We discuss how Formula 1's return to action after a second one-month break could change the dynamic of the world championship battle in the latest edition of The Race F1 Podcast. 

Scott Mitchell-Malm and Ben Anderson join Edd Straw to look ahead to the first of the pair of triple-headers that will round out the season and explain the key factors that could swing the title fight one way or the other. 

Will Red Bull get on top of its problems with an upgrade package, can Lando Norris finally make some decisive inroads into Max Verstappen's points lead and what role Mercedes and Ferrari could play in the fight are among the questions answered. 

We also consider the impact the return of the sprint races, with three of the next five weekends running to that that format, in the championship fight and whether it could help or hinder either McLaren or Red Bull. 

And with several questions still yet to be answered in the driver market, we reflect on how important the Austin weekend could be for RB returnee Liam Lawson. 

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