Daniel Riccardo

F1 championship resumes today in Belgium’s famous 1950s Spa Francorchamps. Despite the new and complex regulations, hybrid power units, smaller combustion engines and subdued engine noise, the championship so far has been a grand spectacle.

The last race in Budapest was not short of drama. Once more, Lewis Hamilton was haunted with bad luck during qualifying as his car went up in flames which forced him to start from the pits.

On a damp track, Red Bull’s Daniel Riccardo and Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg headed the grid. As the lights went out, all cars raced to the first corner at the end of the straight. What followed was a thrilling race with a mixture of climate conditions thrilling those who witnessed another fantastic race.

Red Bull’s new recruit Riccardo is getting stronger and stronger. In Budapest he showed sheer talent and race determination with some help from the safety car.

Former world champion Sebastian Vettel seems to be somewhat exhausted with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner stating that the German is tired after having won four back to back world championships. Rumours have it that he will be heading to Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton.

Disappointing Alonso. Photos: Steve Etherington

During the three-week break we saw the removal of Ferrari engine chief designer Luca Marmorini, who openly criticised the new Ferrari management, claiming that within Ferrari there was always a scapegoat, including himself and Stefano Domenicali. Ferrari’s only winning chances rest on Fernando Alonso. However, it has been rumoured that he would be leaving the Italian team.

Former F1 driver Jos Verstappen’s son, Max, 16, will be driving for Toro Rosso next year making him the youngest driver in F1, replacing Jean Eric Vergne. Last year Vergne and Helmut Marku, Red Bull’s team adviser, fell out during a massive argument witnessed by the press.

Who will be the driver who will go flat out in one of the most famous corners Eau Rouge today? Definitely, Lewis Hamilton will be hoping for better times especially in qualifying.

Ferrari might dwindle down the line due to their top speed but the charge for the win will definitely be worth watching.