P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen’s brake failure meant Carlos Sainz and Ferrari effectively ‘ran unopposed’ in the Australian GP – but how much of a threat to Red Bull were they otherwise?
Finger trouble appears to have caused the sticking rear brake caliper on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull, leading to his first mechanical retirement in two years and paving the way for Carlos Sainz and Ferrari to snatch the victory at the Australian Grand Prix. Despite the car’s reliability issue, Sainz showcased a strong performance, skillfully navigating the tire challenges on Albert Park’s smooth surface. The Ferrari’s speed and consistency were evident, reminiscent of their performance in Las Vegas last year. Sainz’s impressive showing, especially considering his recent health challenges, underscored the Ferrari’s superiority in this race. Verstappen’s unfortunate retirement due to the caliper issue shifted the race dynamics, ultimately favoring Ferrari’s strategic tire management over Red Bull’s traditionally strong thermal degradation control.
