The Emperor, the Young Bull and the Orange Tribe

The Emperor, the Young Bull and the Orange Tribe: A Reflection on the 2021 Formula 1 Season

Netherlands, 2.8.2021

As the American football coach Bill Courtney noted:

“The measure of a man’s character is not determined by how he handles his wins, but how he handles his failures.”

In our current era, where civility, decorum, respect, and tolerance are overshadowed by nationalism, tribalism, and cult-like fervour, these sentiments have infiltrated the world of sports, including Formula 1 (F1) racing.

Formula 1, once known for its sociable and respectful supporters, has now been tainted by a similar tribalism that has long plagued soccer. The halfway mark of the 2021 season was nothing short of delightful, showcasing the much-anticipated generational battle between the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and the young, charismatic Max Verstappen, who is widely regarded as a future world champion.

Verstappen represents a new generation of talented F1 drivers such as George Russell, Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, and Esteban Ocon. However, their success largely depends on the competitiveness of their cars. Verstappen has been fulfilling his promise, winning five consecutive races and generating immense enthusiasm, as evidenced by the fervent support of the “orange tribe” during the Austrian Grand Prix.

The young bull is poised to challenge the emperor, yet Hamilton shows no signs of abdicating his throne. After years of Mercedes dominance, this “battle royal” is precisely what F1 needed. Hamilton, who has matched Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world championships, faces a formidable contender in Verstappen.

Predicting the outcome of this thrilling competition is difficult, but we hope the contest remains fair, hard-fought, and exciting until the final race. Both Hamilton and Verstappen are exceptional drivers, aggressive and uncompromising, pushing their cars to the absolute limit.

Their rivalry has led to several on-track incidents, such as the collision at Silverstone and the chaotic start at the Hungaroring, caused by Valtteri Bottas. These incidents, while unfortunate, are not surprising given the razor-thin margins and have arguably benefited Hamilton, potentially marking a turning point in the championship.

Since Silverstone, emotions and frustrations have escalated into a war of words, exacerbated by figures like Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, whose reactions have only fuelled the fire. Toto Wolff’s regrets after the Hungaroring incident were dismissed, and Marko’s insinuations about Mercedes’ accidents have only intensified the aggression in an already polarized atmosphere. This is regrettable for a sport where the F1 brand and public image are paramount.

Max Verstappen’s tense response to a journalist’s questions during the pre-race press conference in Hungary highlighted the underlying tensions. These are the pressures Hamilton has learned to navigate over the years, handling them with greater composure.

Perhaps the summer break could provide a moment for reflection, cooling tempers and reducing the heated rhetoric. However, F1 has always been a sport of passionate battles, intense rivalries, and dramatic incidents. Some rivalries have been acrimonious, while others have been marked by mutual respect.

The rivalry between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost stands out, but we’ve also seen fierce contests like Hamilton vs. Nico Rosberg, Hamilton vs. Fernando Alonso, Senna vs. Nigel Mansell, Mansell vs. Nelson Piquet, Mika Häkkinen vs. Michael Schumacher, Schumacher vs. Damon Hill, and more.

What is disheartening is the increasing tribalism among Verstappen’s supporters, manifesting in aggression towards Hamilton. The whistling, yelling, insults, and racism are deplorable and detract from the sport. Such behaviour belongs in soccer stadiums, not at the race track.

As the second half of the season approached, the excitement was palpable, especially with upcoming races in Belgium and the Netherlands, where the orange brigade would be out in force. With Mercedes in the lead, the pressure was on Red Bull to respond at Spa and Monza.

Regardless of who wins the crown this season, whether Hamilton or Verstappen, this “battle royal” is shaping up to be one of the great rivalries, a generational clash that will continue for years to come.

Update 1: December 6, 2021

The picture of this “battle royal” has become much clearer after Hamilton’s third consecutive victory in Saudi Arabia. With both championship contenders tied at 369.5 points, the final race in Abu Dhabi promises to be thrilling.

While Verstappen is undoubtedly a brilliant and aggressive driver, his sportsmanship has been called into question due to several controversial incidents. For neutral viewers, rules and sporting codes are paramount, and Verstappen’s driving has at times crossed the line, earning him penalties. Red Bull and Verstappen must review their approach to ensure the safety of all drivers.

As Abu Dhabi hosts the season finale, there is much anticipation. Let’s hope the season ends in the spirit of good sportsmanship, with clean driving and no further incidents.

Update 2: December 16, 2021

The 2021 F1 season has concluded, the book has been written. Congratulations to Max Verstappen and the Red Bull team on their well-deserved victory. However, even through an admiring lens, the season’s end leaves a sour taste, with accusations of manipulation and favouritism lingering.

The arguments between supporters of both sides will persist, deepening the unhealthy polarization. The FIA’s handling of the finale has brought the sport into disrepute, suggesting that commercial interests may have overshadowed fairness and sportsmanship. This season will be remembered not only for its remarkable competition but also for the controversy that tarnished its conclusion.

WJJH – 2.8.2021 / 16.12.2021

Musings: The 2021 Formula 1 season was marked by the intense rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and the young Max Verstappen. The competition, tainted by tribalism, showcased Verstappen’s rise and Hamilton’s resilience. The season saw on-track incidents, escalating tensions, and polarizing reactions from team figures. The culmination in Abu Dhabi sparked controversy, overshadowing Verstappen’s victory. The season will be remembered for its thrilling competition and the controversy that marred its end.