As the 2021 Formula 1 season gets underway, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the return to racing after a challenging year due to the global pandemic. With new regulations, driver changes, and team rivalries, there are several key things to watch for in the upcoming season. Here are seven things to keep an eye on in Formula 1 in 2021:

1. Formula 1’s new regulations: This season will see the introduction of new regulations aimed at leveling the playing field and promoting closer racing. The changes include a budget cap, aerodynamic tweaks, and a new sliding scale for aerodynamic testing in wind tunnels. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact the competitive balance on the grid.

2. The battle at the front: The fight for the championship between the top teams, Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari, is expected to be fierce once again. Mercedes will be looking to continue their dominance after winning seven consecutive titles, while Red Bull and Ferrari will be hoping to close the gap and challenge for the championship.

3. Lewis Hamilton’s quest for an eighth title: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will be aiming to secure his eighth world championship in 2021, which would see him equal Michael Schumacher’s record. With such an impressive track record, Hamilton will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with once again this season.

4. The battle in the midfield: The midfield battle in Formula 1 is always one of the most exciting aspects of the sport, with teams like McLaren, Aston Martin, and Alpine fighting for supremacy. With talented drivers and strong cars, the battle in the midfield is sure to provide plenty of excitement and surprises throughout the season.

5. The return of Fernando Alonso: Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso is making his return to Formula 1 in 2021 with the Alpine team. The Spanish driver has a wealth of experience and is sure to shake up the grid with his competitive spirit and skill behind the wheel.

6. The young guns: The 2021 season will see several young drivers looking to make their mark in Formula 1, including Lando Norris, George Russell, and Yuki Tsunoda. These talented drivers will be looking to prove themselves against more experienced competitors and showcase their potential on the world stage.

7. The expansion of the calendar: The 2021 Formula 1 calendar is set to include a record-breaking 23 races, with new additions such as the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the return of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. The expanded calendar will provide fans with more opportunities to watch their favorite drivers in action and could lead to some unexpected results.

In conclusion, the 2021 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be a thrilling one, with new regulations, driver changes, and an expanded calendar promising plenty of excitement for fans. With battles at the front, in the midfield, and among the young drivers, there is sure to be no shortage of drama on the track. So sit back, buckle up, and get ready for another exhilarating season of Formula 1 racing.