The Formula 1 circus could make one final stop in France this weekend as the contract with the event’s organizers expires at the end of this season.
By the way, according to several specialized websites, the first draft of the 2023 calendar would not include France or Belgium.
The arrival of Las Vegas and the likely return of the Qatar, Chinese and South African Grands Prix (after several years of absence) are not only raising concerns about the survival of the race held at Le Castellet.
This 12th stage of the F1 World Championship will be an opportunity for Max Verstappen to consolidate his place as leader of the standings, comfortably 38 points clear of his closest rival Charles Leclerc.
hat trick
After conceding victory to the Monegasque at Red Bull’s country side in Austria two weeks ago, the Dutchman is aiming to return to first place on the podium this Sunday in the south of France.
Last year Verstappen had dominated at that time with a hat trick, the lead, the fastest lap and the win.
“With the new cars that will be presented this year, we have to see how our single-seater does,” said Verstappen. Friday day [demain] will be crucial for the future. The route includes technical passages and fast corners in the last section.
“It will be important to watch the tires,” he added, especially as it will be very hot. »
France is not spared from the heat wave that is raging in Europe. The launch is expected to take place at a temperature of around 35 degrees Celsius.
100 years of Aston Martin
As part of Aston Martin’s 100th anniversary celebrations, driver Sebastian Vettel will take a symbolic lap aboard the 1922 TT1 single-seater.
“The history of this discipline fascinates me,” said the four-time world champion. And I am happy to drive this car. »
His teammate Lance Stroll is hoping for a good result for the team led by his father Lawrence.
“I want to celebrate 100 years with a good result,” said the Quebec rider, limited to a low harvest of three points since the start of the season.