Strategy

Kimi Antonelli wins a deserved Belgian Grand Prix as Mercedes prove comfortably the fastest package even running what amounts to a single reference car, while Ferrari ride a Virtual Safety Car and a damaged Hamilton to a strong points day, Hadjar plays a lap-one gamble to perfection, Russell is eliminated by an energy shortfall that hit the whole Mercedes garage, and a chaotic pit lane penalty leaves more questions than answers.

Mercedes looked untouchable on race pace in Montreal, but the wet-to-dry strategy gamble and the Russell-Antonelli fight defined the Canadian Grand Prix. Antonelli delivered his strongest statement yet, Hamilton produced a vintage Ferrari drive, Verstappen salvaged a podium, and Mercedes still looked like the complete package.

Melbourne race reveals Ferrari's strategic blunder with VSC pit window and Mercedes' masterclass in tire management. Russell cruises to victory after Ferrari fails to capitalize, while Hamilton resurges as surprise performer. McLaren's aerodynamic drag crisis costs Norris crucial positions.