After some intensive 21 races spread across only 21 weeks, F1 drivers took a well-deserved summer break to recharge their batteries and prepare for the following season.
The Belgian Grand Prix season from 28 to 30 of July concluded with the triumph of Verstappen, marking the driver's eighth successive victory and repositioning himself as a strong contender. Now, fans are not left in the dark about what they can expect after the summer break.
Formula 1 has revealed details about what's in the oven for the upcoming season. F1 drivers will return to the paddock for the Dutch Grand Prix 2023 between the 25th and 27th of August.
So far, we know that the 2024 season will feature 24 races, as confirmed by Formula 1. As for the return of F1 after the summer break is over, fans can prepare to see their favorite teams between 25 and 27 of August at the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.
As you're eagerly awaiting the upcoming shows' unfolding after the F1 summer break ends, here's what you need to know.
Zandvoort Circuit has already hosted important names
The final of the 2023 F1 summer break will see the teams drive on the undulated and dangerous layout of the Zandvoort Circuit, which is already known for its one-of-a-kind location. The venue will showcase a combination of technical sections, elevation changes and high-speed corners, creating an exciting setting that will keep drivers and viewers alike in a state of suspense.
Prominent names such as Alain Prost, James Hunt, and Niki Lauda have already won titles in previous seasons held in Zandvoort.
The first event after the summer's break will mark the thirteenth race on the F1 calendar. It's expected to use the same format that fans have been accustomed to so far, with two free practice seasons at the beginning of the session and one final hour of practice on Saturday.
After the race at the Zandvoort circuit ends, the F1 calendar moves to Monza one week later for the Italian Grand Prix and the last show of the European season.
For those who have missed the show this year, a quick recap will help them be in the know about what has happened. To date, Max Verstappen is the clear leader of the F1 World Championship, having scored 314 points and overtaking his contender, Sergio Perez, by 125 points. The famous driver already has ten victories, with his competitor accounting for the remaining two.
It's important to remember that Zandvoort is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), meaning that the timetable may suffer modifications.
How F1 drivers spend their time away from the paddock
Even if the summer break is compulsory, F1 drivers have some level of flexibility. They can schedule their summer breaks and vacations whenever they want, as the date is not set in stone. There's no exact time they must be away from their racing cars, but usually, the general period spreads from 14 August to 28 August.
In the meantime, everyone involved in races, from drivers to team principals to mechanics, is enjoying a well-deserved vacation. As experts from www.howmuchcompensation.co.uk emphasize, racing is an extremely solicitant sport, and time away from the racing track is essential to enable drivers to recharge their batteries and get the needed rest. This is one of the reasons why summer breaks are obligatory, and racers are reminded to maintain healthy sleep routines.
Even if away from the cameras, F1 drivers are still keeping in touch with fans and updating the community on their whereabouts. McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are active on social media, having shared a video of them two playing the famous Twister game.
Apparently, the competition for them isn't limited to the racking tracks but follows them on vacation as well. Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have also given insights into how their summer break unfolds, sharing a video doing a game together. Lewis Hamilton, whose passion for surfing is well-known, has uploaded a picture of him diving into the clear blue waters.
The 2024 season will feature 24 races
Just like Formula 1 has accustomed fans to, it has already disclosed the program for 2024. Next year's calendar will include 24 races spread across several weeks, two mid-season breaks, two tripleheaders, four doubleheaders, and the icing on the cake – the Chinese Grand Prix's return. Drivers will drive again on the Shanghai International Circuit after four consecutive years of absence because of imposed restrictions.
As stated by Formula 1, the season will kick off on 2 March in Bahrain with a premier Saturday evening time slot. Fans will see a Middle East doubleheader on 9 March with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix projected a week later, on a Saturday night.
Melbourne will come back for the March slot on 21 April with shows in Japan, right before China's return for round five.
Miami Grand Prix's third race will feature a 5 May slot around Hard Rock Stadium before returning to Imola on 19 May. The Monaco doubleheader will take place a week later, on 26 May.
The summer's inception will see F1 move to Montreal for the famous Canadian Grand Prix scheduled for 9 June, with three other shows planned in Europe right after:
- In Barcelona on 23 June
- In Spielberg on 30 June
- In Silverstone on 7 July.
The Belgian and Hungarian Grands Prix are set to kick off in a single event taking place from the 21st to the 28th of July.
F1 may be on hold, but you can watch documentaries in the meantime
As the calendar winds down and you're patiently waiting for the following F1 season to start, you can satisfy your hunger for action with some exclusive documentaries and race shows. Here are some of the most popular alternatives among F1 enthusiasts at the moment:
- The Mid-Season Review Show
- Chasing The Dream
- Beyond All Limits
- Tech Talk.
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