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Tag: Formula 1

F1 Drivers Past Their Prime: Who Must Leave Now!

F1 Grid Needs a Ruthless Reset

Clear the Grid!

Formula 1 is ruthless, and it should be. If you cannot perform, you should not occupy a seat. That is the standard. That is the expectation. Over the last five years, the level of talent entering Formula 1 has surged, yet several drivers continue to hold positions they no longer justify. I am going to say it directly. Some names on this grid have passed their expiration date.

Esteban Ocon

Let’s start with Esteban Ocon, or as I call him, “The Weapon.” Not because he is dominant, but because of the chaos that tends to follow him. Over the past five seasons, Ocon has struggled to establish consistency as a team leader. At Alpine F1 Team, he showed flashes, including that surprise win in Hungary in 2021, but flashes are not enough anymore. Since then, he has been repeatedly outperformed by teammates, most notably Pierre Gasly and now Ollie Bearman. The modern grid demands progression, not stagnation. When internal confidence starts to fade, as hinted in behind-the-scenes moments from Drive to Survive, it tells you everything. Ocon is no longer building momentum. He is maintaining a seat.

Liam Lawson

Then there is Liam Lawson. I wanted to believe in him. His early substitute performances showed aggression and hunger, but over time, that aggression has become a liability. Incidents, poor race management, and inconsistency have defined his trajectory. When a young driver gets outperformed by a rookie teammate like Arvid Lindblad, it raises serious questions. Formula 1 does not wait. You either evolve quickly, or you get replaced. Right now, Lawson looks like he is falling behind the curve, and the F1 Miami GP did not help his cause.

Valtteri Bottas

I respect Valtteri Bottas. I really do. His role at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team helped secure multiple Constructors’ Championships. He was a reliable number two driver behind Lewis Hamilton, and he played that role well.

However, Formula 1 is not a legacy sport. It is a performance sport. Since his move away from Mercedes, the results have not justified his continued presence. His stint with Alfa Romeo F1 Team, later transitioning into the Kick Sauber F1 Team era, showed a driver struggling to elevate a midfield car. Bottas did, however, show some respectable results in Alfa’s inaugural season (I was actually present at a few races), but over time, poor performance blended with mediocre equipment is just sad given his early performances with Mercedes F1.

Now, sitting alongside Sergio Perez in a developing project like the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, he (Bottas) feels more like a placeholder than a competitive pairing until Herta is ready for the second seat.

Lance Stroll

And then we have Lance Stroll. This is the most frustrating case. Yes, it takes talent to reach Formula 1, and no one is questioning that he has “some.” But, without Daddy’s money, let’s be honest, he wouldn’t have made it to F1. His personality sucks, and he’s kind of a jerk.

Over the past five years at Aston Martin F1 Team, Stroll has consistently been outclassed by his teammates. Most notably, Fernando Alonso, who is operating at an elite level well into his forties. When a driver is getting beaten regularly by someone twice his age, it becomes impossible to ignore. The gap is not just statistical. It is visible in race craft, qualifying pace, and overall race intelligence. Stroll is not progressing, and Formula 1 punishes stagnation.

To Put it Bluntly!

Here is the reality. Over the last five years, Formula 1 has welcomed a wave of young, elite talent. Drivers like Oscar Piastri, Ollie Bearman and Andrea Kimi Antonelli have proven that readiness matters more than reputation. They arrive prepared, composed, and ready to deliver results immediately. That is the new benchmark.

From my perspective, the grid needs to reflect performance, not comfort. Seats should not be held based on past results, financial backing, or personality. They should be earned every season. Right now, that is not happening across the board.

Formula 1 is evolving. The talent pool is deeper than ever. If the sport wants to maintain its competitive integrity, difficult decisions need to be made. Because at this level, being good is not enough anymore. You have to be exceptional every single weekend.

IMAGES: AutomotiveWoman

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May 4, 2026
Formula 1’s 2026 Rule Changes Explained: A New Era Begins
Exciting? Or Just a Formula E Wannabe?

With 2026 Formula 1 testing just over a month away, the sport is preparing for its biggest technical overhaul in more than a decade. The upcoming regulations will reshape how cars look, how they race, and how drivers extract performance—both mechanically and strategically.

From radical aerodynamic changes to a completely rebalanced hybrid power unit, the 2026 rules represent Formula 1’s most ambitious step toward sustainable, road-relevant performance while keeping the racing intense and unpredictable. However, is Formula One going to be the best form of Formula E? I mean, a lot of the new racing terms, “Attack Mode” and “Active Aero” all kind of sound like FE.

Here’s everything you need to know about the future of Formula 1.

Smaller, Lighter, and More Agile F1 Cars

One of the most noticeable changes for 2026 will be the physical size and weight of the cars.

The new regulations mandate:
- Shorter wheelbases
- Narrower bodywork
- Reduced minimum weight
- Narrower 18-inch Pirelli tyres
These changes are designed to create cars that are more responsive and nimble, especially through corners. The narrower tyres and simplified bodywork reduce drag and mass, while the removal of front-wheel arches further cleans up airflow.

In theory—and in simulation—this should make cars more exciting to drive and more challenging to master.

A Major Shift in Aerodynamics

The ground-effect era introduced in 2022 put heavy emphasis on complex floor tunnels. For 2026, that approach is being rethought.

Key aerodynamic changes include:
- Flatter floors
- Shorter diffusers with larger openings
- Less reliance on underfloor downforce
- Higher ride height requirements
The result is less overall downforce, but also less sensitivity to turbulent air. This should allow cars to follow each other more closely through corners, opening the door for more overtaking opportunities.

Crucially, these changes also encourage greater setup diversity, rewarding teams and drivers who can adapt their cars to different tracks and driving styles.

Simpler Wings, Smarter Performance

Both front and rear wings have been simplified for 2026.
- Rear beam wings are eliminated
- Front wings feature fewer, narrower elements
- New development focus on front-wing outer sections
While simpler in appearance, these components will remain a critical performance battleground. Front wings, in particular, heavily influence airflow across the entire car.

But the biggest change isn’t simplification—it’s Active Aerodynamics.

Active Aero Replaces Traditional DRS

From 2026, Formula 1 will introduce Active Aero, effectively replacing DRS as we know it.

Here’s how it works:
- In corners, front and rear wing flaps remain closed for maximum grip
- On designated straights, drivers can activate a low-drag mode
- Wings flatten automatically, reducing drag and increasing top speed
- Available to every driver, on every lap
This system removes the requirement to be within one second of the car ahead, fundamentally changing how drivers manage straight-line speed.

Overtake Mode and the New Boost Button

While Active Aero is available to all, drivers within one second of a rival gain access to Overtake Mode.

This mode:
- Unlocks extra electrical energy deployment
- Can be used strategically at a single detection point
- Is designed purely for attacking
In addition, drivers retain a familiar tool—the Boost button. This allows maximum power deployment anywhere on the lap, provided sufficient battery charge is available. It can be used offensively or defensively and managed in short bursts or across longer sections of the track.

Drivers Take Control of Energy Strategy

Another major evolution is how drivers manage energy.

In collaboration with their race engineers, drivers will now:
- Select battery recharge modes
- Balance regeneration from braking and engine lift-off
- Strategically manage energy across a lap
With Active Aero, Overtake Mode, and Boost all in play, drivers will have three distinct tools to influence race outcomes—making racecraft, timing, and decision-making more critical than ever.

Power Units: A 50-50 Hybrid Revolution

Under the engine cover, Formula 1’s power units undergo a dramatic shift.

While retaining the 1.6-litre V6 turbo layout, the power balance changes significantly:
- Reduced internal combustion engine output
- Tripled electric motor power
- Approximately 50% combustion, 50% electric
This transformation makes F1 power units more road-relevant and sustainable, helping attract and retain manufacturers.

Confirmed suppliers include:
- Ferrari
- Mercedes
- Red Bull Powertrains (with Ford)
- Audi (from 2029)
- Honda (returning)
- General Motors (from 2029)
The complex and costly MGU-H is eliminated, simplifying the system while reducing weight and improving efficiency.

Advanced Sustainable Fuels Take Center Stage

For the first time in Formula 1 history, cars will run exclusively on Advanced Sustainable Fuels.

These fuels:
- Are developed from carbon capture, municipal waste, and non-food biomass
- Were trialled in Formula 2 and Formula 3 in 2025
- Meet strict, independently certified sustainability standards
This move reinforces Formula 1’s role as a laboratory for future mobility solutions, without compromising performance.

Enhanced Safety for a Faster Future

As performance evolves, so does safety.

For 2026:
- Survival cells face more rigorous testing
- Roll hoops are strengthened to handle 23% more load
- Front impact structures are redesigned to manage secondary impacts
These improvements ensure that as cars become lighter and faster, driver protection continues to advance.

Who Shaped the 2026 Formula 1 Rules?

The regulations were developed by the FIA in close collaboration with Formula 1 and the teams. The result is a ruleset that balances innovation, sustainability, competition, and spectacle—while attracting new manufacturers and investment.

What the 2026 Era Means for Formula 1

Formula 1 will remain fast, dramatic, and technologically advanced—but it will also become more demanding.

Drivers must master:
- Reduced downforce
- Smarter energy management
- More tactical racing tools
Teams must adapt to tighter regulations and rapidly evolving technology. And fans? They can expect closer racing, more strategy, and a new visual identity for the sport. This is Formula 1’s future—lighter, smarter, and powered by sustainable innovation.

IMAGES: Formula One

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January 5, 2026
Safety Car Drama Highlights the 2025 F1 Spanish GP

Alonso Salvages Points at Home & More!

The 2025 Spanish Grand Prix delivered a well-rounded spectacle at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. From on-track drama to best-of-year performances, here are your highlights.

McLaren Momentum Continues

Oscar Piastri earned the spotlight with a clinical drive to P1. He had to earn it though, as teammate Lando Norris was in the hunt and Red Bulls Max Verstappen, on a 3-stop strategy was in the fight until a late safety car. In the end, a frustrated Verstappen lost a podium position and valuable champion points due to frustration. Keep reading.

Another Safety Car Cliffhanger

The 2025 Spanish Grand Prix looked poised for a steady finish—until chaos struck with just over 10 laps to go. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli pulled off track with a mechanical issue, triggering a late-race Safety Car that flipped the strategy board upside down.

A flurry of pit stops followed. Nearly the entire grid, including the leading trio of Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri, dove in for fresh rubber. But in a move that proved costly, Red Bull fitted Verstappen with hard tyres, while most others—including his closest rivals—switched to softs or mediums. Obviously not the Dutchman’s first tire choice, but it’s all he had left.

When the Safety Car pulled in on Lap 60, a six-lap dash to the flag ensued. Piastri nailed the restart, allowing both McLarens to gap the field quickly. Behind them, though, mayhem erupted.

Charles Leclerc surged past Verstappen on the main straight and made contact during the move.

Though the incident was investigated, no penalty was issued. Moments later, George Russell lunged at Verstappen, resulting in more contact and forcing the Red Bull driver onto the escape road. Red Bull asked Verstappen to give the position back—but when Russell tried again, the two collided once more.

This time, Verstappen wasn’t so lucky. The stewards slapped him with a 10-second time penalty for avoidable contact, dropping him from fifth to a lowly tenth. Russell didn’t mince words afterward: “My perspective is that I just got crashed into!”

Alonso’s Grit and Stroll’s Selfish Call

If there was a silver lining for Spanish fans, it was Fernando Alonso salvaging a few valuable points with a P9 finish. That may not sound headline-worthy, but considering this has been his worst start to a season in nearly a decade, any finish inside the top ten felt like a minor victory. It was a gritty drive from the two-time champ, who continues to outperform the Aston Martin AMR25 more than it deserves.

However, the bigger story from Aston Martin wasn’t Alonso’s points—it was Lance Stroll’s puzzling decision to participate in qualifying despite having no intention of starting the race on Sunday due to a lingering wrist injury.

That choice blocked reserve driver Felipe Drugovich from making what would’ve been his long-overdue F1 debut. Since winning the 2022 Formula 2 championship, Drugovich has waited patiently in the wings. But once again, the opportunity was denied—arguably because Stroll, the son of team owner Lawrence Stroll, didn’t want to risk being outshone by a hungry young talent.

It’s an unfortunate, almost selfish, reality of modern Formula 1 politics, and it’s starting to wear thin with fans and insiders alike.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, the Spanish GP was an entertaining chapter in the 2025 season.
Click HERE for full Results.

Now it’s two weeks off until the F1 Canadian GP.

IMAGES: F1, Getty, AutomotiveWoman

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June 2, 2025
Norris and Palou Shine in Racing’s Crown Jewels

Monaco and Indy 500 Deliver Historic Wins

Monaco Grand Prix 2025: Norris’ Dream Victory Amidst Strategic Battles

In the glittering streets of Monte Carlo, Lando Norris achieved a career-defining victory at the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, marking his first win in the Principality and his second of the season. Starting from pole position, Norris delivered a masterclass in precision and strategy, navigating the notoriously narrow circuit with composure and skill. His triumph not only narrowed the championship gap to teammate Oscar Piastri to a mere three points but also signalled McLaren’s resurgence in the Constructors’ standings.

The race introduced a new two-stop mandate aimed at enhancing on-track action.

However, overtaking remained scarce, with the exception of George Russell’s penalized maneuver. Teams resorted to strategic plays, with Racing Bulls and Williams employing tactics that stirred controversy, including deliberate slowing to benefit teammates.

Photo Credit: F1/Getty Images – Lando Norris 2025 F1 Monaco GP

Notably, Charles Leclerc secured second place, delivering a strong performance in front of his home crowd, while Piastri completed the podium. Max Verstappen’s aggressive strategy saw him finish fourth, unable to capitalize on the pit stop variations. The race was also marked by incidents, including early retirements for Pierre Gasly and Fernando Alonso, and a virtual safety car following Gabriel Bortoleto’s crash on the opening lap.

Norris’s victory, McLaren’s first in Monaco since 2008, underscores the team’s upward trajectory and sets the stage for an intensified championship battle as the season progresses.

Click HERE for Full Results

Indianapolis 500 2025: Palou’s Historic Triumph

At the 109th Indianapolis 500, Álex Palou etched his name into motorsport history by becoming the first Spanish driver to win the iconic race. Starting from sixth position, the three-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion showcased exceptional skill and strategy, overtaking Marcus Ericsson with 14 laps remaining to seize the lead. The race concluded under caution due to a late crash, cementing Palou’s victory.

This win marked Palou’s first on an oval track and his fifth in six races this season, extending his championship lead to 115 points. His triumph at Indianapolis not only adds to his impressive résumé but also completes a significant milestone in Spanish motorsport, joining the ranks of Fernando Alonso and others in achieving success at legendary events.

Photo Credit: IndyCar

The race was filled with drama, including multiple cautions and the early retirement of pole-sitter Robert Shwartzman. Despite the challenges, Palou’s consistent performance and decisive moves underscored his dominance in the series. Celebrating with the traditional bottle of milk, Palou’s victory is a testament to his skill and determination, solidifying his status as a formidable force in IndyCar racing.

Click HERE for Full Results

As the motorsport world reflects on these landmark victories, both Norris and Palou have demonstrated that strategic acumen and unwavering focus are key to triumphing on racing’s grandest stages.

IMAGES: Formula 1, IndyCar

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May 26, 2025
The Final Trailer for F1: The Movie Just Dropped!

Excited – But Hopefully It’s Not Another Racing Movie Flop

The F1: The Movie is already fuelling excitement for what promises to be this summer’s most electrifying cinematic event. Set to release in North America on June 27, 2025, the film stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a retired Formula 1 driver making a dramatic return to the track. Directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick) and co-produced by seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, F1 combines high-octane racing with a compelling story of redemption and mentorship.

A High-Speed Comeback

In the film, Hayes is coaxed out of retirement by his former teammate, Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), to mentor rookie sensation Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris) for the fictional APXGP team. The trailer teases intense on-track rivalries, emotional depth, and the relentless pursuit of greatness, all set against the backdrop of the world’s most prestigious racing circuits.

Authentic Racing Action

What sets F1 apart is its commitment to authenticity. Filming took place at real Grand Prix events, including Silverstone and Monza, with Pitt and Idris undergoing extensive driving training to perform their own stunts. The production utilized modified Formula 2 cars equipped with F1-style aerodynamics, capturing the visceral thrill of racing at over 180 miles per hour.

Star-Studded Ensemble

The film boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Kerry Condon as technical director Kate McKenna, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Sarah Niles. Adding to the realism, actual F1 teams and drivers from the 2023 season make appearances, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.

A Cinematic Spectacle

With a score by Hans Zimmer and cinematography by Claudio Miranda, F1 promises a sensory experience that mirrors the intensity of the sport itself. The film’s production team, including Jerry Bruckheimer and Dede Gardner, ensures a blend of adrenaline-pumping action and emotional storytelling.

As the release date approaches, fans and critics alike are gearing up for a film that captures the essence of Formula 1 racing. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or a moviegoer seeking high-stakes drama, F1: The Movie looks set to deliver a thrilling ride.

You can watch the final trailer HERE:

IMAGES: Apple Original Films

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May 13, 2025
Motorsport Weekend Thrills: F1 in Miami & Formula E in Monaco

IndyCar Launches Into May

May is one of the best motorsport months and it kicks off this weekend with some great open-wheel action.

Here are your weekend schedules!

Formula One

Friday, May 2nd
Sprint Qualifying: 4:30pm – 5:14pm EST

Saturday, May 3rd
Sprint Race: 12:00pm – 1:00pm EST
F1 Qualifying: 4:00pm – 5:00pm EST

Sunday, May 3rd
F1 Race Day – Start time:: 4:00pm EST

Formula E Monaco E-Prix

PIT BOOST is back for the Monaco E-Prix doubleheader. PIT BOOST is an innovative and mandatory mid-race feature that gives cars a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) through a 30-second, 600kW boost in the pit lane. It will be used during one of the two races across a double-header.

May 3rd & 4th – Click HERE for full schedule.

Can Jaguar TCS Racing make history again?

Click HERE for Formula E – Driver on Prime

IndyCar

The Indy 500 holds fond memories for us in the office. IndyCar’s biggest event of the year is still a few weeks away, but IndyCar fans don’t have to wait for more on-track action. Barber Motorsport Park kicks off May.

Weekend schedule Click HERE

What series are you watching?

IMAGES: Formula One & FIA ABB Formula E

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May 2, 2025
F1’s 75th Season: Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut, Top Headlines & More

Cadillac Officially Joins F1 and Rookies Flood the Grid

The 75th Formula 1 season kicks off this week in Australia. With history on the line, three major storylines are dominating headlines.

Hamilton’s Ferrari Era Begins

After 12 seasons with Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton embarks on a new journey with Ferrari. The seven-time world champion shocked the motorsport world with his switch. Fans are eager to see if he can deliver Ferrari’s first title since 2007. His pairing with Charles Leclerc adds intrigue as the two drivers aim to bring glory back to Maranello.

Who will shine more this year? Charles, the Ferrari fan darling or Hamilton, a multiple World Champion with a desire to win his “official” 8th title.

Cadillac’s F1 Dream Becomes Reality

Cadillac is officially confirmed as an F1 team, entering with Andretti Global. After months of speculation, the American manufacturer has secured its place on the grid. This marks a huge step for U.S. involvement in F1, with General Motors backing the project. Now, the focus shifts to their 2026 debut and whether they can challenge the sport’s elite.

Sainz’s Fresh Start with Williams

Carlos Sainz makes his Williams debut after being replaced by Hamilton at Ferrari. The Spaniard, a proven race winner, joins a team eager to climb the grid. His experience and leadership could be key in Williams’ rebuild. With new technical backing and a talented driver lineup, Williams aims to take a step forward in 2025 and beyond.

Record-Breaking Rookie Class

F1 welcomes its largest group of rookies in decades. Several young talents will make their debuts, hoping to prove their worth. Among them are young Hamilton replacement, Kimi Antonelli, Red Bull prospect Isack Hadjar, Oliver Bearman at Haas, Jack Doohan for Alpine and more. The grid shake-up sets the stage for an unpredictable season, with fresh rivalries forming and veterans defending their turf.

With these storylines unfolding, all eyes turn to Melbourne. The 75th season promises drama, surprises, and a glimpse into F1’s evolving future.

Record-Breaking Rookie Class

Click HERE for a full schedule.

IMAGES: Formula 1

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March 10, 2025
This Week in Motorsports: Top Stories

F1, FE, MotoGP and IMSA – We Have You Covered!

Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut and Reunion with Angela Cullen

Hamilton’s first Ferrari drive and reunion with former aide.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, has completed his inaugural drive with Ferrari at the Fiorano Circuit. He described the experience as “one of the best feelings” of his life. Hamilton completed 30 laps in a 2023 Ferrari, familiarizing himself with the team’s operations. This session was part of an intensive immersion week at Ferrari’s Maranello base. Hamilton engaged deeply with fans and emphasized the inspiring passion he witnessed from the Ferrari team and supporters. In addition to this milestone, Hamilton is reuniting with his former physiotherapist and confidante, Angela Cullen. Cullen was instrumental in four of Hamilton’s world titles at Mercedes. After a two-year hiatus, she will resume her role as his physiotherapist and chief confidante at Ferrari. Hamilton praised Cullen for her positivity and hard work. This reunion aims to bolster Hamilton’s support system as he embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari.

Watch the video of Hamilton’s first laps – Click HERE

FIA Introduces Strict Penalties for Driver Swearing

New regulations impose fines and bans for offensive language.

The FIA has implemented new regulations in the Formula 1 Sporting Code that impose strict penalties on drivers for swearing or criticizing the governing body, starting this season. A first offence carries a €40,000 fine, a second offence €80,000 and a suspended one-month ban, and a third offence €120,000, a one-month ban, and deduction of championship points, applicable within a two-year period. The penalties also extend to behaviours causing moral injury, incitement to violence or hatred, and non-neutral political, religious, or personal statements. This has caused considerable shock and concern among drivers, who were not consulted before the rule changes. Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have previously been fined for swearing, and Christian Mansell voiced his opposition to the new regulations. The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association criticized the lack of consultation and transparency. Verstappen suggested these rules could influence his decision to continue in F1, emphasizing the importance of being oneself and avoiding trivial issues. The FIA justifies the rules by comparing them to those of other sports governing bodies to ensure transparency and consistency.

Formula E Introduces ‘PIT BOOST’ for Rapid Charging

New feature allows strategic in-race rapid battery charging.

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to revolutionize race-day strategy with the introduction of ‘PIT BOOST’. This innovation allows drivers to make a mandatory pit stop to rapidly recharge their cars during the race. The ‘PIT BOOST’ stop will enable a 30-second recharge, providing a tactical element to races. This feature is expected to debut in the upcoming race in Jeddah on February 14 and 15. The implementation of ‘PIT BOOST’ is anticipated to enhance the excitement of races, offering teams new strategic options. Alberto Longo, the championship’s director, believes this advancement will promote more overtaking and unexpected turns, marking a significant step forward for electric vehicles in motorsport.

Daytona 24 Hours: Qualifying Highlights

Teams prepare for the iconic endurance race.

The Daytona 24 Hours, officially known as the Rolex 24 at Daytona, is set to commence this weekend. Qualifying sessions have concluded, setting the stage for the grueling endurance race. Teams across various classes have secured their positions on the starting grid. The event marks the beginning of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season.

Fans eagerly anticipate intense competition as drivers and teams showcase their endurance racing prowess.

Click HERE for Full Qualifying Results

KTM Faces Financial Challenges Amid Market Pressures

Motorcycle manufacturer confronts economic difficulties.

KTM, the renowned motorcycle manufacturer, is currently grappling with financial challenges due to various market pressures. The company has reported a decline in sales in key markets, impacting its revenue streams. Factors contributing to these difficulties include increased competition and economic downturns in certain regions. KTM is exploring strategies to mitigate these issues, including cost-cutting measures and potential restructuring. The company remains committed to its motorsport endeavors and is seeking ways to maintain its competitive edge despite the financial hurdles. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as KTM navigates this challenging period.

Motorsport.com currently has the most up-to-date court room drama update. Click HERE for more.

IMAGES: F1 + Formula E + KTM + IMSA

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January 24, 2025
Motorsport Monday: F1 & Formula E Highlights & Results
F1 Closes 2024 – While FE Opens New Season

Norris Shines in Abu Dhabi as McLaren Clinches Constructors’ Title

In a thrilling finale to the 2024 Formula 1 season, Lando Norris secured victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking his fourth win of the season and cementing McLaren’s long-awaited Constructors’ Championship after a 26-year drought. The Yas Marina Circuit saw fierce competition, with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc claiming second and third, respectively, highlighting a resurgence for the Scuderia. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen, the 2024 World Drivers’ Champion, rounded off his season with a dismal 6th place finish.

Key Highlights:
- Lando Norris: Commanded the race from the start, managing tire degradation and securing the win with a flawless drive.
- Carlos Sainz: Finished 2nd in his last appearance for Ferrari.
- Charles Leclerc: Recovered from 19th on the grid to claim a podium finish, earning Driver of the Day honours.
- Lewis Hamilton: Earned a hard-fought 4th in his last appearance with Mercedes F1
- Sergio Perez: Crashing out yet again. Perez is likely to lose his Red Bull seat this week
- McLaren Triumphs: Clinched the Constructors’ title, breaking a two decades+ long dry spell.
Click HERE for Full Results

Photo Credit: F1

Formula E Enters the Chat with Exciting Opening Weekend

The 2024/2025 Formula E season roared to life at São Paulo’s Anhembi Sambadrome Circuit with a chaotic and electrifying race, setting a new benchmark for the series. Mitch Evans of Jaguar Racing emerged victorious in a dramatic opener featuring five race leaders, 111 overtakes, and the unveiling of the much-anticipated GEN3 Evo race car. The event’s intensity peaked with a heart-stopping crash that left reigning Drivers’ Champion Pascal Wehrlein’s Porsche flipped and lodged in the barriers, though thankfully, Wehrlein walked away uninjured. Safety Cars and two Red Flags defined the race’s unpredictable rhythm, creating opportunities for extraordinary comebacks.

Evans began the race in a distant 22nd position but carved his way to the front with deft use of the newly introduced ATTACK MODE. This upgrade, which incorporates four-wheel drive alongside the standard 50kW boost, added a compelling layer of strategy and proved instrumental in reshaping the leaderboard. Long-time leader Oliver Rowland, driving for Nissan, saw his promising run end in disappointment after a drive-through penalty. Despite this, the early phases saw Rowland take the lead from Wehrlein, setting the tone for a battle-filled day.

Evans’ teammate Nick Cassidy showcased similar tenacity, charging from 10th to finish in the top spots. McLaren’s young talent Taylor Barnard grabbed headlines, notching a historic third-place finish at just 20 years and 189 days old, becoming Formula E’s youngest-ever podium finisher. Meanwhile, Antonio Felix da Costa narrowly missed the win, finishing mere tenths behind Evans after the final restart. The standings leave Evans atop the Drivers’ Championship with NEOM McLaren leading the Teams’ standings as the series shifts to Mexico City for Round 2 on January 11.

Key Highlights:
- Mitch Evans Wins: Charged from 22nd to claim victory in a race of resilience and strategy.
- GEN3 Evo Impact: Enhanced overtaking and tactical nuances reshaped competition.
- Pascal Wehrlein’s Crash: Dramatic Red Flag incident left Wehrlein unscathed but out of the race.
- Youngest Podium Finisher: Taylor Barnard, at 20, rewrote Formula E history.
- Rowland’s Disappointment: A penalty ended a strong showing for Nissan’s star driver.
Click HERE for Full Results

Photo Credit: FIA Formula E

IMAGES: F1 & FE

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December 9, 2024
Toyota Returns to Formula 1 After 14-Year Hiatus

What Does The Partner Mean For Haas F1, Ferrari & More

Toyota is making a dramatic return to Formula 1 for the first time since 2009, stepping back into the sport through a technical collaboration with the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team. This multi-year partnership, effective immediately, unites Haas with Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), Toyota’s prestigious motorsport and R&D division.

Toyota’s previous tenure in Formula 1 spanned eight seasons, during which the automaker achieved 13 podium finishes and earned a best result of fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship. Although Toyota had exited the sport as a works team, this strategic partnership allows the manufacturer to re-enter the F1 arena by contributing technical and manufacturing expertise, while Haas benefits from a deeper well of resources as it aims to enhance its competitive edge.

The agreement doesn’t alter Haas’ existing collaboration with Ferrari, which began when Haas first joined the sport in 2016. Instead, Toyota’s involvement will supplement Ferrari’s support, allowing Haas to draw on the strengths of two industry powerhouses.

“This partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing is a pivotal moment for our team,” said Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu. “Working with a world leader in automotive technology presents an incredible opportunity to leverage their manufacturing capabilities and accelerate our development.”

Photo Credit: Haas F1, Toyota, F1

Through this collaboration, TGR will offer Haas design and technical support, while Haas provides Toyota with critical commercial exposure in Formula 1. The symbiotic relationship is aimed at boosting Haas’ standing in the highly competitive world of F1 while offering Toyota a platform to hone its engineering prowess.

For Toyota, the decision to return to F1 is part of a broader strategy to advance its technological capabilities. President of Gazoo Racing Company, Tomoya Takahashi, emphasized the dual benefits of the deal: “By collaborating with Haas, we aim to develop not only drivers and engineers but also to strengthen both organizations’ performance at the pinnacle of motorsports.”

The partnership, which was unveiled at the iconic Fuji International Speedway, will see TGR’s branding prominently displayed on Haas’ VF-24 cars starting at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. As Haas currently sits seventh in the Constructors’ Championship, the deal injects fresh momentum into the team’s pursuit of better results.

Both Haas and Toyota are hopeful that their combined efforts will lead to greater success on the track and beyond, signaling a new chapter in Toyota’s storied F1 journey.

IMAGES: Toyota & F1

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October 11, 2024