GP France 2022

Victory for Max Verstappen as he takes the French Grand Prix and his 7th win of the season!

Tire management was pivotal at Le Castellet as high track temperatures added an additional element of challenge for the teams.

It was a difficult day for Charles Leclerc, who began the race from pole position and carried the lead throughout the first 17 laps. However, his chances were cut short by an oversteer into turn 11 crashing into the tire wall. Leclerc’s heartbreak was expressed through the team’s radio as he screamed in frustration over the loss.

With Charles Leclerc out, it was smooth sailing for Verstappen who effectively managed his tires throughout the remainder of the race and secured his win by a 10-second margin.

A successful weekend for Mercedes landed both drivers on the podium.

For Hamilton, this was his strongest performance of the season, securing P2 at his 300th Grand Prix. His teammate, George Russell, capitalized on a VSC restart brilliantly, over taking Sergio Perez to finish P3.

But it was Carlos Sainz who won Driver of the Day, and deservedly so. Starting the race in 19th with engine penalties, he fought valiantly to finish in P5. In consideration of a 5-second penalty along with the timing of a questionable pit stop request, Sainz’s performance on the track was impressive.

Alpine’s Fernando Alonso held on to his lead over Lando Norris to take P6. While teammate Esteban Ocon finished in P8, splitting both Mclaren drivers with Norris finishing in 7th and Riccairdo in 9th respectively.

With a late lap battle between both Aston Martin drivers for the final point, it was Lance Stroll who came out on top. Finishing in 10th along with Sebastian Vettel in 11th.

In his home race, Pierre Gasly was able to make ground from starting in 14th. Overtaking Alex Albon to finish P12.

Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas took 14th. While his teammate Zhou, was forced to retire after clipping the Haas of Mick Schumacher who finished in P15.

With one race left before the summer break, we head to Hungary in what will no doubt be a thrilling finish to the first half of the season.