Preview for 2022 Spanish Grand Prix as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen continues to chase Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in the F1 title race.
Victories in the last two races has seen Verstappen reduce Leclerc’s lead down to 19 points which sets up a fascinating Spanish GP, where another win coupled with a seventh-placed or lower finish for Leclerc would see Verstappen gain the title lead for the first time this season.
Upgrades are also expected for many teams in this race which should provide the possibility of the midfield pecking order getting a small shake-up.
Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso meanwhile will be eager to impress in front of their home crowds this weekend at their home race, for Ferrari and Alpine respectively who have both looked competitive this season.
Now, here is a full guide to everything that you need to know ahead of 2022 Spanish Grand Prix.
Track Guide
Circuit name: Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Laps: 66
Race Distance: 307.104km
Tyre Selection: C1, C2, C3
Schedule
| Date | Session | Time (BST) |
| Friday 7 May | FP1 | 1:00pm |
| Friday 7 May | FP2 | 4:00pm |
| Saturday 8 May | FP3 | 12:00pm |
| Saturday 8 May | Qualifying | 3:00pm |
| Sunday 9 May | Race | 2:00pm |
Five Key Pointers
- Given the evolution in the pecking order since the first pre-season test held in Barcelona in February, this race should provide an insight to where each team stands heading into a hectic run of races.
- Having lost out on straight line speed to Red Bull in Imola and Miami, Ferrari will certainly be looking to reduce their deficit on a circuit with a super-long main straight.
- With a huge upgrade expected this weekend, Alfa Romeo could well be in contention to be the third-best team after impressing in Miami with Valtteri Bottas.
- Aston Martin are set to introduce several upgrades which will hopefully enable them to run more downforce amidst their porpoising issues which has meant a higher ride height than expected.
- High track temperatures are forecast across the weekend which could place importance on tyre management and force a two-stop strategy for some drivers.
Last Time Out
Lewis Hamilton began the 2021 Spanish GP from pole position but lost the lead to Verstappen into the opening corner, with the Dutchman proceeding to comfortably dominate the race until Hamilton’s late gamble on a second pit stop paid off with a race-winning overtake on Lap 60.
Valtteri Bottas meanwhile settled for third behind last season’s two title protagonists ahead of Leclerc, Sergio Perez, Daniel Ricciardo and Carlos Sainz as everyone else from eighth down finished one lap down at the checkered flag.
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