The current Formula One season was delayed due to the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. Few countries in the world are sufficiently free of the virus to currently stage a Formula One Grand Prix. After many cancellations, the season finally got underway in Spielberg, Austria at the Red Bull Ring between the 3 and 5 July behind closed doors. The race was won by Valtteri Bottas with a time of 1.30.55 with Charles Leclerc in second place followed by Lando Norris. Interestingly this was the first-ever podium finish by Maclaren’s Norris.
Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton eventually finished fourth after being penalised for clashing with Alexander Albon on lap 61. The penalty awarded to Hamilton ensured that Maclaren started the season with their first podium place since 2014. The build-up to the first race was dominated by Hamilton’s plea for all drivers to “take the knee” in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. After several meetings, six drivers chose not to follow this gesture of support, but all other drivers showed solidarity.
Sebastian Vettel
The pre-race build-up was also dominated by the news that Ferrari did not wish to renew Vettel’s contract, which is in its final year. He is to be replaced by Carlos Sainz from the start of the next season. Interestingly Vettel tried to overtake Sainz with 30 laps to go, but the move was not successful, and he ended up spinning off the track. He eventually finished in 10th place as a result of this ambitious manoeuvre.
What Next for Formula One?
Further races have been scheduled as follows:
- 10 to 12 of July in Austria
- 17 to 19 of July in Hungary
- 31 to 2 of August in Great Britain
- 7 to 9 of August in Great Britain
- 14 to 16 of August in Spain
- 28 to 30 of August in Belgium
- 4 to 6 of September in Italy
Watch out for more excitement to come!
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