French Grand Prix 2019
There was no shortage of controversy last time out in Canada as a questionable penalty cost Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel his first victory of the season. As a result, Lewis Hamilton extended Mercedes’ perfect run of seven wins in seven races.
The Silver Arrows will now target their eighth win on the bounce as they head to Circuit Paul Ricard for the French Grand Prix.
The race made a triumphant return to the F1 calendar last year after nearly a decade away. Hamilton wasted no time in securing his first-ever win at the track, and the French Grand Prix 2019 odds will once again have him installed as the big favourite to defend his title.
However, he could face some competition from Ferrari as well as a resurgent Red Bull, which is set to get a big boost this weekend.
Talking Points
Red Bulls to receive Honda upgrade
The Red Bulls have been quite competitive for most of the season, with Verstappen, in particular, putting up some promising performances. He would’ve finished second in Monaco had it not been for a time penalty during a pit-stop collision.
And now, the big French Grand Prix 2019 is that they’re set to get Honda’s second in-season upgrade and will receive the upgraded internal combustion engine and turbocharger.
It’s a bold move to have the upgrade so soon after the last, which came four races ago in Baku. But it may just prove beneficial in this upcoming race.
The Red Bulls fared quite well in France last year, with Verstappen finishing second and Daniel Ricciardo fourth. Although, they may not have finished so high if not for the early collision between Vettel and Bottas.
Nevertheless, they could produce similar results with their upgraded engines and give both Ferrari and Mercedes a good fight.
Mercedes still rampant
Lewis Hamilton has had his share of good fortune during his current run of three consecutive wins. He took advantage of Vettel’s aggressiveness to take the lead on the opening turn in Spain, and his two closest challengers in the last two races (Max Verstappen in Monaco, Vettel in Canada) have picked up time penalties.
But it can’t be denied that Hamilton has also helped create his own luck. His magnificent driving with worn-out tyres to win at Monaco was particularly impressive.
Hamilton won pole and led all the way en route to victory in France last year. And based on the form he’s shown thus far, it’s hard to see anyone besides the Brit taking the chequered flag.
His team-mate, Valtteri Bottas, might be the one to provide the stiffest challenge in France. The Finn has not quite at his best over the last couple of races and had his worst finish of the year (fourth) in Canada.
But Bottas was right there with Hamilton in last year’s race as he qualified second. Unfortunately, his race was ruined after Vettel crashed into his car during a chaotic first lap.
Ferrari must maintain momentum
For the first time all season, Ferrari finally looked like a capable challenger to Mercedes in Canada. Both Vettel and Charles Leclerc qualified in the top three, with the German world champion seemingly on course for the win.
But a crucial error from Vettel — which he has been known to do at times — cost him and his team the much-needed victory.
While Ferrari continue to challenge the decision, they must now focus on building off that fine performance in Montreal.
Team principal Mattia Binotto has tried to temper expectations, stating that the Paul Ricard isn’t a track that’s favourable to the Ferrari’s package. But still, the Scuderia must — at the very least –aim to remain within striking distance of the Silver Arrows.
History
There’s not much recent history to speak of with the French GP given that it took a nine-year break from 2009-17.
Prior to that lengthy absence, Ferrari dominated the French GP with eight victories over a 12-year span. The great Michael Schumacher won six of those races and holds the record with eight career victories in France.
What are the odds?
SBOBET odds once again fancy a Mercedes on the top step of the podium. Hamilton is priced at 1.70 with his team-mate Bottas the closest to him at 2.50. The Ferraris of Vettel and Leclerc are further back at 4.50 and 5.00, respectively.
Verstappen is the only other driver who has a remotely realistic chance to win according to the odds. The Dutch driver is priced at 13.00, which, given his form this season coupled with the engine upgrade, seems like a solid shout.
Speaking of value, don’t overlook Verstappen’s Red Bull team-mate, Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman is currently 11.00 to finish in the top three in his home race.
Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
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