Tensions Between Ferrari and Red Bull Racing Rise

After the first five races of the season, things are beginning to heat up in the Formula 1 world. The season had a very exciting start for Ferrari fans, as drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc scored a 1-2, immediately setting the bar for the season. However, Red Bull Racing has steadily begun to catch up, closing the gap between the two teams to just six points after this past Sunday. The Miami Grand Prix was the first of its kind, adding yet another new circuit to the rotation for the Formula 1 season. Both Ferrari drivers had the advantage, starting first and second on the grid after qualifying, followed by Max Verstappen. However, one small mistake by Sainz at the beginning of the race caused an overtake from the Red Bull driver, which led to a nail-biting battle for first between him and Leclerc. Finally, on lap 9 of 57, Verstappen makes a clean overtake on Leclerc, launching him to the lead. He held this position for the majority of the race, continuously setting the fastest lap time. Things took a turn on lap 41, as McLaren driver Lando Norris crashed with AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly. This calls for a safety car as the track marshals clean the debris. This sounds like a good thing, right? It’s a great way to keep the drivers safe. Indeed it is, but it also means that the seven second gap Verstappen had on Leclerc has now closed to just below a second. As the safety car takes its leave five laps later, Leclerc steadily closes in on Verstappen, making the remaining laps of the race intense. With the help of DRS on the circuit’s straights, Leclerc comes within inches of overtaking Verstappen. However the dutchman is able to hold him off until the checkered flag, resulting in his victory. “It was a very difficult race physically.” says Charles, “I hope now we can do a step up from the next race onwards…”
The podium consisted of Verstappen in first, followed by the two Ferrari’s in second and third. Sadly, Red Bull’s second driver Sergio Perez was not able to overtake Carlos Sainz for P3. However, Red Bull and Ferrari fans alike are anxious to see the battle continue on May 20-22 in Spain. Will Red Bull’s upward trend continue, or will Ferrari beat them to the checkered flag? We’ll have to wait and see.

Miami Grand Prix (May 6-8)
Qualifying:
1st- Leclerc (Ferrari)
2nd- Sainz (Ferrari)
3rd- Verstappen (Red Bull)

Race Result:
1st- Verstappen (Red Bull)
2nd- Leclerc (Ferrari)
3rd- Sainz (Ferrari)