Why F1's new driver-team combos each have a point to prove
When the pandemic pushed Formula 1 into hiatus a year ago, the driver-market cogs carried on turning behind the scenes, culminating in three drivers spending a whole season racing for teams they knew they’d be leaving and a double world champion readying himself for a dramatic comeback. STUART CODLING weighs up what's at stake
For each of the five drivers in Formula 1 starting the new season with new teams, there is plenty riding on 2021. Fernando Alonso, Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, Sebastian Vettel and Sergio Perez have six world championships, 93 wins and 261 podium finishes between them, yet each has a point to prove as they join squads seeking an uptick in fortunes.
Whether down to age, inexperience at a top squad or indifferent recent form, none can afford to rest on their past success as F1 prepares for a period of upheaval in 2022.
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