Melbourne (AP) – For the first time in three years, Australia is experiencing a Formula 1 race again. More than 120,000 spectators are expected in the packed grandstands in Melbourne’s Albert Park after the 2020 and 2021 Grand Prix had to be canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In the third World Championship race of the season there are many indications that there will be another tough duel at the front.
Leclerc remains the hunted
After bitter years, Ferrari seems to be able to establish itself at the top. Charles Leclerc will start from pole position for the second time in the third race. The Monegasse is at the top of the overall rankings ahead of his team-mate Carlos Sainz, only then comes Max Verstappen in third place. After the victory in Saudi Arabia, the Dutchman is second this time. Leclerc against Verstappen is becoming more and more of a new duel for the title. “It will be very close with our rivals, so it will be a difficult but also exciting race,” said Leclerc.
Mercedes still under pressure
Lewis Hamilton should again not be able to intervene in the fight for victory Down Under. Finishing fifth in qualifying, the record world champion made the best of the difficult situation ahead of stable rival George Russell. The Silver Arrows continue to have major problems with their stubborn car, which too often hops around the track more than lying smoothly on the asphalt. “We’re still learning and trying to understand the car,” said Brit Russell, adding: “I didn’t really feel comfortable in the car this weekend.”
Vettel has to catch up from far behind
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For the four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, little has happened so far with his late start to the season. After surviving the coronavirus infection and the forced break during the first two races in 2022, he almost had to start from the back because an accident in the third practice session that he was to blame for spoiled his qualification. The 34-year-old was only able to do one quick lap on Saturday after his mechanics repaired the Aston Martin at the last minute. “It’s not an easy weekend. But we’ll see what’s going on in the race,” said the Hessian and admitted: “We have our problems, that won’t change overnight.”
Schumacher hopes for first World Cup points
Mick Schumacher survived his violent crash two weeks ago in Saudi Arabia – and now has a lot planned in Australia. After his team-mate Kevin Magnussen has already finished in the points twice, the 23-year-old also wants to race into the top ten for the first time in his Formula 1 career. The starting position of position 15 is not the best, but the racing car of the US team Haas seems to be still powerful and superior to some other teams in the midfield. “Hopefully we’re in a position where we can fight. I hope we can follow the competition and overtake them,” said Schumacher.