As the laps went on, the teams decided to play the tire strategy game. Mercedes struggled through this phase as well, allowing Sainz take his Ferrari ahead of the silver arrows. But the battle we absolutely enjoyed was the one between Alonso and Perez. The two put on a masterclass, and the to-and-fro between the experienced drivers was an absolute blockbuster. In the end, it was Alonso, who masterfully deployed his Energy Recovery System, to keep his position, but only just.
As the final lap approached, Perez sensed a final opportunity to make a pass on Alonso and book a spot on the podium. He pushed all the way and Alonso had nothing but his ERS to assist him. As the two headed for the finish line, it was Alonso who made it past before Perez, and the gap between them? 0.053 seconds!!!
