Couch Critic provides his betting tips for the German Grand Prix which takes place at Hockenheim on Sunday 28th July
WHAT HAPPENED AT THE LAST RACE?
It was back to business as usual at Silverstone a fortnight ago. After Max Verstappen’s incredible charge to glory in Austria Lewis Hamilton re-established himself as the all-conquering force of the 2019 season. Not that the Brit had it all his own way at his home race – Bottas out qualified the home hero and also seemed to be going rather well until the safety car come to Lewis’ aid. In other news the Charles Leclerc vs Max Verstappen rivalry once again entertained one and all as the young guns had a royal scrap, ending in the Ferrari driver getting the better of things in the end.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN GERMANY
The Hockenheimring has had to compete with its countryman, the Nurburgring, for hosting the Germany F1 Grand Prix – they have mostly alternated over the past decade. Since 2008 we have been to Hockenheim on six occasions and Hamilton has popped the Champagne from the top step in three of those events. Given the dominance of the five-time World Champion over the last decade or so it actually qualifies as a track where Lewis has been less dominant than most.
It is Mercedes’ home Grand Prix. They will also be in serious celebration mode as it is the 200th F1 race start for the Silver Arrows and also the 125th anniversary of the three-pointed star’s introduction to motor sport. Expect all the role-players to be in attendance for the big weekend.
Whilst the fireworks and Champagne might be paid for and raring to go for the Merc their strongest challenge could come from the Red Bulls instead of home driver, Seb Vettel and his Red Ferrari. Many expect Verstappen and the rejuvenated Gasly to replicate their Austrian pace on a somewhat similar track layout.
VERDICT
Valtteri Bottas qualified in second spot and also finished the race in the same position last year. Even in Hamilton’s own backyard the Fin out qualified the reigning champion and was perhaps even a touch unlucky to end up not winning the race on Sunday. The celebrations are ready to kick off in all earnest for the Mercs this weekend, but I give Bottas a good chance of being the one to lead the charge. I’m also looking forward to another strong race-day showing for the Red Bulls who seems to have not only caught up to but passed the Ferraris.
BETOLIMP Bets for the German Grand Prix:
Fastest Qualifier – Valtteri Bottas @ 3.25
BETOLIMP Special Bet: Podium (Top 3) Finish – M Verstappen @ 1.80
