Some heavy heavy topics for the first letter of our Formula 1 A-Z series!

First we’ll start out with acceleration, G forces, and performance generally. I’ll do my best to compare to a top road car – the McLaren P1 – just to give you an idea of the insanity of Formula 1.

Next we’ll dive in to aerodynamics talking generally about downforce and drag, then into a bit of history on Formula 1 and then into modern aerodynamics and some of the loopholes in the formula that teams have leapt through with clever aerodynamic developments.

Finally we’ll wrap up with Fernando Alonso. He’s an impressive driver who has won the Driver’s Championship twice – though honestly it should be more. There’s a fascinating article about how Ferrari orchestrated Alonso’s demise at the team in order to scoop up Sebastian Vettel, leaving Alonso with no choice but to head back to McLaren. He’s also in pursuit of the Triple Crown of Motorsport.

Referenced Material

Difference in lateral acceleration at Australian GP from 2016 to 2017

Sounds of an Exhaust Blown Diffuser

The McLaren MP4-25 – Gorgeous car!

Awful crash at Brazil 2003

Fernando is faster than you

Start incident at Spa where Romain Grosjean crashed into (over?) Fernando Alonso

(I actually forgot that Grosjean managed to take out Hamilton as well. Pillock.)

Mattiacci and Alonso – the real story

I’m gonna pee in your seat!

Wonderful piece BBC did for Alonso’s 200th Grand Prix

Top Gear’s Richard Hammond drives Fernando Alonso’s championship winning Formula 1 car