Why it matters:
McLaren's recent performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix has significantly altered the landscape of F1 pit stop supremacy. Previously dominated by Ferrari, McLaren's double sub-two-second stops not only broke records but also injected new competition into the race for the DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award.
The details:
- Ferrari's Prior Dominance: For much of the 2025 season, Ferrari held a commanding lead in pit stop speed, setting the four fastest times of the year before the Hungarian GP.
- McLaren's Breakthrough: At the Hungaroring, McLaren delivered two remarkable 1.94-second pit stops for both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Norris's stop was marginally quicker, making it the fastest of the season to date.
- Red Bull's Strong Showing: Red Bull also showcased impressive speed, executing a 1.97-second stop for Yuki Tsunoda, securing the third-fastest time of the year.
- Ferrari's Current Standing: While Ferrari impressively holds six of the season's top 10 fastest pit stops (from fourth to eighth and tenth), they have yet to achieve a sub-two-second stop and do not feature in the top three.
What's next:
Despite McLaren and Red Bull's recent achievements, Ferrari remains well-positioned to claim the coveted DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award, which rewards consistency in speed across the season. However, with 10 races remaining on the calendar, there's still ample opportunity for shifts in this crucial competitive battle.