A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
As Formula 1 heads into the summer break following the 14th round of the championship, the Hungarian Grand Prix, one-lap pace remains a clear indicator of who will be fighting up front.
Here’s how teams stack up on average starting grid positions, combining both drivers’ performances to reveal the true strength of each outfit.
McLaren – Oscar Piastri (2.14), Lando Norris (3.29) - Team average: 2.7
Ferrari – Charles Leclerc (5.14), Lewis Hamilton (8.0) - Team average: 6.6
Mercedes – George Russell (4.43), Kimi Antonelli (9.21) - Team average: 6.8
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Red Bull – Max Verstappen (3.5), Yuki Tsunoda (12.36) - Team average: 7.9
McLaren ahead, whilst number 2's sink the number 1's efforts
McLaren’s exceptional 2.7 average grid slot places them miles ahead of the competition on Saturdays, highlighting the pace and consistency that has characterised their dominant season.
This level of qualifying superiority has played a rather significant role in their commanding position in the Constructors’ Championship, allowing the team to control race strategy from the front.
Even on circuits where weather conditions level the playing field, McLaren’s ability to lock out the front row or to qualify in the top 3 at least has kept the pressure firmly on their rivals.
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By contrast, teams like Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes have been held back by one weaker qualifier in the pairing, inflating their team average despite flashes of brilliance.
The Scuderia's numbers also underline how their Saturday form is still well away from tipping them to capitalise on any given Sunday.
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