The F1 2023 season was a mix of emotions breathtaking races, unexpected overtaking, heart-pounding final laps and unforgettable performances. As we reflect on the season now over, let’s delve into five of the most exciting moments that, in my opinion, defined this year’s Formula One racing.
1. Max Verstappen: the hunger of a three-time world champion
His 2023 season was historic for F1. Something that will be remembered for years. He achieved 53 career victories, surpassing Ayrton Senna’s record. He set new benchmarks in Formula One, including the most victories in a single season and the longest uninterrupted winning streak. Max smiles and doesn’t make anyone smile, he eats and leaves a few crumbs on his plate for those who are still very hungry. But it is not a deliberate gesture of altruism. Who would ever want to leave space for the names of their opponents on the pages of their history? And the 2024 chapter is still being written. In the meantime, Max is a three-time world champion, alongside Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet, Niki Lauda, Jack Brabham, and Sir Jackie Stewart.
2. Fernando Alonso: the man who runs faster than time
One of the moments that will be difficult to forget is the Brazilian Grand Prix. In this race he put on an impressive show, showing off his experience, cunning nature and skill in a head-to-head battle with Sergio Perez, thus securing third place by just 0.053 seconds. Alonso doesn’t know what it means to give up. At the age of 42, he is still hungry for victory. And he demonstrated it on this track, with his consistency and determination.
His lesson in Interlagos was a true master’s lesson on how to defend yourself until the last moment. He played with the trajectories and calculated ways and times. This clear show of his invaluable experience allowed him to snatch the podium from Perez. In a driver like Alonso, age matters very little. Driven by an unstoppable hunger, he is intent on proving that he is still one of the best on the grid.
3. Lewis Hamilton proving that sensitivity makes the difference
Mercedes’ race in Mexico confirmed how knowing how to manage the car and tires is one of the most important qualities for an F1 driver. And Lewis Hamilton made an art of it. The problems of the W14 forced Mercedes to make complicated choices, sacrificing something at every race.
In Mexico, in order to produce a significant lap time in qualifying and maintain a good pace in the race, the technicians adopted a greater load on the rear, consequently penalizing the top speed. Due to this, it took Hamilton a long time at the start of the GP to work his way up the grid. Yet he is considered the master of tire management. This ability can make a significant difference, especially on circuits like Mexico, where climate conditions greatly affect the cars’ performance. Thanks to his clean driving, he managed to obtain second place despite the various problems related to the car.
4. Oscar Piastri’s victory in the sprint race
Piastri had an excellent rookie season, highlighted by a sprint win in Qatar, showing his potential while competing alongside teammate Lando Norris. The 22-year-old from McLaren prevailed ahead of Max Verstappen, second with Red Bull and mathematically champion for the third time in a row. And in doing so, Oscar Piastri takes his first victory in Formula 1 by winning the Sprint Race of the Doha GP with McLaren.
Of all the drivers on the grid this year, the one who is best embodying that desire to achieve even greater success is the young Aussie. Very few errors, consistent performance, and solid performances have made him one of the strongest on the current grid. Together with his teammate Lando Norris, and the team, they did a great job. And everyone, from next year, will have to deal with him too.
5. Carlos Sainz’s victory at the Singapore GP
The Singapore Grand Prix was a breath of fresh air for the Ferrari Team with the victory of Carlos Sainz. The masterful driving of Carlos Sainz prevented Red Bull from taking victory in every race of the f1 2023 season. Pure smarts for what was one of the most unpredictable races of the season. The feat belongs to the extraordinary Carlos Sainz, who triumphed at the Singapore GP and interrupted Red Bull’s domination which had continued for 14 races since the start of the season.
A race of strong nerves and cold blood, in command from the first to the last lap but under siege for most of the race. The Iberian Ferrari driver ultimately wins with notable tactical intelligence: he does not give in to the pressure of his pursuers and keeps them in line throughout the final part of the race. After 434 days, Ferrari returns to the podium thanks to the cunning of the Spaniard.
