6 things to WATCH out for at the United States GP
6 things to WATCH out for at the United States GP
After making its F1 debut in 2012 the Circuit of the Americas has become a fan favourite while hosting last year's dramatic world title conclusion, here's what to look out for at the United States Grand Prix.
After making its F1 debut in 2012 the Circuit of the Americas has become a fan favourite while hosting last year's dramatic world title conclusion, here's what to look out for at the United States Grand Prix.
Hamilton hung up on media calls
Lewis Hamilton’s build up to the Japanese Grand Prix took a turn last time out when he clashed with the media after being called disrespectful for his Snapchat antics during the FIA pre-event Thursday drivers’ press conference. The Mercedes driver gave a parting speech on Saturday in his media session stating he wouldn’t be answering questions after the backlash. Cue FIA’s call for Hamilton to attend another pre-event press conference in Austin. Will he snap, will he chat or will he Snapchat?
Rosberg’s revenge
Nico Rosberg suffered his ultimate low at Circuit of the Americas 12 months ago when slipped of the track while leading and duly lost out to Hamilton and with it the F1 world championship. Fast-forward to this weekend and Rosberg could potentially land a knockout blow in the title fight entering the United States GP with a 33-point lead. Win in Austin and surely the title will be his.
Sunshine or showers?
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After last year’s storms which delayed qualifying into Sunday morning, while producing some unique entertainment from the pits (Remember Daniel Ricciardo and Daniil Kvyat ballroom dancing, Toro Rosso bowling and Sauber canoeing?) the chances of similar storms are slim with bright and sunny skies forecast. But who knows whether the weather will hold.
Century stand for Grosjean as USA Haas new home favourites
It might have been a rocky start to Romain Grosjean’s F1 career but the French driver has proven any doubters wrong as he prepares for his 100th F1 race start. Grosjean was made to wait for his century with a DNS at Singapore earlier this season but it forced a quirky crossover with Haas set to enjoy its maiden home race as the first American F1 team in 30 years. Both team and driver have plenty of motivation to put on a show for the Austin crowd.
Driver market continues to rumble
With Renault securing Nico Hulkenberg’s signature for 2017 other deals are starting to gather pace. Pascal Wehrlein looks favourite to take up the vacant race seat at Force India. Kevin Magnussen and Jolyon Palmer (plus a couple of others) continue to sweat over their place at Renault. Newly-crowned Euro F3 champion Lance Stroll is favourite for Williams.
Renault hopes to make progress stick in Austin
Despite failing to land points at Suzuka it was easily Renault’s best all-round performance of the year and added strength to the notion on the French manufacturer’s recent improvements. With a potential drive on the line, Magnussen and Palmer will be eager to prove they’re the ones who can continue its development path.