What Makes the Perfect F1 Overtake? Experts Chose Their 2023 Favorites

In Formula 1, an overtake is more than simple acceleration. It's a meticulous action that involves skill, commitment, and strategy. Renowned coach Steve Deeks of Silverstone and Alex Brundle, F1TV presenter, shared their thoughts on how drivers this season made some of history's best overtakes at circuits that truly demand great driver skills.

Deeks emphasized that the most important thing in overtaking is to be both brave and patient. Brundle said that it's necessary to have a winning plan. Knowing about energy systems and making the most of fuel for cars, controlling tires so that they do not wear out too quickly, and handling DRS zones are also very important aspects of making a strong overtaking move. There were many spectacular moves witnessed in 2023, and they came from Fernando Alonso, Kevin Magnussen, and Alex Albon, amongst many others.

Among the spectacular moves witnessed in 2023, Alonso's last-minute brilliance during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix emerged as a standout. Deeks lauded it as a world-class display, highlighting the surgical precision with which Alonso executed the move. Every frame, according to Deeks, reflected the calculated utilization of both energy and tire grip. Brundle underscored the strategic brilliance, considering the broader context of the contrasting seasons for Aston Martin and Red Bull.

In Monaco, where genuine overtakes are rare, Kevin Magnussen's daring dive on Logan Sargeant captured hearts. Deeks perceived it as a brilliant, instinctive move-a Formula Ford maneuver at its finest. The need for precision and seizing the tight window of opportunity makes this pass a masterpiece. Brundle adds significance to its rarity, noting that Monaco seldom witnesses such genuine overtakes.

The final contender, Alex Albon's defense against Gasly at Spa, sparked a nuanced discussion. Brundle noted the rarity of being more impressed by the driver being overtaken, emphasizing Albon's gentlemanly approach. However, Deeks contended that the overtake of the year should be executed in a more assertive manner, reminiscent of a ninja wielding a samurai sword-cutting off options and leaving no room for debate.