Motorsport: F1 mid-season report card

Sebastian Vettel leads the pack at the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Hungary. Photo / Getty Images

So, what do we think of it so far? The 2017 Formula 1 season I mean.

This next few weeks sees the half term break for the teams and there are many in the paddock who desperately need the time off. If, for no other reason, than to re-acquaint themselves with their partners and to see if their children can still recognise them.

Of course there are those who will have got on the private jet on Sunday evening after the Hungarian grand Prix, as most Sunday evenings after a race, and will by now be lying on some exotic beach somewhere in the world.

Unfortunately this year there was a bit of a sting in the tail for the engineers and mechanics, and some of the drivers, as the Hungaroring played host to an 'official' Formula 1 test lasting two days, so just when you thought it was all over, well it is now.
The test sessions were overpopulated by young, fresh faced new motor racing stars, and some rich young Formula 1 hopefuls, all eager to show that they are the next 'big thing'.
Some looked like it and others, not so much.

At the very beginning of this Formula 1 season many people thought that it may well be the best for some time. The cars had wider wheels and tyres, the rear wings were lower, they were faster as well and the cars just looked better. All except for the ugly fence over the engine cover and the 'T' wing placed inelegantly on top to go with the ever more ridiculous front wings.

What ramped up the expectation further was the promise of more than one car, or at least one team, fighting for victories.

I think those expectations have gone some way to being fulfilled. A lot more to be done of course.

In terms of a report card at this half term juncture Formula 1 itself (Liberty Media that is) could be awarded a "good effort in their first term but improvement must be maintained".

Perhaps we should think of a school type report card for the drivers as well.

Sebastian Vettel - is having difficulty because he frequently talks out loud and disturbs the other students. He is trying to improve this bad habit and has shown some growth in the past few weeks. Even though there have been decent improvements within his attitude, he must try to be more respectful.

Lewis Hamilton - Although over excelling on occasion Lewis needs to mix with his peers more and remember the world does not revolve around him alone. Uses higher level thinking strategies to apply learned skills to new situations. Excellent work this term though.

Kimi Raikonnen - A popular student who does well in supporting others but needs more concentration on his elocution lessons. I would like to say that Kimi effectively participates in a range of conversations with diverse classmates and partners. Unfortunately I cannot.

Valtteri Bottas - Quietly gets on with his work and consistently uses best efforts. Actively engages in working carefully and conscientiously.

Daniel Ricciardo - This student's disposition is very pleasant, and all of the other students enjoy spending time with him. He makes friends very easily and is getting along with nearly everybody.

Max Verstappen - Talented but sometimes sacrifices accuracy for unnecessary speed in his work. Exceptionally talented and a self motivated student.

Sergio Pérez - does not follow directions and is frequently disobeying classroom rules. Could do better.

Esteban Ocon - handles disagreements with peers appropriately and diplomatically. He is a self motivated worker. Esteban has matured nicely this term. His progress was impressive. I hope this effort and attitude will carry over into next term.

Carlos Sainz - Occasionally lets ambition outstrip his talent. Needs to concentrate on the job in hand. Shows perseverance in dealing with challenging class mate.

Nico Hülkenberg - Good solid work this term. Future prospects in the balance but may impress next term.

Felipe Massa - Should have graduated by now but valuable influence on younger classmates. Manages his feelings and emotions well in the classroom and works well while staying on task.

Lance Stroll - Room for improvement. Needs to concentrate more.Lance was shy at first; however, he is quickly gaining self-confidence within the classroom.

Romain Grosjean - Vocal in class. Rarely sees any mistakes as his fault. Struggles in the engineering class.

Kevin Magnussen - A loner in class with an occasional potty mouth.

Fernando Alonso - Brilliant student hampered by being continually late for class due to transport problems. Fernando is a role model for the class.

Pascal Wehrlein - Seems out of his depth in this class. With extra tuition young Pascal may make his grades.

Daniil Kvyat - A student who promised much but has achieved little. Huge room for improvement. Daniil needs a better stand on responsibility in the classroom. Needs to listen and follow directions carefully during class time.

Stoffel Vandoorne - Overshadowed by bigger classmates. Needs to gain in confidence. Follows directions well.

Jolyon Palmer - Struggles in class. Seems bewildered on occasion while lacking in self esteem and is continually disappointed in his own performance.
Marcus Ericsson - Wants to be a famous artist. Should consider being a painter.

So class, I can hardly wait to see how you impress me during the next term.