Preview | Verstappen feels pressure from Ferrari in France

French Grand Prix

In 1971, a Grand Prix was held at Paul Ricard for the first time, alternating between race weekends at the Circuit de Charade and the Circuit de Dijon-Prenois. The British Jackie Stewart was the first driver to take the victory. After Alain Prost's victory, the motorsport class did not return for many years.

That changed in 2018 when Formula 1 decided to put France back on the racing calendar. In both 2018 and 2019, Lewis Hamilton took the victory, with no GP able to take place the following year due to the coronavirus crisis. Last season, Max Verstappen drew the longer straw.

Paul Ricard

The most distinctive feature of the circuit is the 1.8-kilometre long straight. In addition, the black and blue run-off areas are well known to the general public. The circuit is fairly flat, clearly different from most other Formula 1 tracks.

Formula 1 is not expected to return to France next season. The organisation reportedly prefers other countries from 2023 onwards and is unable to add an extra circuit due to pressure on the calendar. However, no official confirmation of this has been received as yet.

Formula 1 in 2022

While Verstappen was the long-time victor in the series, Ferrari struck back at Silverstone and in Austria. With victories for Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc respectively, the Italian team managed to further reduce the gap in the Constructors' Championship.

Mattia Binotto's team also proved in Austria that they have their act together again, although the reliability of the car still leaves something to be desired. It even means that Sainz will probably have to start from the back of the grid in France.

The difference between Verstappen and Leclerc may still be 38 points despite the win for the Monegasque, but Red Bull will realise that it should not have its rival any closer. Therefore, it is important to increase the gap further just before the summer break.

Weather forecast

The extreme heat in Europe will also be felt in France this weekend, reports Weather.com. Temperatures are not expected to drop below thirty degrees, so spectators and drivers must deal with scorching weather.

Expectations for the Grand Prix

Verstappen's victory last season will give the Dutchman the necessary confidence for this weekend. The reigning world champion simply knows what he can do on the track, although he will also realise he has a very different car to last year.

At Ferrari, confidence will be high after the two wins. The Italians are keen to narrow the gap in the World Championship further just before the summer break, so that they can try to actually attack the rival in Belgium at the end of August.

It is therefore expected that Ferrari and Red Bull will jointly decide which team takes victory in France. At the same time, they will be keeping a close eye on Mercedes, which has been in good form in recent weeks.

Timetable for the 2022 Austrian Grand Prix [UK times]

Friday

First free practice: 13:00 - 14:00

Second free practice: 16:00 - 17:00 hours

Saturday

Third free practice: 12:00 - 13:00 hours

Qualifying: 15:00 - 16:00 hours

Sunday

Race: 14:00 - 16:00 hours