As the Formula One circus gets back to business after its summer break at the Dutch Grand Prix, F1 23 is adding more to play with: The first Pro Challenge featuring Max Verstappen at Zandvoort is now live - but there is more to come with the next update on August 29th.
Image credit: EA Sports/Codemasters
Beating Verstappen is something the entire F1 grid would probably love to do, as the Dutchman is in the middle of one of the most dominating streaks in the sport's history - should he take to the top step of the podium in his home race again, the reigning World Champion would equal Sebastian Vettel's 2013 record of nine victories in a row.
Beat Verstappen, Then Leclerc
Once the update drops on Monday, fans can try to face off against Verstappen in Zandvoort to try and beat his lap time of 1:10.621 minutes. Should they manage to lap the circuit quicker than the 25-year-old, they win his special edition Dutch GP helmet to use in F1 23. This first Pro Challenge will be active until September 4th, followed by a new Pro Challenge against Ferrari's Charles Leclerc ahead of the Italian Grand Prix on September 5th.F1 23 players can win this special edition Dutch GP helmet of Max Verstappen to use in the game in the first Pro Challenge. Image credit: EA Sports/Codemasters
As announced, Daniel Ricciardo will make his return to the grid as part of the update as well. The Alpha Tauri driver replaces Nyck de Vries, who got relieved of his duties ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix. A new driver ratings update is also in the works, but will not be implemented until September 19th.
Remember him? Daniel Ricciardo is back on the grid and will make is virtual return in F1 23 on August 29th. Image credit: EA Sports/Codemasters
Simpler Singapore
F1 fans will also be pleased to know that the updated layout of the Marina Bay Street Circuit for the Singapore Grand Prix will be part of the update. The track's layout will see the first major overhaul in its 15-year history after several minor alterations. For 2023 the entire section between Turn 15 and Turn 20 - now Turn 16 - has been removed to speed up the final sector of the circuit.The layout of the Marina Bay Street Circuit has been simplified for the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, which will be reflected in F1 23. Image credit: racingcircuits.info (2)
In addition to the new challenges and content, several bug fixes should be expected to be part of the update as well. What exactly EA and Codemasters are planning to fix and adjust has not been announced, but you can find the list of community-raised issues that are being looked into or awaiting a patch here to get an idea.
What are your thoughts on the Pro Challenges in F1 23? Are you looking forward to the updated Singapore GP layout? Let us know in the comments below!