Today a historic event will take place with the very first Formula 1 Grand Prix on the Portimao circuit. The track has already proven to have a high level of difficultly due to several factors. Can the circuit also provide an exciting race? Follow every moment of the GP Portugal in our live blog!
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A tricky circuit
View this post on InstagramThe Portimao circuit has caused some remarkable problems in the free practice and qualifying sessions. Previously, the difficulty level seemed to be mainly due to the height differences of the hilly track and the blind corners involved. It, however, appears that the new layer of asphalt is creating more problems.
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Because of the new asphalt, it is extremely difficult to get the tyres into the right window to provide grip. As a result, several drivers have already had spins and in the race, this can also cause problems at the start and any restart that may happen. Lewis Hamilton has already spoken out about the speed of the Safety Car.
So the first few laps will be very important on the Portimao circuit. Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas and Charles Leclerc will start on the seemingly better medium tyres, while Max Verstappen will start on P3 with his soft tyres. The Dutchman, however, has a set of new medium tyres in the garage. Could that possibly be the tactic for P2 or maybe even a victory? We will find out during the Grand Prix!