Why the Mercedes-Ferrari battle for P2 matters + Should F1 ditch Monaco?
Nov 23, 2023
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The podcast discusses the battle for P2 in the constructors' championship between Mercedes and Ferrari, as well as the close battle between McLaren and Aston Martin. They debate whether Monaco should still be on the F1 calendar, especially with Las Vegas offering a prestige glamour event. The significance of young drivers and the success of Las Vegas are also highlighted. Additionally, they discuss potential changes to the Monaco race and the introduction of State Farm's Ensuring Coverage initiative for women's sports.
Monaco needs to modernize or risk being replaced as other races offer more excitement and glamour.
Rookie drivers in Abu Dhabi have a chance to showcase their skills and determine their future opportunities in Formula One.
Aston Martin's resurgence adds an interesting twist to the battle for fourth place in the Constructors' Championship against McLaren.
Deep dives
Vegas: A Modern Alternative to Monaco
The success of the Formula One race in Las Vegas highlights the need for Monaco to modernize or face being replaced. While Monaco offers a historic driving challenge, the race has become less exciting due to the cars having outgrown the circuit. In contrast, the Vegas race showcased thrilling racing, overtaking, and a glamorous backdrop. Monaco's special treatment and status in the past can no longer be justified, as other races like Singapore and Baku have successfully filled the glitz and glamour void. While Monaco should still be kept for its heritage and historic appeal, it needs to adapt to the demands of the modern era or risk losing its place in the Formula One calendar.
FP1 Rookie Drivers to Watch in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's Formula One weekend will feature rookie drivers taking part in the FP1 session and the test that follows. Some rookies to watch include: Jake Dennis and Isaac Hajjar from Red Bull, Oli Beermann from Aston Martin, Pato O'Ward from McLaren, and Theo Pourchaire from Alfa Romeo. These drivers are given a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills in a contemporary F1 car, and their performances could determine future opportunities in the sport.
Aston Martin Closing in on McLaren in Constructors' Championship
Aston Martin's recent recovery has put them within 11 points of McLaren in the battle for fourth place in the Constructors' Championship. This surprise turnaround has been supported by Lance Stroll's improved performances and the team's focus on the fundamentals of their car. While McLaren is seen as the stronger team in terms of pace and performance, Aston Martin's resurgence adds an interesting twist to the battle for fourth place. The outcome in Abu Dhabi may not change the overall standings, but it highlights the progress made by Aston Martin and the challenges faced by McLaren.
Frederik Feestii's Opportunity with Mercedes
Frederik Feestii, the second-place driver in Formula 2, will have the chance to showcase his talent with Mercedes in the young driver test in Abu Dhabi. While not the favored prospect like Mercedes' Antonin Imo An, Feestii will have the opportunity to impress the team and potentially secure a future in Formula One. Although Feestii is currently second in the F2 Championship, his performance in the test could help him break into the world of Formula One.
The Challenges Facing Monaco's Future in Formula One
Monaco's place in Formula One has become increasingly questioned as other races like Las Vegas offer excitement and modern appeal. Monaco's special treatment and commercialism have waned, and its driving challenge does not compensate for the lack of racing spectacle. While Monaco still holds historical value, it needs to evolve and keep up with F1's relentless pace of change. Monaco should not be completely abandoned, but it must update and prove its worth compared to other races that offer a blend of history, driving challenge, and racing excitement.
Ben Anderson and Glenn Freeman join Edd Straw to look ahead to the final race of the 2023 F1 season in Abu Dhabi. There's a particular focus on the scores still left to be settled this year, including whether Mercedes or Ferrari will win the battle for P2 in the constructors' championship, and whether McLaren or Aston Martin will triumph in the close battle for fourth. The guys also look ahead to which rookies will be getting a run-out in the post-season test, and debate the controversial matter of whether Monaco still deserves a slot on the F1 calendar - especially with Las Vegas now offering a prestige glamour event that also provides great racing...
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