Formula 1
"Finding the Sweet Spot: Mercedes' Quest for the Perfect Ride Height in Formula 1"
Article by Mason Askew
In Formula 1, everything makes a difference, the driver, weather, tires, terrain, and car adjustments. As seasons progress and pass through the years, car adjustments are a never-ending road to perfection. Every micro adjustment can make a car perform better. After struggling for 2 seasons, Mercedes has reported that they may have found the right spot for ride height in the 2024 races.
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In the W13, the car used by Mercedes in 2022 season, the riding height was very low to create more downforce. The problem with a low ride is that the porpoising (amount a cart bounces while using suspension) must be very limited so as to not scrape the car across the ground and possibly damaging it. In the 2023 season, the W14 was meant to experiment with different ride heights while still producing a good level of down force but was found to be much higher than other cars, hurting the performance of the overall car .
“Go aggressive and trade the bouncing protection in the rule change for performance or take a more cautions route and steer clear of the sort of porpoising that wrecked our season last year” says technical director James Allen as he explains both paths the team could take. Allen continues to describe how the team must go the safer route (higher ride height with more porpoising) because it is easier to correct. Mecedes has switched their focus on next years cart, but will it pay off?
Is Renault Eyeing Another Formula 1 Exit?
Article by Deandre Hill
Renault's history in Formula 1 has been marked by both highs and lows, including instances where the automaker decided to pull the plug on its F1 endeavors. Recent developments within its Alpine F1 team have stirred speculations on whether Renault might be contemplating another exit. The unexpected departure of team boss Otmar Szafnauer, sporting director Alan Permane, and the shift of veteran F1 engineer Pat Fry to Williams during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community. With Alpine lagging in the championship standings, missing their 2023 target of maintaining their previous year's position, and struggling since Renault's rebranding efforts from 2016, concerns about the team's future have become palpable.
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Renault's association with F1 has been tumultuous. After its championship-winning era with Fernando Alonso, the company retreated from the sport in 2010 due to the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix scandal, only to return in 2016. However, the rebranding to Alpine was not purely sporting in nature; it was a strategic move to elevate its niche sportscar brand. While the intent was to tap into the vast F1 viewership, the approach seemed to have been marred by management interference. The overtly critical views of ex-CEO Laurent Rossi, who later shifted to 'special projects', further exemplify the rift between the corporate vision and the realities of F1 racing.
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As the value of F1 teams soars, driven by the successful 'franchise' model, the cost-benefit analysis might tip in favor of Renault selling off its stake. Critics argue that the corporate meddling has not only hamstrung the team's performance but has also overshadowed what used to be a solid race team setup. As Edd Straw opines, if Renault isn't committed to letting its F1 team operate with the autonomy and focus required for success in the sport, selling might be the most pragmatic move. Only time will tell if Renault chooses to remain in the sport or if history, indeed, repeats itself.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix: A Glimpse into the World's Biggest Event of 2023
Article by Deandre Hill
In an exciting turn of events for motorsport fans worldwide, Formula 1's Las Vegas Grand Prix is on track to be the most anticipated event of 2023. Scheduled for a thrilling Saturday night race just three months from now, F1 drivers are gearing up to race down a segment of the iconic Las Vegas Strip. The preparatory work leading to this moment has been immense. From repaving public routes to formulating the racetrack, to near completion of a state-of-the-art pits and paddock complex situated off East Harmon Avenue and Koval Lane, the city has been buzzing with activity. The Grand Prix, which has been years in conception, has garnered significant attention, with Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, emphasizing its global significance.
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The journey of bringing Formula 1 to Las Vegas has been one of collaboration and vision. Conversations between Steve Hill and Stefano Domenicali's predecessor, Chase Carey, date back to 2019. The idea initially raised eyebrows, with some questioning the viability of such an audacious plan. Yet, the commitment to bring this vision to life grew stronger, especially after witnessing the overwhelming response to the Grand Prix in Austin. Hill's exposure to the world of F1, coupled with insights from key stakeholders like Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Wynn Resorts, strengthened the belief that a successful Las Vegas debut would enhance every subsequent event. In aiming to revolutionize the fan experience, organizers are also taking steps to ensure that the event remains inclusive, accommodating fans from varied economic backgrounds.
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As the race date approaches, the city is in the final stages of preparation. Hill candidly acknowledged the temporary disruption caused by construction activities, but emphasized the long-term benefits for Las Vegas. The vast investment from Formula 1 and the partnership with local authorities hint at the race's future potential, backed by Clark County's legislation that greenlights the Grand Prix until 2032. While the focus remains on ensuring a stellar debut this year, discussions about improving the guest experience for the 2024 race are already in the pipeline. The commitment and vision shared by all stakeholders highlight the enormity of the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, poised to be an unparalleled spectacle in the world of sports.
Leclerc's Loyalty to Ferrari Amidst Speculation
Article by Deandre Hill
The world of Formula 1 never ceases to be dynamic, both on and off the track. Recent speculation surrounding Monegasque driver, Charles Leclerc's future has set tongues wagging. As the talented racer's contract with Ferrari is set to lapse at the end of the 2024 season, there has been a notable delay in talks for its renewal. Such hesitations, coupled with a rather unfruitful season with Ferrari, have fueled rumors about other top-tier teams like Mercedes, Aston Martin, and Red Bull expressing interest in acquiring Leclerc, given the anticipated vacancies in their line-ups for 2025.
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However, in an intimate conversation with Motorsport.com, Leclerc addressed these swirling speculations, expressing a profound affection for Ferrari. While admitting that every driver ponders other options at some point, he affirmed that his first and foremost dream remains winning the F1 championship with Ferrari. "If there's even a sliver of an opportunity for this to become a reality, I have no reservations about remaining committed to this team," Leclerc stated. He recognized the current challenges the team faces but remains optimistic about the future. The driver quipped, "I love Ferrari. It feels like home. Discussions about my contract? Just a few jokes here and there."
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Despite the delays in contract talks, Leclerc emphasized that this shouldn't be a cause for concern. He believes that the current priority for both him and the team is to enhance their competitiveness in the races. Reflecting on the recent races, he acknowledged Ferrari's struggle to match the pace of a dominant Red Bull. Yet, Leclerc remains hopeful, setting a target for Ferrari to at least surpass other competitors like McLaren, Mercedes, and Aston Martin by the year's end. He concluded, "Our eyes are set on 2024, with an undying spirit to get back on top, contending fiercely with Red Bull."
Formula 1 in America: Beyond the Record-Breaking Figures
Article by Deandre Hill
When ESPN recently announced record-breaking viewership figures for Formula 1, it may have seemed like cause for celebration. However, as an eternal optimist, I'd argue that it's not just the raw numbers we should be focusing on, but the nuances of these figures and what they say about the sport's growth in the United States.
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Last year, the US saw its highest ever average viewership for F1 at 1.24 million, a number significantly boosted by the 2.6 million who tuned in for the Miami Grand Prix. But while the overall average may be down slightly this year, it's essential to note that F1's viewership is holding steady even in the face of Red Bull's dominance. The real story isn't about one team's reign or a slight fluctuation in viewership. It's about the deepening engagement and appreciation for the sport, illustrated by consistent high viewership for key races like Monaco and Canada, as well as the continued intrigue around storylines like Daniel Ricciardo’s return.
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Tyler Epp, the race's president, offers a unique perspective on this, highlighting the organic growth and commitment of a new kind of F1 fan in the US. This fan base is different from that of NASCAR or IndyCar, showcasing a unique dedication to the sport. Epp's observations about the authenticity of F1's growth in the US, combined with the sport's increased understanding and communication with its American audience, emphasize that F1's future in America isn't just about numbers. It's about building a genuine connection with fans and ensuring that the sport remains relevant, exciting, and accessible. And as TV figures might be an indicator, they don’t reveal the full narrative. F1 in America is not just surviving; it's thriving, laying a robust foundation for future growth.
Williams' Surprising Ascent: A Remarkable Turnaround in F1 2023
Article by Deandre Hill
The 2023 Formula 1 season has provided a few surprises, but none more intriguing than the notable progress of the Williams team. Williams, a team that once dominated the sport, had in recent times found itself languishing at the back of the grid. Their journey this season, under the new leadership of team principal James Vowles, was expected to be another tough climb from the depths of their previous campaign. In an era where aerodynamic efficiency rules supreme, Williams' FW45 seemed woefully under-equipped compared to the rest of the pack. The early days hinted at another challenging season ahead.
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However, in a remarkable twist, the team's car proved adept at low-downforce circuits, allowing them some unexpected advantages. Alex Albon, the Anglo-Thai driver, capitalized on this, pulling off significant feats at several Grands Prix. By mid-season, Albon had managed to rake in a commendable 11 points, pushing Williams to a joint seventh in the standings with Haas. This is a stark contrast to the previous year, where the entire team managed just eight points. Albon's relief was palpable as he remarked, "If you had told me or anyone from the team that at the start of the year, we would have bitten your arm off." His optimism is not unfounded. The significant upgrade unveiled by Williams at the Canadian Grand Prix indicates a marked shift in their approach, as they showed improved competitiveness even on tracks that weren’t their traditional strongholds.
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While many challenges lie ahead, Williams' story this season serves as a poignant reminder that in the world of Formula 1, fortunes can change quickly. The perfect blend of strategy, determination, and technical evolution can shift the balance, even for teams that once seemed lost. As the season progresses, the racing world watches with bated breath: Will Williams continue its ascendant trajectory, or is this just a fleeting moment in the sun? Regardless of the outcome, for now, the Williams team and its fans have every reason to cherish this unexpected resurgence.
McLaren Welcomes F1 Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions to Level the Playing Field
Article by Deandre Hill
Formula 1 has been known for its cutting-edge technology, speed, and competitiveness. But, like every other sport, achieving parity among the participating teams is critical for the true essence of competition. Introduced in 2021, the Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions (ATR) alongside the budget cap is the sport's laudable attempt to create a level playing field. ATR essentially acts as a handicap system, adjusting how much aerodynamic testing a team can do based on its performance in the Constructors' Championship. Finish higher, and you get less testing time; finish lower, and you get more.
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Take Aston Martin as an example. After finishing seventh last year, they enjoyed a full 100% allocation of wind tunnel testing time during the off-season. However, as their performance improved, and they climbed to third in the pecking order by June 30th, their testing time allocation was reduced to 80%. Similarly, McLaren, currently in sixth place, receives 95% of the testing time. In real terms, that translates to 304 wind tunnel runs and 1,900 CFD items, which, as per McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella, can make a significant difference.
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Stella's comments underscore the strategic importance of these regulations. Speaking to RacingNews365, he said, "We certainly welcome having a few more hours than the top teams." Highlighting the importance of quality over quantity, Stella continued, "You can have many, many hours in the wind tunnel, but the real game changer is the quality of the ideas and the concepts you put in the wind tunnel development." With these new rules, the race to the top is not just about resources but also about the ingenuity and innovation teams can bring to the table.
Aston Martin’s Resolve: Pushing for Continued Development Amidst Challenges
Article by Deandre Hill
The 2023 Formula 1 season has been a roller-coaster ride for the Silverstone-based Aston Martin squad. Once regarded as Red Bull's primary contender, they now face an elevated threat from powerhouses such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren. All three have shown significant enhancements during the current season. Moreover, the team's recent decline in performance has been attributed to a controversial upgrade path, though Motorsport.com has hinted that an FIA flexi-wing clampdown, affecting several teams, might also be a contributing factor. Despite the setbacks, Aston Martin remains optimistic about the future of their AMR23, confident in their recent progress and set to ramp up spending for further refinements.
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Tom McCullough, Aston Martin's Performance Director, brings to light the team's unwavering commitment to enhancing the AMR23, even as competitors are pivoting their focus to the 2024 season. "We've been targeting quite strong development throughout the year and we have budget to keep developing the car," McCullough expressed. Elaborating on their strategy, he emphasized their dual approach, iterating, "At a certain point, you have to fully focus on 2024, but we're in the phase now where we're able to work on both cars." Insights gathered from the 2024 prototype are even being adapted to the AMR23, indicating the team's relentless push for performance improvements up to the season's end.
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However, every cloud has a silver lining. While recent adversities have been challenging for Aston Martin, McCullough believes that these hurdles have granted the team a clearer perspective on their car's weaknesses. He noted the importance of understanding the actual performance of new parts on the track versus their anticipated effects from development tools. Aston Martin's robust update package showcased in Montreal, though effective there, revealed varied results in different circuits. "Understanding what the car's actually done and what we wanted to do going forwards is part of the usual job," McCullough elaborated. Confident in their understanding of these dynamics, he assures fans of continuous development and anticipates stronger performances in the latter half of the season.a