HINCH’S HEROES: Who stood out during an action-packed weekend on the streets of Jeddah?

In his new-for-2023 column, former IndyCar star James Hinchcliffe takes stock after every Grand Prix and presents his ‘heroes’ from the weekend. Next up, it’s his selection from a dramatic weekend in Saudi Arabia…

After what was likely a welcome weekend off coming from two weeks of pre-season testing and racing in Bahrain, the Formula 1 paddock reassembled in Saudi Arabia for the second round of the 2023 campaign.

WINNERS AND LOSERS: Who thrived under the lights at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix?

Red Bull’s Bahrain performance still top of mind, it was thought – hoped may be more appropriate – that the unique characteristics of the Sakhir track highlighted their strengths, and that the fast, flowing nature of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit might bring the field closer together.

It wasn’t to be, as it was all Red Bull, all the time – save for Fernando Alonso’s spirited start and three laps out front – as the team brought home a second successive one-two.

The midfield battle behind was predictably tight though, so let’s take a look at some of the standout performances…