Pilots between excitement and skepticism
Absent from the calendar since 2020, Albert Park hasn't held back on its changes: its ultra-fast section is a zone that the drivers appreciate. But what about overtaking?
Who would have thought, just two years ago, that the Melbourne circuit would require engine power? With wider turns, it’s already faster… so with its huge full throttle section, we even went below 1’20” per lap!
After the first two free sessions, the grip was up to par on the track. Max Verstappen, the world champion, noted improvements on all fronts.
« It’s really very good, the grip is quite good on the track and the bumps have been fixed. I find the track better because we can now attack the corners better (…). They did a good job. »
Other drivers have shared their enthusiasm: Lando Norris, after a successful Friday, spoke about an exciting circuit, while Pierre Gasly added to this by saying that the faster you go, the less room for error.
Overtakings: not any easier!
The same Pierre Gasly, however, tempers his excitement: “I don’t know if it will be better or not for the race. We’ll have to wait and see. We might not have as good a race as in Jeddah. I hope I’m wrong!”
A change in the circuit could be a blessing for Daniel Ricciardo, the local hero. He has never achieved a podium finish at home (including his disqualification in 2014, when he had finished second).
“Honey Badger” suspects that the race could lack overtakes… but that wouldn’t be such a bad thing after all!
« Come back to me on Sunday evening to discuss it again! » he chuckled.
« With the fourth DRS zone, it could improve things. It won’t be ten times better, but definitely better than before. We might see fewer overtakes, but more closeness between the cars. »
After all, isn’t that what is sought after in F1: fewer overtakes, but long battles?
