I think Ricci also prefer Verstappen over Ham . He could be more aggressive at todays sprint race but he took it easy and this caused Gasly's position. Realistically he will aim 3d. because there will be pit stops and they can not hold Verstappen or ham at back. So aiming 3d by finishing ahead of Norris is very good result for Ricci. But I suspect that McLaren prefer Norris over Ricci and will do their strategy for a Norris podium not for RicciGillian wrote: ↑11 Sep 2021, 19:48Yeah start will be crucial for sure, but I think both McLarens will start on mediums like Verstappen and they will be just that bit slower on high fuel...
What I said in the race thread about it:
So will be very interesting tomorrow!Not sure if the McLarens are starting on soft tomorrow and if not that will weaken their start in comparison to today. Also on heavy fuel I think the gap between the McLaren and Red Bull is a little bigger. So if Verstappen has a good start like today I don't really see Riciardo trying anything.
Also the points made about Verstappen and Hamilton having a lot to loose and the McLaren boys not... I think Riciardo will find it more valuable to keep Norris behind and bag a podium than to risk it all on a divebomb into turn 1. I am not seeing that happen unless Verstappen has an abysmal start (but then be would just cruise by).