Whatever camp you sit in for Formula 1, there’s no question - the 2021 finale was a nail biter.
However, while this race and subsequent circuits were hotly discussed, this year is set to see some big changes. New rules, a brand new course and some team alterations will be making their way to the start grid. And that’s not forgetting the cars. Some teams have already unveiled impressive designs ahead of pre-season testing, while others are coming very soon.
So with the new season just around the corner, let’s check out what we already know about the calendar, cars and technical overhauls.
Formula 1 car changes
2022 will see significant changes to the aerodynamics of Formula 1 cars. The major difference is a return to a ground-effect package. This design was ruled out in 1982 but has since returned to give a closer, more exciting race. Tyres are also different with cars moving to an 18-inch rim.
Wheel covers are making a comeback too, and a new type of wheel bodywork will minimise the effects of wake as they rotate. Dampeners and springs are now only permitted for suspension, and sole torsion bars are no longer allowed. There are several other changes to wings and endplates among other design aspects.
F1 rule changes in 2022
Alongside car and technical modifications, F1 has some rule changes to add to the mix. The main element is alterations to the wind tunnel and CFD testing structure. This year, there’ll also be more sprint races. Plus, the cost cap is dropping again from $145 million in 2021 to $140 million in 2022. There could be a further drop in 2023, with the hope it’ll bring cars closer together in terms of performance and R&D.
Driver changes
Changes to driver dynamics are always a hot topic of conversation and 2022 is no exception. Mercedes retain Lewis Hamilton and have welcomed George Russell after his impressive stint at Williams.
Valtteri Bottas is moving to Alfa Romeo in place of Kimi Raikkonen, who is retiring after 20 years in the sport. Bottas will join a new teammate Guanyu Zhou, the first Chinese driver to make a full F1 debut.
F1 dates for your diary
This year Formula 1 is hosting one of the biggest calendars with 23 races scheduled. A new circuit to the list is Miami, where drivers will race 3.36 miles around the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. There are also provisional returns to the calendar, including Australia, Canada, Japan and Singapore (pending COVID travel advice). China is off the list alongside Qatar, who are focusing on the FIFA World Cup this winter.
Check out the upcoming F1 dates and locations:
- 20 March – Bahrain
- 27 March – Saudi Arabia
- 10 April – Australia
- 24 April – Emilia Romagna
- 8 May – Miami
- 22 May – Spain
- 29 May – Monaco
- 12 June – Azerbaijan
- 19 June – Canada
- 3 July – United Kingdom
- 10 July – Austria
- 24 July – France
- 31 July – Hungary
- 28 August – Belgium
- 4 September – Netherlands
- 11 September – Italy
- 25 September – Russia
- 2 October – Singapore
- 9 October – Japan
- 23 October – United States
- 30 October – Mexico City
- 13 November – Sao Paulo
- 20 November – Abu Dhabi
The new F1 cars so far
We’re yet to see all the designs for the upcoming season. However, the recent unveilings have provided plenty of insight into what will be racing the circuits this year. Let’s take a look at some of the contenders…
McLaren MCL36
While this car isn’t giving away any of its secrets just yet, its look might be slightly familiar. It takes inspiration from the retro Gulf livery displayed in last year’s Monaco Grand Prix. After the positive reaction, McLaren opted for an orange and blue paint job. The team say the car has many dynamic and striking changes compared to the MCL35M and is powered by the Mercedes-AMG F1 M13 E Performance. Plus, this season, Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo are behind the wheel.
Red Bull RB18
Red Bull’s bid to the 2022 title is mostly being kept under wraps at present. But the initial livery showcased offers a dramatic look for the season. Although, the Team Principal has said the car ‘won’t look very much like this’ by the time they head into the first race. So we’re still eagerly awaiting details. Red Bull has also since parted ways with Honda. Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez are still at the helm.
Aston Martin AMR22
There’s no denying Aston Martin’s new challenger creates a striking and aggressive aesthetic for race season. The classic racing green colourway has had an update with fluro yellow and lime green lashings in contrast to pink last year. The anticipated design will be hitting the start line in pre-season testing with Sebastian Vettel and Lance Stroll behind the wheel.
Haas VF-22
While Haas didn’t have the best season in 2021, it was the first to reveal its car for the coming year. The team has been focusing on making the car the best it can possibly be and have showcased a classic white livery on initial renders. Racing for the team sees Mich Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin head to the grid.
Pre-season testing starts on 23 February, so more details will emerge of each team’s car as the month progresses. However, you might have to wait for Alfa Romeo’s unveiling, due 27 February. Although, we’re not quite sure how they’ll be able to keep it a secret during the three test days!
When is pre-season testing?
Pre-season testing is said to be taking place in two locations. The first segment is from 23-25 February in Barcelona. The second is from 11-13 March in Bahrain.
The second block will take place just before the first Grand Prix on 20 March. This testing session offers the chance to see all the cars before the season gets underway.
With lots of changes, impressive car designs and new rules to factor in, the 2022 F1 season is set to be as exciting as ever.
