Spanish Grand Prix F1: Change at the Top? Analysis and Predictions

The Spanish Grand Prix marks the end of Formula 1’s European triple-header, and promises strong emotions with possible changes on the grid. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, host of the race since 1991, is a favorite of drivers and teams. Its curves and straights are a demanding test for the single-seaters.

Contents

Breaking News Circuit Statistics and History What happened last year?Who will win?This is how the championships are How to watch the GP

This year, a modification to the regulations regarding flexible wings adds intrigue. This is expected to diminish McLaren’s advantage and allow Ferrari to regain competitiveness.

Regarding the weather, a pleasant atmosphere is anticipated, with temperatures around 26°C during qualifying and 29°C on race day.

Breaking News

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur believes that changes to the front wing flexibility tests could be a “game changer” for the ten Formula 1 teams. Lando Norris, after his victory in Monaco, will seek to consolidate his position in the Spanish Grand Prix. Gatorade has become an official partner of the Formula 1 sprint races. Listen to the race analysis and the latest episode of the Unlapped F1 podcast.

Circuit Statistics and History

The Spanish Grand Prix has been a recurring event on the F1 calendar. Since 1991, it has been held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, built for the 1992 Olympic Games.

The layout has undergone modifications, but it remains a flowing circuit with overtaking opportunities on the main straight.

The Spanish Grand Prix

First F1 race: 1991
Lap record: 1:16.330, Max Verstappen (2023)
Most victories: Michael Schumacher (1995-96, 2001-2004) and Lewis Hamilton (2014, 2017-2021) with six.

Other current winners:

Max Verstappen (2016, 2022-2024)
Fernando Alonso (2006, 2013)

More poles:

Michael Schumacher with seven (1994-1995, 2000-2004).

Current drivers with pole:

Lewis Hamilton (2014, 2016-2018, 2020-2021)
Fernando Alonso (2006)
Max Verstappen (2023)
Charles Leclerc (2022)
Lando Norris (2024)

What makes it special: A classic F1 testing circuit, with an emphasis on high-speed corners that test aerodynamic weaknesses.

This circuit tests every part of the car. It’s a suitable benchmark circuit.
Carlos Sainz

What happened last year?

Verstappen secured his third consecutive victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, overtaking Norris at the first corner and George Russell to secure the win.

Who will win?

McLaren seems to be the team to beat, but the new regulations could change the order. Despite Verstappen’s good performance on this circuit, Norris is expected to achieve victory.

This is how the championships are

Norris approaches Oscar Piastri after his victory in Monaco, with a difference of only three points between the McLarens.

Verstappen remains in the fight for the championship, 25 points behind the leader. In constructors, McLaren leads, followed by Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari.

How to watch the GP

For fans in the U.S., the broadcast is on ESPN and ESPN+. In the UK, live coverage is on Sky Sports F1 and BBC Radio 5 Live. Follow the coverage with the F1 team in Barcelona and on social media.

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