New Race Weekend format is HERE.. But is Jakes idea better? 👀

Welcome back to the Pitstop Podcast! F1 has been away for a MONTH and its brought back the same feels as we had over Christmas.. So we are buuuuzzing F1 is back on our TV's, and with a street track like Baku you know it's going to be a mad one. Not to mention the new format being applied for this race weekend! Tune in to this episode and find out our thoughts on everything Baku related. DM us on Instagram for a chance to have your questions answered on the pod!
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**Episode Overview:**

- The upcoming Baku Grand Prix features a new sprint format, replacing the traditional three practice sessions with a single practice session, qualifying, and a sprint race on Friday, followed by qualifying and the main race on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.

- The sprint race will determine the starting grid for the main race, with the top eight finishers scoring points.

- The changes aim to make the weekend more exciting and viewer-friendly, especially on Fridays, which are often considered less eventful.

- The new format presents several challenges for teams, including the increased risk of damage to cars and the need for drivers to be more cautious in order to avoid penalties.

- The sprint format has received mixed reactions from drivers and fans, with some expressing concerns about the potential impact on the overall competitiveness of the sport.

- The Baku City Circuit is a challenging street circuit known for its narrow, twisty layout and high-speed straights.

- Sergio Perez has historically performed well at Baku, winning the race in 2021 and securing a podium finish in 2018.

- Predictions for the race vary among the hosts, with some favoring Sergio Perez and others believing that Ferrari or Mercedes could challenge for the win.

- The hosts discuss the possibility of reversing the layout of tracks to create new challenges for drivers and add excitement to the races.

- Valtteri Bottas holds the unofficial record for the fastest lap time in an F1 car, achieved during qualifying for the 2016 Baku Grand Prix.

- The hosts speculate on the reasons behind this record, considering factors such as the car's performance and the unique characteristics of the Baku circuit.

- The hosts discuss the evolution of F1 car engines, noting the transition from high-pitched V10 and V12 engines to the current hybrid V6 engines.

- They also explore the meaning of the "W" in the Mercedes car designation, revealing that it stands for "Wagen," the German word for "wagon."

- The hosts address rumors linking Fernando Alonso to singer Taylor Swift, clarifying that the news is likely fake.

- They discuss Alonso's recent breakup and the possibility of a relationship with Swift, acknowledging the height difference between the two.

- The hosts speculate on the potential impact of the new sprint format on the championship standings, emphasizing that it is still early in the season and any team could potentially win the title.

- They conclude the episode by highlighting the challenges and excitement of the upcoming Baku Grand Prix. # Podcast Episode Summary: Baku Race Predictions and Shark Survival Tips

**Introduction:**

* Hosts Jake Boys and Fabio Bocca discuss the upcoming Baku race weekend and make predictions for the top three finishers.
* They also share their thoughts on Nicholas Hamilton, Lewis Hamilton's brother, who recently competed in a BTCC race.

**Race Predictions:**

* Both hosts agree that Fernando Alonso will be on the podium, with Bocca placing him in third and Boys in second.
* Boys predicts a Perez win, while Bocca goes with Lewis Hamilton.
* They acknowledge that Max Verstappen is a strong contender but believe Perez has a good chance of beating him in Baku.

**Shark Survival Tips:**

* The conversation takes an unexpected turn as the hosts discuss what to do if you encounter a shark in the water.
* They share tips such as poking the shark in the eye, holding them off with your arm, and avoiding swimming away.
* They emphasize the importance of staying still and not bleeding, as sharks are attracted to blood.

**Conclusion:**

* The hosts wrap up the podcast by expressing their excitement for the Baku race weekend and the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix.
* They encourage listeners to tune in to their post-race review on Monday to hear their thoughts on the new race format.