With 3 races completed and a further 16 left - we're now into the 2010 Season in Formula 1. There was a lot of hype surrounding this year, with promises of an exciting and intense collection of races that will improve upon the last.
However, after the opening Grands Prix in Bahrain, many were criticising F1's superiors for the rule changes and lack of fun for 2010. Without refuelling, Pit Stops have been slashed to sub 4 second times to replace all 4 wheel/tyres on the car and the increased car weights have decreased the chances of overtaking within the early laps of a race.
But, the Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix's proved to be worth watching and put the 2010 season back on the map and suggests we're in for a great year. There have been 3 finishes, each with a different winner - and with the points increases this year, have meant a Driver's Championship with only 9 points separating the top 7 drivers! The qualifying too is exciting, especially as Sepang saw both Ferrari and McLaren knocked out in the first stages. Both Lewis and Jenson drove superbly to creep up from the back of the grid to points scoring positions.
So what should we expect for 2010 and who will eventually triumph?
Red Bull have proved that they may finally have their reliability woes under control. Alonso has shown great talent with a well deserved win for his Ferrari debut and an impressive drive last Sunday, achieving the fastest lap multiple times, even with his damaged gearbox. Button has shown that his move to McLaren was a good choice and that he can rack up further wins after last year's championship, defending his title well. Renault too seem to be more of a contender this year, with a podium finish in Australia and 12 points in Malaysia. The new teams too are proving they can keep up with the big guns, with several overtaking manoeuvres and out-qualifications.
All that's within just 3 races, so already we're seeing a lot of action, contrary to the critic's beliefs.
Personally, I've been a lot more involved with 2010's racing. I've kept up-to-date with the action leading up to the Sunday races, via my Twitter addiction - reading Tweets from BBC's F1 team; F1 fanatics and drivers themselves. I've also caught most of the Saturday qualifying and the pre-race coverage during the preceding hour. I've even ensured I catch the race live, or at least V+ and watched it only a few minutes off.
I'm expecting big things this year and I don't have a clue who will win by the end of the 19 races on this season's race calendar. Though, I've decided to support McLaren this year, with their 2 Championship winning British Drivers (the aforementioned Button and Hamilton). And I've not yet written off Schumacher in his return to F1 - I reckon he's only just warming up after his retirement.
Are you keen on F1 for 2010? Who are you supporting and who do you see winning by the end?