Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc threaten to consign Lewis Hamilton to obscurity in new F1 season

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix produced another remarkable tangle between Red Bull and Ferrari, with Mercedes yet to show they can compete this season. Is Lewis Hamilton yesterday’s man? Many were expecting the Mercedes team to come back streamlined, chastened and improved after getting away with their troubles last weekend. Ad/> The collapse of the Red Bull cars at the race’s finale had gifted them a podium place, and showed that with Hamilton’s persistence they could stay in touch while they put together an improved car.

Saudi Arabian Grand PrixVerstappen and Horner 'so pleased' for Perez after 'great job' earns poleYESTERDAY AT 20:13 But if anything, Hamilton’s prospects appear even bleaker than last weekend. A diabolical showing in Saturday’s qualifying meant he ended up starting in 15th place, and he could only scrap to 10th, aided by the struggles of those ahead of him rather than any meaningful improvement in his Mercedes. His teammate George Russell took fifth place, an improvement of a single position.

The team improved upon their lot, but not to any degree that suggests meaningful progress for their next setup. The Melbourne Grand Prix is a fortnight away, and while it is the traditional season-opener, it appears unlikely that Mercedes will be able to kickstart their campaign there. Verstappen wins Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after epic battle with Leclerc Verstappen 'really happy' with Saudi GP win, Leclerc gives 'respect' to champion There was however a breakthrough for Red Bull.