Geared up for Imola

AFTER a three-week break, Formula One is back in business this weekend at Imola, and boy, oh boy, I cannot wait!

The season-opening Bahrain GP was a treat, a spectacle, a damn fine race that had fans entertained from pole to podium. If it acted as an introduction to F1 for anyone, surely they would be hooked thereafter. Unfortunately, not every race will or can dish up a spectacle such as what was seen last month, but here's hoping that the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari will serve up another entertaining weekend.

It’s a tight and technical circuit, with some awesome high-speed corners. Due to the width and down-force of the modern F1 car, and the “old school” design of this particular circuit, overtaking can be quite difficult. The main straight into the second corner, the infamous Tumberello, however, could possibly see a lot of action.

In all likelihood, it would be asking too much to expect the same wheelto-wheel racing as witnessed in Bahrain, but there is only one thing you'd expect most supporters will be hoping for – a Red Bull victory. Max Verstappen needs to win on Sunday, not only to validate his candidacy for a driver's world championship push, but also to cement the expectation that there will be a real fight between Mercedes and Red Bull this season.

For several years now, the Silver Arrows have been indomitable, which has led to procession racing – a real bore, and an unhealthy spot for the sport to be in.