P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Verstappen takes F1 title gamble after crash brings out safety car
Max Verstappen and Red Bull made a risky F1 title gamble at the Qatar Grand Prix after a crash brought out a safety car. Following a collision between Nico Hulkenberg and Pierre Gasly that triggered the safety car, Verstappen pitted while McLaren left their drivers out on track, potentially impacting the race outcome. This move could be crucial as the race had been declared a mandatory two-stop event by Pirelli. Verstappen, who trailed Norris in the standings, needed to beat him to stay in championship contention, and Red Bull’s strategic decision might aid him in achieving that. McLaren’s choice to not pit under the safety car was questioned by Norris, and pundits like Martin Brundle suggested it could cost them and benefit Verstappen in the title race.
