Reuters
Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas in action during practice Pool via REUTERS/Armando Franca
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas in action during practice Pool via REUTERS/Armando Franca
The recently concluded Portuguese Grand Prix offered a great opening few laps or so for the hundreds of fans in the stands. Adding to the circuit was the picturesque view in and around the town of Portimao.
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Algarve, in general, proved to be a technical track for drivers to race on. Most of the F1 drivers had not driven there before, while some had raced at the track during their junior racing careers.
Regardless, it offered something different from the traditional tracks that usually appear on the F1 racing calendar. And these unusual circuits proved to be a challenge for everyone involved.
Ross Brawn feels the ‘undulating’ Algarve track lived up to expectations
Ross Brawn admitted that the electric start to the Portuguese GP offered a glimpse into the future of intense competition between F1 teams. He even hinted at the possibility of inducting Portimao into the regular F1 calendar.
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Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – McLaren’s Carlos Sainz Jr. in action during the race Pool via REUTERS/Jorge Guerrero
Writing in his column, Ross Brawn stated, “The Algarve International Circuit had a great reputation and it lived up to expectations. It’s a beautiful undulating track that delivered a cracking Grand Prix.
“The surrounding area is fabulous. And to be able to race in Europe in October, in conditions that created great racing, is fantastic.”
The opening lap in Portimao caused a flutter of reactions on social media
Brawn made a good point about the competition, that F1 is so often said to lack in recent times. Perhaps more tracks like the Algarve International Circuit could spice the battle up and give supporters more racing spectacles, like that of Carlos Sainz leading the Mercedes cars, to remember.
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Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – Renault’s Esteban Ocon, Racing Point’s Lance Stroll and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel in action during the race Pool via REUTERS/Rafael Marchante
With some strong winds and light rain, the drivers briefly found it difficult. The sharp corners and elevation changes only added to the mystery and intrigue.
There is still time before Formula 1 officially releases the 2021 racing calendar. And it will be interesting to see whether Portimao makes the cut in what will apparently be a 23-race campaign.
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