Can Ferrari and Hamilton Challenge Either Mercedes Driver This Weekend?

      Manaure Quintero via Getty

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      Lewis Hamilton's first victory with Ferrari marked a monumental event for Hamilton, Ferrari, and the sport of Formula 1. However, as exciting as that moment was, it's now behind us, and the focus shifts to the eighth round of the championship.

      The series is now headed to Austria, where we'll assess whether there’s a vulnerability in Mercedes that could have greater implications for the championship race or if the issues faced in Canada and Spain were simply misfortunes. Similarly, can Ferrari and Hamilton genuinely mount a challenge at the front and contend for wins, or was their triumph two weeks ago merely a fluke?

      Mark Sutton via Getty

      Championship leader Kimi Antonelli is ahead of the seven-time world champion by 41 points, while George Russell trails his former teammate by nine points. A Mercedes driver remains the favorite for this weekend, with Antonelli having the edge in odds, but it would be unwise to dismiss Russell. Moreover, Ferrari hasn’t performed well at the Red Bull track, with its last victory occurring in 2022 with Leclerc driving. Prior to that, their last win was in 2002, mainly due to the track's absence from the F1 calendar.

      In the past two to three races, we’ve witnessed enhanced performance from Red Bull, not just from Max Verstappen. Additionally, the competition for positions three through ten has recently been the most thrilling, with various drivers and teams contending for that final podium spot and crucial championship points. Currently, anyone from McLaren to Alpine could secure third place, along with a mix of Racing Bulls, Haas, and possibly even Audi sneaking into the points.

      Who are you betting on?