With seven Grands Prix still on the program Formula 1 is approaching its denouement. Unlike previous years the world championship is still not decided. The difference between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen is two points in favour of the Briton, but in two weeks time the score could be completely different after the GP of Turkey. "However, when we are realistic, Red Bull Racing is slightly better", Jeroen Bleekemolen judged in conversation with GPblog.

The Grands Prix of Italy and Russia seemed an ideal opportunity for Mercedes to increase their lead over the Austrian team. Red Bull also seemed to take into account a larger gap in the championship, but nothing was further from the truth. In the Italian race Hamilton collided with Verstappen and could not continue, but in Russia he only gained two points on the Dutchman.

According to Bleekemolen there is however no panic at Mercedes. "In the end the team is on top in both the world championship and constructors' championship. Moreover Hamilton just won the race in Russia." However, the German formation will realize that looking at the car it still has a backlog. "Red Bull has of course had some bad luck in some races this season, but in general Verstappen's car is slightly better than Hamilton's."

Verstappen has a good chance of winning the world title

Bleekemolen therefore assumes that Verstappen will win his first world title this season. "He is the favourite to win the world championship as far as I'm concerned. It's all very close, but on average Verstappen makes a better impression this season. On the other hand, a bit of bad luck can change everything. Both teams can't afford a mistake, although Hamilton makes more of them than in recent years."

Red Bull went through unfortunate moments when changing tyres in the last two races. "That was very annoying for the team. Because of the new rule they finished changing the tyres too quickly, causing the system to indicate that the driver is not yet allowed to leave. You see that several teams made mistakes with this. Red Bull didn't realise this at Monza and that's why it took so long."

Excitement during GP of Turkey

In two weeks time the race in Turkey is on the program. Although Verstappen has lost his leading position in the world championship, he can regain it with a victory. "I expect a strong Red Bull on track that will once again go full out for the win. It promises to be another great race weekend in Turkey."