George Russell has proposed a 'magical' solution for F1's tyre and strategy concerns, suggesting tyres with predictable 'cliff-like' degradation at specific lap counts. This comes as the F1 Commission debates mandatory two-stop races for 2026, a decision now postponed to 2027 at the earliest. Russell emphasizes that any mandate must be coupled with softer, degrading tyres to truly enhance overtakes and race excitement, acknowledging Pirelli's challenges in developing such versatile compounds.
Jacques Villeneuve commented on Ferrari chairman John Elkann's 'shocking' criticism of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, calling it 'the Ferrari way.' Villeneuve noted the historical pattern of Ferrari prioritizing the team over drivers and the emotional nature of such outbursts, especially following a double retirement. He cautioned that such public remarks, while typical of Ferrari's tumultuous past, could undermine team unity and driver morale in today's intense media environment.
The 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix schedule is set for November 21-23, promising a spectacular night race on the Strip. While McLaren's Lando Norris anticipates a tough weekend, Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli is confident following his strong performance in Brazil. Key drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, are eyeing redemption, making this crucial late-season race a high-stakes event with significant implications for the championship.
Fernando Alonso expresses strong doubts about the effectiveness of Formula 1's 2026 regulations in facilitating overtaking. He believes the new 'power-boost' modes replacing DRS might require excessive 'energy' expenditure, potentially hindering rather than helping passes. Alonso also highlights that tyre degradation and multi-stop races could be more impactful for improving on-track action than the aerodynamic changes.
Red Bull's decision to fit a new Honda engine on Max Verstappen's car in Brazil, contributing to his podium finish, has drawn scrutiny from McLaren. McLaren has questioned whether this performance-enhancing engine change will count against Red Bull's cost cap allowance, bringing the matter to the F1 Commission meeting for clarification on how such upgrades are financially accounted for under the current regulations.
The F1 Commission debated a proposal to mandate two pitstops for the 2026 season, aiming to increase strategic variation, but no agreement was reached due to divided opinions among teams and experts. Simultaneously, new rules were introduced to ensure a minimum of 55% livery coverage on cars to enhance visual differentiation and brand visibility on track. Discussions on pitstop strategies will continue, while teams prepare to comply with the new livery regulations.
Sebastian Vettel has issued a warning to Red Bull regarding potential long-term consequences following Christian Horner's departure, despite the team's recent uptick in performance. Horner, a pivotal figure since Red Bull's inception, was dismissed early this season. While new team principal Laurent Mekies has seen improved results, Vettel suggests Horner's deep knowledge and central role might lead to unforeseen future challenges for the team.
Lewis Hamilton made history at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, securing his record-equaling seventh Formula 1 World Championship. Despite starting sixth in challenging wet, low-grip conditions, Hamilton delivered a masterclass drive, making a critical strategic tire decision to clinch his tenth win of the season and match Michael Schumacher's legendary tally. The victory cemented his legacy as one of F1's greatest.
Former F1 team principal Guenther Steiner controversially suggested that Oscar Piastri should consider leaving McLaren if he doesn't win the championship this year. Despite extending his contract, Piastri is 24 points behind teammate Lando Norris with three races left. Steiner believes a team change could benefit the young Australian if he fails to improve his performance, while also acknowledging Max Verstappen's continued championship threat despite a points deficit.
Lando Norris expresses significant concern over McLaren's potential struggles at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, citing last year's poor performance due to tire graining and the anticipated cold conditions. Despite leading the drivers' championship, Norris isn't confident in McLaren's ability to perform well, emphasizing his honest assessment rather than false optimism. This race is crucial for both his title bid and McLaren's constructors' championship hopes.
Comedian Jack Whitehall, host of the F1 75 event, revealed his script was "heavily policed," with jokes about F1 figures like Bernie Ecclestone cut and a George Russell joke only allowed after the driver's direct permission. His comments highlight the stringent image control by F1 organizers, balancing entertainment with maintaining a specific public image for major events.
Ferrari remains the most valuable F1 team at $6.4 billion, according to Sportico, despite recent performance challenges. Mercedes follows closely at $5.88 billion, while McLaren is third. The report highlights the strong financial health and increasing valuations across all F1 teams, with even Haas valued at $1.68 billion, reflecting the sport's growing global appeal and investment potential.
