Effect of New F1 Regulations? 2022 Saudi Arabian GP Witnesses Massive Spike in Overtaking Compared to Last Year

The Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen duel made everyone wonder about the new generation of F1 cars. The opening two races have given the fans too many overtakes to witness than most of the races last year. With that said, the new regulations seem to be already in effect as the race has become more enjoyable.

In 2021, the Bahrain Grand Prix had witnessed 58 overtakes, but in 2022, the number went up to 68. In Saudi Arabia, the number of overtakes was 18. However, in 2022, the number skyrocketed to 37. This shows the effect the new cars have put on overtaking. The leader can no more be happy with the lead, it seems.

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The 2022 cars were designed to make the cars follow each other better. Not only this, the new cars are better aerodynamically developed than their predecessors. The new 2022 cars make following each other easier as they leave less dirty air behind. With so many overtakes down already, it’ll be interesting to see what else do the drivers bring in for the rest of the season.

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc made the most of new F1 cars over Lewis Hamilton

Many thought this season will be the redemption time for Lewis Hamilton as he will take the championship battle for glory. Not just to take the championship away from Verstappen, but also to break Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles. However, this seems like a distant dream as Mercedes couldn’t keep up with Red Bull and hence the battle between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is a distant past.

Despite losing the first battle to defend his championship, Max came back stronger. The duo amassed more overtakes between them than any other individual driver. Charles trumped Verstappen to win in Bahrain, while the Dutchman had to retire his car following a technical failure. The Red Bull man took the fight against the Ferrari man and this time he came as victorious.

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With a duel won by each driver in two races, the fans are waiting to see what comes in the Australian Grand Prix. Talking about Charles taking place of Lewis as the title contender, much of the credit should go to the new car. Mercedes couldn’t build up a championship-winning car as yet as they struggle in the straight line and still have the porpoising issue.