Out of proportion to this year’s technical revolution, the 2023 Formula 1 season will bring its share of novelties, starting with an expanded calendar of 24 Grands Prix. Here is an overview of the expected changes.
The longest
There will be another new kid on the block, the Las Vegas GP. Liberty Media – an American company – has added a third test in the United States.
As the French GP departs, the Qatar GP is making a comeback. China should also return but will be replaced again due to COVID-19. April 16th has been retained on the calendar and an alternative stopover may be announced.
It will be the longest season in sports history and will run from March 3rd to November 26th.
Waltz of the pilots
As always, there will be changes in the driver contingent. Canadian Nicholas Latifi was notably fired by Williams after finishing 20th and last overall among regular drivers. He is replaced by American Logan Sargeant.
Sargeant will be one of three rookies on the starting lineup in 2023. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and AlphaTauri’s Nyck de Vries are the others. They respectively replace Daniel Ricciardo, who will be without a steering wheel next season, and Pierre Gasly, who will join Alpine.
Gasly will replace Fernando Alonso, himself called up by Aston Martin to replace newly retired Sebastian Vettel. The Quebecer Lance Stroll will again face a world champion.
Finally, Nico Hülkenberg, who has acted as a luxury reserve a few times since the beginning of the pandemic, is back as a starter. He joins Haas and replaces Mick Schumacher.
There will also be changes to the bosses. Following the retirement of Mattia Binotto, Frédéric Vasseur was recruited at the helm of Ferrari. Alfa Romeo has therefore hired Andreas Seidl from McLaren as the new director. McLaren itself promoted Andrea Stella to leader of the squad. Williams is in recruitment following the departure of Jost Capito.
More sprints
In terms of regulations, there will be few changes. Porpoises, the high-speed car impact phenomenon caused by ground effect, is measured and limited. The aim is to ensure the health and safety of the pilots.
On a sporting level, the season includes six sprint races. Organized in place of the third free practice, these shorter events allow the grid to be rearranged after qualifying.
Under regulations – and also a penalty for exceeding the budget cap in 2021 – Red Bull will only be able to enjoy 63% of allotted time in the wind tunnel. Additionally, each team will have a different wind tunnel usage time depending on their position in the Constructors Championship, with Williams having an advantage due to their 10th and last place finish.
The budget cap was lowered to $135 million. This year it was $142.4 million.