It seems like it was just yesterday that the smell of burning rubber and the roar of turbocharged engines last assaulted our senses as the 2023 Formula 1 season came to a close. The winter break seems to have zoomed by quicker than Max Verstappen last year, and the season is already kicking off with the 20th anniversary of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Kristian Harrison gives his thoughts and predictions for the season ahead.
One cannot discuss the prospects of the 2024 Formula 1 season without acknowledging the formidable presence of Max Verstappen. The Dutch maestro’s imperious display in 2023 catapulted him to unprecedented heights of dominance, rewriting the record books with unparalleled prowess. With an astounding 19 victories out of 22 races and a trifecta of championship titles under his belt, Verstappen stands as the undisputed favourite to clinch yet another crown in 2024.
Despite the prospect of fiercer competition on the horizon, Verstappen’s relentless drive for excellence and Red Bull’s unwavering commitment to success position them as formidable adversaries. While replicating the sheer magnitude of his achievements from the previous season might prove challenging, Verstappen’s sheer talent and determination make him a formidable force to reckon with on the grid.
In tandem with Verstappen’s brilliance, Red Bull Racing emerges as the frontrunner for the constructors’ championship in 2024. The team’s meticulous approach to car development, evident from their early initiatives dating back to July 2023, underscores their unwavering commitment to maintaining their competitive edge.
With Verstappen spearheading their charge, Red Bull’s dominance in the constructors’ arena appears virtually unassailable. The staggering performance differentials witnessed in the previous season, coupled with the continuity in driver lineup, bode well for their prospects of securing yet another constructors’ title.
Of course, the biggest story in the world of F1 is Lewis Hamilton’s decision to move to Ferrari in 2025. Almost everyone thought he would retire at the team where he has won six of his seven World Championships, but the iconic allure of the famous red team proved too much even for him.
As he prepares for one final hurrah with his Mercedes team, can he get back to winning ways? A championship tilt seems highly unlikely in the wake of Red Bull’s domination, but there were signs in 2023 that Mercedes had got their car development back on track.
Amidst the absence of rookies on the grid in 2024, eyes turn towards the prospect of seasoned campaigners making their mark as surprise stars of the season.
In this regard, I’m going for Alex Albon as my compelling candidate poised to upset the established order. The Thai-British driver’s commendable performances in 2023, characterised by stellar defensive drives and notable point-scoring finishes, showcase his latent potential. Teaming up with Williams, Albon’s prowess behind the wheel coupled with the team’s quest for improvement could pave the way for podium aspirations, injecting an element of unpredictability into the season.
Amidst the tapestry of uncertainties and conjectures that define the Formula 1 landscape, one bold prediction emerges as a beacon of anticipation – Lando Norris finally triumphing on the grand stage. The McLaren prodigy’s meteoric rise through the ranks, punctuated by commendable podium finishes, near misses and establishing himself as the fan favourite leaves that elusive win as a final target.
Amidst the unpredictability and fervour that permeate the world of motorsport, one constant remains – the unwavering passion and fervent anticipation that unite fans and drivers alike in the timeless pursuit of speed, glory and triumph. It should be a good one, and hopefully a little more competitive this time.
