Max Verstappen won the 2021 French Grand Prix using an aggressive two-stop strategy that triumphed over Mercedes' conservative one-stop approach. Verstappen utilized a tyre offset to hunt down leader Lewis Hamilton in the final stages of the race. The victory was a tactical masterclass by Red Bull, further extending their lead in both the drivers' and constructors' standings. This analysis explores the key pit stop moments and degradation issues that defined the race.
At 2,240 meters above sea level, Mercedes delivered a masterclass at the 2021 Mexico City Grand Prix qualifying, with Valtteri Bottas securing pole position ahead of Lewis Hamilton, while Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez were left on the second row following a chaotic final Q3 session.
The 2021 Monaco Grand Prix was defined by tyre strategy, specifically the effectiveness of the 'overcut' versus the 'undercut'. While most drivers used a standard Soft-to-Hard one-stop strategy, staying out longer on worn Soft tyres allowed drivers like Sebastian Vettel and Sergio Pérez to gain significant track position over those struggling to heat up fresh Hard tyres. Mercedes faced strategic failures, including an early stop for Lewis Hamilton and a pit stop disaster for Valtteri Bottas.