Andrew: That’s understandable, especially in light of the previous season. But this is how sport can be at times. Luckily, it is erratic as well. Its beauty lies in part in that.
Indeed, Red Bull and Max Verstappen appear to be heavy favorites, and everyone thinks their car is the fastest. However, it is now the fastest car. There is a perception within Red Bull that they will hit a developmental plateau this season when advances will be more difficult to come by. Theoretically, they ought to experience that before other teams do.
Thus, there remains a chance that they will be discovered during what is undoubtedly the longest season ever. It remains to be seen if that occurs quickly enough to impact the championship.