Season REVIEW - Our best moments of 2023!

Matt Baker is joined for the final podcast of the season by Ted Kravitz, Karun Chandhok and Bernie Collins.

They discuss Max Verstappen's dominance, which saw the Red Bull driver win his third straight world title.

They debate which drivers have impressed them this year and ask how much longer Fernando Alonso will be in Formula One.

They also talk about their favourite race of 2023 and the feel-good moment of the season.

**Race Summary and Key Points:**

* Max Verstappen dominated the season, winning his third consecutive world title and breaking several records.
* Verstappen set a new record for laps led in a Formula One season, surpassing the previous record held by McLaren in 1988.
* The season was marked by intense competition, with several drivers impressing throughout the year.
* Fernando Alonso was praised for his consistent performance in the Aston Martin, despite the team's struggles.
* Lewis Hamilton was also recognized for his strong performances, despite Mercedes' difficulties.
* Alex Albon was highlighted as an underrated driver, delivering impressive results in the Williams car.
* Liam Lawson, Oscar Piastri, Zhou Guangyu, Nico Hulkenberg, and Yuki Tsunoda were also mentioned as underrated drivers.
* The Singapore Grand Prix was chosen as the race of the year, offering excitement and unpredictable conditions.
* The Melbourne Grand Prix was also praised for its unique podium, featuring three different eras of Formula One champions.
* Zandvoort was remembered as a thrilling race, with dynamic strategy changes due to unpredictable weather.
* Oscar Piastri's qualifying performance in Suzuka and Max Verstappen's qualifying lap in Japan were highlighted as exceptional moments.

**Analysis and Insights:**

* The 2023 Formula One season was a testament to the sport's competitiveness and unpredictability.
* Max Verstappen's dominance was impressive, but other drivers also showcased their skills and potential.
* The emergence of underrated drivers, such as Alex Albon and Liam Lawson, added depth and excitement to the season.
* The Singapore Grand Prix and the Melbourne Grand Prix stood out as memorable races due to their unique circumstances and thrilling racing.
* The qualifying moments of Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen showcased the exceptional talent and precision of Formula One drivers.


**Key Points:**

- Max Verstappen's dominance characterized the 2023 Formula One season, securing his third consecutive world title with Red Bull.

- Ted Kravitz, Karun Chandhok, and Bernie Collins discuss Verstappen's exceptional performance, particularly his millimeter-perfect pole position lap in Suzuka.

- The podcast panel debates standout drivers of the season, highlighting Oscar Piastri's remarkable sprint win in Qatar.

- Fernando Alonso's last-lap battle with Sergio Perez in Brazil and Lando Norris' Silverstone podium finish are celebrated as feel-good moments.

- The panel reflects on the season as a whole, expressing disappointment in Mercedes and Ferrari's lack of challenge to Red Bull's supremacy.

- Bernie Collins and Matt Baker express gratitude for the opportunity to work on the podcast and anticipate a closer championship in 2024.

- Ted Kravitz promotes Valtteri Bottas' 2024 Movember charity calendar, which supports prostate cancer and men's mental health initiatives.

**Overall Message:**

The 2023 Formula One season witnessed Max Verstappen's continued dominance, while drivers like Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris showcased their potential. Despite Mercedes and Ferrari's struggles, the podcast panel remains optimistic about a more competitive 2024 season.