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Linus O'Howell

2024 Formula 1 Season Preview

After months of waiting, we’re now so close to the start of the 2024 Formula 1 Season. Will Max Verstappen and Red Bull dominate once again or will the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari prove to be more of a challenge? Will McLaren continue to build from what was a terrific second half of 2023? Will Williams move further up the grid, and what else will occur in what’s already been a pretty crazy Silly Season? These are all great and viable questions and this article, I will take you through the 10 teams competing in this year’s F1 World Championship as well as the calendar that will hopefully play host to memorable weekends!

 

The Teams

 

Red Bull Racing

After the single-most dominant season in Formula 1 history, Red Bull are back to do even better than before! Last year, Red Bull won all but one race on their way to scoring 860 points and finishing a ridiculous 451 points ahead of their closest “challenger”. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Red Bull have achieved 7 Drivers’ World Championships, 6 Constructors’ World Championships, 113 Race victories, 95 Pole Positions, and 264 Podiums! When it comes to their drivers, Red Bull have retained the pairing of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez for another year.


Max Verstappen enters 2024 off the back of 3 consecutive World Drivers’ Championships and he’ll be looking to win even more races than the 19 he achieved in 2023. Last year, Max was incredibly dominant as he ended up with a ridiculous 575 points, over double his teammates tally! Over the course of his F1 career, Verstappen has achieved 3 Drivers’ World Titles, 54 Race Wins, 32 Pole Positions, and 98 Podiums. There is no doubting the fact that Max Verstappen is the favourite to win this year’s World Championship.


As for his teammate, Sergio Perez enters 2024 with a lot of pressure on his shoulders. Last year, Sergio managed to finish a career-best second in the Championship, but he could only manage two wins and he ultimately finished a whopping 290 points behind his World Champion teammate. Over the course of his F1 career, Perez has achieved 6 Race Wins, 3 Pole Positions, and 35 Podiums. It very much feels like Checo Perez is going to have to be at his best if he wants to keep his Red Bull seat going into 2025 and onwards.


Overall, Red Bull are the favourites for a reason. They’re a brilliant team, filled with brilliant staff and drivers, and all signs point to them winning it all again come the end of 2024!



Mercedes

Mercedes enter the 2024 Formula 1 Season knowing that one of their drivers is already leaving at the end of the season! Last year, Mercedes managed to finish 2nd in the Constructors’ Championship, but they weren’t able to win a single Grand Prix and they also finished some 451 points off the top! Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Mercedes have achieved 9 Drivers’ World Championships, 8 Constructors’ World Championships, 125 Race Wins, 137 Pole Positions, and 289 Podiums! When it comes to their drivers, Mercedes will have the pairing of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell for just one more Season!


After a shocking move to Ferrari was announced for 2025, Lewis Hamilton has one more season to try and win again with Mercedes. Last year, Lewis had a very good season and ended third overall, but he was still was unable to find his first Race Win since Jeddah 2021. Over the course of his F1 career, Hamilton has achieved 7 Drivers’ World Titles, 103 Race Wins, 104 Pole Positions, and 197 Podiums. I’m really intrigued to see how Lewis Hamilton does in his final year for Mercedes, but one thing’s for sure, Lewis will certainly give it his all!


As for his teammate, George Russell has to prove in 2024 that he deserves to be Mercedes’ Number 1 going forward. Last year, George struggled for the most part, finishing only 8th in the Standings with just two Podium finishes to his name. Over the course of his F1 career, Russell has achieved 1 Race Win, 1 Pole Position, and 11 Podiums. There’s no doubt that George Russell is a talented racing driver despite his little blip in form last year. However, if George struggles again, he may well throw away his chances of being Mercedes’ “Lewis Hamilton replacement”.


Overall, with a strong driver pairing, Mercedes have no excuses when it comes to showing more pace and actually winning some races. However, whether the Silver Arrows achieve that goal is a different thing entirely.

 


Ferrari

Ferrari will be hoping that their strong pace towards the end of the 2023 Season correlates to 2024. Last year, Ferrari had a rather disappointing year in which they could only manage 3rd in the Constructors’. However, they were the only team other than Red Bull to win a race (Singapore) so that’s at least something for them to smile about (not really though). Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Ferrari have achieved 15 Drivers’ World Championships, 16 Constructors’ World Championships, 242 Race Wins, 249 Pole Positions, and (a massive) 802 Podiums! When it comes to their drivers, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz will be teammates for just one more year.


Charles Leclerc will certainly be aiming for more performance in 2024. Last year, despite some really great Qualifying performances, Charles failed to win a single Race and he could only finish 5th in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Leclerc has achieved 5 Race Wins, 23 Pole Positions, and 30 Podiums. Charles Leclerc is arguably the fastest man on the Formula 1 Grid, but he’s going to need some stronger race results in order to guarantee himself as Ferrari’s Number 1 before the arrival of his new World Championship-winning teammate in 2025.


As for his teammate, Carlos Sainz will be looking to prove a point this season. Last year, Carlos actually had a pretty decent season, and whilst 7th in the Drivers’ Championship may not show it, you only have to go and watch his sensational Singapore victory! Over the course of his F1 career, Sainz has achieved 2 Race Wins, 5 Pole Positions, and 18 Podiums. The fact that Carlos Sainz has been ousted by Ferrari for 2025 and onwards makes me think that Carlos is either going to have a really tough year, or he’s going to be absolutely brilliant! I hope it’s the second one!


Overall, Ferrari can easily go forwards or backwards in 2024 depending on how reliable their machine proves to be. However, if they do go backwards, Ferrari can have no one to blame but themselves!

 


McLaren

McLaren will be aiming to end the year back in the Top 3 places in the Constructors’ Championship. Last year, McLaren bounced back brilliantly after a terrible start to the season to score 7 Podiums in the last 8 Race weekends which ultimately saw them finish a place higher in the Constructors’ Standings than in 2022. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, McLaren have achieved 12 Drivers’ World Championships, 8 Constructors’ World Championships, 183 Race Wins, 156 Pole Positions, and 503 Podiums. When it comes to their drivers, McLaren have retained the strong pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.


Lando Norris is hoping that 2024 will be the year that he finally scores his maiden Formula 1 victory. Last year, Lando had a pretty strong season, scoring 7 Podiums (including 4 in a row) on his way to finishing 6th in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Norris has achieved 1 Pole Position and 13 Podiums. There’s no doubting the fact that Lando Norris is one of the top drivers on the Formula 1 Grid and if McLaren give him the car to win, he will!


As for his teammate, Oscar Piastri is looking to build on a strong Rookie Season. Last year, Oscar may have “only” finished 9th in the Championship, but he showed an incredible amount of speed and he even took victory in the Qatar Sprint! Over the course of his F1 career, Piastri has achieved 2 Podium finishes. Oscar Piastri showed a lot of quality last season, but it’s important for him to build on last year and close the gap to teammate Norris in 2024.


Overall, this feels like an important year for McLaren. As long as they get over the hurdle of struggling at the start of the season (something they haven’t managed to achieve in either of the last two seasons), McLaren realistically should be in with a strong shout of breaking into the Top 3.

 


Aston Martin

Aston Martin are hoping to re-find the performance they had at the start of the 2023 F1 Season. Last year, Aston Martin started the season incredibly well, finishing on the Podium in 6 of the first 8 Race weekends, but they ultimately fell well off and finished 5th in the Constructors’. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Aston Martin have achieved 9 Podiums, but this team did win 5 races when known as Jordan and Racing Point. Aston’s highest-ever Championship finish was 5th last year (they did do better under previous names though). When it comes to their drivers, Aston have retained 2-time F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso as well as Canada’s Lance Stroll.


Fernando Alonso is hoping that this could be the year that he finally returns to the top step of the Podium. Last year, Fernando drove superbly, scoring 8 Podiums on his way to finish 4th in the Drivers’ Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Alonso has achieved 2 Drivers’ World Titles, 32 Race Wins, 22 Pole Positions, and 106 Podiums. Fernando Alonso proved last year that he’s very much still got it, but I could easily see him lose patience if his team fail to provide him with a competitive car.


As for his teammate, Lance Stroll is hoping for a much strong campaign than previous seasons. Last year, Lance struggled for the most part, ultimately finishing 10th in the Championship, some 132 points behind his teammate. Over the course of his F1 career, Stroll has achieved 1 Pole Position and 3 Podiums. Whilst I don’t think Lance Stroll’s seat is in any sort of jeopardy, Lance really does need to have a much stronger year in order to quiet some of the noise surrounding him.


Overall, it feels like Aston Martin need to finish higher in the Championship than they did last year in order to retain one of their drivers. However, that may prove difficult given the tough competition both ahead and around them.

 


Alpine

Alpine enter 2024 looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 campaign. Last year, whilst Alpine were able to score 2 Podium finishes, they were disappointing for the most part and a 6th placed finish in the Constructors’ rather showcased that (they were some 160 points behind 5th). Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Alpine have achieved 1 Race Win and 4 Podiums. However, it’s worth mentioning that this team did win a few Championships under the names Benetton and Renault. When it comes to their drivers, Alpine have retained the all-French lineup of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon.


Pierre Gasly is looking to rubber stamp his name as Alpine’s Number 1. Last year, Pierre had a pretty decent season which included a brilliant Zandvoort Podium as he went on to finish 11th in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Gasly has achieved 1 Race Win and 4 Podiums. Whilst Pierre Gasly will be hoping for a strong year with Alpine, it would probably be fair to say that a good year for Pierre could well land him at a stronger team for 2025 and beyond.


As for his teammate, Esteban Ocon needs to beat his teammate this year. Last year, Esteban was actually a little disappointing (despite scoring a great Podium in Monaco) as he finished behind his teammate in the Standings in 12th. Over the course of his F1 career, Ocon has achieved 1 Race Win and 3 Podiums. With an opening at Mercedes for 2025, a great year for Esteban Ocon could well land him at the Silver Arrows. However, another disappointing year and Ocon risks his reputation being hurt.


Overall, Alpine really need to move back up the Grid. However, it’s not totally unrealistic to say they may drop a couple of places if they get out-developed by those behind!

 


Williams

Williams are aiming to continue their rise up the Grid in 2024. Last year, Williams had their best season since 2017 as they managed to put in some strong performances on their way to finishing 7th in the Constructors’ Standings. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Williams have achieved 7 Drivers’ World Championships, 9 Constructors’ World Championships, 114 Race Wins, 128 Pole Positions, and 313 Podiums! When it comes to their drivers, Williams have retained the duo of Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant.


Alex Albon is looking to have another strong year with Williams. Last year, Alex had a great season, scoring in 7 Grand Prix’s to ultimately finishing 13th in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Albon has achieved 2 Podiums. By the looks of it, Alex Albon has a contract with Williams till the end of 2025 and if that’s the case, Alex will certainly be hoping that his Williams car continues to improve.


As for his teammate, Logan Sargeant has no excuses in 2024. Last year, Logan struggled a lot in his Rookie Season, scoring just 1 point on his way to 21st in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Sargeant has scored one point in 22 starts. I think it’s fair to say that Logan Sargeant was lucky to keep his Williams seat for a second season. It’s now critical for Logan to show signs of improvement as otherwise, he won’t be in F1 in 2025.


Overall, the culture that Team Principal James Vowles is preaching is working incredibly well for Williams. However, with a weaker driver pairing than the teams in front of them, it may be hard for Williams to finish any higher in the Standings come the end of 2024.

 


Visa Cash App RB

Yes, you read that right, Visa Cash App RB is the name of an actual Formula 1 Team! Last year, Alpha Tauri (as they were previously known) had a pretty torrid time for the most part, but a strong end to the season saw them climb up the Constructors’ Standings to ultimately finish 8th. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, RB were able to win a couple of races during their days as both Toro Rosso and Alpha Tauri and their highest-ever Championship finish was 6th in 2008, 2019 (as Toro Rosso) and 2021 (as Alpha Tauri). When it comes to their drivers, Visa Cash App RB have retained the duo of Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo.


Yuki Tsunoda enters 2024 with a lot of pressure on his shoulders. Last year, Yuki had his best season in Formula 1 to date and his strong end to the campaign ultimately saw him finish 14th in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Yuki has scored 61 points in 63 Race starts and his best result was P4 in the 2021 ABU Dhabi Grand Prix. I think Yuki Tsunoda’s in a weird position as whilst he’s definitely improved as a driver, he’s still not an established driver on the F1 Grid and it feels like one bad year could see the end of Yuki in Formula 1.


As for his teammate, this could be an exciting year for Daniel Ricciardo. Last year, Daniel returned to the Formula 1 Grid with Alpha Tauri in Hungary, and despite breaking some bones in Zandvoort, he was still able to have a decent showing. Over the course of his F1 career, Ricciardo has achieved 8 Race Wins, 3 Pole Positions, and 32 Podiums. If Daniel Ricciardo can gel with his machinery and have a strong year, Danny Ric may well find himself back in a Red Bull come 2025.


Overall, Visa Cash App RB feel poised to have a strong year. If RB delivers a car that can compete and Tsunoda and Ricciardo drive at the level they can, I expect them to move up in the Championship Standings.

 


Kick Sauber

Yes, you read that right, Kick Sauber is the name of an actual Formula 1 Team! Their official name is actually Stake F1 Team, but I’m not calling them that! Last year, Alfa Romeo (as they were back then) were pretty poor for the most part on their way to finishing 9th in the Championship. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Sauber have achieved 1 Race Win, 1 Pole Position, and 27 Podiums. Sauber’s highest-ever Championship finish was second back in 2007 (as BMW Sauber). When it comes to their drivers, Kick Sauber have retained the pairing of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu for a third season.


Valtteri Bottas is hoping for a quicker car in 2024. Last year, Valtteri only managed to finish inside the points 4 times on his way to a 15th-place finish in the Drivers’ Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Bottas has achieved 10 Race Wins, 20 Pole Positions, and 67 Podiums. I feel like unless Valtteri Bottas has a stronger season than last year, this could well be his final year in Formula 1.


As for his teammate, Zhou Guanyu knows he needs to step up in 2024. Last year, Zhou only managed three points-scoring finishes (all P9’s) in the whole of the 2023 Season as he ultimately finished in a rather disappointing P18 (in the Standings). Over the course of his F1 career, Zhou has achieved 12 Points in 44 starts, with his highest finishing being P8 in the 2022 Canadian Grand Prix. With his contract up at the end of the year and a certain reigning Formula 2 Champion trying to find his way into the sport, Zhou Guanyu is going to need to connivingly beat his teammate if he wants to stay with Kick Sauber for 2025 (and beyond).


Overall, Kick Sauber will have the benefit of having plenty of CFD and Wind Tunnel time courtesy of them finishing so low down in the Constructors’ Championship last season. However, I don’t think that’s going to help them too much and I’d honestly be surprised if they finished any higher than 9th this year.

 


Haas

After relieving (the ever-popular) Guenther Steiner from his role as Team Principal, Ayao Komatsu is hoping to turn the ship around at Haas. Last year, despite having a pretty quick Qualifying car, Haas’ race pace was absolutely atrocious and it ultimately resulted with them returning back to being the worst team in Formula 1. Over the course of their Formula 1 career, Haas have achieved 1 Pole Position and their highest-ever Championship finish was 5th back in 2018. When it comes to their drivers, Haas have retained the experienced duo of Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen.


Nico Hulkenberg is hoping Haas give him a car that can compete for more points finishes. Last year, Nico showed a lot of great speed, but he ultimately only finished in the points twice (and one of those was a Sprint) on his way to finishing 16th in the Standings. Over the course of his F1 career, Hulkenberg has achieved 1 Pole Position and his highest Race finish was 4th (three times). Nico Hulkenberg is a good driver so I wouldn’t be surprised to see him trying to find a spot in a different team for next season.


As for his teammate, it feels like Kevin Magnussen is on borrowed time. Last year, Kevin was pretty poor, scoring just three points (all P10’s) on his way to a 19th-place finish in the Championship. Over the course of his F1 career, Magnussen has achieved 1 Pole Position and 1 Podium. To be honest, Kevin Magnussen was rather lucky to keep his Haas seat for 2024, and unless he comes out and beats his teammate, it seems pretty clear that K-Mag won’t be in F1 for much longer.


Overall, Haas are a bit of a mess if we’re being totally honest. Whilst the move to bring in Ayao Komatsu could prove to be a good one, it won’t ultimately be like that until at least next season which is very concerning for Haas fans.

 

The Calendar


Round 1: Bahrain Grand Prix (29th February-2nd March)

After months of waiting, Formula 1 finally returns for the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Bahrain International Circuit is 5.412 km (3.363 miles) long, it features 15 corners, and there will be 57 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 19 Bahrain Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2004, was won by Michael Schumacher. Last year, Max Verstappen took victory in a Red Bull 1-2 as Fernando Alonso secured a brilliant podium for Aston Martin. Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most Bahrain GP victories with 5 whilst Ferrari have won the race 7 different times. Also, it’s worth remembering that the Race is on a Saturday this year!

 


Round 2: Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (7th-9th March)

For the second straight weekend, the main Grand Prix itself will take place on a Saturday. The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is 6.174 km (3.836 miles) long, it features 27 corners, and there will be 50 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 3 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2021, was won by Lewis Hamilton. Last year, Sergio Perez took a great victory for Red Bull, ahead of his teammate Max Verstappen. Currently, there haven’t been any repeat winners in Saudi, but Red Bull have won twice. This one should not be missed!

 


Round 3: Australian Grand Prix (22nd-24th March)

Formula 1 heads back Down Under for the Australian Grand Prix. The Albert Park Circuit is 5.278 km (3.280 miles) long, it features 16 corners, and there will be 58 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 37 Australian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1985, was won by Keke Rosberg. Last year, Max Verstappen stayed calm to take victory in what was a pretty chaotic and long afternoon. Currently, Lex Davison and Michael Schumacher both hold the record for the most Australian GP victories with 4 whilst Ferrari have won the race 13 times. Let’s hope for another crazy Race!

 


Round 4: Japanese Grand Prix (5th-7th April)

Yes, you read that right, the Japanese Grand Prix is the 4th Round of the 2024 Formula 1 Season! The Suzuka Circuit is 5.807 km (3.608 miles) long, it features 18 corners, and there will be 53 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 37 Japanese Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1976, was won by Mario Andretti. Last year, Max Verstappen took victory as Red Bull secured the Constructors’ World Championship for another season. Currently, Michael Schumacher holds the record for the most Japanese GP victories with 6 whilst McLaren have won the race 9 times. Always a drivers’ favourite this one!

 


Round 5: Chinese Grand Prix (19th-21st April)

After years of being announced and then dropped from the Formula 1 Calendar, it looks like the Chinese Grand Prix will finally take place again! The Shanghai International Circuit is 5.451 km (3.387 miles) long, it features 16 corners, and there will be 56 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 16 Chinese Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2004, was won by Rubens Barrichello. The last Chinese Grand Prix, back in 2019, was won by Lewis Hamilton in what was actually the 1,000th Formula 1 Grand Prix. Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most Chinese GP victories with 6 whilst Mercedes have also won the race 6 times. Not only is this the first Sprint Weekend of the Season, but China will also finally have a home favourite to cheer on in the form of Zhou Guanyu.

 


Round 6: Miami Grand Prix (3rd-5th May)

For the first time in 2024, Formula 1 heads to the States for the Miami Grand Prix. The Miami International Autodrome is 5.412 km (3.363 miles) long, it features 19 corners, and there will be 57 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been two Miami Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2022, was won by Max Verstappen. Last year, Max Verstappen also took victory after coming through from 9th on the Grid. Currently, Verstappen holds the record for the most Miami GP victories with 2 whilst Red Bull have also obviously won both races. The Miami Grand Prix is also a Sprint Weekend so hopefully, we’ll see some better racing than years previous.

 


Round 7: Emilia Romagna Grand Prix (17th-19th May)

After a year away due to horrible flooding in the area, Formula 1 return to Imola for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari is 4.909 km (3.050 miles) long, it features 19 corners, and there will be 63 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been three Emilia Romagna Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2020, was won by Lewis Hamilton. Last year, the race and weekend as a whole was unfortunately called off. Currently, Max Verstappen holds the record for the most Emilia Romagna GP victories with 2 whilst Red Bull have also won the race two times. Another key thing to note is unlike 2022, Imola won’t be playing host to a Sprint Race.

 


Round 8: Monaco Grand Prix (24th-26th May)

Round 8 is the one everyone wants to win courtesy of it being host to the Monaco Grand Prix. The Circuit de Monaco is 3.337km (2.074 miles) long, it features 19 corners, and there will be 78 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 69 Monaco Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1950, was won by Juan Manuel Fangio. Last year, Max Verstappen was able to take another victory whilst Esteban Ocon finished a superb third for Alpine. Currently, Ayrton Senna holds the record for the most Monaco GP victories with 6 whilst McLaren have won the race 15 times! Whilst Monaco divides opinion in the eyes of Formula 1 fans, there’s no doubt that Monte Carlo plays host to the best Qualifying session of the season!

 


Round 9: Canadian Grand Prix (7th-9th June)

It’s now time for one of the most iconic Grand Prix’s of all time, the Canadian Grand Prix. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is 4.361 km (2.709 miles) long, it features 13 corners, and there will be 70 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 52 Canadian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1967, was won by Jack Brabham. Last year, it was an all-World Champions Podium as Max Verstappen headed Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Currently, both Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher hold the record for the most Canadian GP victories with 7 whilst McLaren have won the race 13 times. Let’s hope to see better racing in Canada this season.

 


Round 10: Spanish Grand Prix (21st-23rd June)

The Spanish Grand Prix takes place at a slightly later time than usual this year. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is 4.675 km (2.905 miles) long, it features 16 corners, and there will be 66 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 52 Spanish Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1951, was won by Juan Manuel Fangio. Last year, Max Verstappen scored a dominant victory as Mercedes celebrated a double Podium. Currently, both Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher hold the record for the most Spanish GP victories with 6 whilst Ferrari have won the race 12 times. With a new track coming in Madrid in a couple of years time, this will be one of your last chances to enjoy the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

 


Round 11: Austrian Grand Prix (28th-30th June)

Formula 1 returns to Austria for another Sprint Weekend. The Red Bull Ring is 4.318 km (2.683 miles) long, it features 10 corners, and there will be 71 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 36 Austrian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1964, was won by Lorenzo Bandini. Last year, Max Verstappen took victory yet again after nearly coming to blows with his teammate during the Sprint Race. Currently, Max Verstappen holds the record for the most Austrian GP victories with 4 whilst both Ferrari and McLaren have won the race 6 times. I’ll be honest, this is one of my personal favourites!

 


Round 12: British Grand Prix (5th-7th July)

The British Grand Prix is definitely a fan favourite! Silverstone is 5.891 km (3.660 miles) long, it features 18 corners, and there will be 52 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 73 British Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1950, was won by Giuseppe Farina. Last year, Max Verstappen was able to take victory ahead of the home heroes Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton. Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most British GP victories with 8 whilst Ferrari have won the race an amazing 18 times! Silverstone always tends to be a fun one!

 


Round 13: Hungarian Grand Prix (19th-21st July)

Round 13 sees the return of the Hungarian Grand Prix. The Hungaroring is 4.381 km (2.722 miles) long, it features 14 corners, and there will be 70 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 38 Hungarian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1986, was won by Nelson Piquet. Last year, Max Verstappen won the race (shock) by nearly 34 seconds! Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most Hungarian GP victories with 8 whilst McLaren have won the race 11 times. Fingers crossed for some closer action this year!

 


Round 14: Belgian Grand Prix (26th-28th July)

The final stop before the Summer Break sees Formula 1 head to Spa for the Belgian Grand Prix! The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is 7.004 km (4.352 miles) long, it features 20 corners, and there will be 44 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 68 Belgian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1950, was won by Juan Manuel Fangio. Last year, Max Verstappen dominated again to take victory whilst Carlos Sainz and Oscar Piastri were involved in a first-corner incident. Currently, Michael Schumacher holds the record for the most Belgian GP victories with 6 whilst Ferrari have won the race 18 times. There’s no doubting the fact that Spa is one of the most iconic circuits in the world.

 


Round 15: Dutch Grand Prix (23rd-25th August)

After 4 weeks off, Formula 1 returns in Zandvoort for the Dutch Grand Prix. The Circuit Zandvoort is 4.259 km (2.646 miles) long, it features 14 corners, and there will be 72 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 33 Dutch Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1952, was won by Alberto Ascari. Last year, Max Verstappen took a record-equalling 9th-straight victory in what was a chaotic Grand Prix (my race of the season). Currently, Jim Clark holds the record for the most Dutch GP victories with 4 whilst Ferrari have won the race 8 times. If you’re a fan of the colour orange, you’ll love this place!

 


Round 16: Italian Grand Prix (30th August-1st September)

Round 16 plays home to the land of the Tifosi, the Italian Grand Prix. Monza is 5.793 km (3.600 miles) long, it features 11 corners, and there will be 53 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 74 Italian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1950, was won by Giuseppe Farina. Last year, Max Verstappen took his record-breaking 10th-straight victory despite a strong fight from the two Ferrari’s. Currently, both Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton hold the record for the most Italian GP victories with 5 whilst Ferrari have won their home race 19 times! I have no doubt that the Tifosi will be cheering Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz on in Monza.

 


Round 17: Azerbaijan Grand Prix (13th-15th September)

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix appears a lot later in the 2024 F1 Calendar than in previous years. The Baku City Circuit is 6.003 km (3.730 miles) long, it features 20 corners, and there will be 51 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 6 Azerbaijan Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2017, was won by Daniel Ricciardo. Last year, Sergio Perez took victory in what was one of the dullest Races I have ever seen! Currently, Sergio Perez holds the record for the most Azerbaijan GP victories with 2 (he’s actually the only repeat winner) whilst Red Bull have won the race 4 times. You just never truly know what you’re going to get on the street’s of Baku (in a good and a bad way).

 


Round 18: Singapore Grand Prix (20th-22nd September)

It’s back-to-back Street Races as Round 18 plays host to the Singapore Grand Prix. The Marina Bay Street Circuit is 4.940 km (3.070 miles) long, it features 19 corners, and there will be 62 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 14 Singapore Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2008, was won by Fernando Alonso. Last year, Carlos Sainz took home a sensational victory as Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s winning streak finally came to an end. Currently, Sebastian Vettel holds the record for the most Singapore GP victories with 5 whilst Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari have all won this race 4 times each. I recommend you enjoy this weekend as there’s going to be a big break before the next one.

 


Round 19: United States Grand Prix (18th-20th October)

After about a month off, Formula 1 returns to Austin, Texas for the United States Grand Prix. The Circuit of the America’s is 5.513 km (3.426 miles) long, it features 20 corners, and there will be 56 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 44 US Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1959, was won by Bruce McLaren. Last year, Max Verstappen took victory whilst both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc suffered a post-race disqualification. Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most United States GP victories with 6 whilst Ferrari have won the race 10 times. COTA will also play host to the return of the Sprint Format.

 


Round 20: Mexico City Grand Prix (25th-27th October)

This could well be Sergio Perez’s last chance to win his home race! The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez is 4.304 km (2.674 miles) long, it features 17 corners, and there will be 71 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 23 Mexican Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1963, was won by Jim Clark. Last year, Max Verstappen cruised home to take victory after his teammate Sergio Perez crashed in the opening corner. Currently, Max Verstappen holds the record for the most Mexican GP victories with 5 whilst Red Bull have also won the race 5 times. I like Mexico City, but it’s fair to say that the racing hasn’t been particularly great for a while.



Round 21: Sao Paulo Grand Prix (1st-3rd November)

In my opinion, the best weekend of the season takes place in Round 21 as it plays host to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. The Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace is 4.309 km (2.677 miles) long, it features 15 corners, and there will be 71 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 50 Brazilian Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 1973, was won by Emerson Fittipaldi. Last year, Max Verstappen won from Lando Norris whilst Fernando Alonso pulled out a dramatic last-lap overtake to beat Sergio Perez to third! Currently, Alain Prost holds the record for the most Brazilian GP victories with 6 whilst McLaren have won the race 12 times. I love Interlagos, and it also tends to produce by far the best Sprint Race of the year.

 


Round 22: Las Vegas Grand Prix (21st-23rd November)

After an entertaining “first” Grand Prix, Formula 1 will be hoping for more of the same when they return to the bright lights of Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is 6.201 km (3.853 miles) long, it features 17 corners, and there will be 50 laps during the Grand Prix. Last year, Max Verstappen had to fight hard to take victory in what was a really fun race. As long as F1 can do a better job when it comes to making this race accessible for the actual fans, I’m looking forward to this weekend.

 


Round 23: Qatar Grand Prix (29th November-1st December)

The Qatar Grand Prix plays host to the penultimate round of the Formula 1 Season. The Lusail International Circuit is 5.380 km (3.343 miles) long, it features 16 corners, and there will be 57 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 2 Qatar Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2021, was won by Lewis Hamilton. Last year, Max Verstappen took victory in a race that will be remembered for pushing a lot of drivers out and over their comfort zones. Currently, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen hold the record for the most Qatar GP victories with 1 each and the same can be said about Mercedes and Red Bull. Qatar will also play host to a Sprint Weekend once again which should be quite fun.

 


Round 24: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (6th-8th December)

As per usual, the end of another Formula 1 Season takes place in Abu Dhabi. The Yas Marina Circuit is 5.281 km (3.281 miles) long, it features 16 corners, and there will be 58 laps during the Grand Prix. In total, there have been 15 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s and the inaugural race, held in 2009, was won by Sebastian Vettel. Last year, Max Verstappen took home his 19th victory of the season as George Russell managed to pick up an important Podium for Mercedes. Currently, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for the most Abu Dhabi GP victories with 5 whilst Red Bull have won the race 7 times. For a lot of drivers, this weekend will see the end of an era for them.


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