From Abu Dhabi to the Race of Champions, F1 drivers keep themselves busy during the offseason
The winter break is approached in different ways by each Formula 1 driver. While some prefer to focus on their physical preparation or spend time with their family, others take advantage of it to engage in more demanding disciplines.
Not too far from the slopes.
Some drivers take advantage of this free period in their schedule to participate in car competitions that they cannot take part in during the Formula 1 World Championship. Kevin Magnussen, for example, returned to endurance racing for a weekend during the Abu Dhabi 12 Hours, which took place on the Yas Marina circuit at the beginning of December.
The Danish driver drove behind the wheel of a Ferrari 488 GT3 from the MDK Motorsport team, and he was piloting alongside his father Jan Magnussen, who is also a former Formula 1 driver. He finished this endurance race with a respectable 5th place in his category.
Valtteri Bottas will also return to the track before the start of the 2023 season, but on a different surface: the Finn will participate in the Race of Champions in Sweden at the end of January.
The leading driver of Alfa Romeo will defend the colors of his nation alongside Mika Hakkinen at the ROC nations Cup, and he will compete against other drivers individually in order to chase the title of champion of champions.
More conservative.
Another part of the Formula 1 World Championship grid has not disrupted its habits. Similar to Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, who have both spent time with their families and enjoyed a few skiing sessions, a sport popular among drivers every winter. The reigning world champion hasn’t communicated much about these activities during the winter break.
However, the Dutch driver did not remain inactive, as he indeed took part in the virtual 24 Hours of Le Mans at the beginning of this January. He has been preparing for this prestigious race for months, which is considered the most significant event in the world of Sim-Racing. Although he was unable to defend his chances of victory despite spending several hours in the lead due to numerous disconnections, the Red Bull driver demonstrated that he had not lost any of his speed and consistency.
