VMB1952 expert Motor Racing Tips

Piastri wins the Sprint Fastest Qualifier. He's got the championship lead, McLaren's setup edge, and the calm precision to nail Q3 when it counts. He has shown exceptional control in Sprint Shootouts, often outperforming Norris when grip is low and margins are tight.

McLaren has already locked up the Constructors' title, so all strategic focus is on helping Piastri secure the Driver's crown. Piastri won the Qatar Sprint in 2023 and has consistently excelled in short format races where tire management and clean starts matter most.

Piastri is leading the championship, thrives under pressure, and McLaren's setup is dialed in for short format pace. With Norris and Verstappen likely to coast up front, Oscar's consistency and clean race craft make him the smartest podium bet on the grid.

Carlos Sainz is a solid pick for a Sprint points finish at COTA. He's coming off a P2 in last year's Grand Prix, and Ferrari's straight-line speed gives him a real edge in the early laps. He's consistent, clean off the line, and knows how to hold position under pressure, perfect traits for locking in a top 8 result.

Sainz has a decent chance of making the fastest lap in the Sprint. Ferrari's straight-line speed gives him the edge through COTA's back stretch. If he's running P5-P8 with clean air, he's got the timing and tire to drop a flyer. He's done it before when the leaders were too busy defending. This could be another one of those moments.

Sainz is a quiet threat for the top six in the sprint. He's got the racecraft. Ferrari's pace suits the track. Their car tends to perform well in medium-speed corners and straight-line sections, perfect for COTA's layout. If he avoids early chaos, he'll be right in the mix.

Leclerc stunned the grid with a surprise pole last year, and Ferrari's low fuel setup still bites when the balance is right. If the wind settles and track rubbers in, Charles has the one lap magic to seal it.