SUZUKA, JAPAN – APRIL 07: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrate on the podium during the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka International Circuit on April 07, 2024 in Suzuka, Japan. (Photo by Peter Fox/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202404070317 // For editorial use only //
The fourth round of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 World Championship in Suzuka will be remembered as another race dominated by Red Bull. Max Verstappen finished ahead of Perez Perez, clinching the victory with a 20.8-second lead over Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz. This Sunday marked Red Bull Racing’s 31st one-two finish in Formula 1.
In his post-race column on Red Bull’s Speedweek, Marko summarized the weekend: “Max was highly motivated, but not entirely satisfied with the car setup during practice sessions. The qualifying lap was also less than ideal, but it was enough to secure pole position. It was only in the race that we found our rhythm again. This is partly due to the changes made after qualifying and the higher temperatures on race day, which traditionally favor Red Bull.”
Following the race in Japan, Red Bull now leads the 2024 F1 Constructors’ Championship by 21 points over Ferrari. Verstappen, driving the #1 blue car, is on course for his fourth Formula 1 World Championship title. Despite a retirement in Australia, he leads his teammate Perez by 13 points.
Last year in Suzuka, in September, Verstappen won the Grand Prix with a 19.4-second lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris in second place. This raises the question among F1 fans and experts: Are Red Bull’s rivals closer to challenging them this season compared to last year?
Marko addresses this issue inadvertently: “The reason for our suboptimal setup was probably a major update we introduced in Japan. The second practice session on Friday was largely canceled due to mixed track conditions. It was too wet for slick tires and too dry for intermediates. These things can happen. The weather forecast predicted good conditions for Friday, but rain for Saturday.
“In reality, it was the opposite. Adjusting the front wing proved crucial for Max, especially with higher temperatures on Sunday. Max wanted more wing, while his race engineer GP Lambiase preferred less. Since the race was canceled, we were lucky to make the necessary adjustments.
In a way, you could say Ricciardo helped Verstappen because everything went well for Max after the restart. By the way, the poor start of the Red Bull cars is due to the hard tires,” Marko added.
As for Ricciardo, he was overtaken by Tsunoda in qualifying, making it 0-4 in favor of his younger teammate. Unfortunately, Ricciardo’s 243rd Grand Prix ended in a crash just one kilometer from the starting line.
The incident occurred at Turn 3, but Ricciardo’s fall – who had a fairly decent start – was evident apprehension as the pack moved towards Turn 1 and he was overtaken by slower drivers (Yuki) and those behind him.
“Ricciardo was overly cautious in the initial turn and was overtaken from both the left and right. Then there was this racing incident, which is easily conceivable at the start,” Marko evaluated.
Marko also praised the other two drivers, starting with Tsunoda: “During the second start, Yuki did surprisingly well. His overtaking maneuvers were the highlight of the day. The local fans were absolutely ecstatic. Throughout the weekend, he performed at the same level as Max, Alonso, and the rest. Impeccable, a remarkable performance under the pressure of his home race.”
Marko also made positive comments about Perez: “Checo was also exceptionally consistent. He had a bit of bad luck during the pit stop, but regained his position with a brilliant move against Hamilton at turn R160. This is his most impressive season with us so far.”
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Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo made an incredible play during yesterday’s match against Barcelona. The player scored three goals and helped his team secure a 4-2 victory. With this impressive performance, Ronaldo once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the best players in the world.
The match started with Barcelona opening the scoring early in the game. However, Ronaldo wasted no time in responding and equalized the game with a powerful shot from outside the box. From there, he didn’t stop. With his speed and skill, Ronaldo dribbled past several Barcelona players and scored two more goals, securing the victory for his team.
After the match, Ronaldo was praised by fans and soccer experts. His brilliant performance was considered one of the best of his career. The player showed his determination and talent, making it clear why he is one of the most feared players by opponents.
With this victory, Ronaldo’s team is closer to winning the championship title. The team has shown exceptional performance throughout the season and is confident in their chances of lifting the trophy.
Football fans are eager to see more incredible plays from Cristiano Ronaldo. The player continues to amaze everyone with his talent and dedication to the sport. Surely, he will leave his mark on the history of football.
