Despite Lando Norris’ anticipation of being overshadowed by the Ferraris on race day despite out-qualifying them, the unexpected unfolded as he secured a podium finish, splitting the Red Bulls.
Charles Leclerc led the Ferrari charge in fourth, with Carlos Sainz trailing closely, both advancing two positions from their starting grid.
Leclerc seemed poised for his third podium of the year after surpassing Sergio Perez during a safety car intervention, only to be outpaced by Perez in the end.
The shift saw Red Bull extend their lead in the constructors’ championship by 44 points, while Ferrari, matching McLaren’s point tally with Oscar Piastri in eighth, maintained a comfortable 55-point gap.
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Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized the importance of perspective post-race, noting their substantial lead of 99 points over Mercedes, Red Bull’s closest contenders from the previous season.
In preparation for the upcoming race in Miami, Ferrari announced a modified livery incorporating blue elements, commemorating their 70-year presence in North America.
Despite this deviation, Ferrari’s iconic scarlet red remains central to their identity, a fact highlighted by Chandhok’s incredulous response.
Further significant developments emerged from Ferrari as they secured a title sponsorship deal with Hewlett-Packard, a move echoing Red Bull’s partnership with Oracle.
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This deal, reportedly of considerable value, coincides with Ferrari’s anticipated new driver lineup featuring Lewis Hamilton alongside Leclerc, marking one of the most significant transfers in F1 history.
With Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, Mercedes faces potential commercial challenges, as sponsors closely associated with Hamilton may reconsider their allegiance.
On the track, Ferrari aims to capitalize on this high-profile addition, aspiring to clinch their first championship since 2008, ending what has been an enduring drought for a team of their caliber.