One of the most difficult things to overcome, in most sports, is momentum. It affects either competitors or teams. Not only does it infuse an incredible amount of confidence and self-belief but it can also, conversely, create a seed of doubt in the opposition. And if the tiniest bit of doubt begins to creep into the psyche it can have a snowball effect if it isn’t managed properly.
In the context of the 2021 Formula 1 world championship it is evident that the momentum currently rests with Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes. With brilliant strategy and superb driving Sir Hamilton has won three of the first four races and holds a solid fourteen point lead over Max Verstappen. Mercilessly, Mercedes’s push both 2021 titles will continue and more than likely increase in intensity. The monumental job of wresting away the precious momentum is fully on the shoulders of Red Bull.
The good news is that Red Bull are a team that has championship winning mentality and they have easily one of the best drivers on the grid in the shape of Verstappen. However, the longer it takes for Red Bull to strike back the more difficult usurping Mercedes will become. Without exception every race and every point in a championship campaign is vital. The next race only becomes more important, or vital, if you’re behind the eight ball. Thus the upcoming race, which happens to be the Monaco grand prix, is rather important for Verstappen in the grand scheme of the championship.
As has been known for several years, if not several decades, the city streets of Monte Carlo is not conducive to overtaking. Though there may be the odd chance of an overtake success in this race relies almost entirely on qualifying. There exists the slightest possibility that strategy could enter the equation but only on rare occasions.
The Mercedes and the Red Bull have been closely matched in 2021. There isn’t must to suggest that it will be any different in Monaco. If anything, Red Bull’s most apparent advantage this season has been in qualifying. It’s is an advantage, if still prevalent, that will stand them in good stead in Monaco. But Red Bull also needs Checo Perez to step up to the occasion. The Mexican’s race pace can hardly be questioned but too often his lackluster quali form has left him out of the equation in Red Bull’s fight with Mercedes. An improved quali performance wouldn’t only imbue Perez with confidence but having to fight against two Red Bull’s will also force Mercedes and Hamilton into a position that haven’t been in before.
There will be those that say that the Monaco grand prix is a must win race for Verstappen and his championship aspirations. The reality is that if you are the one trailing then every race is a must win. What’s more, for Verstappen every race is a must win regardless of his position in the standings and that relentless quality and unyielding hunger for victory is sure to stand him in good stead against what is the biggest test of his racing career.
