Latest F1 News & Insights

Aston Martin’s AMR22 Takes to the Track for Critical Shakedown

After the much-anticipated official unveiling of their 2022 Formula 1 challenger yesterday, Aston Martin is poised to perform an essential shakedown test of their AMR22 today. This immediate on-track activity precedes the first pre-season test scheduled for later this month at the iconic Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, marking a pivotal moment for the Silverstone-based squad. Aston Martin was the third Formula 1 team to present their 2022 car, and notably, they were the first to showcase an actual working model intended for competition, distinguishing their launch from others that relied on conceptual renderings or show cars. This bold approach underscores their commitment to a rigorous and early development process for the radically revised 2022 regulations. The shakedown, often limited to a low number of kilometres, is crucial for initial system checks, ensuring all components function as designed and identifying any immediate issues. It serves as a vital preliminary assessment before more extensive testing begins. With the technical landscape of Formula 1 undergoing its most significant overhaul in decades, every moment on track is invaluable. The team aims to maximize their limited pre-season track time, making this early shakedown a strategic move to gain a competitive edge in what promises to be an intensely challenging season.

Technical director Andrew Green elaborated on the urgency and strategic importance of conducting the shakedown test without delay. He explained that the team’s objective was to get the AMR22 on track as early as possible to thoroughly check all vehicle systems. This proactive approach aims to provide the engineering and design teams with ample time to address any potential problems or unexpected issues that might arise during the initial running. The gap between the shakedown and the first pre-season test in Barcelona, set for two weeks later, is seen as a critical window for adjustments and refinements. Green emphasized, “What we wanted to do was shake down as early as possible to check the systems out on the car and give us some time between shakedown and the Barcelona test.” He further highlighted the rationale: “So that was the reason for shaking down tomorrow, so we have time to react and hopefully have a good shakedown tomorrow and there’s nothing to react to. Because the car is absolutely brand new with no carry-over at all and pre-season testing is really short and the second test is so close to the first race, it’s going to be almost impossible to react to that we thought it’s good to get a shakedown in prior to the first test.” This meticulous planning reflects the immense pressure on teams to adapt to the new regulations swiftly and effectively, with very little room for error given the condensed testing schedule leading up to the opening Grand Prix.

Carlos Sainz Lauds Lewis Hamilton’s Grace After Controversial Abu Dhabi Podium

Carlos Sainz Jnr has expressed a profound increase in his respect for Lewis Hamilton, following the Mercedes driver’s composed and dignified demeanor on the podium after the highly contentious 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The season finale saw Max Verstappen controversially clinch the world championship on the final lap, an outcome that sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community and left Hamilton devastated. Despite the immense emotional toll of losing the title in such circumstances, Hamilton conducted himself with remarkable sportsmanship, a quality that evidently resonated with his fellow competitors.

In an interview with the prominent Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Sainz recounted his personal interaction with Hamilton on the podium. The Spaniard described the palpable distress Hamilton was experiencing, yet noted his impressive self-control in a moment of extreme pressure. Sainz elaborated on the raw emotion and the difficulty of processing such a crushing defeat: “[He was] very bad. And I was surprised at how he avoided making a fuss at the end of the race. Losing the title on the last lap like that is really hard to accept.” This candid assessment from Sainz offers a rare glimpse into the immediate aftermath of one of F1’s most controversial races in recent history. Sainz concluded by stating, “I respect him more than before for how he managed to behave. On the podium we exchanged a few words, he was really having trouble.” This sentiment highlights a shared understanding among drivers of the intense mental and emotional fortitude required to compete at the pinnacle of motorsport, especially when faced with such profound disappointment. Hamilton’s conduct, in the eyes of his peers, solidified his status not just as a champion driver, but as an exemplar of grace under pressure, earning him widespread admiration throughout the paddock.

Lance Stroll Optimistic for Canadian Grand Prix Return

Lance Stroll, the Canadian racing driver for Aston Martin, has voiced his fervent hope that Formula 1 will make its scheduled return to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the Canadian Grand Prix this year. The event, a highlight on the F1 calendar and a cherished home race for Stroll, has been conspicuously absent for the past two seasons, primarily due to the global challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The initial plans for its return last year were unfortunately thwarted, leading to a consecutive cancellation and leaving fans and drivers alike longing for its presence.

Stroll’s personal connection to the Montreal race is undeniable, and his anticipation for its comeback is palpable. He shared his eagerness, stating, “I definitely hope we go back. My fingers are crossed.” His enthusiasm stems not only from the unique thrill of racing on home soil but also from the overall atmosphere that the Canadian Grand Prix brings to the sport. “I missed it the last couple of years. It’s always a very special race for me – great memories. I think we all enjoy going. It’s a great race for Formula 1 and always a very exciting weekend – great energy and the city’s always buzzing. So I’m really hopeful we go back. And yeah, it’s been too long.” The vibrant city of Montreal, known for its passionate F1 fans and festive atmosphere during race weekend, adds a unique flavour to the championship. The return of such an iconic event would not only be a boost for Canadian motorsport enthusiasts but also a significant positive signal for the sport’s global calendar as it navigates the ongoing recovery from the pandemic’s impact. The Canadian Grand Prix is currently slated to light up the calendar on Sunday, June 19th, promising a thrilling return if all goes according to plan, offering a much-needed morale boost for the sport and its worldwide fanbase.

Social Media Highlights from the F1 Paddock

Social media continues to be a vibrant hub for Formula 1 teams, drivers, and fans to share real-time updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and engaging content. Here’s a curated selection of notable posts and interactions from Twitter, Instagram, and more, offering a snapshot of the F1 world as the 2022 season approaches:

Massive 😅 #BringBackSmallerCars

— Marcus Ericsson (@Ericsson_Marcus) February 10, 2022

One week to go until we show you F1-75…

Here are @Charles_Leclerc and @CarlosSainz55 to explain this year’s #F1 rules and regulation changes 🎥

See you on the 17th, #Tifosi 😎#essereFerrari 🔴 pic.twitter.com/5Owp5L78BC

— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) February 10, 2022

We can edit that out 💥😬 pic.twitter.com/oB0ZfCC0DR

— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) February 10, 2022

Great to have the fans back here at the track, makes such a difference! pic.twitter.com/FbuuaR2xM2

— Alexander Sims (@AlexanderSims) February 10, 2022

• Instagram Post: McLaren F1 Team
• Instagram Post: George Russell
• Find more official F1 accounts to follow in the F1 Twitter Directory

Essential Motorsport Links and Insights

Discover a curated selection of intriguing articles and news from across the motorsport world, offering deeper dives into team preparations, driver perspectives, and industry developments. These links provide valuable context and further reading on the topics shaping the current Formula 1 landscape:

Tom McCullough had ‘fun winter’ working on Aston Martin’s 2022 car (Formula 1)

“Aston Martin’s Performance Director Tom McCullough discusses the intense and rewarding winter period spent developing the AMR22 for the 2022 Formula 1 season, highlighting the steep learning curve and the challenges of the new regulations.”

Romain Grosjean Is Ready To Win His First IndyCar Race (Jalopnik)

“Former F1 driver Romain Grosjean shares his enthusiasm for IndyCar, emphasizing the competitive parity where every driver has a legitimate chance to win, a stark contrast to the car-dependent nature of Formula 1.”

F1 Tickets sign up (Silverstone)

“Due to overwhelming demand for the British Grand Prix, Silverstone is planning to expand grandstand seating and introduce new hospitality packages, urging fans to sign up for early access to tickets.”

Armstrong on departure from Ferrari: ‘We knew it was a dead end’ (F1 Feeder Series)

“Marcus Armstrong opens up about his departure from the Ferrari Driver Academy, revealing that he and Callum Ilott had a clear understanding of the limited path to F1, seeing it as a ‘dead end’ and embracing a new chapter.”

Alexa Quintin: “My job has become an inherent part of my DNA (Females in Motorsport)

“Alexa Quintin, a key figure behind the scenes in motorsport, discusses her demanding role, including managing live-streaming compliance on the grid and ensuring accurate incident reporting for commentators.”

Iconic Brabham name moves to new premises at Bicester Heritage (Brabham)

“The storied Brabham name, synonymous with motorsport success, announces its relocation to a new headquarters at Bicester Heritage, a hub for automotive excellence and innovation.”

We always endeavour to credit original sources. If you have a tip for a link relating to single-seater motorsport to feature in the next RaceFans round-up please send it in via the contact form.

Comment of the Day: The Future of DRS in Formula 1’s New Era

The introduction of the radical new 2022 regulations aims to significantly improve the quality of racing by allowing cars to follow each other more closely and promote organic overtaking. This has naturally reignited the debate surrounding the Drag Reduction System (DRS), an artificial aid designed to facilitate overtakes. Aston Martin technical director Andrew Green recently hinted that if the new rules achieve their intended goal of better racing, DRS could eventually be phased out. This perspective has resonated with fans, prompting thoughtful discussions on the necessity and future role of the device.

I’m very glad to hear someone within Formula 1 bringing up the DRS debate again, as its future in the sport has been a question mark for many. I strongly believe that with the fundamental changes introduced in these 2022 cars, designed explicitly for closer racing, the reliance on DRS should become obsolete. My hope is to see its use ultimately removed from Grand Prix racing. Furthermore, I am eager to hear more details about Stefano Domenicali’s intriguing suggestion regarding DRS. He proposed a possibility where DRS could be repurposed not as an overtaking aid, but simply as a tool for all drivers to use in designated zones, regardless of their proximity to other cars. This would allow drivers to reduce drag, potentially improving fuel economy, enhancing top speeds, and ultimately lowering lap times across the board in a fair and equitable manner.

In general, it seems counterintuitive to drastically redesign these cars with the primary objective of promoting closer, more natural racing, only to then continue to rely on the much-maligned DRS. This device has often been criticized for creating somewhat artificial overtakes, detracting from the skill and pure racing spectacle. I sincerely hope that teams and the FIA will conduct thorough experimentation with the DRS concept as soon as the cars hit the track for pre-season testing. And crucially, once competitive racing officially begins, I wish to see them actively consider racing without DRS. Alternatively, if it is to be retained, I advocate for its implementation in a way that aligns with Domenicali’s suggestion, ensuring it serves as a fair and consistent tool for all competitors rather than a situational advantage. The goal should always be to foster exciting, authentic racing where driver talent and car performance truly shine.

@robbie

Happy Birthday to Motorsport Figures

We extend our warmest birthday wishes to Willis, Tom.Y, David Benford, Markie, and Pete! May your day be filled with joy and celebration.

On This Day in Motorsport History

• Born today in 1934: John Surtees, a legendary figure in motorsport, who achieved the remarkable feat of becoming both a 1964 F1 World Champion and a multiple Motorcycle World Champion.