9 things we want to see in the second half of the F1 season
Aug 22, 2023
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The hosts discuss the upcoming F1 race and what they want to see in the second half of the season, including more competition against Max Verstappen. They analyze Mercedes and Ferrari's expectations for next year. The potential impact of Riccardo and Cinoda in the remaining races is examined. They discuss the addition of new teams to Formula One and potential changes in the qualifying format. They also talk about the possibility of Alonso winning a race and reflect on Aston Martin and McLaren.
To add excitement and unpredictability in the F1 season, it is important to see Red Bull and Max Verstappen being genuinely challenged in a straight fight.
Teams should demonstrate progress in the second half of the season, focusing on improving the underlying science of their cars in preparation for the rule changes in 2024.
The experimental tire allocation in Hungary was successful in creating a fair and exciting challenge, and there is hope to see more frequent use of this format in future races.
Deep dives
Max Verstappen's dominance challenged
The hope is to see Red Bull and specifically Max Verstappen defeated in a straight fight before the end of the season. This would add excitement and unpredictability, preventing Red Bull from complete dominance.
Mercedes, Ferrari, Aston Martin, and McLaren stepping up
The expectation is for these teams to show progress in the second half of the season, demonstrating that they understand and are working towards improving the underlying science of their cars. It is crucial in their preparation for the rule changes in 2024.
Hungarian Grand Prix experimental tire allocation
The success of the experimental tire allocation in Hungary is praised. It created a level playing field in qualifying by equalizing the tire allocation for all teams, making it a fair and exciting challenge for everyone involved. The hope is to see more frequent use of this format in future races.
Daniel Riccardo's struggle to regain his reputation
Daniel Riccardo's return to form has not been as convincing as expected, with his performances in two races raising more questions than providing answers. While his comeback race in Spa was excellent, he struggled in Hungary and is yet to prove that he can compete at the level he was at earlier in his career. The remaining races will be crucial for Riccardo to show that he can bounce back and regain his reputation in Formula 1.
Sergio Perez's need to focus on himself
Sergio Perez's main objective should be to focus on himself and deliver his best performance. Rather than trying to compete directly with Max Verstappen, Perez needs to concentrate on maximizing his own potential and delivering consistent results. By doing so, he can strengthen his position within Red Bull and potentially secure a longer-term drive, while also providing valuable support to Verstappen's championship campaign.
It's race week! Ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, host Edd Straw is joined by Ben Anderson and Glenn Freeman to run through the nine things they'd like to see over the remaining 10 races, from Daniel Ricciardo re-finding his mojo to Max Verstappen being genuinely challenged over a race weekend.