Spanish GP Review: VSC or not to VSC
Sep 13, 2026 · 37m
Summary
This episode of Chequered Flag reviews the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madrid circuit, where Kimi Antonelli secured his eighth win of the season despite benefiting from a lucky Virtual Safety Car timing that denied Lando Norris the victory. The hosts discuss Max Verstappen’s resilient second-place finish and the strategic errors that cost George Russell a podium, while also analyzing Oscar Piastri’s continued struggles to adapt to the new regulations. Additionally, the team evaluates the debut of the Madrid track, noting its lack of overtaking opportunities, and highlights strong performa…
Topics discussed
Sponsorship and introduction to the Spanish GP review
Antonelli's mature drive and championship lead
Antonelli interview: race strategy and future goals
Championship outlook and Russell's engine penalty
Verstappen's second place and Red Bull's resilience
Verstappen's brake issues and track position dispute
Verstappen interview: race analysis and Red Bull's pace
Norris's frustration with the Virtual Safety Car
McLaren's performance and Norris's adaptability
Norris interview: bad luck and fair play
Lincoln Navigator sponsorship segment
Analysis of the VSC deployment and Norris's loss
Debate on VSC rules and race rigging
Leclerc's strategy and Ferrari's fourth place
Leclerc's tire strategy and brake issues
Track chaos comparison and Ferrari's hopes
Russell's strategy error and pit stop decision
Russell's disappointment and team strategy debate
Top 5 finishers: Lawson and Colapinto's race
Piastri's adaptation to new regulations
Colapinto's progress and Alpine's points haul
Lindblad's crash and team dynamics
Circuit design and driving impressions
Driver of the day and closing remarks
Sign-off and EFL promotion
Midas tire sponsorship
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