P2 Constructors Battle: Ferrari vs Mercedes

Image: Reuters

The Formula 1 season has been a rollercoaster ride, with Max Verstappen securing his grip on the drivers' championship, leaving a trail of dust behind. However, the excitement doesn't end there. The battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship has been nothing short of intense. Ferrari and Mercedes have been locked in a thrilling duel, and as the season comes to a close, the outcome remains uncertain. 

Abu Dhabi: A Mercedes Unhappy Hunting Ground 

Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina circuit hasn't been the happiest of hunting grounds for the Mercedes F1 team. Between 2014 and 2020, Mercedes dominated the track, but the tides turned in 2021, leading to one of the most memorable races in recent history. The pain inflicted on Toto Wolff during that race still lingers, a stark reminder of the unpredictability of Formula 1. 

In 2022, Mercedes faced further challenges at Yas Marina. Despite strong performances in previous races, including a race win in Brazil, Lewis Hamilton couldn't finish the Abu Dhabi race, and George Russell managed only a fifth-place finish. The race featured a fierce battle between Hamilton and Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, adding to the drama. With Hamilton's retirement due to a hydraulic issue, Ferrari secured their second-place position in the Constructors' Championship, and Sainz clinched fifth place in the drivers' standings. 

The Current Standings 

As the 2022 season draws to a close, it's clear that the drivers' championship is out of Mercedes' reach, with their guaranteed third and eighth-place finishes. However, the battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship remains wide open. Just four points separate third-placed Ferrari from second-placed Mercedes after 21 races. This narrow margin represents a substantial $30 million difference in prize money, adding immense pressure on both teams to secure the coveted position.

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff emphasized the importance of the battle, stating, "It's going to be an exciting battle with Ferrari for P2 in the constructor's championship in Abu Dhabi." The outcome, he suggests, is likely to be determined by who scores the most points in the final race. 

  Advantage Ferrari 

Despite the four-point deficit, Ferrari holds the advantage going into the Abu Dhabi race. Even with a penalty that dropped Carlos Sainz to 12th place at the start of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari made a remarkable comeback, finishing sixth and narrowing the gap to just four points. Their recent form has been consistently strong, with 20.6 points per race compared to Mercedes' 16.4 points in the last five races. If this pattern continues in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari is poised to secure second place. 

Looking further back, over the last nine races, Ferrari's advantage becomes even more apparent. Scoring 21.9 points per race compared to Mercedes' 15.5, Ferrari has displayed superior consistency. Additionally, Ferrari has had two did-not-starts in the last five races, suggesting that with a clean run, they could have already secured second place. 

Ferrari's Optimism 

Ferrari's optimism is palpable as they approach the Abu Dhabi race. Carlos Sainz expressed his eagerness, saying, "I can't wait to race in Abu Dhabi next week." Team Principal Fred Vasseur echoed this sentiment, believing that both drivers are performing exceptionally well and expressing confidence in their ability to catch Mercedes. 

Image: XPB Images

  Mercedes' Determination 

Mercedes, on the other hand, remains determined not to relinquish their position without a fight. Despite the disappointment of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where they failed to capitalize on their improved pace, they are looking to regroup for the season's final showdown. 

As the sand settles in Abu Dhabi, recent form and statistics indicate that Ferrari holds the upper hand in the battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship. While Formula 1 is known for its unpredictability, Mercedes' recent struggles with their new floor have put them at a disadvantage. Nevertheless, the final race promises to be an exhilarating spectacle, with both teams vying for the lucrative second-place spot. Ultimately, it's a battle that will be decided on the track, and fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this epic contest.