F1 2023: Star drivers, standout teams and surprise stories – Our writers give their predictions ahead of the new F1 season

It’ll shortly be lights out and away we go for the 2023 campaign, as teams and drivers return to the track in Bahrain after pre-season testing. As the opening race approaches, we asked our writers to offer up some expert insight and bold predictions for the year ahead…
Which team were your star of testing?
Will Buxton (F1 Digital Presenter): Everyone is going to say Aston Martin, and there’s no escaping how impressive their test was. But I said last week and I stand by my feeling that Alfa Romeo also had a lot to be happy about. Okay, so there were a few gremlins that crept in, but the car looked very together and the drivers had very positive feedback on it. I’d also tip my hat to Williams, who had one of their most reliable and positive pre-seasons in quite some time.

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
What the teams said – Qualifying in Great Britain
Facts and StatsLucky 13 for Norris at rain-hit Silverstone
TremayneRemembering Herbert’s emotional home victory
See how Verstappen beat Piastri with our ‘Ghost Car’
UnlockedWhat To Watch For in the British Grand Prix
‘I didn’t get the result I deserved’ – Piastri on penalty