Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary with an electrifying title race featuring Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The season kicks off with 24 races, showcasing strong competition from teams like McLaren, Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari. This year introduces six rookies and notable rule changes, including the removal of points for the fastest lap. The Melbourne race begins at 3 PM local time, with various viewing options available for fans.
Exciting Title Battle Ahead in Formula 1’s 75th Anniversary
This year marks a significant milestone for Formula 1, as the sport celebrates its 75th anniversary. Fans are in for a thrilling treat, with a title race that promises to be more exhilarating than it has been in years. Lewis Hamilton is on the hunt for a record-breaking title, while Max Verstappen aims to maintain his impressive winning streak. Let’s delve into the key details ahead of the much-anticipated new season.
Current Landscape and Top Contenders
Following a period of predictable domination first by Hamilton and then by Verstappen, Formula 1 is set to kick off its new season with an exciting lineup of 24 races. Speculation is rife, and the recent three-day test drives have only hinted at the potential outcomes. The real competition will unveil itself this weekend on the other side of the globe.
Among the four leading teams, McLaren, the reigning constructors’ champions, made a strong impression during the pre-season testing in Bahrain. Max Verstappen, the current titleholder from Red Bull, praised the team, stating, “At the moment, there is only one team, and that is orange.” McLaren has also solidified its roster by extending the contract of Oscar Piastri just before the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The 23-year-old Piastri will partner with the vice-world champion, Lando Norris, to form a formidable duo.
For Verstappen, the initial goal will be to avoid losing too many points. His new teammate, Liam Lawson from New Zealand, will need to step up to support the cause. Verstappen expressed caution, saying, “I don’t think we can fight for the win in Melbourne yet. But I hope we can improve in the first few races.” Meanwhile, Mercedes and Ferrari are also in the mix, with Hamilton’s recent transfer to Ferrari adding an intriguing twist. Hamilton’s departure from the Silver Arrows has opened the door for 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who will race alongside George Russell. Ferrari now features a British-Monegasque pairing with Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, setting the stage for internal rivalries to unfold at the Albert Park Circuit and later in Shanghai.
What’s New in the 2023 Season?
This season introduces six rookies who are ready to make their mark in the world of Formula 1. Aside from minor updates to the cars, significant regulatory changes are not expected until the following year, which means teams will largely continue with their current setups for now.
One notable change this year is the removal of the point awarded for the fastest lap during races. As a result, drivers can now earn a maximum of 25 points in a weekend without sprint races, such as in Melbourne. With six scheduled sprint races, that total can increase to 33 points.
The updated penalty system could also have a considerable impact on driver behavior. Individuals who use offensive language or cause “moral damage” to the FIA may face severe repercussions, including hefty fines starting at €40,000 for the first offense, escalating to €120,000 for repeat violations, along with possible race bans.
Nico Hülkenberg, the only full-time German driver this season, will be facing a challenging start in Melbourne. After parting ways with Haas, the 37-year-old will need to gear up for a tough weekend, especially since the Sauber team—soon to be affiliated with Audi—did not perform well during testing.
Race Schedule and Viewing Options
The race in Melbourne is set to begin at 3 PM local time, which translates to 5 AM in Germany due to the ten-hour time difference. The action kicks off on Friday with two practice sessions at 2:30 AM and 6 AM CET, followed by another practice session on Saturday at 2:30 AM. The first qualifying session of the year will take place at 6 AM CET.
Fans eager to catch the Formula 1 races can tune in to Sky’s pay-TV channel, which will broadcast all race weekends. Additionally, RTL will air seven races on free-to-air television as part of a collaboration, although the Australian Grand Prix will not be among them.