Pirelli blowouts were again in the spotlight after a slew of tyre failures tarnished the Qatar Grand Prix for some drivers, including Valtteri Bottas who lost out on a podium when he suffered a puncture. The failure may well cost Mercedes the 2021 Formula 1 constructors' title so fine are the margins in this contest with now only two rounds remaining – Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi. Bottas, started from fifth on the grid despite qualifying third, however ignoring yellow flags in Q3 earned him a three-place penalty. During the race, the Finn dropped to 11th on the opening lap and was dawdling along, helpless and lacking ambition with the best car in the field, until lap eight when team...
Full Story »