This has not aged as well since Rus has finished once in 3rd and once in 1st since then. What's interesting to me is that both wins were under similar conditions. The MCLs were creating problems for themselves and Verstappen has no realistic need to attack Russell. I don't know that Rus would have a chance without Ver in 2nd.
Sure, Ver technically has a chance at the WDC, but he doesn't have a realistic chance. This season is about finishing well without taking unnecessary risks as you approach the new regs. The more wind tunnel time the better. Also, I take Ver's complaints about downshifts, and the car in general, with a grain of salt. Those are his go to complaints anytime he's not outright winning. It's like Ham and his classic "the tires are gone, Bono" complaints.
I would argue that Verstappen held back in Canada. He wants another championship and he knows that every point is important right now. Attacking Russel on track for P1 was never a realistic consideration for him. A race ban is far more damaging than walking across the line in 2nd. Also, Russel won't be on the F1 podium again this season.
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