THE QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023: A FORMULA 1 NIGHTMARE UNVEILED

The Qatar Grand Prix, one of the most recent additions to the F1 calendar, has left an indelible mark on the 2023 season, but not for the right reasons. While the event hosted at the Losail circuit was expected to be a powerful addition, it has proven to be a genuine danger for the drivers and a disastrous experience in several aspects. From issues with track limits to unstable tires and extremely challenging conditions, the Qatar Grand Prix has left much to be desired.

The Qatar Grand Prix made its debut on the Formula 1 calendar in 2021 as a response to COVID-19, replacing the Australian Grand Prix. However, it was then announced that it would be part of the calendar until 2033 starting from 2023, which should have allowed enough time for the circuit to be ready. Unfortunately, this was not the case.

From Friday, drivers and the media began pointing out evident problems with the circuit. Track limits proved to be an insurmountable challenge for many drivers, resulting in numerous penalties throughout the weekend. Despite changes made on Saturday to prevent cars from hitting the curbs, these adjustments only exacerbated the situation.

Another crucial problem at the Qatar Grand Prix was the instability of the tires. Pirelli warned on Saturday that there was a high likelihood of tires exploding or causing a serious accident if they were run for more than 20 laps. This led the FIA to impose the rule that teams could not run tire sets for more than 18 laps resulting in the obligation of at least three pit stops during the race, a decision that drivers discovered through the media, causing confusion and concern.

The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix was characterized by extremely demanding conditions for the drivers. High temperatures and the physically demanding circuit design tested the endurance of the competitors. Additionally, the imposition of three pit stops made the race more akin to a sprint, adding additional stress to the drivers.

At the end of the race, most drivers complained of feeling unwell, dehydrated, and some even fainted. Some shocking testimonies include Logan Sargeant, who couldn’t finish the race due to extreme dizziness, and Fernando Alonso, who revealed that his seat was so hot that it burned him. Alex Albon needed assistance to get out of his car, Lance Stroll required immediate medical attention upon exiting his vehicle, and Esteban Ocon even admitted to vomiting around lap 15.

In summary, the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix was a race that tested Formula 1 drivers in unexpected and dangerous ways. From problems with track limits to tire instability and extremely challenging physical conditions, this edition of the Qatar Grand Prix will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the memory of everyone involved in the sport.

Positives from this weekend: Max Verstappen won his 3rd Word Championship, Oscar Piastri won his first F1 race at the Sprint, and McLaren made history breaking the fastest pit stop record with a flawless performance of a 1.8 second stop.