5 Bold Predictions for F1 in 2023 – By Joe Murphy
With all eyes now turning towards the spring of next year, there are many things to ponder in the world of Formula 1. A shaken up grid with teams set to shuffle around in terms of pace, it’s near impossible to predict. Let’s have a go anyway…
Ricciardo to replace Perez for at least one session…
Daniel Ricciardo will be devastated not to be on the starting grid next year. The eight-time race winner has had to settle for a reserve seat at former employers Red Bull behind Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. With the Australian probably on a hefty contract compared to other reserve drivers, Red Bull will want to use Danny Ricc in at least some capacity. Rumours are he will replace Checo in 2024, but these are confirmed for now. However, you can be sure the Australian will be involved at some point next year, perhaps even in a race situation should circumstances allow.
Ferrari to go entire season winless…
With the recent change in team principal at Ferrari, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the Italian constructor will be stronger than ever next year. They had arguably the strongest qualifying car last year and, had it not been for some questionable strategies, they may have taken the fight to Red Bull rather more substantially. However, expect 2022 to be their best chance as they will be further down the pecking order. With Mercedes and Red Bull set to pass the Prancing Horses in terms of performance, it could be a difficult year for the Tiffosi. It may be pretty inconceivable at this moment in time, but Ferrari could struggle next year and be battling to hang onto third in the standings, rather than being an outright contender at the top.
A man will Nyck Tsunoda’s #1 seat…
Nyck de Vries will score more points than Yuki Tsunoda. The rookie impressed at Monza last year and although this will be the Japanese driver’s third year in the sport, he could become under increasing pressure to hold on to his place. With Pierre Gasly departing to Alpine, Yuki has been unofficially promoted to first choice driver. However, keep an eye out for the young, ex-Mercedes academy driver to pull out some brilliant performances whilst simultaneously piling on the pressure on his new teammate.
Alonso to Stroll passed Lance…
Maybe the least controversial entry on this list. Fernando Alonso, mechanical issues aside, will out qualify Lance Stroll in every single race session. Don’t get me wrong, I like Lance and he is fully worthy of his seat. However, bringing in Fernando Alonso may have the adverse effect. Rather than allowing the young Canadian to learn from the Spanish veteran, it could engulf him to an extent of embarrassment. Race finishes are less predictable, but with the head to head qualy battle, it could be as one sided as Latifi v Russell a couple of years ago. Anyone for a Vettel return to partner Alonso in 2024. Now that would be spicy.
George Russell – World Champion…
Now, predictions don’t get much more bold than this. George Russell is a genuine title Contender for next season, and could be the only driver in with a chance of ending Max Verstappen’s run of dominance. Ferrari, will falter. Perez, isn’t Red Bull’s priority. The only other option would be Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes will improve next year but don’t forget, George beat his older teammate in the same car in only his first season with the team. He demonstrated maturity and confidence, whilst also being incredibly consistent. Furthermore, first pole and race win are now in the books, the pressure will be off. It will be a closer run fight than we saw in 2022, but there’s no reason why George cannot shock the world in 2023.
WHEEL2WHEEL REPORTS 