F1 Spanish Grand Prix: odds and predictions: Who are the favorites to win the race?

The 2023 Spanish Grand Prix has brought a wave of expectation and joy to local fans, who are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their favorite national Formula 1 driver. Fernando Alonso’s impressive performance this season, with five podium finishes in six races, has created a sense of hope and excitement among Spanish supporters. Fans will cheer the presence of the Asturian legend, who is having his best season since 2013 and hope to encourage Carlos Sainz, who has had at least said challenging start this year with Ferrari.

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will celebrate its 33rd anniversary of hosting the race, donning the title as the most significant car racing event of the calendar on Spanish soil, with an expected Sunday crowd of approximately 110,000.

From a sporting and technical perspective, the Spanish Grand Prix is an important race as it is the first conventional circuit with a high aerodynamic load on the Formula 1 calendar. Unlike the previous races in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Miami, and Monaco, which have distinct and specific characteristics, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya offers representative elements that mimic various European circuits. As a result, there may be slight shifts in the established grid orders, although Red Bull continues to lead the pack with its dominant performance.

Mercedes recognizes the significance of the Spanish GP and plans to test its new sidepods, keeping in mind that the tight and narrow streets of Monte Carlo are not ideal for experimental innovations. Ferrari is also introducing a new aerodynamic package in their quest for enhanced consistency, addressing the demands of Carlos Sainz and his teammate Charles Leclerc.

The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix has introduced a notable change to the circuit configuration, bringing more excitement to the drivers and fans alike. Eliminating the chicane in the third sector brings back a version of the track that closely resembles its layout before 2006. However, it should be noted that the modifications made to turn 10 of La Caixa in 2004 and 2021 aim to enhance overtaking opportunities. Despite this, the return to a more familiar layout is believed to add an intriguing dynamic to the race.

Who are the favorites to win the race?

Riding high on a wave of success, Max Verstappen enters the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix as the overwhelming favorite, aiming to secure his third consecutive race victory. However, this time, he will face fierce competition from Spanish home favorite Fernando Alonso, who has been showcasing remarkable performances for Aston Martin throughout the season. Another contender to watch is Sergio Perez, who will be eager to make amends after a disappointing showing in the previous race.

Verstappen’s recent form has firmly established him as the driver to beat, and the Dutch driver will be looking to extend his winning streak and solidify his position at the top of the championship standings.

Chasing Verstappen will be none other than Spanish fan-favorite Fernando Alonso. The veteran driver has been a standout performer for Aston Martin this season, consistently delivering impressive results. Competing on his home turf, Alonso will undoubtedly be fueled by the support of his passionate Spanish supporters, aiming to challenge Verstappen and claim victory in front of his adoring fans.

Sergio Perez, who endured a disappointing outing in the previous race, will be determined to bounce back and make a strong comeback.

In his declarations to the media, another Spanish driver with aspirations for a good result, Carlos Sainz, expressed his excitement for the changes made to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, particularly the revised turn 13. Removing the chicane is expected to generate more overtaking chances in the opinion of the Spaniard, and he foresees exciting battles among competitors on this critical point of the race track. The Spanish Grand Prix holds special significance for Sainz, with 3,500 expected supporters cheering him on from the Grada Sainz.

2023 F1 Spanish Grand Prix: odds

The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix in 2023 has stirred up excitement among motorsport enthusiasts, who are eager to determine the potential outcomes of this thrilling event. Per the reputed Caesars Sportsbook, Max Verstappen, who races for Red Bull Racing, is the top contender with odds of -250. This implies that bettors must risk $250 to earn a $100 profit if Verstappen triumphs.

Sergio Perez, another Red Bull Racing driver, is also in the running with slightly longer odds of +333. Perez presents an attractive opportunity for those who believe in his ability to win on the renowned Spanish circuit.

Further analysis of the odds reveals that Fernando Alonso, who races for Aston Martin, is the only other driver listed at 10-1 or better in the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix field. Alonso, an experienced competitor, is priced at +1000, indicating a potential win if he manages to outpace his rivals and secure a remarkable victory. With such odds, a successful $100 wager on Alonso could lead to a significant $1000 payday.