Il Circuit Of The Americas after Miami represents the second “stars and stripes” stage of the calendar. Although the history of the Austin circuit is relatively recent, there have been several stages that have hosted the United States Grand Prix in the history of F1. But since 2012 the COTA with its mix of tradition and innovation has conquered drivers and the public, becoming the permanent home of F1 in America. The most characteristic stretch is above all that of the climb at the start up to an almost blind hairpin bend. The most exciting and dangerous moment is the departure. Fernando Alonso remembers it well, torpedoed by Stroll in 2018. Waiting for the weekend to begin, let's see what the predictions are at Fanta F1 for Austin!
Our choices
Safety Car in the race: SI
It is not a certainty given that there are quite large escape routes but it is a risk that we are willing to take.
Virtual Safety Car in the race: YES
As an alternative to Safety, Virtual could appear. There weren't any in 2021 but this season we've seen Race Direction lean a lot towards this alternative.. even too much.
Red Flag in the race: NO
The red flag that has never been displayed in Austin is difficult.
Drivers distinguish between wet/full wet tires in the race: DO NOT
It will be hot. Very hot, but no rain from the rain and don't try to do the rain dance. Wasn't waiting two hours enough for the start of the Suzuka GP?
Team double in the race: SI
The only braces in Austin were scored by the invincible duo Mercedes of the hybrid era. However, Red Bull on its side could be lucky enough to start with a numerical advantage considering that at least Charles Leclerc should face a PU change penalty. However, it won't be a dramatic ascent given that in Austin the width of the track allows for it in several places.
Driver who starts on pole wins the race: SI
Fresh fresh of iris Max Verstappen he is the leading candidate for pole and victory.
Stables to bring both riders into the top 10: 4
We don't expect a race with many twists and turns, so our forecast remains at 4.
Drivers forced to retire: 3
On withdrawals we remain on the seasonal average at Fanta F1 of 3, above all for possible reliability problems.
