F1 2018: 5 things debuting in F1 this season 

The new season is almost upon us, and with it brings a roster of new things. The pecking order is yet to be firmly established and for that, we have to wait for the qualifying in Melbourne.

However, the season has a few debuts up its sleeve, apart from the Toro Rosso and Honda team-up and Charles Leclerc. Here are five of those:

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#5 Halo

Halo has been a polarising safety equipment with fans and drivers

Although a lot of technical changes in terms of the engine specifications, aerodynamics, chassis, and bodywork are perpetually happening every season, this one is a major change. Evidently, it is not the most elegant of solutions and a lot of drivers are against it.

Ironically, a device introduced for the enhanced safety of the drivers has not pleased a lot of them or the fans in general. But it is here to debut and stay for a while.

#Logo

Out goes the classical logo, in comes the new age one

To change a beloved, iconic logo that used the negative space beautifully is a statement of intent from new owners Liberty Media. Despite criticism from the drivers, the logo stays.

It is a line in the sand moment; of the beginning of a new era, under a brand new logo.The official reason given is that the old design was not useful for modern digital platforms or F1 merchandise. It is not a popular design and may take some time to get used to.

#3 Theme Music

Composed by Brian Tyler of Fast & Furious, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Iron Man 3 fame, the new theme has been released as a digital single. Tyler recorded with the Philharmonia Orchestra in London.

For a very long time, F1 has used the ending from the Fleetwood Mac song - 'The Chain' as its signature tune. It has been used on and off by broadcasters in conjunction with races ever since the late 70s.

#2 F1 TV Live

F1 TV will feature revamped camera angles and a much-improved graphics package

The need to reach more eyeballs has resulted in the commercial-free, over the top (OTT) platform marking F1’s biggest investment in its digital transformation to date. No longer is the viewer tied to the broadcaster of their respective countries.

F1 is trying everything to make this a remarkably superior viewing experience for subscribers. Considering the range of facilities available on the F1 TV, US $8 a month fee is a bargain.

#1 Grid Kids

F1 goes family friendly with Grid Kids

The grid kids will be chosen by motorsport clubs on merit, or by a lottery, from those competing in a karting or junior formulae, thereby making it more relevant for younger fans.

The grid girls are gone as using them was not consistent with the new image that Liberty Media and its CEO Chase Carey wanted to project.

For many, the grid girls brought glamour to mix with the speed of the cars, but as Bob Dylan sang - 'The Times They Are A-Changin'. The grid kids are another change and a welcome one.