The sexual harassment investigation involving Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and the shocking decision by 7-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari had already sent shockwaves through the minds of Formula 1 fans in preparation for the season. It wouldn’t be entirely accurate to say that the start of the season was followed immediately by thunderous applause. Because Bahrain’s weekend emerged somewhat in the shadow of this hype, revealing the Verstappen reality of the past two seasons like a cold splash of water on the faces. While the Red Bulls took the top two spots, the shining star of the weekend, Carlos Sainz, claimed the final step on the podium.
To tell the truth, the surprising results of practice sessions and the positive perception created by the first race led viewers to believe they were in for an enjoyable race. However, it seems likely that this season will continue under the dominance of Max Verstappen. The Dutch driver continued from where he left off last season, starting from pole position and cruising to victory just like before. Moreover, he wasn’t even challenged when he pitted, securing his fifty-fifth career win comfortably with an impressive 22-second gap to his nearest rival. Perhaps the only thing intriguing about the reigning champion’s season is the possible Mercedes signature for the vacant seat left by Hamilton. Rumor has it that Jos Verstappen, the father of the three-time World Champion Dutchman, is not pleased with the management of Christian Horner and is keen on his son working with Mercedes and Toto Wolff.
On the other hand, considering that their contracts will expire at the end of the season, it’s fair to say that it was an important weekend to observe the motivation of the two drivers, Perez and Sainz, who will be left without a seat. Sainz’s name has already been mentioned as a possible replacement for Perez at Red Bull. He is also seen as one of the strongest candidates for the Audi-Sauber partnership scheduled for 2026. Taking into account that the battle at the top will likely be uncontested, it’s important not to overlook Perez and Sainz as the strongest contenders for second place. Especially Sainz, who will not shy away from the intra-team competition, will aim to beat the unlucky but 4th-placed Leclerc in Bahrain and prove to his prospective employers why he deserves a spot on the grid.
Other teams returning with points from Bahrain are the three Mercedes-powered teams: Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin, and it wouldn’t be wrong to say that their fate remains uncertain.
In summary, although the Bahrain weekend may not have fully met expectations and although we know Verstappen’s domination will continue, Formula 1, which we’ve missed and waited for so long, has returned with the battles for seats, intrigues, and rivalries.
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