Are there any new countries seriously considered for hosting a Grand Prix? Which races might be at risk?
Thailand and South Korea are emerging contenders, and there’s renewed interest in Africa with a potential bid from Rwanda. The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Italy could be vulnerable, and there’s speculation about rotating some European races like Belgium and the Netherlands. Canada’s race is under scrutiny due to organizational issues, and even Silverstone must address traffic concerns to avoid potential exclusion. 🇹🇭🇰🇷🇿🇦
What is “track rubbering in,” and why does it affect lap times in Q3?
“Rubbering in” refers to the layer of rubber that accumulates on the racing line from tire wear. As more cars drive on it, the track gains more grip, allowing for faster lap times. This, combined with drivers refining their techniques and pushing harder, results in quicker times as qualifying progresses. 🏎️🏁
Do F1 teams prefer drivers with similar or different driving styles?
Teams prioritize the fastest drivers and occasionally consider team harmony and sponsorship contributions. For instance, Red Bull’s decision to avoid pairing Carlos Sainz with Max Verstappen was influenced by potential internal friction. Driver choice is also affected by financial considerations, as seen with Lance Stroll at Aston Martin due to his father’s ownership. 💼🚗
Should teams like Ferrari or McLaren focus on 2026 regulations at the expense of 2025?
While the 2026 regulations are a major shift, top teams like Ferrari and McLaren will continue to balance their efforts between 2025 and 2026. McLaren, for example, aims for a strong performance in 2025. Lower-ranked teams may prioritize 2026 to seize new opportunities, especially teams like Williams, Alpine, Haas, and Sauber, which is set to become the Audi factory team. 🚀🔧
Stay tuned for more updates as the F1 landscape evolves! 🏆
