Formula 1 heads to Budapest next for the Hungarian Grand Prix for the first of a double header before the summer break. Max Verstappen is now on his largest win streak with six victories in a row since the Miami Grand Prix. But other teams are starting to close on Red Bull's advantage. With plenty to talk about, here is what to expect at the Hungarian GP.
Red Bull bring updates
As they look to maintain their dominance, Red Bull will bring updates to the RB19 to Hungary as confirmed by Verstappen. Even though the team currently have over a 200-point lead in the Constructors' Championship, it clear teams have started to chip away at their advantage. Both Verstappen and Sergio Perez found it tough to exploit the strengths at Monaco earlier this season, while Budapest has similar characteristics. Can Verstappen hold on and take a seventh victory? He spun on the way to victory last year, so you would think he was the favourite 12 months on with an even more dominant car.
Aston Martin could legitimately challenge for the win?
Aston Martin Team Principal, Mike Krack, has been coy about drawing to too many conclusions over whether the team can challenge for a victory . The higher downforce setup needed at the Hungaroring suits the AMR23 more, after they have failed to achieve a podium in the last two races. Fernando Alonso is the most likely candidate if they are in the hunt for a win, but Lance Stroll could provide a shock result if the conditions are changeable in qualifying. Either way, the team has moved on from their initial expectations having sealed six podiums in 10 races. The next step is winning a race and its likely to come sooner rather than later.
What can Ricciardo do in the AlphaTauri?
Fan favourite Daniel Ricciardo gets back behind the wheel at Hungary in place of Nyck de Vries. The Australian has been on the sidelines for the last 10 races at Red Bull, but has returned earlier than expected after de Vries failed to meet expectations. The higher downforce should suit the AlphaTauri AT04 as it suffers mostly from drag at the high speed circuits. But with Ricciardo unsure on how the car will react to his driving style, it is likely to be a tough first few races for the Australian's return.
A return to form for Sergio Perez
Surely the Mexican can't make it six Q1 exits in a row? Sergio Perez is desperately in need for a solid qualifying performance if he wants to get his title challenge back on track before the summer break. While Hungary is not a tough circuit, it can still throw up surprises in the form of the weather. It's those changeable conditions that can throw Perez into a spiral, causing his weekend to become more about damage limitation. Ricciardo's return will only add pressure, but the Mexican has the backing of Red Bull until 2025. Now he needs to deliver what they want and maximise their points haul.
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