The team from Milton Keynes has triumphed in all eight grand prix up to this point, with Verstappen securing six of these victories. Despite Hill’s acknowledgment of Mercedes’ recent advancements, he anticipates that the substantial performance gap will make it difficult for Red Bull’s competitors to close in without exceeding this year’s cost cap.
“Mercedes seem to be on an upward trajectory, but it’s uncertain where this development surge will plateau,” Hill commented during his Halow Project charity event at Daytona’s Sandown Raceway, where he participated in the world’s first kart race powered by Zero synthetic fuel.
“In this year’s F1, the real thrill lies in the possibility of a team clinching every single race for the first time. To narrow the gap sufficiently to exert pressure on Red Bull, teams would need to redirect resources that could be used for the upcoming year.
“Many teams have already started contemplating the future, intending to persist with upgrades. However, it might be wiser to allocate these resources to the following year’s vehicle – leaving it uncertain whether Red Bull will be surpassed between now and year-end.
“The ideal scenario would see them slowly fading while others surge ahead, ensuring some action on the track. But it would be counterproductive if it jeopardizes their competitiveness in 2024.”
Damon Hill, Sky TV, in conversation with Naomi Schiff, Sky TV, interviewing Christian Horner, Team Principal, Red Bull Racing
Photo credit: Carl Bingham / F1 Flow Images
As for F1’s immediate future and the forthcoming race in Austria – a track where Verstappen has claimed victory in three of the last five races – Hill is of the opinion that the Dutchman is currently racing at an unprecedented level.
A win in Austria would enable the reigning F1 world champion to overtake Ayrton Senna’s record of 41 race wins. Commenting on this potential milestone, Hill stated: “It’s remarkable. He’s phenomenal. His talent is immense and his capabilities are downright intimidating.”
Hill was at Sandown to participate in a historic trial, where he became the first individual to pilot a kart powered by 100% synthetic fuel, derived solely from air, water, and renewable energy.
The innovative fuel, compatible with any standard petrol engine, is manufactured by Zero, a fuel company founded by former F1 team technical head, Paddy Lowe.
Also Read:
- The complexities behind F1’s overtaking issue and why resolving it won’t be straightforward
- “I still get nervous”: Maylander on his 24-year tenure in F1’s safety car
- The correspondence revealing the extent of Williams’ lag in F1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Verstappen’s Dominance in F1
What does Hill predict for F1 teams trying to overtake Verstappen?
Hill predicts that F1 teams will face significant challenges trying to surpass Verstappen due to the performance gap, and believes teams may struggle to close the gap without exceeding the cost cap.
Who won all the grand prix so far?
The team from Milton Keynes has triumphed in all eight grand prix up to this point, with Verstappen securing six of these victories.
What is Hill’s view about the performance of Mercedes?
Hill acknowledges that Mercedes have made advancements but he is uncertain about where this upward trajectory will plateau.
What is the groundbreaking test Hill participated in at Sandown Raceway?
Hill participated in the world’s first kart race powered by Zero synthetic fuel, becoming the first person to drive a kart powered by this fully synthetic fuel.
What record could Verstappen break if he wins the next race in Austria?
If Verstappen wins the forthcoming race in Austria, he would surpass Ayrton Senna’s record of 41 race wins.
Who produces the synthetic fuel used in the test run at Sandown?
The synthetic fuel used in the test run at Sandown is manufactured by Zero, a fuel company founded by former F1 team technical head, Paddy Lowe.
More about Verstappen’s Dominance in F1
- The Halow Project
- F1 Flow Images
- Max Verstappen’s F1 Career
- The Ayrton Senna’s F1 Record
- Zero Fuel Company
- Paddy Lowe’s Career
