Formula One fans were given a real treat on Sunday 28 July, 2019, when Hockenheim treated us to one of the best races we have seen in years. While this F1 season may have started off a little dry (excuse the pun), there’s no denying that the wet German race really did deliver. Here’s why.
Qualifying
First up, we had some tears and tantrums before the race even started. Ferrari had proven they were the team to watch during the practice sessions, but it all fell apart during qualifying. Engine issues meant that Vettel didn’t make it past Q1 and Leclerc was out before Q3 started. This left Leclerc starting in tenth and Vettel right at the back of the pack.
A Wet Race
Hockenheim started off a bit slow, with several formation laps behind the safety car due to bad weather. However, when it got started it really, really got started. We watched as people slid off the track like, as Hulkenberg called it, “a bar of soap.” We saw a total of seven DNFs, including Perez, Ricciardo, Norris, Gasly, and Hulkenberg who was on for a podium. Leclerc and Bottas also shocked the crowd when they ended up in the wall.
An Interesting Podium
After all of that, we ended up with a very interesting podium indeed. Verstappen finished first, Vettel made his way from the back of the pack to finish second, and Kvyat in the Toro Rosso took the third podium spot. What is even more fascinating is that all three drivers in the podium started their careers with Toro Rosso. Oh, and we finally saw a podium without Hamilton.
This was easily one of the best races we have seen in F1 for years, and we’re hoping that this is enough to keep Hockenheim on the race calendar for a bit longer.