The 2023 Abu Dhabi GP ended the same way as the 2023 Formula 1 season, with a Max Verstappen victory. While most people think that’s the final day of the 2023 season, it’s actually not. The teams take part in some post-season testing after the season finale. This is usually done to test different components, experimental parts, and new tyres for the next season. It also serves as a young driver test. A weird red flag, George Russell crashing out, and Esteban Ocon topping the timesheet. Here’s everything that happened.
Sergio Perez takes the RB19 for a Ride
Sergio Perez had an underwhelming season compared to Max Verstappen, which reflected perfectly in the Abu Dhabi GP. Therefore, while Max Verstappen sat out, he took the RB19 to the track and completed a total of 117 laps. He experimented with different set-ups and driving styles, hoping for a better understanding before the 2024 Formula 1 season.
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A very weird Red Flag
The Abu Dhabi GP has proven time and time again that it has some of the best facilities in Formula 1. However, red flags interrupted the testing session for a very weird reason. There was a water leak from the W Hotel Bridge at Turns 13 and 14.
This caused a 24-minute stop in proceedings as the water also had oily substances in it.
George Russell crashes
George Russell had a big crash in Turn 6. After helping his team secure P2 at the Abu Dhabi GP, this is a dampener of sorts. But thankfully, he is okay, and that’s what matters.
Also Read: McLaren prove too strong for Aston Martin at Abu Dhabi GP
Esteban Ocon tops the timesheets
Alpine have been middling throughout the 2023 Formula 1 season. Even at the Abu Dhabi GP, they failed to score any points and finished behind Daniel Ricciardo. Therefore, it was a big surprise to see him at the top of the timesheets.
However, just like other testing sessions, the timesheets don’t reflect the whole story. But still, it was a nice way for Esteban Ocon to close the curtains on his 2023 Formula 1 campaign.
Editors pick
