F1: Chequered Flag Chequered Flag Extra: Q&A Special
Apr 9, 2026
Alice Powell, British racing driver and W Series race winner, shares driver-focused insight and technical context. She tackles Kimi Antonelli’s prospects and Hamilton’s chances this year. Alice explains cockpit life in the rain and picks a favourite F1 car and livery. The conversation also covers potential calendar classics, replacement drivers for Verstappen, and how modern F1 engines are started.
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Hamilton Needs Ferrari Development To Win
- Lewis Hamilton's chances of a win depend on Ferrari sustaining development and closing the power deficit to Mercedes and McLaren.
- Hamilton looks more comfortable in the new car and a few podiums or a win could extend his motivation and career.
Drivers Get Wet But Not From Rainproof Suits
- Alice Powell recalled getting cold toes karting in two-degree weather, contrasting it with F1 where driving keeps you warm.
- She explained F1 overalls are fireproof Nomex layers, not waterproof, so heavy rain can still soak balaclavas and helmets.
Vintage Tracks Face Practical Barriers To Return
- Reintroducing past circuits faces licensing and safety constraints, so realistic candidates are modern tracks like Buddh or Korea rather than historic Nordschleife.
- Track nostalgia matters to fans but FIA licensing limits feasible calendar swaps.