F1 Briefings

Oliver Bearman expressed mixed feelings about his debut Formula 1 qualifying session in Saudi Arabia. The young driver, temporarily filling in for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, admitted to being somewhat disappointed with his performance as he looks to constantly improve himself.

Key Takeaways:

• Oliver Bearman, standing in for the unwell Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, participated in his first F1 qualifying session.
• Bearman acknowledged the potential of his car for a better qualifying position but expressed disappointment over his performance.
• He emphasised his focus on gaining experience, particularly under the night conditions, due to missing FP2.

Oliver Bearman, the 18-year-old driver who stepped into Carlos Sainz's shoes at Ferrari for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, has candidly shared his thoughts on his first-ever Formula 1 qualifying outing. 

Bearman's reflections revealed a blend of self-critique and optimism. Speaking to Sky F1, he didn't hide his immediate feelings, saying:

"At the moment not so proud, the racer in me knows that the car was quick enough to be in Q3, so a little bit disappointed with that." 

Despite the initial disappointment, Bearman looked forward to gaining a more positive perspective with time. He said:

"But I know that when I look back in a couple of days I'll be quite proud of what I've managed to do today."

His ability to balance immediate frustrations with a longer-term view is noteworthy, especially considering the immense pressure of competing at the highest level of motorsport.

Bearman's strategy for the qualifying session was clear - to maximise his time on the track. He noted:

"The goal was to do as many laps as possible. Especially at night, I missed FP2 which is not ideal. That was the goal.

"The soft tyre lasts quite well, it's quite durable, so just tried to get as many laps in Q1. Q2 was a bit more messy, a few mistakes on my side, so that's where I'm disappointed."

The final qualifying results saw Max Verstappen leading the pack, with Bearman's teammate Charles Leclerc securing the second spot. Bearman himself managed to secure 11th position on the grid.

Oliver Bearman's unexpected promotion to a Ferrari Formula 1 seat at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has been a whirlwind of emotions and challenges for the young British driver. Making the leap from FIA Formula 2 to the pinnacle of motorsport overnight, Bearman's first day behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car was both thrilling and daunting.

• Bearman was thrust into the Ferrari F1 team as a replacement for Carlos Sainz, who was sidelined due to appendicitis, marking a sudden shift from his F2 commitments.
• Despite the circumstances, Bearman describes his F1 debut as a "fantastic opportunity," albeit mixed with disappointment for Sainz and the pressures of the unexpected upgrade.
• He highlighted the stark differences between F2 and F1, notably the evolving track conditions and the increased grip levels, emphasizing the adjustment required to harness the car's potential fully.

"I woke up preparing and mentally thinking about my F2 race then I got chucked in the deep end for F1 FP3 and qualifying. Of course, not the ideal situation, and I feel sorry for Carlos and wish him the best, but it's a fantastic opportunity.

"A bit disappointed with everything, but it was a fun day out there," Bearman recounted his whirlwind experience.

The young driver's day was turned on its head, moving from the relatively familiar territory of F2 directly into the high-pressure environment of F1.

One of the most significant adjustments for Bearman was adapting to the dynamic conditions of the track and the sheer performance of the SF-24 car. 

"The fact the track evolves so much. We did F2 qualifying quite early in the weekend, and the track develops a lot. The grip level is just incredible. After my first lap, I was shocked," he explained. 

"In F2, you drive on the limit of the car. In F1, it's the limit of the driver and what the driver is prepared to do. That's a great feeling, but it takes some time to get used to."

Bearman's first day as a Ferrari F1 driver was not just about adapting to a new car or the physical demands of Formula 1; it was a profound personal and professional growth moment. Thrust unexpectedly into the limelight, his reflections reveal a maturity and appreciation for the opportunity, mixed with a realistic understanding of the journey ahead - a promising start to Bearman's F1 career. 

In the wake of Carlos Sainz's unexpected exit this weekend due to appendicitis, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc has expressed his support and optimism for Oliver Bearman's debut at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Leclerc's endorsement of the young Briton's performance highlights a promising start for Bearman's career at the pinnacle of motorsport.

• Oliver Bearman steps in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian GP, marking his F1 debut with Ferrari.
• Charles Leclerc commends Bearman's swift adjustment to the F1 car, noting his immediate comfort and speed.
• Leclerc expresses hope for both drivers to secure strong points for Ferrari in the upcoming race.

Oliver Bearman, an 18-year-old rising star from Britain, finds himself at the centre of the Formula 1 stage, stepping into the shoes of Carlos Sainz for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Leclerc, a key figure in Ferrari's current lineup, did not hold back his praise for the young driver, acknowledging the challenges and pressures that come with such a sudden call to the Scuderia's racing seat.

"First of all, I hope Carlos will recover quickly. Then on Ollie's side, he has done an incredible job. With only one session in FP3, he was straight up to speed and comfortable with the car, so it's good. I'm happy for him obviously.

"It's a very special day and the first race in Ferrari having only done one session, I guess is even more special. I hope tomorrow we can both have a great race and score strong points for the team," Leclerc shared after today's qualifying. 

Bearman's journey to the Formula 1 grid is a narrative of remarkable achievement and dedication. His credentials, fortified by championship titles in both the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 series, along with a successful stint in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, speak volumes of his racing acumen and readiness for the challenges of Formula 1.

Now all eyes turn towards tomorrow. 

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen clinched pole position for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix with a performance that radiated confidence and enjoyment. The Dutch driver's remarks post-qualifying reflect his pleasure in the day's achievements and the significant enhancements made to his car.

Key Takeaways:

• Overnight improvements to Verstappen's car boosted his confidence, particularly in high-speed corners, which are crucial on the challenging Saudi circuit.
• The Q3 lap, which brought back memories of a nearly perfect lap in 2021, was executed flawlessly this time, adding to Verstappen's satisfaction.
• Despite the unpredictable nature of the Saudi Arabian GP, Verstappen remains optimistic about his race pace and the car's performance.

Speaking on his Saudi Arabian GP pole position, Verstappen shared:

"It was a very good day. We improved the car a little bit overnight and that gave me a bit more confidence to attack the high-speed corners and around here it depends a lot on your confidence level and how much you can go to the limit.

"Today I felt very comfortable in the car. Throughout qualifying, it was pretty crazy how fast you go around here,

"In my first lap in Q3, I felt pretty happy with the lap. It felt almost a bit like the failed 2021 lap, except I made the last corner.

"It was very good. I had a lot of fun and the car behaved very well."

The Red Bull driver's comments highlight the critical adjustments made to his vehicle and the consequent boost in his confidence, enabling him to tackle the circuit's demanding aspects with greater assurance. 

Looking ahead to the race, Verstappen acknowledged the circuit's propensity for unpredictability, stating:

"As we have seen in the past, there have been a lot of crazy races around here. A lot can happen.

"Normally people say 'it's an easy one-stop, easy to the line'. But It's not like that around here. A lot of straight as well.

"But I'm confident with the race pace we have that the car will work really well."

Helmut Marko has reportedly now been barred from engaging with the media by the team's head office. This development, according to journalist Erik van Haren of De Telegraaf, follows an internal investigation into a suspected information leak within the team.

Key Takeaways:

• Red Bull Racing's head office has allegedly instructed Helmut Marko not to communicate with the media, as such actions might undermine the team's authority.
• The team is conducting an internal investigation to trace the origins of a suspected leak.

The Formula 1 paddock is abuzz with rumours and speculation, and the latest reports from Jeddah suggest a notable escalation in internal tensions at Red Bull Racing. According to Erik van Haren, a journalist with De Telegraaf, Helmut Marko has been specifically instructed by Red Bull's head office to refrain from any media interactions. 

He posted to X (formerly Twitter):

First reports in Jeddah now are that Marko has been instructed by Red Bull head office not to talk to the media. Talking openly to the media now can be seen as undermining authority. Red Bull is also said to have previously started an internal investigation into the origin of the 'leak'." (translated by Google)

Eerste geluiden in Jeddah nu zijn dat Marko door hoofdkantoor Red Bull is opgedragen niet met de media te praten. Nu openlijk alsnog met media praten kan worden gezien als ondermijning van het gezag. Ook zou Red Bull eerder intern onderzoek zijn gestart waar 'lek' vandaan komt. https://t.co/uR2c04lk2q

The backdrop to this directive is an ongoing internal investigation by Red Bull Racing, aimed at identifying the source of a 'leak' that has apparently exposed sensitive team information. The implications of this investigation are significant, suggesting a breach of trust within the team that has necessitated an official response.

The decision to restrict Marko's access to the media, if true, is a telling move, and is a huge chapter in the horrific story the Milton Keynes squad is currently involved in. 

Charles Leclerc managed to wedge himself between the Red Bull drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez at qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. This unexpected outcome has left fans very excited for what could come from the race tomorrow.

Key Takeaways:

• Charles Leclerc secures the second spot on the grid, splitting the Red Bull dominance, with Max Verstappen in pole position and Sergio Perez starting third.
• Despite a challenging start in Q3, Leclerc's final lap showcased his and the car's potential, leading to his optimistic outlook for the race.
• The qualifying session was marred by incidents, including a crash in FP3 and technical difficulties, adding to the drama and unpredictability of the event.

Ferrari Press Image

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix qualifying session was nothing short of dramatic, with Charles Leclerc delivering a performance that shook the Red Bull team's stronghold. Max Verstappen unsurprisingly secured pole position, but it was Leclerc who grabbed the headlines by splitting Verstappen and his teammate, Sergio Perez, on the starting grid. This sets the stage for an exciting race.

Leclerc's qualifying journey was fraught with challenges.

"The first lap in Q3 we tried something different doing a preparation lap but that didn't work out well for us. Then in the second lap, I put everything together and that's what was in the car today.

"So I am really happy with the lap, a shame that we are a bit further away than what we hoped in qualifying, but tomorrow is the race and I hope we have a good surprise and can challenge the Red Bulls," Leclerc stated.

The qualifying session was punctuated by various incidents, notably, Zhou Guanyu's crash in FP3 and subsequent struggles to qualify, alongside Nico Hulkenberg's technical woes in Q2. Furthermore, strategic tyre choices by teams like Mercedes, and the competitive spirit seen in the McLaren drivers, injected additional speculation into the proceedings.

As the Formula 1 circus gears up for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Leclerc and whether his "good surprise" materializes into a podium finish or, perhaps, an even more remarkable outcome. With the stage set for an enthralling contest, all eyes will be on the tarmac as the lights go out.

Following the qualifying round at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Sergio Perez, who secured third place, expressed that clinching a spot on the front row was beyond reach. The Red Bull Racing driver pointed out a lack of improvement on his final lap as the main reason for missing out on the top two positions.

Key Takeaways:

• Sergio Perez qualified third at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, behind Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc.
• Perez acknowledged the superior performance of his teammate, Max Verstappen, and admitted that matching his pace was unattainable in this session.
• Despite not achieving a front-row start, Perez remains optimistic about his chances in the race, anticipating a competitive and action-packed event.

Red Bull Press Image

Reflecting on his qualifying performance, Perez was candid about his final attempt, stating:

"I didn't get much of an improvement on the final lap, which is why we missed the front row.

"Overall, Max had a tremendous lap and that wasn't possible for me today but being on the front row was achievable"

Yet, the Mexican driver's spirits remained high. With an eye on the race ahead, he conveyed a blend of realism and optimism. 

"Anyway, we are still in the fight for tomorrow. It's a long race and anything can really happen."

Perez further elaborated on his expectations for the race tomorrow, predicting a dynamic and engaging battle due to the competitive nature of the teams and their proximity on the grid. He concluded:

"It will be quite interesting. I think it will be a long, fun race. I think there will be plenty of action. The cars around is are all very close, so it will be an interesting battle tomorrow."

Max Verstappen clinched pole position followed closely by Charles Leclerc and then Perez. 

Max Verstappen has taken pole position for the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. 

Joining the Dutchman at the front of the grid are Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez who will be starting the race from second and third position, respectively. 

After a big shunt in FP3 which saw Zhou Guanyu lose control at Turn 7 and crash into the race wall at Turn 8, Sauber began the Qualifying session still working on his car in the hopes of getting the Chinese driver out on track. 

Red Bull Content Pool

12 minutes left: Mercedes chose to use medium tyres in comparison to the rest of the grid opting for softs, placing them in sixth and seventh positions. 

10 minutes left: Nico Hulkenberg expressed frustration with Logan Sargeant, calling him an "idiot" for holding him up, but still managed to break into the top 10 on his subsequent lap. This could be something the Stewards look at after the session. 

9 minutes left: The McLarens surged to the front, with Oscar Piastri narrowly avoiding a crash at the final corner as he clipped the wall but still claimed the fastest time, slightly ahead of Lando Norris.

8 minutes left: Max Verstappen set a leading time of 1:28.491. Charles Leclerc moved up to second, closely trailing Verstappen, with Fernando Alonso in third. Meanwhile, George Russell received a warning for not adhering to race director's instructions, and both he and Hamilton, who were lagging in 14th and 15th, switched to soft tyres.

1 minute and 50 seconds left: Zhou Guanyu made it out on track with one lap to get himself out of Q1, however, he later had to abort his lap leaving him starting the Grand Prix from 20th.

Out in Q1

1. Valtteri Bottas
2. Esteban Ocon
3. Pierre Gasly
4. Logan Sargeant
5. Zhou Guanyu

Red Bull Press Image

11 minutes left: Nico Hulkenberg reports that he lost power to the Haas team and so stops at Turn 8 causing a yellow flag. He managed to stop off of the racing line, however, a red flag was subsequently put on the session to remove the car. 

7 minutes left: Max Verstappen sets the latest fastest time of 1:28.078 and Fernando Alonso slots into second. 

Out in Q2

1. Oliver Bearman
2. Alex Albon
3. Kevin Magnussen
4. Daniel Ricciardo
5. Nico Hulkenberg

4 minutes left: Charles Leclerc said on the team radio, "It just feels very weird on new tyres. Very difficult to drive."

1. Max Verstappen
2. Charles Leclerc
3. Sergio Perez
4. Fernando Alonso
5. Oscar Piastri
6. Lando Norris
7. George Russell
8. Lewis Hamilton
9. Yuki Tsunoda
10. Lance Stroll
11. Oliver Bearman
12. Alex Albon
13. Kevin Magnussen
14. Daniel Ricciardo
15. Nico Hulkenberg
16. Valtteri Bottas
17. Esteban Ocon
18. Pierre Gasly
19. Logan Sargeant
20. Zhou Guanyu

In a revealing interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF, via RacingNews365, Helmut Marko, a prominent figure within the Red Bull Racing team, has hinted at the possibility of facing suspension. This comes amid ongoing speculations about internal discord and its impact on the team's dynamics as they gear up for the challenging F1 season ahead.

Key Takeaways:

• Helmut Marko acknowledges a theoretical chance of suspension from Red Bull Racing, amidst swirling team controversy.
• Uncertainty lingers over whether the suspension would be Marko's own decision or imposed by Red Bull.
• Max Verstappen's future with the team could be in jeopardy, highlighting the significance of Marko's presence for the team and its leading driver.

Red Bull Content Pool

The Formula 1 landscape is no stranger to controversy, with teams often finding themselves in the spotlight not just for their on-track performances but also for their off-track issues. The latest revelation from Red Bull Racing's advisor, Helmut Marko, adds a new layer to the unfolding saga within one of F1's leading teams. 

Speaking to ORF, Marko conceded that there exists a "theoretical possibility" of his suspension from the team, a statement that has sent ripples through the F1 community.

The context of Marko's potential suspension is mired in complexity, with the advisor himself struggling to provide a clear-cut explanation. It is evident, however, that the recent allegations surrounding team principal Christian Horner is causing a significant amount of unrest within the team, at a time when unity is paramount. 

"How can I put it? It is difficult to explain, but ultimately I decide what I'm going to do it."

"But is there a possibility [of suspension]? That theoretical possibility exists."

He continued:

"It is such a complex issue. And again, we want peace in the team and we want to see it. This world championship is becoming difficult enough with 24 races and that's what we have to concentrate on."

The F1 season, expanding to 24 races, poses an unprecedented challenge, requiring a concerted effort from every team member to remain competitive.

The intrigue deepens with the mention of Max Verstappen, Red Bull's number one driver, whose future at the team could be directly impacted by Marko's fate. It's revealed that Verstappen's contract includes a clause related to Marko's presence within the team, underscoring the pivotal role the advisor plays. 

Losing Marko could potentially lead to Verstappen's departure, a scenario Red Bull would be keen to avoid given the driver's exceptional talent and contribution to the team's success.

"Max is certainly the strongest asset, there are no faster drivers at the moment," Helmut admitted. "Losing him would be a huge loss. Also for the mechanics and engineers, who all strive to work for Max."

Carlos Sainz has successfully completed his surgical procedure and is currently recuperating in the hospital following an unexpected turn of events during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. The Ferrari driver's surgery necessitated his withdrawal from the event, providing Oliver Bearman with the opportunity to make his Formula 1 debut.

Key Takeaways:

• Carlos Sainz underwent successful surgery for appendicitis and is now resting in the hospital.
• Oliver Bearman steps in for Sainz, marking his first appearance in a Formula 1 race.

Scuderia Ferrari X (Twitter) account

Ferrari has stated that the surgery went well and the driver is now resting at the hospital.

Oliver Bearman, the team's reserve driver, is filling in for Sainz for the rest of the weekend. This opportunity thrusts Bearman into the spotlight, marking his entry into the highest tier of motorsport under unforeseen circumstances. He finished P10 on the timesheets after FP3.

Sainz demonstrated remarkable resilience by participating in the track activities on Thursday despite feeling ill. He completed the first two practice sessions before medical assessments confirmed the need for appendicitis surgery.

With Sainz now focusing on his recovery, the Formula 1 world is also turning its attention to Bearman. His sudden involvement in the weekend's race adds an exciting dimension to the event, as enthusiasts and experts are keen to observe how he adapts to the challenging situation.

Max Verstappen put in the fastest time during FP3 during the Saudi Arabian GP weekend. 

Following the Red Bull driver were Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez who put in the second and third fastest times, respectively. 

All eyes were on Oliver Bearman after he stood in for Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari after the latter was diagnosed with appendicitis and required surgery. Bearman, who took pole position for Formula 2 yesterday, now embarks on his F1 debut weekend.

Logan Sargeant clipped the wall at Turn 22 leaving him with a punctured front left tyre and him reporting that the car would not turn right. The American driver returned to the pits for the Williams team to repair the car. Team principal James Vowles later confirmed that Sargeant would not get back out on track.

Later, Max Verstappen reported that he had hit something at Turn 10 - "a plastic bottle or something" - so returned to the pits for the Red Bull team to assess the RB20. 

With roughly 15 minutes to go Zhou Guanyu suffered a crash after he lost control at Turn 7. The Chinese driver ended up colliding with the race wall putting a red flag on the session. Thankfully, Guanyu was okay but the Sauber team now needs to get the necessary repairs done before Qualifying later today. 

1. Max Verstappen - Soft tyres (S)
2. Charles Leclerc - S
3. Sergio Perez - S
4. George Russel - S
5. Lando Norris - S
6. Fernando Alonso - S
7. Lance Stroll - S
8. Oscar Piastri - S
9. Lewis Hamilton - S
10. Oliver Bearman - S
11. Kevin Magnussen - S
12. Pierre Gasly - S
13. Yuki Tsunoda - S
14. Esteban Ocon - S
15. Nico Hulkenberg - S
16. Daniel Ricciardo - S
17. Alex Albon - S
18. Valtteri Bottas - S
19. Zhou Guanyu - Medium tyres (M)
20. Logan Sargeant - No time

Audi's strategic manoeuvre into Formula 1 accelerates as it announces the full acquisition of the Sauber Group, a move that showcases the brand's resolute commitment to the sport and motorsport in general. This takeover marks a significant milestone in Audi’s journey into the pinnacle of auto racing.

Key Takeaways:

• Audi completes its takeover of the Sauber Group, underscoring a significant expansion of its commitment to Formula 1.
• Oliver Hoffmann steps up as Chairman of the Sauber Group, with Andreas Seidl appointed CEO of the Audi F1 Team.
• The acquisition aims at enhancing Audi's global branding and ensures a streamlined approach to its Formula 1 debut in 2026.

Audi

Audi has officially announced its complete acquisition of the Sauber Group, signalling a major leap in its Formula 1 preparations. This strategic move is part of a broader initiative to strengthen Audi’s position in global motorsport and accelerate its readiness for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Volkswagen AG and AUDI AG Supervisory Boards' decision to take a 100 percent stake in the Sauber Group is a clear indication of Audi's ambition in Formula 1.

Oliver Hoffmann, now the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sauber, expresses his dedication and vision for the project:

"I would like to thank the entire team at Technical Development for the great performance in recent years, and I am proud of the outstanding products resulting from our intensive work that we will bring to the streets in the coming months. Motorsport, particularly Formula 1, is my big passion. I am convinced that by bundling responsibilities and taking over 100 percent of Sauber Group, we will further accelerate our preparations for the launch in 2026.

"I am pleased we were able to secure the services of Andreas Seidl as Audi F1 Team CEO. He is exactly the right man for our ambitious plan. Thanks to his broad experience from leadership roles on the manufacturer and Formula 1 team side, he will make a significant contribution to Audi’s Formula 1 project"

Andreas Seidl, stepping into the role of CEO of the Audi F1 Team, acknowledges the opportunity and the challenges ahead:

“I thank Gernot Döllner and Oliver Hoffmann for their trust and am looking forward to leading Audi into Formula 1 together with a highly motivated team as CEO of the Audi F1 Team.

"We have a clear roadmap for how we want to become competitive in Hinwil as well as in Neuburg. We have ambitious goals. Realization of them is in progress and will be further accelerated through the complete takeover of Sauber by AUDI AG.”

Underpinning this transition is the broader Audi Agenda led by Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, focusing on product, technology, and enhancing the Audi brand globally. Hoffmann's shift to a role that consolidates Audi's F1 programme aligns with this vision, promising a closer integration of motorsport innovations with Audi's commercial offerings.

“I thank Oliver Hoffmann for his tireless dedication as Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development," Döllner said. "In recent years, Oliver has contributed significantly to the sharpening of the Audi product DNA that we are now bringing to market step by step with the launch of the Audi Q6 e-tron. In particular, the high-volume models based on the PPE and PPC, which are important for us, bear his signature.”

The restructuring within Audi and the strategic appointments reflect a commitment to excellence and innovation. Manfred Döss, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of AUDI AG, highlights the significance of this move:

“The entry into Formula 1 is not only the pinnacle of Audi’s very successful history in motorsport, but also as big a sporting challenge as it is a financial commitment. Through the bundling of Oliver Hoffmann’s responsibilities and the complete takeover of the Sauber Group, we are accelerating our preparations for the 2026 season.”

This strategic realignment within Audi and the acquisition of the Sauber Group signify a robust approach towards making a mark in Formula 1. With the leadership of seasoned professionals like Hoffmann and Seidl, Audi is gearing up for a competitive entry into the sport.

During Free Practice 3, Zhou Guanyu was involved in a severe crash after losing control at Turn 7, resulting in a collision with the race wall and bringing the session to a halt with around 15 minutes remaining. After the incident, Zhou conveyed through the team radio, "Sorry mate, I lost the car. Sorry, I don't know what happened. Otherwise, I am ok."

Before this incident, Zhou had expressed his apprehensions about a particularly treacherous segment of the Jeddah Corniche circuit, especially the exit kerb at turn 10. He had described the kerb as "a bit brutal" due to its high elevation, designed to prevent drivers from exceeding track limits but having led to various accidents in the past. This was highlighted by Mick Schumacher's significant crash in 2022.

Sauber Press Image

To address these safety concerns, adjustments have been made since the inaugural race, particularly in the first sector ending after turn 10, where barriers have been moved to better the drivers' line of sight through the fast, sweeping bends.

Zhou shared his thoughts on the circuit before FP3, stating:

"I like this track. The only corner maybe I don't like so much is turn 10, that exit kerb is a bit brutal when you bottom out and it is quite dangerous.

"But in general it is really nice. It is more because of the grip, the tarmac. It is the best in terms of grip compared to the other circuits, very similar to the European tracks in some cases.

"It is nice that you can really push these cars to the limit on the high speed and it is a nice feeling.

"A bit more room than other street circuits and qualifying is very nice because of the flow in sector one, when you get it right, you really feel the difference."

He also noted the strategic importance of sector one for gaining on competitors: 

"Sector one. The blind corners, if you have good confidence and rhythm, you can [gain] there.

"When you don't feel confident with the car in the high-to-medium speed corners, you will struggle in sector one.

"It's clear for us where the lap time is coming from and where you can really beat other teams and drivers, you have to commit to that first sector."

Former Formula 1 world champion Mika Hakkinen has said that Lewis Hamilton's big switch to Ferrari next year won't be all rosy and "straightforward". He highlighted the major changes the transition would bring to the seven-time-world champion, alongside a potent teammate like Charles Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2019. 

Hamilton's decision to switch to the Maranello outfit has less than a year to materialize. The move comes after spending nearly a decade with Mercedes, where he won six titles to his name.

Nevertheless, as he aims to increase his championship count, it's noteworthy that Ferrari hasn't clinched a single driver's championship since 2007 when Kimi Raikkonen secured the title. Speaking to PlanetF1.com, Hakkinen said:

“I can see that he wants to win, of course, like everybody else wants to win.

“I think he probably experienced that, with the Mercedes, maybe he thinks the Mercedes isn’t able to give him a car where he can win.

“Probably he’s seeing the opportunity that, with Ferrari, they can bring him a car where he can win.

“But it’s quite a big change for him, because he’s been in a British team – let’s call it this way – for so many, many years.

“To now change to an Italian team, where he doesn’t have experience, it can be quite a big change for him – to understand the philosophy, and how they work.

“This has nothing to say they don’t work well or they don’t do the right thing, but it’s a big change.”

Speaking further on Hamilton's chances of winning another title, Hakkinen says it all depends on Ferrari's title contender. He added:

“That’s impossible to say. It’s all about the car.

“If they’re able to build the car and fix the problems that they have, then there is a possibility.”

Adding on how Hamilton's Ferrari shift opens opportunities for other drivers, Hakkinen said:

“For the moment where he’s in his career, it must be very exciting and motivating for him to continue with this great sport.

“I think it opens up opportunities to other drivers, too, this year is a big year because so many contracts are finishing and there’s going to be a lot of changes.”

However, with Leclerc greeting him at Ferrari's doorstep, the former world champion says racing for wins with Ferrari won't be "straightforward" for Hamilton. He said:

“You have Charles Leclerc over there, and he has been with the team for a long time.

“He’s a very talented young driver and the car is tailor-made for him. So it’s not going to be so straightforward, in my opinion.”

Hakkinen suggests that Hamilton's move to Ferrari follows his accomplishment of everything with Mercedes. Now though, he might seek to recreate that sensation by clinching victories with Ferrari. He added:

“I think it’s purely to have a change.

“He’s been at Mercedes for so long, and he has achieved everything with Mercedes – they have reached the pinnacle of results.

“I think he wants to now go to another team and try to find the same type of journey, and that, one day, they can become winners. But it’s all about people. It’s not about wishbones or uprights or wings, it’s about the people.”

In a touching display of solidarity that cuts across the fiercely competitive lines of Formula 1, Williams' Alex Albon has reached out with a humorous message of support to Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, following the latter's sudden withdrawal from the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to appendicitis. 

• Alex Albon offers a funny jibe of support to Carlos Sainz on x after Sainz's appendicitis surgery sidelines him from the Saudi GP.
• Oliver Bearman steps in for Sainz at Ferrari for his F1 debut, adding intrigue to the race weekend.
• Red Bull shows strong pace in practice, heightening interest in how Bearman will perform in Sainz's absence.

Demonstrating the spirit of camaraderie that we love to see across the paddock, Albon offered his well-wishes through a post on x:

"Get well soon Carlos Sainz, I know a good surgeon if you need," he said. 

The unexpected news broke out from the Jeddah paddock on Friday, putting the F1 community on alert. Sainz, a key figure in Ferrari's lineup, was diagnosed with appendicitis after falling ill ahead of the weekend, necessitating immediate surgery and sidelining him for the remainder of the event. This unforeseen turn of events has led to reserve driver Oliver Bearman stepping up to make his Formula 1 race debut under the global spotlight.

Despite early signs of discomfort, Sainz showcased his unwavering dedication to the sport, participating in Thursday's practice sessions before his condition necessitated further medical examination. 

“The Ferrari family wishes Carlos a speedy recovery," the team said in a statement.  

It took three weeks for Alex Albon to return to racing when he underwent an appendectomy.

This means if Carlos Sainz has a similar recovery, he'll miss the Australian Grand Prix but return for the Japanese GP in early April.

Worth noting there were complications in Alex's…

The focus now also shifts to Bearman, who faces the daunting task of filling Sainz's shoes at short notice. The young driver's unexpected promotion to the race seat adds a layer of intrigue to the weekend, with the race looking like a done deal for the Red Bull drivers after FP1 and FP2 showing strong race pace. 

18-year-old British driver Oliver Bearman has been called up to replace Ferrari's Carlos Sainz for the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after the latter was diagnosed with appendicitis. This opportunity marks a significant milestone in Bearman's racing career, highlighting his rapid ascent through the ranks of motorsport.

Key Takeaways:

• Oliver Bearman, a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, will debut in F1 at the 2024 Saudi Arabian GP, substituting for the unwell Carlos Sainz.
• Bearman boasts a commendable track record, including championship victories in both the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 series.
• His recent stint in FIA Formula 2 with Prema Racing, and his role as a reserve driver for Ferrari and Haas F1 Team, underscore his potential in motorsport.

Born on the 8th of May, 2005, Bearman's motorsport career began on the karting tracks, where he quickly made a name for himself by securing multiple titles.

Bearman's ascent in motorsport continued as he ventured into formula racing, clinching titles in the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Championships. His prowess on the track was evident from the start, as he consistently outperformed his peers and showcased a level of skill and determination well beyond his years.

The young Brit's talents were further recognised when he joined PREMA Racing in the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2022, where he finished an impressive third in his debut season. Bearman's transition to the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2023 saw him continue to excel, capturing four race wins and solidifying his status as a rising star in the racing world.

Haas Press Image

Bearman's association with the Ferrari Driver Academy has been a crucial element of his development as a driver. This prestigious program has nurtured his skills and provided him with invaluable experiences, including participation in Formula 1 free practice sessions and young drivers' tests with both Ferrari and the Haas F1 Team.

The opportunity to replace Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is a testament to Bearman's potential and the confidence placed in him by the Ferrari and Haas F1 teams. As Bearman gears up for his F1 debut, the motorsport community eagerly anticipates the performance of this promising British talent on the world stage.

Stake F1 driver Zhou Guanyu dreads a "dangerous" and "brutal" segment of the Jeddah Corniche circuit, renowned as the world's fastest street track. Zhou highlights the exit kerb at turn 10 as particularly problematic, causing drivers to bottom out and posing a significant danger.

Key Takeaways:

• Zhou Guanyu expresses concern about a hazardous section of the Jeddah Corniche circuit, particularly highlighting the dangers posed by the exit kerb at turn 10.
• The corner features a high kerb to deter track limit abuses but has resulted in various issues in past events, including Mick Schumacher's car-splitting crash for Haas in 2022.
• Safety adjustments have been made since the first race, with barriers relocated to improve visibility. Zhou also notes the importance of sector one for catching up with the car ahead, emphasizing confidence and rhythm in navigating its blind corners.

The corner in question features a high kerb, effectively curbing track limit violations, but it has led to various issues in past events. One notable incident was Mick Schumacher's car-splitting crash for Haas in 2022.

Several safety adjustments have been implemented since the first race, notably in the initial sector, which concludes after turn 10. Barriers were relocated to enhance drivers' visibility through the thrilling sweeping sections.

Speaking to the media, Zhou expressed his fondness for the track while talking about the danger at Turn 10. He told the media:

"I like this track.

"The only corner maybe I don't like so much is turn 10, that exit kerb is a bit brutal when you bottom out and it is quite dangerous.

"But in general it is really nice. It is more because of the grip, the tarmac. It is the best in terms of grip compared to the other circuits, very similar to the European tracks in some cases.

"It is nice that you can really push these cars to the limit on the high speed and it is a nice feeling.

"A bit more room than other street circuits and qualifying is very nice because of the flow in sector one, when you get it right, you really feel the difference."

Pointing out a specific section that aids in catching up with the car in front, he added:

"Sector one. The blind corners, if you have good confidence and rhythm, you can [gain] there.

"When you don't feel confident with the car in the high-to-medium speed corners, you will struggle in sector one.

"It's clear for us where the lap time is coming from and where you can really beat other teams and drivers, you have to commit to that first sector."

Following an unexpected turn of events, Carlos Sainz will not be attending this weekend's Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as the Spaniard fell ill during Wednesday's press responsibilities. It's since been revealed that he is suffering from appendicitis, necessitating surgery. This will significantly impact his early season.  

Key Takeaways:

• The average recovery time from appendicitis surgery varies, with patients typically resuming normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks.
• Factors influencing recovery time include the type of surgery performed and the individual’s overall health.
• Post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery, involving rest, gradual return to activity, and following medical advice.

Appendicitis surgery, medically known as an appendectomy, is a common procedure undertaken to remove the appendix when it becomes inflamed and infected. The recovery period can vary significantly depending on several factors, including whether the surgery is laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or open.

For the average patient, the path to full recovery involves a series of steps and precautions - of course, F1 drivers aren't average humans. In the case of laparoscopic surgery, individuals may return to their usual routines within 2 to 3 weeks, thanks to smaller incisions and reduced recovery time. However, an open appendectomy, which is necessary when the appendix has ruptured or the infection is severe, may extend the recovery period to 4 to 6 weeks due to larger incisions and a higher risk of complications.

Given the current date of 8th March 2024 and considering the typical recovery timeline for appendicitis surgery, Carlos Sainz's participation in upcoming Formula 1 races could be significantly impacted. Assuming a recovery period that ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on whether he underwent a laparoscopic or open appendectomy and his personal health and recovery speed, we can estimate the races he might miss in the 2024 Formula 1 calendar during this period.

• Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (Jeddah, 7-9 March): Already confirmed to miss.
• Australian Grand Prix (Melbourne, 22-24 March): Highly likely to miss, depending on recovery speed.
• Japanese Grand Prix (5-7 April): If recovery extends beyond the typical period, there's a possibility he might miss this race as well, especially considering the forces put on the body during the intensity of a race.

Alex Albon returned to the car only three weeks after an appendectomy in 2022.

The recovery timeline is not solely dictated by the physical healing of surgical wounds. Emotional and mental recovery plays a significant role, especially for athletes and individuals whose professions demand high physical performance. Support from family, friends, and professional teams, alongside adequate rest and nutrition, can profoundly influence the recovery experience.

In a significant development from the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, Carlos Sainz has been ruled out, necessitating a surgical procedure. The Ferrari driver's absence paves the way for reserve driver Oliver Bearman's Formula 1 debut.

Key Takeaways:

• Carlos Sainz has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will miss the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as he undergoes surgery.
• Oliver Bearman is set to replace Sainz, marking his debut in a Formula 1 race.
• Sainz fell ill during the pre-event activities but managed to participate in the initial practice sessions before his diagnosis.

The Formula 1 paddock was met with unexpected news this Friday afternoon in Jeddah as Ferrari announced that their Spanish driver, Carlos Sainz, would not be taking part in the rest of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix activities. Sainz, who had been feeling under the weather since the media day on Wednesday, has been diagnosed with appendicitis and requires an operation to address the issue.

Oliver Bearman, the team's reserve driver, is poised to take Sainz's place for the remainder of the weekend. This change will see Bearman making his debut in the pinnacle of motorsport, stepping in under challenging circumstances.

Despite feeling unwell, Sainz showed commendable dedication by returning to the track on Thursday. He managed to complete the first two practice sessions, albeit still experiencing symptoms. His condition necessitated a further medical examination, following which the diagnosis of appendicitis was confirmed.

Ferrari's official statement conveyed their support for Sainz, expressing hopes for a swift recovery:

“The Ferrari family wishes Carlos a speedy recovery.” 

As the Formula 1 community awaits further updates on Sainz's condition and recovery timeline, attention also turns to Bearman. 

The young driver's unexpected entry into the race weekend adds an intriguing subplot to the event, with fans and pundits alike eager to see how he will perform on such short notice.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown revealed that the team's performance during Free Practice 2 "played out" as predicted, with drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris securing P10 and P12, respectively. 

Key Takeaways:

• McLaren CEO Zak Brown discusses the team's performance during free practice 2, with drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris securing P10 and P12, respectively, in line with predictions.
• Brown anticipates Red Bull's dominance on the grid, placing McLaren in contention with teams like Aston Martin and Mercedes. He notes that McLaren's lap times may not accurately reflect their potential performance in qualifying and the race.
• Brown expects McLaren to fare better in Saudi Arabia when compared to Bahrain, where they finished within points in P6 and P8. He predicts a grid similar to Bahrain's but hopes for improved competitiveness and qualifying performance.

Brown also emphasized his expectation of Red Bull's dominance on the grid, placing McLaren in contention with teams such as Aston Martin and Mercedes. He also revealed that his team's lap times cannot be taken at face value since he expects the MCL38s to perform better in qualifying and race.

Thus, with an expectation of performing better in Saudi Arabia than in Bahrain, where McLaren finished within points in P6 and P8, Brown told Sky Sports F1:

"Bahrain is kind of where we had it pegged with Red Bull up the way, Ferrari ahead but then Mercedes and Aston Martin close. That played out as we thought.

"This weekend it looks like Red Bull has everyone covered but maybe not by the same gap.

"We feel pretty competitive, we were working on a variety of programmes, so I don't think the lap times are representative of where we will be come qualifying."

He added:

"I think the grid will probably look fairly similar to Bahrain. I’d like to think we might be a little bit more competitive.

"I think we were a little bit more competitive (than we showed) in Bahrain but we didn’t quite get our qualifying laps together.

"Here I feel like we’re maybe a little bit closer to the front than we were in Bahrain. But I hope I don’t eat my words now that I’ve made a little bit of a prediction."