Formula 1 teams have been busy making significant design changes to their cars ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix. From Mercedes’ revised front suspension and wing to Red Bull’s new rear wing and Sauber’s beam wing updates, these technical innovations demonstrate the relentless pursuit of performance in the sport.
Author: Lachlan Umbrafang
With the Formula 1 calendar heading to Canada, Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing are facing another challenging weekend due to ride issues on their RB20 car. The Dutchman has expressed concerns about the team’s prospects, but remains confident in their ability to improve and catch up with their rivals.
Mercedes’ Team Principal Toto Wolff is facing growing scrutiny over his post-race analysis as the team’s winless streak continues. With the Canadian GP on the horizon, Mercedes must prove their updated car can deliver results and end their drought, or risk further questions about their design concepts and Wolff’s leadership.
Red Bull Racing has extended Sergio Perez’s Formula 1 contract for two more years, ensuring the Mexican driver will partner reigning champion Max Verstappen for a fifth season. Team Principal Christian Horner emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent lineup, citing their successful collaboration in 2023 as a key factor behind the decision.
A dispute has emerged between Lewis Hamilton and Pirelli’s Chief Engineer Simone Berra regarding the manufacturer’s current tyre allocation operating window. Hamilton criticized the tyres as having a ‘minuscule’ operating range, but Berra countered that the issue lies with the closer field of teams, not the tyres themselves.
In a significant move, WRC2 world champion Emil Lindholm has announced his switch to Hyundai Motorsport, leaving Toksport WRT after their successful partnership. Lindholm and co-driver Reeta Hämäläinen have been recruited for the re-launched Hyundai Motorsport Driver Development Programme, marking a new chapter in their WRC journey.
As the 2023 WEC calendar approaches its pinnacle event, the Le Mans 24 Hours, BMW Motorsport is optimistic about the credentials of newcomers Raffaele Marciello, Marco Wittmann, and Sheldon van der Linde. Despite their lack of experience in the endurance classic, the team believes this rookie lineup boasts the ‘perfect combination’ of youth and experience.
BMW M Motorsport’s Andreas Roos is optimistic about the pace of their Hypercar entries in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), despite a disappointing 11th and 13th place finish at the Spa 6 Hours. The team believes they have the speed to contend for top positions at the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours next month.
Alpine has unveiled the Alpenglow Hy4, a 340 bhp concept car powered by a hydrogen-fueled turbocharged engine. This innovative prototype is set to take part in demonstration runs at the upcoming Le Mans 24 Hours, showcasing the French manufacturer’s commitment to exploring alternative fuel sources and decarbonizing motorsports.
Alex Palou, the defending winner of the Detroit Grand Prix, showcased his skills by setting the fastest lap time in the opening practice session. Pato O’Ward and Colton Herta also impressed, rounding out the top three as the IndyCar season heats up with the Detroit GP.