Back At Base S2: 2. Project Pencil

The Aston Martin team is preparing to unveil the super signing of the 2024 season. Someone who will shape their Formula 1 cars and - if things go to plan - the team’s future at the front of the grid. But until then the news has to be kept under wraps. In the ultra-competitive world of Formula 1 secrecy is a necessity.

The McLaren and Aston Martin teams are also gearing up for a return to racing at Round 15 of the World Championship, the Dutch Grand Prix, held at the seaside circuit of Zandvoort. Here, Lando Norris will take on Red Bull title rival Max Verstappen in his own backyard. Since becoming an F1 race-winner at the Miami Grand Prix, Norris has been racing at the next level, but he’s taking nothing for granted as he goes up against the Dutch hero in front of his adoring fans.

The titles, trophies and Championships that spur on the teams are hard-fought. The art of racing can perhaps be compared to the art of war. Aston Martin’s Performance Director Tom McCullough says the teams must steel themselves with a “war mentality” before each race weekend. Within their ranks, Aston Martin boasts a seasoned warrior - double World Champion Fernando Alonso. Team insiders call the Spanish legend a human “supercomputer” because of the high-level performance he brings on and off the track.

At Monza, the famous Italian circuit known as the Temple of Speed, the scene is set for another dramatic grand prix. Sometimes the art of racing means you have to battle those closest to you, and there’s no-one nearer than the driver on the other side of the garage. McLaren have two exciting, young drivers on their books in Norris and Oscar Piastri. Letting them race - so long as it’s a clean fight - is part of the team’s philosophy. But, after the Italian Grand Prix, will McLaren re-examine how they take on the battle for both Championships?

At their Silverstone headquarters, Aston Martin unveils a big-name signing with a live television broadcast. The team’s owner Lawrence Stroll is on hand to make the big announcement, not only to the world’s media, but the workforce assembled back at base. But even the arrival of one of F1’s most-famous names doesn’t stop the focused work inside an F1 factory. This is the pinnacle of motorsport and the stopwatch never stands still.

F1:Back at Base is narrated by Josh Hartnett. It is created and produced by Sarah Holt and Holly Samos and is an IMG Production for the BBC.