Max Verstappen’s portrayal of sensible driving at the Spanish Grand Prix

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On his YouTube channel, Peter Windsor gave a detailed analysis of the Spanish Grand Prix. While talking about, Russell’s beautiful use of slipstream, Windsor told where Norris lost his place in the race. He stated that Norris was in a state of shock on seeing Russell on his left. And with Max on his right, “he just backed out of it and there went the race,” Windsor remarked. According to the F1 pundit, after Russell’s bold move, Norris gave way to Verstappen, and that is when the Dutch took over.

“Within one or two laps it was very clear that Max was going to be all over George and indeed he was,” stated Windsor. He then continued to talk about how Verstappen pulled a pass on Russell even without a DRS. ” George Russell is not an easy guy to overtake at any stage of any Grand Prix,” pointed out the expert. “Superb judgment by both drivers,” he applauded. Recounting a similar incident from 3 years ago, Windsor continued: “A little bit like Silverstone 2021 with Max and Lewis, until of course they went off at Copse Corner.”  The initial moments of the race in Barcelona had turned slightly risky. And it was only their sharp instincts that prevented any major accident.

Comparing the two events, Windsor tried to draw a comparison between Russell and Hamilton. In a way, he meant that Hamilton must learn from Russell in this aspect. In both incidents, a notable similarity is observed. That is utilizing slipstream to get to the top. In the present case, George Russell and Max Verstappen’s smart driving saved them from collision while in the other, there was indeed a collision and a massive one.

Remembering Silverstone 2021: Verstappen’s 51g crash

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The Max Verstappen vs. Lewis Hamilton clash at the 2021 Silverstone Grand Prix was a dramatic and controversial moment in F1’s history. The two title contenders went head-to-head against each other. But unfortunately, Hamilton’s collision on the opening lap at Copse Corner with the Dutch in the first sent him barging into the wall. Verstappen had a 51g crash! And as per experts, he was lucky to still be alive. However, Hamilton received a 10-second penalty but went on to win the race.

The incident intensified the rivalry between the two drivers and had significant implications for the championship battle. 2021 was the same year when Verstappen dethroned Lewis Hamilton to win his first-ever World Championship title.

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The Spanish Grand Prix 2024 was a rollercoaster of emotions and strategy. While Norris couldn’t hold his lead, Max Verstappen seized the moment to claim victory. Meanwhile, George Russell shocked everyone by leaping from P4 to P1 right at the start. At the same time, F1 pundit Peter Windsor praised Russell and Verstappen for their smart driving. Windsor compared the race to the dramatic 2021 Silverstone Grand Prix.

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This time, though, sensible driving prevailed, preventing any major incidents, pointing out that George Russell’s performance would teach Hamilton a lesson. What are your thoughts on Peter Windsor’s opinions? Let us know in the comments.