The 2024 F1 season resumes with Max Verstappen set to face a continued challenge from Ferrari and McLaren; Lewis Hamilton will get new Mercedes front wing for first time; watch the Canadian GP this weekend, with every session live on Sky Sports F1 and Sunday’s race at 7pm
As the 2024 Formula 1 season picks up again, Sky Sports F1 delves into the key discussions ahead of this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, promising an exciting summer with a genuine title race.
After racing in Europe, F1 briefly returns to North America before five more races in six weeks in Europe leading up to the summer break.
With three drivers from different teams winning the last three races, this F1 weekend is highly anticipated.
Significant changes in the driver market have emerged since the Monaco Grand Prix, shaping the 2025 grid. However, many uncertainties remain ahead of Thursday’s media day in Canada.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, known for its passionate fans and potential weather drama, is an ideal venue for the race.
Can Ferrari, McLaren Maintain Red Bull Challenge?
McLaren’s Lando Norris won his first F1 race in Miami and nearly beat Verstappen again in Imola. Charles Leclerc broke his winless streak by winning in Monaco, narrowing Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ standings to 31 points and reducing Ferrari’s gap to Red Bull to 24 points in the Constructors’ Championship.
While Verstappen is expected to excel on traditional circuits, the Canadian track’s kerbs and slow corners could expose Red Bull’s weaknesses, as seen in Monaco.
McLaren’s upgrades have boosted their consistency, and Ferrari’s battery issue remains a question. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve’s long straights and overtaking opportunities promise an entertaining race, potentially influenced by rain forecasted for the weekend.
Will Perez Extension Further Calm Red Bull Storm?
Despite recent poor performances, Sergio Perez secured a two-year extension with Red Bull, ending speculation about Verstappen’s 2025 teammate.
This decision, influenced by Perez’s popularity and commercial appeal, aims to maintain Verstappen’s satisfaction and stability within the team. Alternatives like Carlos Sainz could have caused friction, making Perez a safer choice.
Verstappen’s long-term contract with Red Bull, potential team unrest, and upcoming regulation changes create uncertainty about his future. Keeping Perez, despite being the weakest top-team driver, might help retain Verstappen. With Red Bull off the table, Sainz’s realistic 2025 options are Williams and Sauber.
Hamilton Gets New Part After Cryptic Monaco Comments
Mercedes, hoping to challenge for victories, will see Hamilton using the new front wing tested by Russell in Monaco.
Canada’s race will better assess its impact. Hamilton’s unusual comments about not beating Russell in Qualifying this year hint at growing tension in his final season before joining Ferrari. Mercedes denies any favoritism, but internal conflicts could hinder their progress against Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren.
How Will Ocon Cope with Alpine Exit?
Alpine confirmed Esteban Ocon’s departure at the season’s end following his collision with teammate Pierre Gasly in Monaco, resulting in a grid penalty for Canada.
Reserve driver Jack Doohan will practice in Ocon’s place this weekend. Alpine’s tumultuous season includes more team changes, with operations director Rob White’s dismissal. Team boss Bruno Famin faces challenges in maintaining team harmony and performance for the rest of 2024.
**Sky Sports F1’s live Canadian GP schedule:**
**Thursday, June 6**
– 7:30pm: Drivers’ Press Conference
**Friday, June 7**
– 6:00pm: Canadian GP Practice One (session starts at 6:30pm)
– 8:00pm: The F1 Show
– 9:45pm: Canadian GP Practice Two (session starts at 10:00pm)
**Saturday, June 8**
– 5:15pm: Canadian GP Practice Three (session starts at 5:30pm)
– 8:00pm: Canadian GP Qualifying build-up
– 9:00pm: Canadian GP Qualifying
– 11:00pm: Ted’s Qualifying Notebook
**Sunday, June 9**
– 5:30pm: Grand Prix Sunday – Canadian GP build-up
– 7:00pm: THE CANADIAN GRAND PRIX
– 9:00pm: Chequered Flag – Canadian GP reaction
– 10:00pm: Ted’s Notebook
