F1 Briefings

Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan has blasted the Alpine F1 team for the way it has been managing its staff, its cars, and its drivers since mid-2023 after it sacked team principal Otmar Szafnauer and long-serving sporting director Alan Permane. With further exits of key personnel, Eddie has made a big claim that the team is wide open for sale due to Renault's evident disinterest in its F1 project. 

Key Takeaways:

• Former team owner Eddie Jordan criticizes Alpine F1's management and suggests the team is ready for sale due to Renault's diminishing interest.
• Internal politics led to the dismissal of key personnel, impacting the team's foundation, worsened by struggles with the A524 car's development.
• Alpine sits at the bottom of the Constructors' Championship after two winless races, prompting predictions that drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly may seek opportunities elsewhere.

Alpine Press Image

After internal politics played a major role in the sacking of the two senior personnel during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend last year, the team's dwindling foundation became more evident later during the year with the development of the A524, the 2024 F1 car, which struggles with an underpowered engine and added weight. 

With two races down out of the 24 this season, Alpine finds itself at the bottom of the Constructors' Championship after failing to secure any points in the opening two races held in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. As a result, Jordan thinks drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly will look for other opportunities on the F1 grid, away from Alpine at the end of 2024. 

Suggesting strong views about Alpine and its future, Jordan explained on the Formula For Success podcast:

“I think they got rid of Otmar prematurely. I think that was a mistake.

“I think he’s a talented person who certainly knew how to keep that team in the right direction and the results that they had very soon after they let him go were indicative of where somebody had left a platform of a style of management that they could embrace.

“At the moment, they are the most floundering team. It is absolutely embarrassing. I find it embarrassing to watch.

“Gasly and Ocon are capable of winning races. With Alpine in the current vision, do I see them there next year? Absolutely not. Not a chance.

“I think it’s wide open for a sale. I think Renault have pulled back from it. They don’t want to spend the money on the engines and the engine for 2026 is such a big outlay in terms of development or cost, it’s frightening them even though the value of the team [is high]. They all talk about a billion pounds for a team.

“I just feel that Alpine have been disgraceful in terms of not being able to perform for their drivers, for their team.

“To give them that car for which to compete in a World Championship is just unacceptable. Unacceptable.

“I wouldn’t put up with it. It’s shocking.”

Following a sluggish beginning to the 2024 season, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella disclosed plans to implement significant upgrades, slated for either the Miami or Imola races to enhance performance. The team has been methodically approaching the season, focusing on refining a setup that is optimal for various Grand Prix circuits.

Key Takeaways:

• McLaren plans major upgrades for the MCL38 in Miami or Imola to improve performance, with a focus on refining setups for various circuits.
• Despite improved performance in 2024 compared to 2023, McLaren still lags behind Ferrari's development pace, motivating further enhancements.
• Stella emphasizes the need for upgrades and understanding the car's capabilities, identifying vulnerabilities and areas for improvement on the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

McLaren Press Image

Through the insights gained by the Papaya team over the past year, their beginning to the 2024 season showed marked improvement over the 2023 opener. Nevertheless, it has not been adequate to keep pace with Ferrari's development progress.

Therefore, McLaren's slower pace, compared to the Maranello outfit has spurred them to focus on enhancements. Although minor upgrades are planned for Australia and Japan, a significant performance boost is anticipated to arrive in either Miami or Imola.

Speaking on the plan to enhance the MCL38's performance, Stella explained:

"We have some minor things that will come for Australia and hopefully for Japan, but they will be [delivering] a few milliseconds.

"And then hopefully, within the first third of the season, we will have a major upgrade. It's going to be for around race six or seven [Miami or Imola]."

Emphasizing the need for upgrades and the fact that there remains more room to understand the car, he added:

"I think there is margin to understand the car a little bit more.

"In Jeddah we had a slightly different approach to set-up between the two cars. And I think we see some interesting positives and negatives.

"This optimisation is maybe worth like one tenth, it's not like you can find any magic. We know the car well, apart from this little difference between the two cars that we will review.

"I think it's very much a matter of upgrades, or adaptation to the track in relation to the track characteristics."

Listing the areas of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, Stella explains the current vulnerabilities of the 2024 car. He said:

"You will have seen that anybody behind the McLaren in sector one [in Jeddah] would lose ground.

"When you have these fast, flowing corners in which it's enough to do a first steer input, the car responds very well.

"When instead the corners are long and you need to really hold the steering wheel for a long time, the car gives up a little bit and we lose a lot of time.

"That is where Ferrari are very strong, and that's why Leclerc was so competitive in the last sector, just that [last] corner.

"And the other limitation was still we would like to have more top speed. On those two features we were very well exposed at this track."

McLaren driver Oscar Piastri has suggested that rules be implemented in Formula 1 that prioritize driver health over hardcore racing. He specifically addresses issues like bouncing or porpoising, often linked with ground effect cars, which can lead to discomfort and physical strain for drivers during races.

Key Takeaways:

• McLaren driver Oscar Piastri calls for Formula 1 regulations prioritizing driver health, citing discomfort from bouncing in ground effect cars.
• Piastri's concerns echo teammate Lando Norris's worries about long-term effects.
• While the current cars have improved, stiffness for downforce still causes discomfort. Piastri urges ongoing attention to driver well-being in future regulations.

McLaren

The Australian driver's remarks echo a shared concern expressed by his teammate Lando Norris recently, who highlighted the potential long-term seriousness of discomfort experienced in ground-effect cars.

The current cars are tuned with stiff suspension setups, optimized to hug the ground tightly for maximum downforce. However, this pursuit of performance often results in bouncing, ultimately leading to discomfort for the driver during Grand Prix weekends.

Unlike older F1 cars that were more comfortable, Piastri was asked if bouncing should be acknowledged as a problem under the 2026 regulations since it makes the drive more uncomfortable. He told the media:

“I didn't have that much experience in the older generation of car.

“But it definitely was more comfortable to drive, just a bit more forgiving. I think honestly, compared to say the Formula 2 car, it's quite similar.”

Comparing the present car to the 2022 car, Piastri acknowledged the current car to be better but highlighted that the discomfort won't come in the way when a driver has to perform and deliver. He added:

“I drove the 2022 car earlier in the year and we've definitely made steps forward in terms of overseeing and improving comfort and stuff like that.

“So it's not as bad as what it was when these regulations first came in. But it’s not quite as comfortable as what the old cars were.

“I think it is a point that is valid for us. At the end of the day, we're going to drive the car however is quickest.

“You’re never gonna give up lap time for having an achy body after the race.

“You need rules to stop that from us because we're so competitive that we're just going to get the ultimate lap time out of it no matter what it takes.

“We’ve done a good job addressing it but it is something we need to keep an eye on in the future.”

The FIA has issued a response following a formal complaint made by the woman accusing Christian Horner of misconduct. The organisation has highlighted the confidentiality and autonomy of its complaint management process.

Key Takeaways:

• A formal complaint against Christian Horner has been lodged with the FIA's ethics committee by the accuser, escalating the situation further.
• The complaint follows an internal investigation by Red Bull, which was previously dismissed, leading to the accuser's suspension.

Red Bull Press Image

The FIA has made a public statement in light of a formal complaint filed against Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner. The complaint, brought forward by a woman alleging misconduct on Horner's part, has been officially lodged with the FIA's ethics committee, marking a pivotal moment in an ongoing dispute that has drawn widespread attention.

The statement reads:

“At the FIA, enquiries and complaints are received and managed by the Compliance Officer, and the Ethics Committee where appropriate. Both bodies operate autonomously, guaranteeing strict confidentiality throughout the process.

“As a consequence, and in general, we are unable to confirm the receipt of any specific complaint and it is unlikely that we will be able to provide further comment on the complaints that we may receive from any parties.”

This statement comes amidst a backdrop of intensifying scrutiny surrounding Horner, who has consistently denied the allegations against him. The issue first came to light following complaints, which suggested possible misconduct and a subsequent cover-up within the Red Bull Racing team, according to BBC Sport.

The first whistleblower complaint, received by the FIA in early February, called for an investigation into Horner's behaviour towards a female employee, hinting at Red Bull's potential efforts to obscure the truth. A second complaint in March reinforced these concerns, indicating the whistleblower's readiness to publicise their grievances.

Despite the controversy, Red Bull Racing has maintained a stance of unawareness regarding the new complaint and has refrained from commenting further. This follows the team's earlier dismissal of the accuser's initial complaint, which was rejected after an investigation by an independent lawyer, leading to the accuser's suspension from her role within the team.

The saga has been marked by an extensive investigation into Horner's conduct, conducted by an external legal expert, which ultimately led to the dismissal of the allegations. Nevertheless, the situation remains fraught with tension, particularly following the leak of messages allegedly involving Horner that circulated within the F1 community.

As the F1 world watches closely, Horner and Red Bull Racing continue to navigate the controversy, with Horner recently reiterating the comprehensive and professional manner in which the complaint was handled and ultimately dismissed.

A formal complaint has been lodged with the FIA by the woman who has accused Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of misconduct. The grievance marks a significant escalation in the ongoing saga.

Key Takeaways:

• The complainant has formally approached the FIA's ethics committee, following accusations against Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour, according to BBC Sport.
• This action comes in the wake of the closed internal investigation concerning Horner's conduct towards a female employee.
• Red Bull Racing has expressed unawareness of the new complaint, maintaining silence on the matter, while Horner aims to move past the controversy.

The woman involved in the allegations against Christian Horner has filed an official complaint with the FIA's ethics committee. This move intensifies the scrutiny on Horner, who has consistently refuted the claims made against him. The situation has reportedly unfolded against a backdrop of two prior whistleblower complaints, which have raised serious questions about the internal dynamics at Red Bull Racing and the potential for concealment of misconduct.

The initial whistleblower complaint, received by the FIA on 2 February, directly addressed Horner's behaviour towards a female staff member, urging the governing body to investigate the matter and highlighting concerns over a possible cover-up by Red Bull. A subsequent complaint on 6 March echoed these concerns and hinted at the whistleblower's intention to go public with the information.

Despite the growing controversy, the FIA has remained silent on the issue, and Red Bull Racing has declared its lack of awareness regarding the new complaint, choosing not to comment further. The complainant's resolve to pursue her grievance with the FIA follows Red Bull's rejection of her initial complaint, which was dismissed after an inquiry led by an independent lawyer. In an unexpected turn of events, she was suspended from her role at Red Bull shortly after the dismissal.

The accusations against Horner first emerged in early February, though the investigation into his conduct began nearly a month prior and spanned 10 weeks. Red Bull enlisted an external lawyer for the investigation, whose findings led to the dismissal of the complaint. The aftermath saw a leak of messages purportedly involving Horner to key figures in the F1 community.

Amidst calls to put an end to the controversy, Red Bull maintains the confidentiality of the case details. Horner, speaking at the recent Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, emphasised the thorough and professional handling of the grievance by an independent legal expert, resulting in its dismissal.

Audi’s change of decision to buy a 100% stake at Sauber has been extremely promising for the Sauber F1 team amid the challenges it faces in the current season. Calling the takeover the light at the end of the tunnel, the team's head of trackside engineering, Xevi Pujolar, suggests that further positive changes are anticipated over the next two years as the team transitions to become Audi.

Key Takeaways:

• Audi's accelerated acquisition of Sauber has injected hope into the team amid current challenges, with the head of trackside engineering Xevi Pujolar anticipating positive changes over the next two years.
• Initially expected to purchase 75% by 2026, Audi's decision to fully acquire Sauber has increased optimism, particularly regarding car development.
• Pujolar remains confident in the team's competitive edge despite current issues, fueled by a positive outlook under Audi's ownership, dispelling doubts about the company's F1 commitment.

Sauber Press Image

Although the takeover was initially expected to be finalized by 2026, with Audi purchasing 75% of the team, the recent decision by Audi to fully acquire the team has filled Pujolar with even greater optimism. This move is seen as beneficial for the development of the car over the next two years. Speaking to the media, he said:

“For sure, it is encouraging for the future. 

"But also, we need to think about today, no?

“I would say it is important in terms of budget possibilities, and what we can build in the next year and a half or two years before Audi [arrives] fully and we are Audi.

“So, just to have the team ready, and we just need to do as much as we can now to build that team to be ready when it matters."

Adding further, Pujolar suggests that Audi's full takeover has given him a "positive mindset" to be successful in the future, despite the current problems faced by the team. He said:

“But in that time, we want to still be competitive, and we want to fight for the points every single race.

“I will say that, even with all the issues that we have got, that gives us energy, and a positive mindset that what is coming is better and there is a light at the end of the tunnel just to make sure that we are successful.

“That's what we want to do. To be successful.”

The announcement of Audi's expedited acquisition of Sauber has dispelled concerns regarding the company's wavering commitment to its F1 program.

Reports indicate that Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was involved in an accident while driving the Mercedes AMG GT3 at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola while filming on the track. Present beside the Mercedes team boss was teen sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who might have had some driving advice to offer his potential future boss after the accident. 

Key Takeaways:

• Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was involved in a track accident at Imola while driving the Mercedes AMG GT3 alongside teen sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who may have offered advice post-accident.
• During a break from on-track activities, Mercedes filmed key figures driving sports cars at Imola, with footage expected in Netflix's Drive to Survive season seven.
• Wolff grazed the wall while driving the AMG GT3, causing significant damage, but he reassured that he was 'fine' and continued driving after repairs. He mentioned his driving skills were not optimal and referred to a previous crash at the Nürburgring in 2009.

Mercedes Press Image

During this one-week break from on-track activities, Mercedes utilized the time to film some of their prominent figures driving sports cars on the Imola track. This event is anticipated to be showcased in Netflix's Drive to Survive Season Seven. 

According to oe24, Wolff was driving laps around the renowned track in the 550 HP AMG GT3 when he grazed the wall, resulting in significant damage to the high-end sports car. Despite the incident, Wolff reassured that he was 'fine' and proceeded to complete several additional laps after the car underwent repairs. 

When asked if he had the confidence to race against Max Verstappen's father Jos, whom he used to race against professionally, he said:

"Jos was a step above me.

"My driving skills are not ideal at the moment. During our tests in Imola I had a problem with the traction control and I hit the wall after two laps."

Having previously confessed to fearing for his life after a terrifying crash at the Nürburgring in 2009, the Austrian team principal has since approached his track day sessions with caution.

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc expressed confidence that it's only a matter of time before the team's SF-24 F1 car can closely pursue and pressure the Red Bull RB20s. The Monegasque driver disclosed Ferrari's strategy for the car's future upgrades, noting the significant progress made so far compared to last year.

Key Takeaways:

• Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc is optimistic about the SF-24's potential to challenge the Red Bull RB20s, expressing confidence in the team's progress and strategy for future upgrades.
• Despite a considerable gap to Max Verstappen in Jeddah, Leclerc sees Ferrari's advancements compared to last season as promising, suggesting they could apply more pressure on Red Bull.
• Ferrari aims to maximize its current package for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, with plans for a significant upgrade dubbed the 'EVO' version of the SF-24 expected at Imola in May.

Ferrari Press Image

Although Leclerc's 18-second gap behind Verstappen in Jeddah may appear discouraging, the 26-year-old driver believes that Ferrari's advancements, compared to last season, indicate the potential to exert pressure on Red Bull if they maintain this trajectory.

Starting from second position behind polesitter Max Verstappen in Jeddah, Leclerc's performance marks a significant improvement with the SF-24. Thus, Ferrari recently revealed that it was now confident of upgrading the car based on the existing foundation it has developed over the winter break. 

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Speaking to the media, Leclerc highlighted the large gap to close in behind Red Bull:

"It's been a positive race [Saudi Arabian Grand Prix]. I think we are doing small steps in the right direction,

"The gap is still quite big, but if we keep working like that, I'm sure it's a matter of time before we put the Red Bull under a bit more pressure."

Leclerc added that it is clear to the team which area of the car needs more attention and thus, Ferrari now has a measured target to achieve in the near future. He told Sky Sports F1:

"Three or four tenths is a lot in the world of motorsport.

"However, when you look at every part of the car, if you are gaining 0.010s per part then you are straight away gaining that.

"In the last few months, we are the team that has improved the most because we have been working extremely well and we just have to keep doing that, it's very clear which areas we have to work on.

"I'm sure that our moment will come. I don't know what Red Bull has in the pocket in terms of upgrades but that will define when exactly we'll be able to match them."

Revealing plans for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, Leclerc ruled out upgrades for the SF-24, citing that the team plans to maximize its existing package. He said:

"I don't think we'll have many things new in Melbourne, so without new things in Melbourne, I think we are doing a good job by maximising our package at the moment.

"So, that's where we are. We'll probably have to wait and see whenever we have new parts to the car, what kind of step we do forward. And hopefully that will bring us closer to Red Bull."

Recent reports indicate Ferrari's intention to unveil a significant upgrade for its car at Imola in May, potentially transforming it into an 'EVO' iteration of the current SF-24.

Saudi Motorsport CEO Martin Whitaker has confirmed that the proposed half-a-billion dollar Qiddiya Circuit won't be just a Grand Prix race track but an entire city set to become an attraction for tourists and sports enthusiasts as a part of Saudi Arabia's 'Vision 2030' initiative. 

Key Takeaways:

• Saudi Motorsport CEO Martin Whitaker reveals plans for the Qiddiya Circuit, a billion-dollar project aligned with Saudi Arabia's 'Vision 2030', aiming to be more than just a race track but a hub for tourism and sports.
• Whitaker expresses confidence in the project's success, citing its adaptability for various sports and strong commitment from Saudi Arabia.
• The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will move to Qiddiya from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, contributing to broader sports development initiatives.

Qiddiya Media

Whitaker affirmed that essential measures have been implemented to guarantee the project's success, as it aims to accommodate various sports. Furthermore, he underscored the administration's dedication to ensuring the project fulfills its commitments, drawing a contrast with South Korea's unsuccessful GP project in Mokpo, which faltered due to anticipated high costs.

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is scheduled to move from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit to Qiddiya later this decade, given the USPs of the upcoming racetrack that will feature 21 corners with an elevation difference of 108 meters and three DRS zones, as well as a 70-meter incline to the first corner, dubbed the 'Blade'.

Speaking to RacingNews365, Whitaker affirmed that the project is "definitely happening" and mentioned its broader scope that goes beyond Formula 1. He stated:

"It's definitely happening.

"Using a Monopoly board analogy, we've got past 'Go', and when I say 'we', Saudi Motorsport will be the promoter of the race, as we are in Jeddah, and we will also be the operator of the circuit 365 days of the year.

"It's difficult at this moment in time to say exactly when we will race there. One of the prime considerations you've got to remember is that Qiddiya is not just a racing track, it's a whole city, like a huge theme park, in a sense.

"You've got other many sports, golf, soccer, motorsport, and you've got all the entertainment that goes with it, and then you've got residential, retail, hotels. It's the whole nine yards, a spectacular venue.

"When we've talked about it, we've always thought of Qiddiya as just being somewhere where we're going to go and stage Formula 1 in the future, but in actual fact, it's so much more than that.

"It's also important to consider that when it comes to staging a Formula 1 race in Qiddiya, everything's got to be right. You cannot run on a circuit that might be finished but where the infrastructure around it isn't. Essentially, everything needs to come together at the same time, which I'm sure it will."

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Highlighting the difference with other big projects that never fructified for the long term, like the one in South Korea or the Buddh International Circuit in India that hosted races for just three years, Whitaker praised the strong commitment of the Saudis. He added:

"The difference here is the commitment of the Saudis.

"Once they commit to doing something, that's it. It's happening. There's no turning back. They're going to achieve it.

"And the reason why Qiddiya is because it's one of these giga projects that they're doing in Saudi, which is evolving so rapidly.

"I came here six years ago and it was a completely different country to what it is today. One of the prime objectives of what's called 'Vision 2030' is tourism. Obviously, any country wants to attract tourism.

"Of course, very few people have really had much exposure to Saudi. People didn't travel to Saudi like they do today, and like they're going to in four or five years' time. It's rapidly evolving."

Qiddiya Media

Revealing other plans for the Qiddiya Circuit, he added:

"And Qiddiya is great because we'll have another circuit we can race on. In a sense, we've done all the high level stuff quite well. We've done Formula 1 reasonably well, we've done Extreme E, Formula E and Dakar Rally.

"Now we're starting to concentrate on growing the grassroots of the sport here in the Kingdom, and for me, that's almost more exciting for me because now we're starting to produce new race circuits, new kart tracks, new bike tracks, new off-road facilities, and we're starting to build academies for young people to come and race on.

"And it's not just about racing, it's about gaining engineers and technicians. We work really closely with local universities to make sure that these people have a potential career path. So that's what we're now concentrating on as well, and to have another circuit is great and will only help that cause."

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc emphasized the significance of the preparation between Grand Prix weekends, which is vital for his readiness in the midst of a demanding and record-breaking 24-race 2024 Formula 1 season. He emphasized the importance of small details, such as efficient time management and minimizing travel to maintain his peak performance.

Key Takeaways:

• Charles Leclerc underscores the importance of meticulous preparation between races for the gruelling 24-race 2024 Formula 1 season, focusing on effective time management and reducing travel.
• After teammate Carlos Sainz's podium in Bahrain, Leclerc secured a podium at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, hinting at a strong start for Ferrari's challenge against Red Bull.
• In an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington, Leclerc discusses the adjustments required for the longer season, emphasizing the need to optimize free time between races for consistent performance.

Ferrari F1 Team / Shell

One week after his teammate Carlos Sainz secured third place in Bahrain, Leclerc marked his debut 2024 podium at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Hinting at a positive start for Ferrari this year, the team closest to Red Bull's RB20 on track, the Monegasque driver is keen on catching up with the blue cars at the front. 

While a Formula 1 driver has to follow a strict schedule and diet throughout the Formula 1 season to remain at their physical best, Lerclerc emphasized that with the demanding 24-race season, he has had to go a step further to "be 100 percent from the first race to the last race".

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Speaking exclusively to Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington in an interview, when asked how his preparations have changed considering the longer season, the Ferrari driver revealed:

"I don't think my preparation differs that much, actually. I think it's always the same preparation.

"I always try to be as ready as I can be, to be the best athlete possible outside the car as well as inside the car. And this remains the same preparation. 

"I think where it changes slightly - it's the time management, what I do with my free time in between the races. Obviously, with 24 races, you need to be 100 percent from the first race to the last race."

Highlighting the specific changes, he added:

"And so what you do in between races is even more so important. So logistics, by example, we might want to stay in between two races instead of coming back home and travelling all the time.

"These kinds of things are super, super important in order to optimise the time that we have left to always deliver at our best."

Toto Wolff has addressed the swirling rumours about Jerome d'Ambrosio potentially leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari, following in the footsteps of Lewis Hamilton.

Key Takeaways:

• Speculation has been rife about Jerome d'Ambrosio, a key figure in Mercedes' driver development program, possibly moving to Ferrari.
• Toto Wolff has commented on the matter, indicating that any decisions by d'Ambrosio are driven by personal considerations, with his future still undecided.
• D'Ambrosio's contract with Mercedes is nearing its end, amidst discussions about his interest in relocating back to mainland Europe.

Having been integral to Mercedes, especially in the area of driver development, d'Ambrosio's departure could be a major shift, especially as it follows the news of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton's transition to the same Italian team.

D'Ambrosio, who has been with Mercedes for the past year, taking on roles that even saw him stepping in for Toto Wolff at some races in 2023, has been a pivotal figure. His potential departure is seen against the backdrop of his contract expiration by year-end and his expressed desire for a return to mainland Europe.

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Toto Wolff's response to these speculations was measured, stating, as quoted by Crash.net: 

“I think he’s with us at the moment.

“The situation is more for personal reasons, that he’s evaluating the options of what to do.

“I think it’s something he should speak about but all is good. We’ll see where that goes.”

Should d'Ambrosio make the move to Ferrari, it would represent a significant career pivot, particularly considering his prior roles and the imminent end of his Mercedes contract. His journey from his F1 racing days through to his strategic roles in Formula E, and most recently with Mercedes, highlights his valuable contributions to the motorsport world. His potential exit from Mercedes could be a considerable loss for the team.

In a significant development for the 2026 regulation changes, the sport has decided to continue with the 18-inch tyre format into the 2026 season, abandoning the previously considered shift to 16-inch tyres.

Key Takeaways:

• The move to reduce tyre size to 16 inches for 2026 has been shelved in favour of keeping the current 18-inch tyres.
• Pirelli opposed the change citing significant practical and marketing challenges.
• Some modifications to the tyre's size and shape are anticipated, despite maintaining the 18-inch standard.

The sport's decision-makers, in conjunction with tyre supplier Pirelli, have opted against a proposed transition to 16-inch tyres for the 2026 season. The discussion around tyre size, a crucial aspect of the sport's technical framework, took centre stage at a recent meeting of the technical advisory committee, which saw participation from team representatives and the FIA.

The idea to downscale to 16-inch rims was initially floated as a strategy to lessen the overall car weight in alignment with the new technical regulations set to take effect in 2026. However, the proposal faced resistance from Pirelli who raised concerns about the feasibility of such a transition and its potential adverse effects on the sport's marketability and technological image. The switch to 18-inch tyres in 2022 was a step intended to mirror the developments in the broader automotive industry, aiming to position Formula 1 as a leader in innovation and style. A move back to smaller rims was perceived as a step backward in this regard.

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

While the consensus was to stick with the 18-inch tyre model, the discussions did lead to an agreement on fine-tuning the tyre dimensions, focusing on slight alterations in size and shape to enhance performance and compatibility with the new car designs.

"We are close to the final version of the sizes," Pirelli F1 boss Mario Isola told Motorsport.com.

"Obviously when you design the wheel, you have to consider all the package, brakes, wheel, suspension, tyre, so I believe we are close to the final sizes."

Isola elaborated on the preferences and the rationale behind them, stating:

"The discussion is between 16 and 18-inch tyres. And our preference is to stay on 18-inch tyres. And I believe that there are valid reasons to stay on 18-inch, with smaller tyres, but still the same rim.

"That's what we are discussing, just a bit smaller diameter, a slightly lower profile and slightly narrower tyre."

Addressing the topic of weight reduction and its impact on the decision-making process, Isola remarked:

"There is an element that is weight.

"And clearly that affects all the package, and also the wheels. The difference between 16 and 18 and a narrow 18 is not huge. So the weight element is there."

Isola also highlighted performance considerations, especially in terms of tyre overheating, as crucial factors in the decision-making process. 

"But it's not the only element. There is an element of performance. Because obviously if you were to go to 16-inch tyres, much smaller, the risk of overheating is much higher. A smaller diameter means that you disperse the heat in a different way.

"And so there are many elements that if we wanted to design a tyre that is in line with drivers' expectations. For performance, the 18-inch tyre is better than the 16."

In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington, Charles Leclerc shared his insights on the upcoming triple-header finale of the 2024 F1 season, beginning with the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Leclerc hinted at potential areas for improvement amidst ongoing discussions between Formula 1 and the teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Charles Leclerc discussed the challenges and discussions surrounding the end-of-season triple-header, starting with the Las Vegas GP.
• Concerns have been raised about the logistics and well-being of the paddock staff due to late-night sessions and subsequent dramatic time zone changes.
• The 2024 season finale includes races in Las Vegas, Qatar (hosting the last sprint race), and Abu Dhabi, presenting a demanding schedule for the teams.

Ferrari Press Image

The 2024 Formula 1 calendar will round off with a triple-header that poses not just a challenge to the drivers but also to the entire team staff, particularly those working tirelessly in the paddock. The sequence kicks off with the Las Vegas Grand Prix, a race that, in its inaugural year, sparked debates over its late-night schedule and the strain it places on team logistics.

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc shared his perspective in an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated. The Monegasque driver highlighted the ongoing discussions aimed at finding a balance between the spectacle that Formula 1 aims to deliver and the practical considerations of team operations. He commented:

"I don't know. I think it's always a compromise between what Formula 1 needs and wants and what the teams obviously have to be looking at to mostly take care of the guys that are working in the paddock.

"So this is a continuous discussion. I have no doubt that the best compromise are trying to be found. However, there's still things that we can optimise for sure."

The addition of Qatar and Abu Dhabi to the tail end of the season, with Qatar hosting the final sprint race, amplifies the logistical challenges. The concerns aren't unfounded, as the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix highlighted issues related to the late timing of track sessions. These late-night events, designed to cater to global audiences, introduce an additional layer of complexity, especially when followed by races in significantly different time zones the week after.

In a recent discussion with Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington, Charles Leclerc shared his views on the revamped sprint race weekend format for the 2024 F1 season.

Key Takeaways:

• Leclerc expresses his appreciation for the new format, highlighting its competitive nature right from the start of the weekend.
• The 2024 changes allow for car adjustments post-sprint race, which Leclerc sees as a significant improvement.
• The revised schedule includes Free Practice 1 and Sprint Qualifying on Friday, the Sprint Race and Grand Prix Qualifying on Saturday, with the Grand Prix concluding the weekend on Sunday.

Charles Leclerc has given his verdict on the Formula 1 sprint race weekend's alteration slated for 2024. During an interview with Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington, Leclerc delved into the details of the format overhaul and its implications for drivers and teams.

Leclerc's enthusiasm for the revamped format is palpable. He notes: 

"It's something that I like as a driver because, now in Formula One, we've got FP1, FP2, FP3, where you haven't got anything really to play or challenge for apart from learning about your car, which is always nice.

"But competition is what I love most. So to have a very important session straight away on a Friday, it's something I like, and I think the changes will make it better as well, just because we've got now the chance to change the car after the sprint race, which is a good thing.

"Because I feel like sometimes when you are getting it wrong, or if you had a bad one then you had no way to recover, which now, it will be a bit better."

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

The updated sprint race format aims to infuse more excitement and competitiveness into the race weekend from day one whilst avoiding parc ferme difficulties. The introduction of car adjustments after the sprint race is a welcome change, providing teams with the flexibility to rectify any missteps or unforeseen challenges encountered during the sprint race.

The weekend will kick off with Free Practice 1 followed by Sprint Qualifying on Friday. Saturday will see the drivers compete in the Sprint Race ahead of the Grand Prix Qualifying later in the day. The main event of the weekend remains the Grand Prix on Sunday.

The first sprint race of the season will be during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend on 19-21 April.

In a recent exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated's Alex Harrington, Charles Leclerc reflected on the developments of the Ferrari SF24. He highlighted significant improvements from the previous year, setting a hopeful tone for the upcoming season.

Key Takeaways:

• Leclerc notes an enhanced starting position for the SF24 compared to last year, with initial expectations being met.
• The team has identified and addressed past issues, allowing a focused development of the car moving forward.
• Challenges with the braking system in Bahrain are under scrutiny, with resolutions being a top priority.

Charles Leclerc's conversation revealed a promising start for Ferrari's SF24, a stark contrast to the team's struggles at the same point last year. The Monegasque driver detailed the initial setbacks encountered with the previous model, where unexpected performance issues led to a delayed development cycle. However, this year paints a different picture, with the SF24 meeting the team's expectations right from the outset.

Leclerc's optimism stems from the car's current reliability and performance, aligning closely with pre-season objectives. This solid foundation enables the team to dedicate their efforts towards enhancing the car's capabilities, a luxury they couldn't afford last year due to unforeseen challenges.

"I think first of all we are in a better place compared to last compared to a year ago, where a year ago we put the car on the ground and the car wasn't behaving the way we expected it to behave.

So it was a bit difficult to understand from where the problem was starting, and we have identified that later in the [2023] season. And from that moment onwards, we could focus on the development of the car as soon as we understood what was wrong with this car. Whereas this year, there's nothing that is wrong with the car."

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Despite the encouraging start, Leclerc acknowledged ongoing issues, particularly with the braking system experienced during tests in Bahrain. The team is actively investigating these problems, ensuring they are rectified promptly to avoid compromising their competitive edge.

"At least it's doing everything that that we expected, which is a good starting point. And we can straight away focus on the development of the car, which gives me confidence that the rate of development will be better compared to last year, so that's that's good.

"Yeah, we've had some problems on the braking system on my side in in Bahrain, which are still being investigated. We'll look into it. And obviously this is a priority to work to resolve."

Leclerc's confidence in the car's current state and the team's capacity to address issues suggests a promising season ahead for Ferrari. With the first two races of the 2024 season behind us, Ferrari is currently the closest contender to threaten Red Bull's ongoing dominance.

Thank you to Shell for setting up this interview.

Shell Motorsport has been a partner of Ferrari since the late '20s. Their strong alliance has helped build the success of the team, and Formula 1 as a sport. 

Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso, whose contract with the Silverstone outfit expires at the end of this year, has teased fans by uploading an Instagram Story from the same Monaco cafe where his manager Flavio Briatore and Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff had met. The social media story has sparked fresh speculation of his move to Mercedes next year. 

Key Takeaways:

• Fernando Alonso's social media post from a Monaco cafe where his manager met with Mercedes' team principal sparks speculation of a potential move to Mercedes following Lewis Hamilton's departure to Ferrari in 2025.
• Several teams are interested in signing Alonso after his impressive performance with Aston Martin last year despite his age of 42, fuelling rumors about his future in Formula 1.
• However, an official statement regarding Alonso's plans may not come until after a few races, as he takes time to decide on his Formula 1 future.

With Mercedes having to fill a seat for next season after Lewis Hamilton's shock move to Ferrari, several names are being proposed for a spot alongside George Russell, with Alonso being one of them. 

Many teams are eager to secure the services of the Spaniard, impressed by his performance last year with the Silverstone outfit. He played a pivotal role in driving the team to achieve fifth place in the Constructors' Championship.

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Despite being 42 years of age, the zeal to race and win remains young for Alonso. While he kept rumors on hold after recently revealing that he was still deciding whether or not to continue his Formula 1 journey next year, his social media story has brought the rumors to life once again. 

Days after Hamilton dropped the Ferrari news, Alonso's manager Briatore shared a photo of himself and Wolff having breakfast at the same café that Alonso frequented after returning from the race at Jeddah. 

pic.twitter.com/Bh47EyAeKp

In the foreground of the image uploaded by Alonso, he prominently displayed the same mug that was present on the table during Wolff and Briatore's meeting. Resting on top of it is a foam recreation of his 2005 World Championship celebrations in Brazil, representing his back-to-back titles.

While all this may sound like a bit too much to pass off as a coincidence, Alonso must've had a good laugh witnessing reactions from his followers. However, an official statement regarding his future plans may not be forthcoming until after a few races, as he has requested some time to contemplate his future in Formula 1.

A post shared by Flavio Briatore (@briatoreflavio)

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has revealed that Sergio Perez has decided to adopt "more or less" the same setup as his teammate Max Verstappen this season. The Austrian has stressed that the current car's speed stems from its lack of "good-nature", moving away from what the Mexican driver is usually more comfortable with.

Key Takeaways:

• Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko revealed that Sergio Perez has adopted the same setup as Max Verstappen's car for the 2024 season, attributing the current car's speed to its lack of 'good-naturedness'.
• With Perez's contract expiring at the end of the 2024 season, there are high expectations for him to secure a contract extension, especially after a challenging 2023 season.
• Despite Perez's recent contributions to Red Bull's success, Marko emphasizes that Max Verstappen's ability to handle a nervous rear end gives him a significant advantage over Perez.

As Sergio Perez heads into another season with the Red Bull team, with his contract set to expire at the end of 2024, there are high expectations for him to deliver strong performances to secure a contract extension. This is particularly crucial considering his challenging 2023 season that raised questions originally.

Fortunately, his contribution to the Milton Keynes team, securing a 1-2 finish in both races so far this season has been beneficial for him with the driver sitting safely second in the drivers' standings. Marko has now highlighted a key difference from last year, admitting that Perez is taking a different angle when it comes to his race setup. Speaking on the changes Perez has made this season, the Red Bull advisor wrote in his Speedweek column:

“This year he is no longer experimenting, but is starting with more or less the same basic set-up as Max.

“There are just more nuances in which they set up differently.”

Who would you rather see in a seat in 2025?

Delving further into what sets the two drivers apart in their setups, Marko stated that Perez prefers a "good-natured" car, which is why the RB18, Red Bull's 2022 challenger, suited him more. However, despite this, the RB18 wasn't as fast as the later two models, albeit easier to drive. Verstappen's exceptional ability to handle a nervous rear of the car sets him apart from other drivers, giving him a significant advantage. Marko added:

“Checo used to be fast with cars that were good-natured.

“But good-natured cars are rarely fast.

“In 2022, it worked in his favour that our car was overweight. As a result, it had a more good-natured tendency with more understeer and a stable rear end. But it wasn’t fast – Ferrari was actually faster in the first half of the season. It was only strategy and [Charles] Leclerc’s driving mistakes that tipped the balance in our favour.

“Now our car is very fast, and the fact that Max copes better with a nervous rear end than anyone else is down to his extraordinary talent and makes all the difference.”

F1 Authentics announced an exclusive offer involving Mystery Boxes, with a chance to win a coveted Red Bull RB19 Simulator. This opportunity has been embraced by F1 enthusiasts, with a significant portion of the boxes already sold.

Key Takeaways:

• F1 Authentics has launched a campaign offering Mystery Boxes, with one containing a Red Bull RB19 Simulator worth £100,000.
• Out of 500 boxes, 300 have been sold, leaving only 200 up for grabs.
• The winner of the simulator will be announced after all boxes are sold, with each box costing £999.

F1 Authentics - Memento Exclusives Press Image

F1 Authentics, under the umbrella of Memento Exclusives, a renowned UK-based sports memorabilia manufacturer, has captivated the F1 community with its latest offering. They have introduced Mystery Boxes, each filled with unique F1 memorabilia valued up to £18,000. From race-used artifacts to autographed collectibles, each box promises an array of exclusive items.

Priced at £999, these boxes present an extraordinary value proposition for collectors and fans alike. The total count of boxes is limited to 500, with 300 already claimed, leaving a dwindling number of 200 boxes for the taking. The highlight of this campaign is the golden opportunity to win an Oracle Red Bull Racing RB19 Simulator, a high-value item marked at £100,000, by simply purchasing a Mystery Box. The draw for the simulator will take place once all boxes have been sold, with each box's number being potentially the winning ticket.

CEO and Founder of F1 Authentics and Memento Exclusives, Barry Gough, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating:

"Our Mystery Box campaign is one of the most exciting projects we’ve worked on with our F1 Authentics brand. Not only do fans get a variety of exclusive pieces when buying one, but they get the added excitement of potentially winning a Simulator. This largescale giveaway highlights the growth of our business and brands."

With only a limited number of boxes remaining, the race is on to not only own a piece of F1 history but also to possibly clinch a simulator that brings the thrill of F1 racing right into the living room.

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has expressed concerns that his previous comments may have unduly accelerated the spotlight on junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, amidst growing speculation about his future role within the team.

Key Takeaways:

• Wolff acknowledges the possibility of having spoken too prematurely about Antonelli's future, adding unnecessary pressure on the young talent.
• Antonelli's remarkable leap from karting to Formula 2, without competing in Formula 3, marks him as a significant figure in Mercedes' long-term plans.
• Following Hamilton's announcement of joining Ferrari, Wolff emphasises a more contemplative approach towards filling the upcoming vacancy in the Mercedes lineup.

The conversation around potential driver line-ups is never-ending in Formula 1, particularly in the wake of Lewis Hamilton's surprising switch to Ferrari for the next season. Toto Wolff has shared reflections on his comments about Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a rising star in Mercedes' junior ranks, suggesting that his earlier remarks may have brought undue attention to the young driver.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has made a jump directly to Formula 2 from karting, bypassing the traditional Formula 3 stint, has been the subject of considerable speculation regarding his potential inclusion in Mercedes' future plans. Wolff commented:

“I’ve said that we need to look long-term also, and on the driver line-up not in one year but in three, five or 10, and with that perspective I just wanted to keep the options open and with all the consequences that could potentially bring,” Wolff stated to Formula1.com.

Mercedes Press Image

The departure of Hamilton to Ferrari has cast a spotlight on Mercedes' future driver selections, with Wolff expressing a desire for a thoughtful and unhurried approach. 

“But we have such a love affair with Lewis and Mercedes and how well we’ve done that nothing’s going to put any shadow on this. We want to end on a high and we will be giving it all this season.”

Addressing the potential timing for Antonelli's F1 debut, Wolff shared:

“I’m probably guilty in having talked too much about Kimi, because he’s just 17, he jumped F3, he’s going into F2.

“He needs to learn, he needs to be more, let’s say, in the shadows to be able to develop, understand what to do and whether he’s going to be in Formula 1 if everything goes to plan, but I don’t know if that is next year or whether it’s with us or someone else.”

Nico Hulkenberg was oblivious to the fact that his Haas teammate, Kevin Magnussen, had deliberately slowed down during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix to aid Hulkenberg in securing a point. This strategic move by Haas has sparked a call for action by the FIA, following critiques from Williams and VCARB.

Key Takeaways:

• Nico Hulkenberg was unaware of teammate Kevin Magnussen's tactics to slow down during the race, which helped Hulkenberg score a point.
• Magnussen faced penalties but managed to hold back competitors, benefiting Hulkenberg.
• Williams' team principal, James Vowles, has called for a review of Haas' race strategies following the event.

During the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Haas F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg found himself unwittingly assisted by his teammate, Kevin Magnussen, who had slowed his pace on the track following team orders. This move came after Haas decided to employ different strategies for their drivers in response to a safety car situation caused by Lance Stroll's crash.

Magnussen, who had accumulated penalties due to incidents during the race, managed to hold up the field, allowing Hulkenberg to create a significant gap. This strategic play facilitated Hulkenberg's finish in the points, a fact he was completely unaware of during the race. Hulkenberg expressed his surprise, saying:

“No, no, I didn’t.

“I was told that the gap opened up, but I wasn’t aware why. I just thought, ‘I am so good that I fly away from the pack!’

“For the most part I was by myself, just driving, pushing. There was no tyre saving going on, it was flat out, so quite physical. But I enjoyed it.”

The strategy has not gone unnoticed, with Williams Team Principal James Vowles calling for scrutiny over Haas' tactics. Vowles highlighted the impact of such strategies on the race's fairness and competitive spirit. He stated:

“I know we had a car that could score a point there, and yet we walk away without anything to our name.

“Now in part, that was because Alex’s car was damaged by Magnussen pushing him into the wall, receiving a penalty as a result of it, but then using tactics to back up the remainder of the field and create a gap so that Hulkenberg could score that additional point.

“Now those questions on whether or not those tactics are viable or not, or on sportsman like.

“Let’s review that as an organisation and a sport going forward. My opinion from it is that’s not how I want to go racing.”

Despite the emerging controversy, Hulkenberg appreciated Magnussen's efforts and vowed to reciprocate in future races. He acknowledged his teammate's role in his success, stating:

“One point, I’m obviously happy about that. Great team effort, great team game by Kevin.

“I was told that he really helped my case by holding up the pack behind him, which obviously helped open up the window for me to take the point.

“A very good job from him on that side. And thank you, I’ll return the favour later in the season.”

The incident at the Saudi Arabian GP has ignited a debate within the F1 community about the boundaries of team strategies and their impact on the sport's integrity. As the season unfolds, the response from the FIA and the broader community to this incident will be keenly observed.