It's only the 2nd race of the season. Bleak forecast? Or sunshine ahead? - Forumla 1

Well, two races down, and two easy wins for Verstappen and the boys at Red Bull. But what's that red hue on the horizon? Could it be a challenge from Ferrari?

Ok, I admit, the Scuderia in Red, along with the rest of the pack are still at an arm and legs length back, but......and it's a big BUT, the race in Jeddah showed glimmers of hope. Leclerc was looking good and strong throughout, and in the early stages kept Verstappen in sight.....for a bit.

Here's the thing though, the Ferrari is still fast. Very fast. What they need to get an advantage on Red Bull is simple. A P1 and P2 in qualifying, and all the sudden it's a bit of a different ballgame. Even more so than last season. When Verstappen gets to start the race with open air in front of him, it's just to easy to distance himself from those behind. Put those quick Ferraris on the front row, and Verstappen has a bit of work cut out for him, especially this season.

Now Sainz unfortunately going down for the weekend with an appendicitis, for sure effected their shot at a better team finish for the weekend. The truly bright spot though, and the talk of the paddock and media was 18 year old Oliver Bearman. He absolutely seized the opportunity that presented itself, and drove to an absolutely impressive 7th place finish. Probably the best 'reserve driver getting put in the seat last minute' drive we have seen in many seasons. The kid was stellar in his race, in his approach to and his demeanor after. I truly hope he gets a crack at an F1 seat in the future. What his performance also showed is that car is fast, and capable of quite a bit moving forward.

I know we are only two races into the season, but the road ahead looks positive for reducing the gap ahead to the Red Bulls. As upgrades come out, we will see if they help or hinder, but I myself am keeping up hope on Ferrari, Mclaren, and even Aston Martin who were quite good in Jeddah, to get within heel nipping distance. I'm also hoping Mercedes can get their car figured out and quick. If they don't show well next weekend in Australia, it's going to be a long grueling season for sure.

Maybe we will get lucky and the turmoil at Red Bull with Horny Horner will explode enough to distract Verstappen for a race or two....but I kinda doubt it.

Ugh, oh well. Off to Australia! G'day mate!