"Can England Bring it Home? A Silverstone Preview & Early Analysis"

George Russell secured his first Grand Prix win of the season. It was a well-deserved win that has been in the making for a long time. If we think back to Canada, most people would have thought it was his to win.

The Austrian GP was looking like another win for Max Verstappen, especially after his sprint victory. The season has taught us a few ways to get the best of Max: the track needs to be difficult to overtake on, of course, you have to win the qualifying for that to matter, and of course, you need Max to have car trouble. The biggest flaw of the Red Bull team, however, is that there is no team; there are no two Red Bull drivers to attack and maneuver around. Max without Sergio is a sitting duck, but with the right strategy and tenacity, Max can be caught and rattled.

Do you think we are exaggerating Russell's win? I believe not. I consider that the timing of this triumph was ideal and provides not only Russell but also Lewis and Lando with significant motivation and encouragement to reach the podium this Sunday.

McLaren has been enjoying a wonderful season so far, and both drivers have a great mastery of their vehicle. Norris was unfortunate in Austria, but he has been very competitive. Norris and Piastri have great chances of finishing very well and pushing Verstappen to the limit once again.

The Mercedes team has its flaws. There is an unusual dynamic between George and Hamilton. It is clear that Russell would not hesitate to prioritize victory over Hamilton, while Hamilton is focused on fulfilling his contract before his transition to Ferrari. Nevertheless, the competitive spirit of both drivers has been evident in recent races, and the desire to win on their home turf will serve as a strong motivation for them.

All this being said and done, Verstappen can easily dominate qualifying and do the same on race day, but he has a great pack of drivers chasing him, and he is the lone wolf at the top. Verstappen did achieve victory last time out but was closely followed by Norris and Lewis. Let's see what this Sunday brings.

My unrealistic podium predictions are Norris (1st), Russell (2nd), Piastri (3rd).

My realistic podium predictions are Verstappen (1st), Norris (2nd), Russell (3rd).