The reigning champions of the 2023 F1 season, who have achieved victory in 21 out of 22 races, revealed their new RB20 vehicle last week. The design aspects of the car bear resemblance to those previously experimented with and discarded by rival team Mercedes in the previous season. Despite initial doubts, the truth behind these similarities will become evident on Wednesday. However, it is important to note that the lap times during testing may not carry significant meaning as teams engage in various developmental programs.
Bernie Collins, a former performance engineer at McLaren and current strategist for Aston Martin, expressed doubt regarding the authenticity of the launch car. In a podcast with Sky Sports F1, Collins stated, “Let us witness the true performance of the car on the first day in Bahrain, as I am uncertain if it will truly be the same car unveiled during the launch. This could potentially be a mere joke. Hence, my suspicions are heightened. If they do present the same car, it would be a bold and courageous move, as they could have easily continued developing their existing car, which would have been the safer choice. By choosing to proceed with this car, they must have identified certain elements that give them confidence in surpassing the performance of their previous development.”
The investigation into allegations made against Horner, who will be present in Bahrain, by a female employee is yet to be concluded. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. The teams of Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren, and Aston Martin all aspire to narrow the gap between themselves and Verstappen, who is striving for his fourth consecutive F1 title this season. However, the true hierarchy among these teams may not become evident for some time.
Seven-time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton will address the media for the first time since his move to Ferrari in 2025 was announced. This will provide him with a clearer understanding of the competitive nature of his Mercedes car. There is also considerable interest surrounding the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, now known as Visa Cash App RB, as they have established closer ties with the main Red Bull team and may possess a more competitive vehicle.
Due to the expansion of the championship to a record-breaking 24 races, teams are only allocated three days of testing with one car each. The track time has been reduced accordingly. Consequently, drivers will have only one and a half days of practice on the track before the season opener on March 2. The first two races, held in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, will take place on Saturdays to accommodate the start of Ramadan on March 10.
During the launch of his team’s car, Fernando Alonso, a double world champion with Aston Martin, expressed his belief that there should be more time allocated for testing and more cars on the track. He questioned the decision to limit teams to one car, stating, “I do not understand why we are not allowed to have two cars, especially when we are already in Bahrain and racing the following week.” (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)
According to grandprix247.com
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In a shocking turn of events, a major scandal has rocked the sports world. The scandal involves a high-profile athlete who has been accused of cheating during a championship game. The allegations are currently under investigation, but if proven true, it could have serious consequences for the athlete’s career and reputation.
The athlete in question has been a dominant force in their sport for years, earning numerous accolades and endorsements. However, this scandal threatens to tarnish their legacy and leave a permanent stain on their record. Fans and fellow athletes alike are expressing their disappointment and disbelief at the news.
The details of the alleged cheating have not been fully disclosed, but insiders claim that there is substantial evidence to support the accusations. The athlete’s team and representatives have yet to release an official statement, leaving fans and the media speculating about their response and potential consequences.
This scandal serves as a reminder that even the most respected and successful athletes are not immune to controversy. It also highlights the importance of fair play and integrity in sports. As the investigation unfolds, the sports world will be watching closely to see how this scandal unfolds and what impact it will have on the athlete’s future.
