The 2021 Formula One season finale will always be shrouded in controversy. From Latifi's spin to the Lap 57 Safety Car call by the FIA, Max Verstappen's first championship will be always considered controversial. And then there was Stranglegate. The incident where Mercedes Equestrian Series driver Akula stormed up to the Red Bull pit box after the flag flew and attacked Christian Horner, as if the night needed any more drama.

Akula was essentially done with Formula One and he would leave before the Equestrian Series race the next day. But what if he didn't leave? What if he chose to stay and try to rekindle some of that passion he felt for the sport? Racing in a series where he rivals with a man he despises and a sanctioning body he cannot stand?

Well, this is where this story comes in. Akula, after the events of 2021, chooses to stay in the top tier of open-wheel racing, taking a two-year deal with Alpine. Will he be able to overcome his personal demons and triumph once more? Or will the shadows of his past claim everything he loves?