(Motorsport) The 2022 Formula 1 season has been largely a two horse race between two teams and two drivers. Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen have dominated the headlines after their impressive performances and the attention now shifts to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, home of the Spanish Grand Prix. The race marks not only the return of Formula 1 to Europe but also the return of Mercedes amongst the contenders to win the race. The upgrades fitted into W13 have worked marvellously as George Russell and Lewis Hamilton finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in FP2. 

If that’s not all, Aston Martin have also brought about a major upgrade in the Spanish Grand Prix, but due to budget and operational constraints, the upgrade will only be implemented in Lance Stroll’s car for the time being. It’s fair to say that this upgrade is a crucial one for Aston Martin in order to salvage their underwhelming season, as considerable resources have gone into the development of the upgrade and it could very well be a season defining moment. 

One of the teams to watch out for is Alfa Romeo, as the Hinwil-based outfit has outperformed Mercedes in the last two races with Valtteri Bottas losing out only because of his own mistakes. In comparison to the other cars in the midfield, the Alfa Romeo looks to be the most well rounded and could aim for a podium finish in Spain. 

Charles Leclerc has proven to be fastest in FP1 and FP2 and the Monegasque driver will undoubtedly be one of the favourites to win the Spanish Grand Prix. Ferrari themselves have implemented upgrades into their already formidable car, which could be the difference in Barcelona this time around and Leclerc should win the race and extend his lead in the Drivers Championship.

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