Formula One F1 - Turkish Grand Prix - Istanbul Park, Istanbul, Turkey - Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton is congratulated by Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel after winning the race and the world championship REUTERS/Clive Mason
It was a race to relish for the F1 viewers after a superbly entertaining 2020 F1 Turkish Grand Prix. With no grip and poor weather setting the narrative for the race, drivers were finding it incredibly hard to get going.
So who then benefitted the most from these conditions, and who lost it all when the stakes and prizes were there for the taking? We take a look at the big winners and losers from the race.
LEWIS HAMILTON – Admittedly, the biggest winner from the Turkish GP was the winner of the race himself–seventh time champion, Lewis Hamilton. The Briton trusted his race instincts and assessed the tire strategy before going all the way to claim the race victory. And in the process, secured another championship as well.
SERGIO PEREZ – Racing Point’s Sergio Perez who started P3 drove exceptionally well. Managing his tires all the way back from his Lap 11’s only pit stop, the Mexican put up a performance to admire. It is still a surprise to all those watching, how Perez does not have a seat for the 2021 season yet.
FERRARI – Having endured a horrible season so far with Ferrari, it was a podium to savor for Sebastian Vettel. Fighting from P11, ‘Seb’ made sure he gave it his all and capitalized on every mistake the frontrunners committed. Even teammate Charles Leclerc battled well until the end. But for a mistake at the final few corners, which resulted in a P4 for him.
VALTTERI BOTTAS – On a day, he should have outscored teammate Hamilton to keep the title race alive, Valtteri Bottas failed immensely in his mission. After suffering a terrible start, more errors saw him struggle with the conditions. And ultimately he finished the race in a miserable P13.
MAX VERSTAPPEN – Red Bull looked sharp for most of the weekend, but it just was not Max Verstappen’s day in Istanbul. He had searing pace capable of competing with Stroll and Perez. But, it cost him the momentum and eventually, a place on the podium.
LANCE STROLL – Finally, having attained pole position for the first time in his career, Lance Stroll just faded away as the race went on and finished P9. Undoubtedly, this would come across as a massive disappointment for him.