The 2012 F1 season will look probably a lot different from the 2011 season. We just hope it does too in terms of a competition especially for world champion status. Changes have happened to teams, drivers, circuits and many more things, so how is it looking so far:
Drivers:
Renault substituted both Bruno Senna and Vitaly Petrov by 2007 world champion Kimi Raikonen and 2011 GP2 champion Romain Grosjean. Kimi Raikonen brings experience and speed to the team while Grosjean deserves another chance to prove himself.
Force India changed one of their drivers by substituting Adrian Sutil by Nico Hulkenberg. So next year they will have Paul Di Resta and Nico. Adrian Sutil proved he was fast but his off-track issues didn’t help him a lot especially last year.
Toro Rosso changed both their drivers, Jame Alguersari and Sebastian Buemi by 2 new rookies; Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniel Ricciardo. Both X-Toro Rosso drivers proved they were fast and willing to learn but they have not shown any form of brilliance. Toro Rosso opted to get new blood into their team.
HRT signed veteran Pedro de la Rosa to bring experience to the team. The other driver is still unknown.
Teams:
Lotus Renault GP has become the only Lotus team on the grid where Team Lotus changed names to become Catherham. Virgin is now officially Marrusia Virgin.
Tracks:
Austin GP is added to the calendar but we have no confirmation yet if the race will take place. Bahrain’s return is still subject to the progress the socio political situation in the country.
Regulations:
The most notable change will be the banning of the blown, double and whatever creative diffuser that might be.