The Formula 1 season in 2024 will kick off with F1 testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. It’s an exciting time as we get to see the F1 cars live on track for the first time this year, and there is a lot of anticipation building up.
The bookmakers have Max Verstappen and Red Bull as the favorites to defend their titles from 2023, but testing could change everything. So, what should we be paying attention to? And does testing really reflect what we’ll see in the opening race weekend, which falls on Thursday, February 29 to Saturday, March 2 due to Ramadan?
From the comfort of our homes, it may not seem like much is happening during F1 testing, but there is actually a lot going on. With only eight-and-a-half hours of running over three days, teams are focused on reliability. While there is an engine freeze until the end of 2025, updates have been made to the software and packaging of power units from Ferrari, Mercedes, Honda, and Renault, which is allowed under the regulations.
The gearbox is also a crucial component that needs to be properly fitted and functioning correctly in the early stages of a new car. The teams accumulate miles to evaluate this. Each team can only have one car on track, so some teams will have the same driver throughout the day, while others will switch drivers between sessions.
Testing and DTS week are here! This is our first taste of action in 2024 with F1 testing, and Formula 1: Drive To Survive presents the 2023 season in a whole new way.
The more miles teams accumulate during testing, the more knowledge they gain. This is the main purpose of pre-season testing. Once the teams are confident that everything is working as intended and aligns with their observations at the factory, they can start focusing on performance towards the end of day two and throughout day three.
Teams also use testing to evaluate different setups, engine modes, tire pressures, and more. They hope that what they have seen in the wind tunnel translates to performance on the track. This was a challenge for Mercedes in 2022, as they were confident in their car’s shape based on factory observations, but they didn’t anticipate the issues with a bouncy car, known as porpoising, experienced by Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
The relationship between the driver and the engineers is crucial during testing. Ideally, teams should be improving with each run or at least learning from them. However, the final testing leaderboard doesn’t always reflect the actual pecking order. In previous years, drivers who finished testing in the top positions didn’t necessarily occupy the top positions in the first qualifying or race of the season.
Reliability is a key factor that can be observed during testing. Mercedes consistently had high lap counts during their period of dominance from 2014 to 2021, which provided valuable data for upgrades before the start of the season. In 2022, Red Bull had a higher lap count than Ferrari, indicating their stronger reliability throughout the season. Mercedes also had a strong final day of testing, which translated into a season with no reliability retirements.
However, testing is not just about lap counts. The eye test is also important. In 2022, Mercedes struggled with porpoising while Ferrari handled the bumps better and set the pace at the start of the season. Additionally, Mercedes’ race run was slower compared to Ferrari’s. In 2023, Red Bull showed strong race pace during testing, which continued into the first race and beyond. On the other hand, McLaren struggled and had low mileage during testing, and this trend continued in the first race in Bahrain.
Source: total-motorsport.com
2024
In the year 2024, a significant event took place. This event had a major impact on the world and captured the attention of many. It was a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
The event was filled with excitement and anticipation. People from all walks of life gathered to witness this extraordinary occurrence. The atmosphere was electric, and the energy in the air was palpable.
As the event unfolded, spectators were on the edge of their seats. The tension grew with each passing moment. It was a nail-biting experience for everyone involved.
The participants showcased their skills and talents, leaving the audience in awe. Their dedication and hard work were evident in every move they made. It was a display of sheer determination and perseverance.
The event came to a thrilling conclusion, leaving the crowd in a state of euphoria. Cheers and applause filled the air as the winners were announced. It was a moment of triumph and celebration.
In the aftermath of the event, discussions and debates ensued. People analyzed every aspect of what had transpired. Opinions were exchanged, and theories were formed. The event had sparked a global conversation.
Looking back, the significance of this event cannot be understated. It was a defining moment in history, a testament to the power of human achievement. It will forever be etched in the collective memory of those who witnessed it.
As we move forward, we can only wonder what the future holds. Will there be more events of this magnitude? Only time will tell. But one thing is for certain, the impact of this event will be felt for years to come.
