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Former Alpine team principal Otmar Szafnauer is poised to make a significant comeback in the Formula 1 world, having engaged in discussions with Michael Andretti about a leadership role in Andretti's hopeful F1 team. The American team's efforts are in full swing, with the development of a full-size Grand Prix car that aligns with current regulations.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic Alliance: Szafnauer has been in talks with Michael Andretti, hinting at a pivotal role in the Andretti Global racing team, aiming to secure a foothold in Formula 1. 
• Developmental Milestones: Andretti Global's F1 aspirations are visibly advancing, with recent achievements including wind tunnel testing of a scale model and the establishment of an office in Silverstone. These steps underline the team's proactive approach to F1 entry, pending formal approval.
• Regulatory Challenges: Despite the FIA's nod, Andretti's F1 bid awaits Formula One Management's sanction, amidst concerns from existing teams over the entry fee. 

In an exclusive reveal to Motor Sport for their March 2024 issue, Otmar Szafnauer shared his enthusiasm about the prospect of joining Andretti's F1 project, stating: 

"I have had some discussions with Michael Andretti, he’d called me even before I went to Alpine, and I told him I’d love to help him." 

The former Alpine boss further elaborated on the conditional nature of his involvement, emphasising the necessity of an official F1 entry for Andretti:

"They have to get the F1 entry first, because without an entry how can I help him? If they are accepted then I will be able to discuss getting involved, getting them started, getting them moving."

Szafnauer's reflections on his tenure at Alpine and his perspectives on team development offer a glimpse into the mindset he intends to bring to Andretti. He criticised the unrealistic expectations for rapid success at Alpine, noting:

"Something I do know, from the early days at BAR, is that you cannot start from scratch and hire 900 people and expect to get that done in a year." 

Despite the challenges and his abrupt departure from Alpine, Szafnauer's competitive spirit remains strong. He expressed a keen desire to continue contributing to F1, leveraging his extensive experience and skill set. 

"Maybe I have too high an opinion of myself… but I believe I still hold the skill sets to enable me to put a good team together to be competitive in F1. So that’s what I want to do," Szafnauer remarked.

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Petronas, the national oil conglomerate of Malaysia, is reportedly orchestrating efforts to bring back Formula One to the Sepang International Circuit by 2026, after a noticeable absence. This information, from three informed sources, was shared by Reuters, highlighting the tentative nature of these plans.

Key Insights:

• Speculative Return of F1: According to Reuters, whispers from three insiders suggest Petronas is keen on reviving Malaysia's F1 Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit by 2026, aiming to turn the page on the challenges that led to its 2017 cessation.
• Petronas' Potential Moves: Amidst these rumours, it's noted that Petronas, a global Fortune 500 contender, has recently clinched naming rights to the Sepang Circuit, hinting at its vested interest in motorsports and its enduring alliance with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team.
• Financial and Popularity Dynamics: The rumoured comeback takes into account the hefty financial outlay of F1 events, balanced against the sport's burgeoning global allure, partially fuelled by the "Drive to Survive" Netflix series, which could justify a reevaluation of Malaysia's F1 prospects.

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Petronas is said to be at the helm of ambitious plans to reignite the Formula One flame in Malaysia come 2026. This speculative venture, as discussed in a company townhall led by Petronas' chief Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz, hints at a significant resurgence for the Sepang International Circuit, absent from the F1 calendar since 2017 due to dwindling interest and financial hurdles.

The circuit, known for its rich motorsport heritage and ongoing events like MotoGP, is at the centre of these rumoured revival efforts. Petronas, with its deep ties to the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team and a fresh naming rights deal for the circuit, appears to be steering the narrative towards a grand F1 return.

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The economic feasibility of hosting such a grandiose event has previously been questioned by Malaysian sports officials, citing exorbitant costs. However, with F1's popularity on an upward trajectory globally, the rumoured plans suggest a potential reassessment of the event's value proposition for Malaysia.

It is worth noting that this has currently not been confirmed by Formula One.

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Recent discussions in the media have reignited interest in Michael Schumacher's health condition, with former F1 personalities offering insights and hopes for his recovery. Pat Fry in particular expressed optimism about Schumacher's potential progress, given his access to the best medical team and resources.

Key Takeaways

• Details on Schumacher's Condition Remain Scarce: The family maintains a private stance on Michael Schumacher's health, with only occasional comments from former F1 figures like Pat Fry and Johnny Herbert. The exact details of Schumacher's current condition are still largely unknown.
• Optimism from Pat Fry: Pat Fry, a respected figure in Formula 1, has expressed confidence in the quality of medical care Schumacher is receiving. He believes that the advanced treatment and resources available to Schumacher could lead to significant progress.
• Speculation and Hope: Despite the lack of concrete information, there is speculation and hope within the F1 community about Schumacher's recovery. Statements from Herbert and Fry suggest potential improvements in Schumacher's condition, but these remain unconfirmed.

As the world of Formula 1 continues to speculate on the health of legendary driver Michael Schumacher, the situation remains shrouded in mystery as the family ensure complete privacy. Schumacher's family has consistently chosen to keep details of his condition confidential, a decision that has been respected by the public and the F1 community.

Pat Fry, a former technical director in F1, recently spoke about Schumacher, acknowledging the lack of concrete information but expressing optimism. Referring to statements by Johnny Herbert, who had heard rumours about Schumacher potentially sitting at a dinner table, Fry commented:

"I haven't heard anything about Michael Schumacher's condition, so I'm unable to confirm or deny any of the recent reports about him."

Herbert himself admitted uncertainty about the veracity of these reports.

Fry highlighted the exceptional level of care Schumacher is receiving, however, stating: 

"Michael has the best medical team in the world, and I'm 100 percent sure that no human being in history has had the treatment Michael has had for his specific injury. The family has the resources."

He added: "I hope and pray that they're making progress with him."

It has been a decade since Schumacher's tragic skiing accident, which left him in a coma for nearly six months. Currently, he is being looked after by a team of specialist doctors and caregivers and is surrounded by his family. The location and specifics of his care remain undisclosed.

Pat Fry currently serves as the Chief Technical Officer for the Williams Formula 1 team. He joined Williams on November 1, 2023, after leaving his previous role at Alpine, where he had been since February 2022. Fry brings a wealth of experience from his time in the motorsport industry, including notable stints at McLaren, Ferrari, and Manor. 

He continued:

"If the reports about him at the dinner table or in a car are true, then it wouldn't surprise me at all because I'd imagine that's the type of thing you'd do to get the brain going again.

"The only thing I hope for is for Michael's quality of life to be good."

While the F1 community and fans worldwide continue to hope for positive news about Schumacher's health, the true extent of his recovery remains a closely guarded secret, with only glimpses of information emerging sporadically through the words of those close to the sport.

As the lawsuit against Lewis Hamilton unfolds, questions about the legitimacy of his 2008 Formula 1 World Championship win surface. Felipe Massa's pursuit of justice over the controversial 'Crashgate' incident has reignited discussions about the events of that season.

Key Takeaways:

• Felipe Massa, the Brazilian Formula 1 driver, is seeking to claim the 2008 F1 World Title through legal action, focusing on the controversy surrounding the 'Crashgate' incident during the Singapore Grand Prix, where Nelson Piquet Jr.'s crash significantly influenced the race outcome.
• Lewis Hamilton clinched his first Formula 1 World Title in 2008 in a dramatic finish, surpassing Timo Glock in the final lap of the last race. Massa's challenge centers not on this race but on the questionable events in Singapore, where he believes Hamilton unfairly benefited.
• Rob Smedley, Massa's former race engineer, expresses his personal preference to focus on the present rather than the past, but acknowledges Massa's right to seek justice. Smedley also revealed that Ferrari suspected foul play shortly after the Singapore race, confirming the 'Crashgate' suspicions.

The legal pursuit by Felipe Massa to amend the history books of the 2008 Formula 1 season has brought to the fore a contentious chapter in the sport's narrative. Massa, who was narrowly edged out for the World Championship that year, is now legally contesting the title, focusing on the contentious 'Crashgate' moment.

Lewis Hamilton's maiden Formula 1 championship win in 2008 was marked by a memorable and tense final lap in the last race of the season. However, Massa's legal attention is on the Singapore Grand Prix, where he contends that the orchestrated crash by Nelson Piquet Jr. unfairly skewed the race results.

Rob Smedley, who worked closely with Massa as his race engineer, shared his perspective on The Race F1 Podcast: 

"I've always been a person that, whatever happened yesterday, whether it was good or bad, I get up and dust myself off and move on. I'm interested in what's happening today and tomorrow and the day after that. But that's my personal opinion."

Smedley further commented on Massa's quest for justice: 

"What I will say is this is something that Felipe feels strongly about. Everybody should have their personal right to pursue whatever they feel is just. That’s the case with Felipe here.

"There's a lot of different parties involved, we're starting to look back at the past. Where this will end I've got no idea."

The basis of the lawsuit lies in the belief that the 'Crashgate' event was not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of manipulation. Smedley recalls the immediate aftermath of the Singapore Grand Prix and the suspicions that quickly arose within the Ferrari team that the race was rigged. This revelation implies that F1's governing bodies, including the FIA, might have been aware of the situation yet chose not to intervene.

The notion of a Chicago Grand Prix recently gained momentum when Formula One applied for four trademarks for various iterations of it. Although it was previously assumed to be a preventative move, a city councillor has now confirmed early-stage discussions with Formula 1. 

Key Insights:

• Formula 1's interest in Chicago was signalled by its registration of trademarks for the 'Chicago Grand Prix', reminiscent of its approach before launching successful races in Miami and Las Vegas. However, the precedent set by the unfulfilled New York Grand Prix tempers expectations for a Chicago race.
• City officials have reportedly engaged in initial dialogues with Formula 1, but these discussions encountered a significant hurdle: Formula 1's insistence on a 10-year commitment as a non-negotiable term for hosting races, a condition reflected in its contracts worldwide.
• The city's recent foray into NASCAR, with a race hosted in Grant Park, poses logistical and financial challenges to accommodating a Formula 1 event. The extensive requirements for hosting an F1 race, compared to the relatively modest adjustments made for NASCAR, make Chicago an unlikely candidate in the near term.

Despite the excitement surrounding the potential for a Formula 1 race in Chicago, practical challenges loom large. Local politician Alderman Brian Hopkins shared insights from the preliminary talks, stating to Chicago Sun Times:

“I’m told that F1 typically requires a 10-year minimum deal. And that appears to be non-negotiable. The conversation [with the city] did not get much past that.” 

The introduction of NASCAR to Chicago's sporting landscape further complicates the feasibility of an F1 Grand Prix. The city's streets, which were minimally adapted for NASCAR, would require significant modifications to meet the stringent standards of Formula 1. Alderman Brendan Reilly noted the contrast in requirements, emphasising: 

“It would have to be one or the other. What we did with NASCAR, welding manhole covers and smoothing over potholes and calling it a track — that doesn’t work with F1. More complicated, thus higher price tag.”

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Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard "had to giggle", when he found amusement in the arguments supporting Madrid as a replacement for Barcelona as the Spanish GP venue. He noted that factors like public transport availability might not be the foremost concern for Formula 1 fans when deciding to attend a race at a circuit.

The 52-year-old driver has been reviewing the specifics of the approved bid, and he couldn't help but notice that public transport was cited as part of the rationale for hosting a Madrid Grand Prix. To be specific, it was mentioned that 90 percent of fans could reach the Madrid Grand Prix venue via public transport.

There had been a significant push to include Madrid in the Formula 1 calendar. Last week, it was confirmed that Madrid would host the Spanish Grand Prix from 2026 on its new hybrid circuit comprising street and non-street sections.

IFEMA - Madrid Grand Prix

Coulthard interprets the emphasis on public transport in the bid as a sign that Madrid was particularly eager to secure the Grand Prix. Speaking to Total-Motorsport.com, he said:

“Clearly Madrid wanted it badly enough to submit a tender and design and commission and go about building a racetrack.

“So as Formula 1 looks to grow, its growth is going to come through commercial rights deals, and for the fans, they [Liberty Media] obviously feel it’s better in Madrid.

“My takeaway from the announcement was that 90 per cent of the fans can arrive there by public transport. That’s all very nice for the politicians and the greens, but I don’t think it’s the first thing that race fans think about when they go to a Grand Prix, ‘can I get there by using the bus and the train network?’

“I think the main thing is, ‘Is this going be a great experience? Does [it] give me value for my hard-earned money? And I am going to go away feeling I’ve got a life-changing or life-enhancing experience’, [which] is probably [what] I think people like myself [want] when I invest money in tickets to go see events or a concert. I want to be entertained; I want to be in a happy place.

“So I had to giggle when I saw the [public transport claim as] one of the justifications for the Madrid bid.”

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Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert weighed in on the recent rumours surrounding Red Bull Racing's 2024 car, the RB20, and its alleged failure in the initial FIA crash test. Herbert suggests that this setback may simply be a byproduct of the team's drive to enhance performance, indicating that such challenges are part and parcel of the sport's competitive nature.

Key Takeaways:

• Rumoured Crash Test Failure: Reports emerged, though unconfirmed, that Red Bull Racing's RB20 failed the FIA's dynamic frontal homologation test. This failure points to potential design vulnerabilities, particularly with the car's nose, which may not be adequately absorbing crash impact energy.
• Red Bull's Innovation Push: The speculated setback underscores Red Bull Racing's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation within Formula 1's stringent regulations. This approach, while risky, is characteristic of top F1 teams that continuously seek performance enhancements.

Teams are constantly balancing the drive for innovation with the need to comply with the sport's safety and performance regulations. The recent rumours about Red Bull Racing's RB20 failing the FIA crash test have sparked discussions about the challenges teams face in this pursuit. According to Johnny Herbert, such setbacks are not unusual and often reflect a team's ambition to extract the maximum performance from their cars. Herbert explained:

"Red Bull are just trying to find more performance out of the car. Sometimes you are always going to be on the edge. When it does fail it doesn’t help the preparation. It is a good thing to get it done early.

"Once Red Bull sort themselves out it won’t affect them because they know there is a performance to get from the car. It is an important aspect of F1 to ensure the cars are able to absorb the unexpected nowadays in terms of safety."

It is understood that Red Bull has now passed the FIA crash tests ahead of the RB20 launch which is set for February 15.

Thank you to Mega Dice for setting up this interview. 

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Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has drawn intriguing parallels between F1 legend Michael Schumacher and the current drivers' champion Max Verstappen. Herbert's observations shed light on the innate driving prowess that sets Verstappen alongside the likes of Schumacher, emphasising a natural talent reminiscent of F1's greatest.

Key Takeaways:

• Johnny Herbert's Analysis: Herbert highlighted Max Verstappen's remarkable ability to drive with an almost subconscious skill set, a trait shared with legendary drivers like Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell, and Ayrton Senna. This quality, according to Herbert, marks Verstappen as a rare talent in the racing world.
• The Essence of Natural Ability: The discussion delved into the concept of innate driving talent, where Herbert reminisced about Mika Häkkinen's exceptional natural ability. This segment of the conversation underlines the critical role of inherent skill in reaching the top of F1 racing.
• Verstappen's Consistency and Skill: Herbert praised Verstappen for his consistent performance and profound understanding of the car and the track, equating his precision and consistency to the iconic prowess of Schumacher. This consistency, Herbert argues, is what makes Verstappen's talent so exceptional and rare.

Red Bull Press Image

Johnny Herbert, whose F1 career spanned from the late '80s to the early 2000s, is well-recognised for his insightful analyses stemming from his rich racing experience. 

Three-time champion Max Verstappen has already carved out a significant place for himself in the annals of F1 history with his aggressive driving style and strategic acumen on the track. Herbert's remarks:

"Adrian Newey said Max has an ability to drive almost subconsciously.

"It is a zone the likes of Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna were all in. Those world champions had the ability to do something special. I always thought the rawest natural ability was Mika Häkkinen. He had that uncanny ability not to think about it.

"These people just got into the car, drove and enjoyed it. That’s an important part of it. It is the feeling of knowing where you are on every single millimetre of the track and also to know where that grip is at that particular millimetre. That is something Max is able to do, every single lap. It is the consistency to do it every minute of every single weekend.

"That is the rare thing, the hard thing. It is not anything you think, it is just there. It is unbelievable how it happens. You just do it. That is why he is very special."

Thank you to Mega Dice for setting up this interview. 

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18-year-old Jak Crawford, who was ousted from Red Bull's junior program last year, revealed his experience of Helmut Marko's "brutally honest" attitude toward him, which he thought was "unfair". He revealed that the last thing a driver would want is to experience a bad weekend and receive a phone call from Marko for a meeting.

Crawford was dropped by the Milton Keynes outfit on performance grounds last year after a decision was taken by Marko, who is in charge of Red Bull’s junior program. Revealing the details of the encounter with Red Bull's advisor, the American driver told Racer:

“I think the hardest things are obviously the pressure and expectation that is set on you.

“He puts a lot of faith in his drivers, but he also expects a lot. And sometimes, if you’re not directly in the F2 paddock, knowing what’s going on, it can be difficult to tell with regards to team performance or driver performance and stuff like that.

“So sometimes that can play a factor in how he sees things. But definitely the biggest thing is, the last thing you want is to have a bad weekend and receive a phone call from Helmut to say to come meet him.

“He’s very busy, so you end up waiting on him. And then you sit there and he just walks up, and then he says, ‘So…’ in a very deep voice! Then he asks ‘What happened?’ And his conversations are very short, very straight to the point.

“Sometimes he’s brutally honest. That’s the right way to say it. Sometimes it can be too brutally honest, where it can be unfair at times, if you want to say, but it’s not so bad. To me it was very, very short, and very to the point.”

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"Relieved of Pressure"

Crawford said that he was relieved of pressure after ending his F2 journey with Red Bull. He has now joined hands with Aston Martin, with the key difference being that he isn't under pressure anymore. He added:

“It’s quite a weird feeling – I feel like I’ve been doing this a long time, but then you look at my age, compared to most of the guys, I’m probably one of the youngest still in F2.

“So it’s very weird to look at, because I feel like I’ve had a long career in single-seaters so far. And you look at some of the guys there in their lower 20s, and they have a lot more experience than me in single-seaters.

“I feel like I’m in a good position. It’s a bit weird saying I’ve been in Red Bull for four years, and I’ve been dropped and I’m only 18. It is a bit weird to say that, but I do think it’s a good opportunity for myself, relieved of pressure.”

“I think it’s definitely possible to fight for the [F2] championship this year. That is my goal.

“And it’s also one that the F1 team has set out for me. It’s not like I’m under a lot of pressure from them to do that, it’s obviously just a goal, but it’s a goal for myself as well. So we’re on the same page.”

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Andretti Cadillac is aggressively pursuing entry into the Formula 1 grid, bolstering its efforts by recruiting talent from leading F1 teams like Red Bull, Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren. Additionally, the team is manufacturing components and plans to conduct testing of a full-scale 2024 model in Toyota’s Cologne wind tunnel later this year.

After receiving approval from the FIA last year to be included as Formula 1's eleventh F1 team, Andretti Cadillac awaits further approval from FOM for entry into the sport. Despite the pending approval, the team is actively engaged in development efforts, aiming to secure a spot on the grid by 2025.

Technical director Nick Chester disclosed that among the 120-strong workforce, 50 individuals were mobilized from General Motors. The team's key positions are held by seasoned professionals, including former Manor and Williams employee John McQuilliam, serving as the chief designer, and ex-Renault team member Jon Tomlinson, who assumes the role of head of aerodynamics.

Chester added that he was glad to witness incoming talent from the top teams who wanted to get involved in the challenge of elevating a new team to winning standards. He told The Athletic:

“It’s a team that wants to do it properly and wants to win.

“You don’t want to be anywhere that doesn’t have that ethos. As I started talking before I joined, the resource behind it, the effort that was going to go behind it to make it win, just made it very, very attractive.

“I was pleasantly surprised, in a way, how easy it was to draw people to the project. There’s a real draw of a new team, the Andretti name. A blank sheet tends to have a very proactive culture.

“We’ve had people joining from Red Bull, Ferrari, Mercedes, McLaren. They all wanted a new challenge. It’s that real potential to shape departments, which is very attractive.”

Chester emphasized that the rapid pace of developing a new team and a new car would not have been possible without the invaluable support from General Motors. He said:

“We wouldn’t have got half of what we’ve got done now without GM’s involvement.

“It’s not an arrangement where you throw things backwards and forwards, it’s much more like one team. It’s getting really nicely integrated.”

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James Vowles, the former Mercedes Strategy Director, recently shared his reasons for leaving the team to become the team principal at Williams. In an interview with the High Performance Podcast, Vowles explained that his decision stemmed from a desire to continue developing, a process he felt was stagnating at Mercedes.

Key Takeaways:

• Role at Mercedes Felt Completed: Vowles felt his work at Mercedes, where he built up a strong strategy team, had reached a culmination. From 2021, his role was diminishing as the team he developed took over most of the strategic responsibilities.
• Learning from Toto Wolff: While at Mercedes, Vowles was mentored by team principal Toto Wolff, gaining valuable insights and experiences. This mentorship expanded his responsibilities and prepared him for future leadership roles.
• Decision to Join Williams: The opportunity at Williams arose unexpectedly, and Vowles seized it, seeking new challenges and growth opportunities. He had open discussions with Wolff about his career trajectory and ultimately decided to move on for his personal growth.

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James Vowles, now at the helm of the Williams ship, has elaborated on his reasons for leaving his previous role at Mercedes under the guidance of Toto Wolff. In his discussion on the High Performance Podcast, Vowles reflected on his time at Mercedes and his aspirations for further development within the sport.

Vowles acknowledged that while he enjoyed his tenure at Mercedes, he reached a point where he had built a formidable team, and by 2021, he saw his direct strategic role diminishing. 

He expressed his sentiment, saying:

"So one of the things I've been focused on at Mercedes is, I knew my long term wasn't going to be doing strategy for the rest of my life.

"Loved it a bit. It's a brilliant job. But for many years, built up a really strong team behind the scenes. And in fact, from around ’21 onwards, the hard work was done by them."

A significant aspect of his career at Mercedes was the mentorship he received from Toto Wolff who was instrumental in giving Vowles the skills to take on, and succeed, at the struggling Williams team. This relationship was pivotal in broadening Vowles' experience and preparing him for this opportunity. 

"Toto was kind enough with his time to give me as much of his experience as he could. He knew where he was forming me towards.

"That doesn't mean I had a job within Mercedes to be a team principal there, but he provided me his time and his knowledge and experience and provided me more and more responsibilities."

The transition to Williams was an unexpected but welcome development for Vowles, following Jost Capito's departure. But it's been anything but smooth sailing for the Briton as he's taken on the team that has lacked the infrastructure that most teams take for granted. Despite this, using expertise built during his time at Mercedes, Vowles and his team were able to get the best championship result since 2017.

Vowles, like every great leader, doesn't shy away from seeking guidance, and he'd admitted that he's not short on support from within the paddock itself:

"Even today, and not just him, I would say Fred [Vasseur] and Otmar [Szafnauer] before we left and a few others were guiding voices, where I can happily call them, even though they're adversaries and not ask for advice, but they'll give me guidance."

With Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant hoping for small but sure improvements this coming season, we'll all be watching to see how Vowles' footprint on the team takes shape.

Lando Norris enters the 2024 Formula 1 season with heightened anticipation, buoyed by McLaren's advancements and his increased confidence, all pointing towards his first Grand Prix win.

Key Takeaways:

• Solid Foundation for Success: Norris' optimism for his inaugural F1 victory is underpinned by McLaren's strategic enhancements and a series of strong performances last season, including multiple second-place finishes that have significantly closed the gap to the leading teams.
• Team Synergy and Upgrades: The introduction of a new wind tunnel, simulator, and key technical hires at McLaren has bolstered the team's competitiveness, providing Norris with the tools necessary to challenge for the top spot on the podium.
• Mental and Strategic Preparedness: Norris' readiness extends beyond the physical aspects of racing. His mindset and approach to the strategic elements of F1 demonstrate a maturity and preparedness to navigate the complexities of achieving a race win.

Lando Norris' confidence in achieving his first Formula 1 win with McLaren in the upcoming season is more than just hopeful ambition. It is grounded in the tangible progress made by the team and his own development as a driver. Reflecting on the journey, Norris shared a profound insight into his mindset and the team's trajectory. He commented, as quoted by Speedcafe:

“With how we improved last year, with the trajectory [we are on], with the knowledge of what we can further improve on from our learnings, there were moments we were close to winning races.

“We were not miles away from a Red Bull.

Despite having competed in 104 races without a win, Norris' conviction in his and McLaren's potential remains unshaken. He elaborated on the team's competitive position, saying: 

“Last year, when you think of it, it was the most competitive car ever in Formula 1, and yet a few races we were extremely close.

“If you want to win one race, then we are as close as we have ever been since I've been here at McLaren, and for many, many years."

This unwavering belief is not just about the car's performance but also Norris' readiness to tackle the mental and strategic challenges of Formula 1. He expressed a nuanced understanding of what it takes to win, highlighting the importance of consistency and the unpredictable nature of racing against seasoned champions like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.

“If you asked me, ‘Do you think you can win races this year? I'd probably be more inclined to say yes'.”

He added:

“To go straight into winning races and a championship, I think that's another level, both for myself, in racing at the top – it's something I've not necessarily done for a while – but also for the whole team. For everyone at the factory, it's a different level of pressure and excitement.

“It's something you have to ask yourself now and then. Do I think we're ready to challenge them? Then absolutely in those situations.

“There have been opportunities where we've been fighting against Red Bull, Ferrari, Mercedes, going against them head to head in strategy and pitstops, all of those things.

“The majority of the time we've executed things extremely well, so when it comes to pressure, everyone is in a very good position, but as soon as you mention fighting for a championship, everyone's mentality changes that little bit.

“But I feel I'm ready to go against Max and Lewis and fight against them."

Norris concluded:

“It just comes down to consistency and small decisions along the way, which are hard to predict when you're going against these guys because you never know what their next move is, but then they never know what our next move is.

“So a championship, I don't know. As much as I would love to say ‘Over the next two years', '26 is an opportunity for everyone on the grid.

“That's the big, big question mark. We'll see how we do this year and then you can ask me the question again.”

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Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert opened up about his tenure as Michael Schumacher's teammate and how this experience resonates with the challenges Sergio Perez faces alongside Max Verstappen. Herbert's candid reflections bring to light the intricate dynamics within Formula 1 teams, emphasising the psychological hurdles drivers encounter amidst potential internal favouritism.

Key Takeaways:

• Herbert's Benetton Experience: Johnny Herbert shared his experiences at Benetton, where he felt overshadowed by a bias towards Michael Schumacher, despite initial assurances of equality from team manager Flavio Briatore. This scenario mirrors the potential challenges Sergio Perez might be facing with Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing.
• The Effect of Team Favouritism: Herbert highlighted the significant impact that perceived favouritism within a team can have on a driver's performance, suggesting that despite Perez's efforts to overlook it, such dynamics are challenging to ignore and can be detrimental.
• Herbert's Advice to Perez: Stressing the importance of mental strength and focus, Herbert advised Perez to shield himself from external and internal pressures, emphasising the need for consistent performance despite the challenges.

Red Bull Press Image

Johnny Herbert's Formula 1 career, spanned teams like Benetton, Sauber, and Stewart. One of his challenging periods came during his time at Benetton in the early '90s, particularly when he was teammates with seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher. Here, Herbert felt the brunt of internal team dynamics, where he perceived a clear bias towards Schumacher, echoing the sentiments he shared about Perez's situation at Red Bull. Herbert explained:

"In all my negotiations with Benetton, Flavio Briatore told me that Michael Schumacher and I were a team, that we worked together and everyone had access to the same information. It never worked that way because there tends to be favouritism towards the guy that does deliver.

"When that is there, you feel it and when you feel it that is a hard thing to be able to bat away. As much as Sergio says he ignores it, it does affect you. Sergio has got to put himself into a cocoon and deliver every single time with the battering that comes from the media and from within the team on occasion."

This detailed account from Herbert sheds light on the psychological challenges drivers face beyond the racetrack. The internal team favouritism, coupled with the high-pressure environment of Formula 1, demands not only exceptional driving skills but also a strong mental fortitude.

Thank you to Mega Dice for setting up this interview. 

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Nick Fry, the former CEO of Mercedes, fondly reminisced about the Brawn GP period as the highlight of his career, underlining the immense challenges and the subsequent triumph that made this era particularly memorable. 

Key Takeaways:

• The Brawn GP Saga: Fry marks the Brawn GP journey as the most formidable and gratifying chapter of his career, showcasing the evolution from an underdog status to World Champions. This phase wasn't just a personal milestone but a reflection of the team's resilience and strategic ingenuity.
• The Realities of F1 Competition: He illuminates the competitive essence of Formula One, noting that teams at the grid's rear also exhibit commendable performance under constraints. His insights reveal the sport's rigorous nature, where success is a rare commodity, and every team's endeavour is noteworthy.
• Monaco Grand Prix - A Cherished Victory: The dual victory at the Monaco Grand Prix remains a highlight for Fry. The race, known for its glamour and the unique challenges it poses, represented a significant achievement for Fry and the Brawn GP team, underlining their collective effort and strategic prowess.

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Starting his F1 journey in 2002, Fry was instrumental in navigating the sport's dynamic challenges, contributing significantly to the teams he was part of, including the memorable stint at Brawn GP, which culminated in a World Championship win in 2009.

Fry's entry into the F1 arena commenced in 2002, when he joined BAR Honda as managing director. This period was crucial, setting the stage for Fry's later achievements. The defining moment, however, came in 2009, when against all odds, Brawn GP, born from the remnants of Honda's F1 project and under Fry's stewardship as CEO, clinched the World Constructors' Championship. This fairy-tale victory underscored Fry's ability to lead a team through turbulent times to glory. 

Subsequently, as the team transitioned into Mercedes, Fry continued to play a pivotal role, contributing to the foundations that would see the team dominate the sport in the turbo-hybrid era. 

Reflecting on his career during an interview with OLBG, Fry stated:

"Brawn GP itself was the highlight of my career as it was so damn difficult!

"Formula One is very tough. It's easy to disparage those at the back of the grid, but the reality is that they're doing very well. They just happen to have less money and fewer resources.

"Look at Michael Schumacher and Ross Brawn, it took them five years to sort out Ferrari. It took us a long time, too. I started with the team in 2002 whilst it was under a different name and we didn't win our first race until 2006. Three years later, we won the World Championship, and the team has gone on to achieve even greater things."

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Fry continued:

"Formula One is a very tough gig, and I think that would be my career highlight. There were numerous elements to it, as the [Brawn GP] documentary shows. It was an incredible achievement to get to Melbourne and survive! It was a great team effort.

"Ultimately, the first and second-place finish at Monaco is super special to me. Everybody wants to win Monaco as it's the only Grand Prix that gives more to F1 than the sport does to the location. It was incredible to finish first and second there.

"I was so tired from work before the race that I slept through it. I was slumped over my computer and I was woken up by the Head of PR – actually our only media person - to go and get the trophy! I don't remember much of the race, but it was a great achievement and I’m sure Rubens and Jenson drove brilliantly!"

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In a recent interview with OLBG, former Mercedes CEO Nick Fry revealed that a sequel to the widely acclaimed Brawn GP documentary is being "looked at", highlighting the original's immense success and the potential for a captivating follow-up. Fry's insights reveal not only the impact of the documentary but also the intriguing narrative possibilities that lie ahead.

Key Takeaways:

• Nick Fry's Advocacy for a Sequel: Fry believes that the story of Brawn GP's transition to Mercedes and the subsequent achievements under Lewis Hamilton's stewardship deserves a sequel. 
• Success of the Original Documentary: The Brawn GP documentary, celebrated for its engaging portrayal of the team's underdog victory, has become one of Disney Plus' most viewed programs, showcasing the universal appeal of a well-told motorsport story.
• Potential for Broader Motorsport Narratives: Beyond Brawn GP, Fry sees ample storytelling opportunities within the F1 world, suggesting that teams like Williams and Renault, with their rich histories and dramatic arcs, could also serve as captivating subjects for future documentaries or films.

The Brawn GP documentary on Disney+ has captivated audiences worldwide, chronicling the team's extraordinary journey from the brink of collapse to winning the Formula 1 World Championship. This compelling narrative, coupled with the creative talents of Keanu Reeves and Simon Hammerson, has not only garnered critical acclaim but also sparked discussions about a film adaptation. 

Nick Fry, integral to both the documentary and the Brawn GP team's success, played a pivotal role, guiding the team through its transition to Mercedes and laying the groundwork for the dominance that followed. 

During an interview with OLBG, Fry commented:

"I'd like to see a sequel to the Brawn GP documentary, I just don't know what the title would be!

"The Brawn documentary has been incredibly successful. It's one of Disney's most-watched programs and it was translated into almost every language imaginable.

"Keanu Reeves and Simon Hammerson [the writer] have done a stunning job with it and it's attracted a lot of interest in a film adaptation. People want to see a sequel documenting the sale to Mercedes and the success that followed with Lewis. There's a great story in there, having elements of Macbeth at the start with the deposing of Ross Brawn and the rise of Mercedes. You can even see elements of Terminator in there, too!"

Fry went on to add that the possibility of a sequel is being looked at, he continued:

"The sequel is being looked at. People have kindly offered us a budget and it could be on the cards. I think there are loads of great stories out there, though.

"Just look at Williams and what happened to that team. There's a fantastic story that can be concocted there, with elements of Brideshead Revisited and Saltburn, a bunch of posh boys!

"Renault's heyday with Flavio Briatore would make a great s*x, drugs, and rock & roll story. I'm sure there are lots of people searching for stories, and there are tons of angles that would have a broad appeal."

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In a recent Goldin auction, Max Verstappen's 2020 Topps Chrome Formula 1 Sapphire Edition Padparadscha Refractor Rookie Card fetched an impressive $195,200. This sale highlights the booming market for collectable items linked to sporting legends.

Key Takeaways:

• Goldin's Market Influence: Under Ken Goldin's stewardship, Goldin has emerged as a leading force in the collectables arena, with sales surpassing $1.5 billion. The auction house's January Elite Auction, featuring Verstappen's card, underscores its reputation for hosting high-profile bidding wars.
• Verstappen's Coveted Card: The auctioned item, a PSA-graded MINT 9 2020 Topps Chrome Formula 1 Sapphire Edition Padparadscha Refractor Rookie Card of Max Verstappen, stands out as a top-tier collectable. Its significance is heightened by its association with Topps' first-ever F1 card series and Verstappen's dominant presence in recent F1 seasons.
• Auction Dynamics and Historical Context: Initially listed with a bid of $25,000, the card's final sale price at $160,000 ($195,200 including all buyers fees) reflects the deep admiration for Verstappen's achievements, including his record-breaking performance in the 2023 season with 19 wins out of 22 races.

Verstappen, who burst onto the scene as F1's youngest driver and quickly claimed the title of the youngest Grand Prix winner, has redefined the sport's landscape with his aggressive driving, strategic acumen, and a series of record-breaking performances. His back-to-back World Drivers' Championship titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023 further cement his legacy as one of the greats in motorsport history.

This sale reflects the growing trend of valuing sports memorabilia as significant investments, with collectors willing to pay premium prices for items associated with iconic athletes like Verstappen. The auction not only highlights Verstappen's illustrious career but also the increasing recognition of sports cards as valuable collectables. 

Other items in the January auction included Lewis Hamilton's 2008 McLaren race suite which fetched an impressive price of $43,920. 

Goldin Auction

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Marc Hynes, a trusted ally of Lewis Hamilton since Britain’s junior series racing days, once played a pivotal role in managing the seven-time world champion's business ventures, including his beloved Project 44. However, he parted ways in 2021, only to be back with Hamilton to assist him in "racing activities" ahead of the 2024 F1 season.

Key Takeaways:

• Marc Hynes, a longtime friend and business manager of Lewis Hamilton, parted ways with Hamilton in 2021 after managing his business ventures, including Project 44. However, ahead of the 2024 F1 season, Hynes is reported to be rejoining Hamilton's team, this time focusing on racing activities.
• Despite their professional split, Hynes and Hamilton remained close friends, with Hynes pursuing other motorsport opportunities while Hamilton continued his F1 career.
• With Hynes back on board to assist Hamilton on the track, the seven-time world champion has more support as Mercedes develops its 2024 title contender, aiming to reclaim the top spot in Formula One.

Hynes is not only Hamilton's trusted friend, but he also managed both his business affairs and functioned as the CEO of Project 44. Despite their long-standing partnership, they parted ways in 2021 on healthy terms since Hynes intended to pursue other motorsport opportunities. Though the two headed in different directions professionally, their friendship remained unaffected.

Now though, it is reported that Hynes will be rejoining Hamilton's endeavors, but this time, his role will be concentrated on "racing activities. A spokesperson from Hamilton's team told The Telegraph:

“Lewis is looking forward to the beginning of the new Formula One season and he will be working with Marc Hynes, his long-term friend and former colleague who will be providing his expertise to assist Lewis on the track.

“Marc will be solely focused on racing activities and supporting Lewis’s commitment to bringing the fight back to the top spot.

Consequently, Hamilton has more reasons to be happy as Mercedes develops the 2024 title contender, which according to team boss Toto Wolff, "feels like a car for the first time in two years."

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Mark Gallagher, an F1 executive and business expert, believes that Netflix's Drive to Survive docuseries has democratized Formula 1 in a way that presents a somewhat misleading portrayal of the sport. Contrary to the series' depiction, Gallagher argues that F1 has largely been dominated by Red Bull and Max Verstappen.

Red Bull's period of dominance commenced in 2021, with Max Verstappen clinching the championship title in a closely contested battle against Lewis Hamilton, an event extensively covered by Netflix.

In the previous season, the Milton Keynes outfit triumphed in 21 out of the 22 Grand Prix events, primarily due to the formidable RB19 car and the exceptional performance of Max Verstappen, who claimed victory in 19 races. The remaining two wins were achieved by his teammate, Sergio Perez.

Thus, the last three years in F1 were all about Red Bull clinching victories but, Gallagher thinks that the Drive to Survive docuseries portrays Formula 1 differently by dedicating each episode to a single team and its drivers. It glorifies an 'all are winners' notion, but in reality, Red Bull has been taking away the victories. This crucial factor is something that the expert feels could frustrate new fans. 

Speaking on the Flat Chat podcast. Gallagher explained:

“My view on it [Drive to Survive] is that the series is a 10-part television commercial for Formula 1.

“One of the things about Drive to Survive is it democratised Formula 1, so one episode would be about Haas; another episode would be about Alpine; another episode would be about Alfa Romeo; another episode would be about Mercedes.

“It’s drawn in fans fascinated by these 10 teams and these 20 drivers – but then you go to an actual race and Max Verstappen wins and Red Bull totally dominates.

“There’s a couple of other quite competitive teams behind and then, quite frankly, the bottom end of the grid.

“So you’ve got a sport which has presented itself as this level playing field where everyone is in with a shout on the Netflix series, but actually the sporting/entertainment side of it is the technical meritocracy that we all know so well.

“I think [2023 was] quite devastating for Formula 1. Brilliant for Red Bull, but devastating for Formula 1 because here we are [reflecting] on Max’s 19th grand prix [win] of the season.

“And all of a sudden, those records that we used to talk about from McLaren, winning 15 out of 16 races in 1988, has just all completely been blown away."

He goes on to explain that the docuseries has made it more difficult for new fans to become "diehard" fans. He added:

“Fans around the periphery, fans who have been initially switched on to Formula 1, for those fans to then be converted into diehard, that’s the next step and it’s challenging.

“There have been a few commentators – even in America – talking about the fact that Formula 1 has built this crescendo, but there’s now a threat hanging over it because the dyed-in-the-wool fans, the fanbase who really understand Formula 1 and have followed it for years and years and years will stick with it through thick and thin.

“Whereas the more transitory fans who have come into perhaps in the last two years may just suddenly now start to find that it isn’t compelling enough to make them want to watch all the races and indeed, in this case, turn up to Miami, Austin, Las Vegas and actually buy some tickets.”

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Nick Fry, a former team boss, reminisces about his interactions with Michael Schumacher and highlights Schumacher's role as a vigilant parent. Fry discloses that Mick Schumacher, then a teenager, was prevented from entering his father's F1 garage by his parents, who sought to shield him from public attention.

Fry, who served as CEO at Mercedes and previously held the role of Honda's team principal in the mid-2000s, has shared insights into his personal connection with the Schumacher family, recalling moments of their sons playing together.

According to a report published by GPfans.com, Fry expressed sadness as Michael Schumacher cannot actively support Mick's racing career and witness his son's development. He said:

"I think the family side of Michael provided my fondest memories of him, such as our sons playing together.

"I also fondly remember how Michael and Corinna protected their kids. It was always cute to see Mick, who was a teenager at the time, not being allowed into the garage, but he'd be behind it and looking across at his dad’s car.

"They protected him from the glare of publicity as much as they could. Mick would have been so proud of his dad, and it was lovely to see that relationship.

"That's why it's sad that Michael isn't able to help his son's career and see it develop in the same way the kids were for his."

Following two seasons with the Haas F1 team until 2022, Mick faced disappointment as he failed to secure a full-time seat with any team on the grid for the 2023 season. However, he did secure a reserve driver role with Mercedes, the team his father once raced for.

In 2024, the 24-year-old driver inked a deal with Alpine to participate in the World Endurance Championship. Fortunately, his contract permits him to maintain his role as a reserve driver for Mercedes in Formula 1.

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Ferrari has announced the SF-24 as their challenger for the new Formula 1 season, aiming to bridge the gap with Red Bull, the dominant force of 2023. The SF-24 name carries the legacy of Scuderia Ferrari, with the team looking to build on their singular victory against Red Bull's supremacy last season.

Key Takeaways:

• Ferrari's New Challenger: The SF-24 is set to be revealed on February 13, embodying the hopes of the Italian team to contest Red Bull's dominance, which saw them win 21 of the 22 races last season. The 'SF' prefix has been a constant in Ferrari's naming convention since 2015, with the 2022 season's F1-75 being an outlier to celebrate Ferrari's 75th anniversary.
• Last Season's Performance: Despite Red Bull's overwhelming success, Ferrari was the only team to secure a win apart from them, with Carlos Sainz triumphing at the Singapore Grand Prix. However, Ferrari still finished third in the Constructors' Championship, behind Mercedes.
• Driver Dynamics: Ferrari reaffirms its commitment to Charles Leclerc with a multi-year contract, while Sainz's current contract concludes at the end of this season, positioning him as a significant figure in the driver market.

New year, New name.

2024 loading… ⏳https://t.co/zMzL0Ms5E2 pic.twitter.com/w8v9xvcnMV

— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) January 29, 2024

Ferrari's announcement of the SF-24 marks a pivotal moment for the team as it gears up for the upcoming Formula 1 season. The Italian team is set on diminishing the gap with Red Bull, who had an exceptional run last year, clinching victories in 21 out of 22 races. Ferrari's strategy hinges not only on their new car but also on their driver lineup, with Charles Leclerc secured on a multi-year deal and Carlos Sainz's future becoming a focal point as his contract ends this year.

The SF-24 signifies more than just a new car; it represents Ferrari's enduring legacy and its continuous pursuit of excellence in Formula 1. The use of the 'SF' prefix in the car's name is a nod to the team's rich history, dating back to 2015, with the exception of the F1-75 in 2022, which celebrated the company's 75th anniversary. 

Last season's performance showed glimpses of Ferrari's potential to challenge the top contenders, with Carlos Sainz's victory in Singapore disrupting Red Bull's near-perfect record. However, finishing third in the Constructors' Championship, behind Mercedes, highlighted the need for further improvement and consistency.

The dynamics within the team, especially regarding the drivers, will also play a crucial role in Ferrari's campaign. Charles Leclerc's extended commitment to the team provides stability, while Carlos Sainz's impending contract expiration adds an element of uncertainty and speculation about the team's future lineup.

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