Nine rounds to go in 2022

This time next week we will be well on our way to Spa-Francorchamps to resume the 2022 season after Formula One’s summer break.

With nine rounds remaining taking place across four continents all in the space of 86 days, it’s all set to be an action-packed climax to the campaign.

Join us as we look ahead at what is still to come in 2022 for Alex Albon and Nicholas Latifi.

We’ll be dusting off the summer shutdown cobwebs in the rolling hills of the Ardennes, heading to the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.

The scene of our most recent podium finish thanks to George Russell’s wet weather masterclass in 2021, Spa is a venue that has overseen major changes over the winter.

The run-off area has been extended at Eau Rouge and Radillion, with gravel traps returning to several other corners to ensure the longest circuit on the calendar retains its demanding nature whilst improving its safety.

The filling in the triple-header sandwich takes us to the Dutch coast. Zandvoort’s highly anticipated return to the calendar last season did not disappoint, with the atmosphere more akin to a three-day festival than a Grand Prix weekend.

The modern banked turns around this classic European circuit add a unique challenge for drivers looking to make a move around this tight course.

With 23 overtakes made in last year's event, it will be a good test for the 2022 regulations to see if that figure can be exceeded when we return to the dunes.

The final European race of the season takes us to Monza – the temple of speed. The parkland venue is set to be back to full capacity for the first time in three years, ensuring the Tifosi will be out in full force.

With two surprise winners in the last two Italian Grand Prix, will we see a hat-trick of shocks to conclude the triple header?

Running at full throttle for 80% of a lap around this leafy setting, it truly is a wonderful place to see F1 cars at their limit.

After a COVID-enforced absence from the calendar, we’ll finally be returning to Marina Bay and battling it out under the lights once more.

These streets provide one of the most physical challenges for a driver thanks to the 23 turns, bumpy surface and high humidity, which all play a factor in the loss of up to 3kg from their weight come the chequered flag.

W Series will resume its campaign in the city-state, presenting Jamie Chadwick with the chance to wrap up her third title in as many seasons.

Suzuka is a favourite amongst the drivers and is another venue that finally returns after several years away.

The only figure of eight circuit F1 currently races at, the 5.8km layout provides an array of challenges for those behind the wheel – be that a ‘full-send’ around 130-R, total commitment through the two Degners or nailing the snaking ‘S’ Curves.

Something else we have missed whilst Japan has been off the calendar is the enthusiastic fans that pack the circuit from the second the doors open, it truly is a bucket-list race.

COTA, we’re coming! Last season’s United States Grand Prix broke attendance records and that could be reset again this year.

Logan Sargeant is set to become the first American to participate in an F1 weekend since 2015 when he gets behind the wheel of our FW44 for the first time in FP1.

Then there’s Austin itself. Great food, vibrant nightlife. If you’re lucky enough to have a ticket, you’re set for a memorable weekend. They sure know how to throw a party across the pond.

Held at an altitude of 2,285 metres above sea level, the air density at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is about 25% lower than most venues which affects not just the aerodynamics of a car, but also car cooling and the power unit.

The former Foro Sol baseball stadium provides a great vantage point from which to witness F1 cars as they weave their way through the final sector, as well as hosting the podium ceremonies.

The final corner of the 17-turn track is named after our very-own 1992 World Champion, Nigel Mansell – an honour of which he was “flattered, proud and delighted in equal measure.”

The penultimate race of the 2022 campaign brings with it the final Sprint weekend, meaning extra points are on offer ahead of the season finale.

An instantly recognisable location, the 4.3km Autódromo José Carlos Pace has had no shortage of classic moments down the years, with the grandstands packed full of passionate fans that soak up the action.

The lack of a home driver does not halt the carnival atmosphere, and the changeable conditions often adds to the drama.

The now-traditional venue for F1’s curtain closer, where the action fittingly starts in daylight and concludes under floodlight as the sun sets on another season.

It is the last chance to earn points which could prove oh-so crucial in both the Drivers and Constructors championships.

Alterations to the layout certainly aided the on-track action in 2021, and we’ll be more hoping for more close racing again when we return there for this years finale.