Alpine in a sticky situation, more paddock investigations and Max joining Mercedes?
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Hey there, Pole Sitter! 👋
Not much has been going on, except for:
👉 Jos Verstappen hinting that he’d rather see Christian Horner swept out the door with a broomstick.
👉 Ford is doing the hokey-pokey with the Red Bull deal.
👉 Will Max Verstappen join Mercedes? Silly season now happens during the entire season.
👉 The FIA president is currently under investigation, cause he didn’t want to go to Las Vegas.
👉 Alpine’s stuck in the mud, wheels spinning but going nowhere fast.
So buckle up, because we’re about to dive into all things F1 and bring you the scoop you won’t want to miss.
In today’s email:
- Pit Stop Talks – Latest car launches, paddock news & insights
- In-depth education – F1 vs IndyCar – Differences Explained
- Fast Lane News – Stay ahead in F1 with your quick racing roundup
- Saudi Arabia GP
- Meme Of The Day
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Pit Stop Talks
Pit Stop Talks🏎️ Saudi Arabia GP Practice
🔝 Max Verstappen dominates the first practice session
🌬️The Jeddah Corniche circuit saw challenging conditions with a high track temperature of 42°C and windy weather.
🏎️💨 Lewis Hamilton initially set the pace at 1:32.5, but Lando Norris emerged fastest with a 1:31.8.
🏁👏 George Russell impressively led the session on hard and medium compound Pirelli tires ahead of Verstappen and Charles Leclerc.
😦 Verstappen expressed concerns about F1’s car ride heights, a topic Russell also highlighted.
🏎️💨 Switching to soft tires, Norris briefly took the lead with a 1:30.4, later edged out by Verstappen’s 1:30-flat.
👍 Russell then narrowly surpassed Verstappen by 0.003s, earning praise from his team principal, Toto Wolff.
🟢 Alonso led the pack, followed by Mercedes’ George Russell and Verstappen in FP2
🔝 Red Bull maintained its dominance with a comfortable lead over other teams.
🏎️ Bahrain GP Race Review
The excitement of another Formula 1 season is upon us, but it already seems like déjà vu, with Verstappen getting points in 42 races in a row.
RACE PACE – #BahrainGP
VER was 0.41s/lap quicker than his teammate, on average!
SAI: same pace as PER
The McL/Mercedes battle was TIGHT: just 0.08s/lap between the 4 drivers!Laptime change vs 2023 (s/lap):
Ferr -2.26
Merc -1.90
McL -1.89 (and fewer pits)
RB -1.86
Aston -1.24 pic.twitter.com/hqhMcdflb5— Formula Data Analysis (@FDataAnalysis) March 2, 2024
Red Bull Racing: Leading the Pack
Red Bull has predictably started with the strongest car, widening the gap to their competitors compared to last year’s end.
With a significant margin over the competition, Max Verstappen seems virtually unbeatable. With a clean race, he secured a confident 1-2 finish alongside Perez.
Ferrari’s Performance
Ferrari’s performance is uncertain; however, Sainz showcased his typical consistency and skill, securing a podium.
Leclerc faced familiar bad luck, slipping from a promising grid position during the race.
Mercedes’ Challenges and Potential
Mercedes’ performance may be better than it appeared, with George Russell showing promising signs against Lewis Hamilton.
Cooling issues plagued Mercedes-powered cars, but Lewis Hamilton remains a strong contender for the season.
McLaren’s Position
McLaren seems slightly behind Ferrari and Mercedes, with Lando Norris maintaining an edge over Piastri, although Piastri’s race management has improved.
Tire Performance
- Medium compound saw little to no use due to low degradation compared to hard compound
- Softest compound preferred by all drivers for race start due to high initial grip
- Lance Stroll completed longest stint on hard tires, Charles Leclerc set fastest time on hard compound
- Max Verstappen recorded fastest lap on soft compound during final stint
- Majority of drivers opted for two-stop strategy, with exceptions like Nico Hulkenberg, who effectively did a two-stop due to early pit
- Most drivers stopped between laps 9 and 15 for first tire change and between laps 27 and 37 for second
- Fernando Alonso delayed last tire change possibly hoping for a safety car
- Two drivers, Logan Sargeant and Pierre Gasly, used a three-stop strategy, starting on softs and then switching to hard before final stint on soft again
🏎️ New F1 Car Designs at Bahrain GP
The rush between Formula 1’s pre-season test and the Bahrain Grand Prix meant minimal updates for the first race. However, that allowed us to delve deeper into the cars’ hidden aspects.
🔵 Red Bull’s Evolutions
- Front End Tweaks: Red Bull’s RB20 showcases meaningful changes from its predecessor. The nosecone now sits further forward, and the front wing’s flap adjuster has shifted positions for aerodynamic advantages.
- Chassis Alterations: Red Bull continues to carve out space on the chassis, notably with a deeper V-shaped profile. Packaging changes include relocating lower mounting pins for the nose and modifying the brake reservoir’s shape.
- Cooling Layout: Unlike Mercedes’ zeropod concept, Red Bull’s design focuses on managing turbulence around the front wheel assembly. The RB20 boasts a triple-threat cooling layout, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.
⚫ Mercedes’ Innovations:
- Front Wing Redesign: Mercedes introduces a slender upper flap on the front wing, aiming to manipulate airflow trajectories. A modular design allows for setup versatility during the season.
- Cockpit Position: Mercedes revamped the cockpit position to address driver feedback for better perceptual behavior.
🔴 Ferrari’s Updates:
- Sidepod Transformation: Ferrari’s SF-24 features a downwash ramp-style sidepod solution, allowing for a more generous undercut and improved bodywork management.
- Suspension Changes: Ferrari adjusts the chassis length while maintaining pull-rod rear suspension to optimize the layout’s mechanical and aerodynamic performance.
🔵 Williams’ Unique Approach:
- Diveplane Design: Williams adopts a unique diveplane shape for the front wing endplate, diverging from conventional designs. The aim remains to enhance airflow and promote outwash.
🚨 Fresh Allegations Against FIA President
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem faces new accusations following claims from a whistleblower. The BBC reports that Ben Sulayem allegedly advised officials against certifying the Las Vegas street circuit for its inaugural race last season.
Between The Lines
- A whistleblower claims that Ben Sulayem instructed officials not to pass the circuit as safe for racing.
- This same whistleblower previously accused Ben Sulayem of influencing officials to overturn a penalty for Fernando Alonso in Saudi Arabia.
- According to the whistleblower, they were told by their manager, on behalf of Ben Sulayem, to find issues with the track to prevent it from being certified.
- However, other officials present at the time had a different take on the events.
- It’s unclear why Ben Sulayem would want the Las Vegas track to be refused certification, especially since it was a big deal for F1 and had significant investment from commercial rights holders Liberty Media.
Responding to these allegations, an FIA spokesperson stated that the approval process for the Las Vegas circuit adhered to FIA protocols.
From a sporting and safety perspective, the Las Vegas circuit approval followed FIA protocol in terms of inspection and certification.If you recall, there was a delay in the track being made available for inspection due to ongoing local organiser construction works.
FIA Spokesperson
Despite initial setbacks, such as a drain cover issue on the first day of running, the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix received positive feedback for its on-track action.
According to the whistleblower’s report, the intention behind finding fault with the track was to withhold its license. The report further suggests that issues were meant to be identified artificially, regardless of their existence, to withhold the license.
While the report mentions three other officials involved, their identities have not been disclosed publicly.
These allegations add to a series of controversies in Formula 1 this year, including claims against Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, dismissed after an investigation by Red Bull GmbH. – Read more
💭 Verstappen Contemplates Future Amid Tension
Max Verstappen has responded to his father Jos’s critical comments about Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner and the potential for internal conflict. While he values his father’s opinion, Verstappen remains focused on his performance and the team’s success. Despite his current contract with Red Bull, he doesn’t dismiss a possible future shift to Mercedes, acknowledging that circumstances can change.
Between the lines
- Max Verstappen cautiously addresses his father’s critical remarks about Christian Horner, emphasizing team unity over internal disputes.
- Verstappen maintains a diplomatic stance, prioritizing his performance and expressing hope for a strong season with Red Bull.
- Despite his long-term contract with Red Bull, Verstappen keeps the door open for a potential move, citing the unpredictability of life and career paths.
- Communication and resolution within the team are key for Verstappen, who values a harmonious working environment over conflict.
Go deeper
Max Verstappen, the reigning triple world champion, has found himself in a delicate position following his father’s explosive comments about Red Bull’s leadership. Jos Verstappen’s call for Christian Horner’s removal has stirred the pot, but Max prefers to stir clear of the controversy, focusing instead on the upcoming races. He understands the value of a cohesive team and seems to trust in Red Bull’s robust structure to withstand any internal pressures.
Despite his father’s absence at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Max believes that any issues can be ironed out, highlighting the importance of open dialogue and mutual respect within the team. It’s clear that for Verstappen, maintaining a “quiet environment” is paramount for success, even if it means navigating through disagreements and debates that are part and parcel of any high-stakes relationship. – Read more
🏠 New Home for Saudi GP
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is getting a brand new home! The Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) revealed some exciting details about the future F1 track in Qiddiya.
Currently, the race zooms around the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, but starting in 2027, it’ll shift gears to the new Speed Park in Qiddiya which will provide “one of the most unique race experiences in the world.” This isn’t just any track—it’s part of Saudi Vision 2030, a major initiative to boost the country’s profile.
Track Highlights:
- Designed by Hermann Tilke and former F1 driver Alex Wurz
- Lap includes 21 corners with an elevation difference of 108 meters
- Three DRS zones planned for added excitement
- The first corner, dubbed the ‘Blade’, will feature LED lighting for dramatic effect
- The track aims to combine the best features of both permanent and street circuits
- Offers multiple configurations for diverse racing experiences.
Abdullah Aldawood, the managing director of QIC, is pumped about it.
The Speed Park Track will be a true embodiment of Qiddiya’s power of play philosophy and position Qiddiya City as the home of Saudi motorsport and one of the world’s leading motorsport venues.
📋 Alpine’s key engineer joins Fernando Alonso
Bob Bell, the seasoned F1 veteran, has made a strategic move from Alpine to Aston Martin, taking on the role of executive director. His departure adds to Alpine’s recent upheaval, signaling a significant shift in the technical leadership landscape of Formula 1.
What we’re watching:
- Bob Bell, former Mercedes technical director and Alpine advisor, joins Aston Martin as executive director.
- Bell reunites with Fernando Alonso, contributing to Aston Martin’s senior leadership and technical strategy.
- Aston Martin aims to leverage Bell’s extensive experience to optimize performance and engineering functions.
- Alpine faces a reshuffle as Bell’s exit follows the resignation of key technical staff, moving towards a new technical leadership structure.
Go deeper:
Bob Bell’s storied career in Formula 1 has taken a new turn with his recent appointment at Aston Martin. His move is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a reunion with Fernando Alonso, whom he supported during championship victories in 2005 and 2006. Bell’s role at Aston Martin isn’t just a title; it’s a commitment to propel the team to new heights, drawing on his wealth of knowledge and racing spirit. – Read more
F1 vs IndyCar – Differences Explained
F1 vs IndyCar – Differences ExplainedFormula One (F1) and the IndyCar Series are two of the most prestigious forms of single-seater racing. Both showcase the peak of car racing technology and driver skill, yet they are governed by different philosophies and regulations.
F1, the global pinnacle of motorsport, is known for its advanced engineering, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and a format that emphasizes precision and technological prowess. Cars in F1 are optimized for road courses, with races held on a mix of street circuits and purpose-built tracks worldwide.
IndyCar, predominantly popular in the United States, combines versatility with a different kind of excitement. With a focus on close wheel-to-wheel racing, IndyCar runs on a variety of tracks, including ovals, street courses, and road courses. While the top speeds of IndyCars can be higher, particularly on oval superspeedways, F1 cars generally achieve faster lap times around road course circuits.
Costs in each series also differ significantly, with F1 team budgets dwarfing those in the IndyCar series. A universal chassis provider in IndyCar helps contain costs and emphasizes driver skill, whereas F1 teams each develop their own chassis, leading to a wider performance spread among cars.
Key Takeaways
- F1 is characterized by advanced technology and a focus on road circuits.
- IndyCar emphasizes close racing across a range of track types, including ovals.
- Financial investments and car performance differ notably between the two series.
Fast Lane News
Fast Lane News📱 Former Force India, Aston Martin, and Alpine team principal Otmar Szafnauer traded in pit stops for app development with his latest creation—a travel app. – Read more
🇹🇷 Looks like Formula 1 might be gearing up for a blast from the past with talks of bringing back the Turkish Grand Prix. – Read more
😲 Former Formula 1 driver’s stolen Ferrari F512M miraculously located after three decades. – Read more
👩⚕️ Former Formula 1 driver Heikki Kovalainen is going in for open-heart surgery soon. – Read more
🔥 Daniel Ricciardo is catching some heat from fans for what he said about the ongoing situation at Red Bull. – Read more
👀 Mercedes eyes Verstappen amid Red Bull rift. – Read more
🚀 Red Bull just announced a massive contract extension deal! They’re locking in a partnership worth over $200 million. – Read more
🚫 Red Bull Racing has suspended the employee who started the investigation into Christian Horner. – Read more
🏁 Audi is ready to finalize its takeover of the Sauber Formula 1 operation, showing its dedication to joining the sport in 2026 despite recent management shifts and some uncertainty at the board level. – Read more
🏎️ Hamilton believes that Formula 1 has reached a “pivotal moment” following off-track controversies. – Read more
The Saudi Arabia GP
The Saudi Arabia GP
Track Characteristics
- Length and Layout: Jeddah’s street circuit is 6.174 kilometers long, making it the second longest on the calendar, with 27 corners
- Speed: Drivers will navigate the track at high speeds, averaging 250 km/h per lap, second only to Monza
- Tire Wear: Due to high lateral forces in medium to high-speed corners, tires endure significant wear and tear.
Tire Strategy
- Compound Choices: Pirelli has opted for mid-range compounds: C2 as Hard, C3 as Medium, and C4 as Soft.
- Race Strategy: Unlike Bahrain, a one-stop race strategy is feasible, with drivers potentially switching between Medium and Hard compounds depending on grid positions.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Street Circuit Risks: With limited run-off areas, the risk of accidents is high, possibly leading to Safety Car interventions or race stoppages.
- Overtaking: Opportunities for overtaking are scarce, with turn 1 providing the best chance.
Qualifying and Track Evolution
- Track Evolution: Track conditions will evolve rapidly like other street circuits, making timing crucial in qualifying.
- Preparation Laps: Drivers may opt for multiple preparation laps to optimize tire temperature, potentially causing traffic issues.
🏎️ F1 Academy and Support Races
Formula 2 and F1 Academy
- Support Races: Alongside Formula 2, the F1 Academy kicks off its seven-round season, featuring young drivers.
- Pirelli Support: Pirelli serves as the Official Tyre Supplier for the F1 Academy, fostering young talent in motorsports.
Tire Specifications
- Tire Design: F1 Academy cars use 13-inch Pirelli P Zero DM tires designed for consistent performance over longer distances.
- Allocation: Each driver receives 14 dry tires and 8 rain tires per race weekend.
MEME OF THE DAY
MEME OF THE DAY
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