Jordan's Track Talk

Category: Formula One

  • F1 announces venues for six sprints

    Formula 1 has revealed the venues that will be playing host to the six F1 Sprint weekends during the 2023 campaign, with the number of events doubling for the three staged in 2021 and 2022.

    F1 Sprint sees the standard one- hour qualifying session shifted to Friday, setting the grid for a 100-kilometre dash on Saturday, which in turn sorts the starting order for Sunday’s main event.

    Next year the Sprints will be held in:

    • Azerbaijan (Baku City Circuit)
    • Austria (Red Bull Ring)
    • Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
    • Qatar (Lusail Circuit)
    • United States (Circuit of The Americas)
    • Sao Paulo (Interlagos).

    Interlagos continues as a sprint venue after playing host in 2021 and 2022, whilst the Red Bull Ring also featured the revised format last season. Silverstone, Monza and Imola are the other venues to have hosted Sprints in the past.

    The 2023 selection came following research into the most suitable tracks for the format, including overtaking opportunities, close racing and high-speed sections and is designed to ensure competitive on track action across all three days of the selected Grand Prix weekends.

    F1’s financial regulations have also been tweaked, as the sports governing body the FIA announced the teams; cost cap allowance for each sprint will double from next year onwards from $150,000 to $300,000 – though there will no longer be any further allowance for accident damage sustained in the Sprint events.

    We have seen a hugely positive reaction to the F1 Sprint events during the first two years of its running, and we can’t wait to bring even more action to fans with six events next year, including our first US F1 Sprint in Austin. The introduction of the F1 Sprint has created a race weekend that includes three days of competitive racing action and brings more entertainment to fans of the sport as well as additional value for key stakeholders including teams, broadcasters, partners, and host venues.

    Formula 1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali.

  • McLaren announce Palou as a reserve

    McLaren have announced that IndyCar champion, Alex Palou will serve as one of their Formula 1 reserve drivers for the 2023 season.

    The team said Palou will provide support for the F1 outfit alongside his driving duties in IndyCar, and be available as a reserve driver for all Grand Prix events that do not conflict his IndyCar commitment, should either Lando Norris or new recruit Oscar Piastri be unavailable to drive.

    The 25 year old Spaniard previously took part in a free practice session at the 2022 United States Grand Prix with McLaren, as well as piloting the MCL35M in Barcelona and Spielberg as part of the team’s driver development testing programme.

    Palou has four wins and 15 podiums in IndyCar and became the first Spanish driver to win the Championship when he claimed the 2021 title.

    I’m excited to be part of the McLaren team as one of their reserve drivers in 2023. I’ve been behind the wheel of both the MCL35M and MCL36 and it has been a great experience, so I can’t wait for the involvement with next year’s car. I look forward to continuing my development as a driver and I appreciate the trust McLaren have in me with this new role next year.

    Palou on his new role.

    The team are pleased to have Alex on board as one of our reserve drivers for next season. He impressed with his FP1 session in Austin and his driver development tests this year. He has many notable motorsports achievements so far, particularly the 2021 IndyCar championship title so it’s brilliant to be able to expand his role in the team and we look forward to working more closely with him.

    Andreas Seidl, Team Principal.
    https://www.instagram.com/p/CloL3ExIT_M/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

  • Chinese GP Cancelled

    Formula 1 has confirmed that following dialogue with the promoter and relevant authorities, the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not be taking place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation.

    The race was due to return in April for the first time since 2019, but for another year it will be cancelled. The Grand Prix was scheduled to be the fourth race of the 2023 season on 16th April.

    Protests have been held in China in recent days over its ‘zero Covid’ policies, which include regular lockdowns and isolation imposed on infected people and contacts. F1 has since said that it would not be able to operate normally in China and cannot justify risks to staff involved in travelling.

    The Portimao circuit in Portugal, which hosted grand prix in 2020 and 2021 when F1 shuffled its schedule as a result of the pandemic, and its currently one of the tracks under consideration to take Chinas spot.

    Istanbul Park in Turkey is another track which returned in the pandemic and is also likely to be in contention.

    Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this in due course.

    Formula 1 added.

  • Binotto resigns

    Ferrari have announced that Mattia Binotto is to leave his position as Ferrari Team Principal at the end of the year, putting an end to weeks of speculation.

    Binotto, who originally joined the team as an engine engineer back in 1995 took his current role – encompassing the Gestione Sportiva department – ahead of the 2019 campaign.

    After challenging 2020 and 2021 seasons, Ferrari exploited the arrival of F1’s new regulations to emerge as a front running force claiming a one-two result with drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz at the 2022 opener in Bahrain.

    However, after some more early season success, Leclerc and Ferrari’s title challenges were derailed through a combination of unreliability, strategy mix ups as well as drivers mistakes – and with rival, Red Bull’s relentlessness.

    Initial reports of a structural change in the Italian media were denied by Ferrari, but further speculation emerged in the wake of the Abu Dhabi season finale and the Scuderia released a statement on Tuesday morning to confirm that Binotto had resigned.

    With the regret that this entails, I have decided to conclude my collaboration with Ferrari. I am leaving a company that I love, which I have been part of for 28 years, with the serenity that comes from the conviction that I have made every effort to achieve the objectives set. I leave a united and growing team. A strong team, ready, I’m sure, to achieve the highest goals, to which I wish all the best for the future. I think it is right to take this step at this time as hard as this decision has been for me. I would like to thank all the people at the Gestione Sportiva who have shared this journey with me, made up of difficulties but also of great satisfaction.

    Binotto on the news.

    I would like to thank Mattia for his many great contributions over 28 years with Ferrari and particularly for leading the team back to a position of competitiveness during this past year. As a result, we are in a strong position to renew our challenge, above all for our amazing fans around the world, to win the ultimate prize in motorsport. Everyone here at the Scuderia and in the wider Ferrari community wishes Mattia well for the future.

    Ferrari CEO, Benedetto Vigna.

  • Ricciardo returns ‘home’

    Red Bull have confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo will be returning to the squad where he won seven Grand Prix as a third driver for 2023.

    At the end of this season, Ricciardo departed McLaren to make way for compatriot Oscar Piastri, who races alongside Lando Norris in 2023. The eight-time Grand Prix winner – who took a win for McLaren at Monza in 2021 will return to Red Bull to assist with testing, simulator work and commercial activity.

    The 33 year old, hinted strongly at a return to Red Bull in a reserve capacity after leaving McLaren without another full-time role set up.

    The Australian made his debut for HRT in 2011, but joined the Red Bull feeder squad Toro Rosso the following year, before being called up Red Bull in 2014, there he partnered Sebastian Vettel, Daniil Kyvat and Max Verstappen.

    The smile says it all. I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023. I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from Christian [Horner], Dr [Helmut] Marko and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of. For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus. I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!

    Daniel Ricciardo on his move.

    It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character; I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home. In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1. We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the team in 2023.

    Team Principal, Christian Horner.

  • Williams confirm Sargeant

    Williams have confirmed that American driver, Logan Sargeant will be stepping into a full-time race seat alongside Alex Albon for 2023, following the conclusion of the 2022 Formula 2 season.

    Sargeant headed into the Abu Dhabi F2 season finale, needing to score 10 super licence points in order to meet the required threshold to compete in Formula 1 – with Sargeant easily surpassing that figure by securing P4 in the final drivers’ standings.

    Therefore he met the criteria set out by Williams Team Principal, Jost Capito earlier in the year, with Williams duly handing the race seat to Sargeant, having announced in September that they would be parting company with Nicholas Latifi after three seasons.

    Sargeant will become the first driver to fly the flag for the United States of American on the F1 grid since Alexander Rossi in 2015.

    We’re delighted to officially announce Logan as our driver for next year after qualifying for a Super Licence following the final F2 event of the season in Abu Dhabi. Logan completes our exciting driver line-up for 2023 alongside Alex. Since joining our Driver Academy at the end of 2021, Logan has been able to fully integrate with the team at Grove while on the simulator and more recently at track during the four free practice sessions he’s participated in. He’s had a strong rookie season in Formula 2, and we are excited to watch him make the step up in Formula 1. We are here to support that journey with him.

    Jost Capito on his 2023 line-up.

    It’s a huge honour and a dream come true to be given this opportunity to compete in Formula 1 with Williams Racing. A massive thank you to every person at Williams Racing and Dorilton Motor Sports for the support they’ve given me since the day I first joined the team at the 2021 United States Grand Prix. Being a part of the Williams Driver Academy for the past year has given me an important platform to develop as a driver and prepare me for this next chapter. I’m ready and excited to be a part of this journey as the team looks to progress up the grid

    Logan Sargeant on his 2023 seat.

    To be able to give Logan the opportunity to compete in Formula 1 for Williams Racing next year after being an integral part of our Driver Academy is a proud moment for the team. Seeing a driver from the Academy getting in our F1 seat is a motivation for all the other Academy drivers and demonstrates legitimacy of the programme and the platform it provides. We are not only preparing him on track, but will be working hard over the winter off track to ensure he’s in the best possible position to start 2023.

    Sven Smeets, Sporting Director of Williams

  • F1 announces F1 Academy

    Starting in 2023, Formula 1 will be launching an all-female driver category, the F1 Academy to develop and prepare young female drivers to progress to higher levels of competition – including W Series, Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3.

    The series will consist of five teams run by current F2 and F3 teams, each entering three cars to make up a 15 car grid. The first season will comprise of seven events with three races – amounting to a total of 21 races – plus 15 days of official testing, with the 2023 calendar set to be released in due course.

    The drivers will be getting behind the wheel f Tatuus T421 chassis, with Autotecnica supplying turbocharged engines that will deliver 165 horsepower while Formula 1’s Global Partner Pirelli will provide the tyres.

    The series – which will be managed by the CEO of Formula Motorsport Bruno Michel – will see Formula 1 subsidise the cost of each car with a budget of €150,000 whilst the drivers cover the same amount of costs – a fraction of the usual costs in comparable series – with the teams covering the rest of the budget.

    The aim of the series is to maximise the opportunity and potential of young female drivers to reach the highest level in motorsport and to provide young talent currently in go-karting or other junior categories with access to the fundamental level of experience needed before going racing in F3 and joining the pyramid to Formula 1.

    Formula 1’s intentions are to ensure aspiring female drivers have the best opportunities to reach their potential, with an important first step of getting into Formula 3 and progressing through the ranks.

    The W Series continues to provide a great platform for drivers and the F1 Academy is intended to add an extra route for the next generation of young female drivers, who will race in an environment that will allow them to gain fundamental experience thanks to a great amount of track time.

    Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams and achieve their potential and Formula 1 wants to ensure we are doing everything we can to create greater diversity and routes into this incredible sport. That is why I am delighted to announce the F1 Academy that will give young female drivers the best chance to fulfil their ambitions through a comprehensive programme that supports their racing careers and gives them everything they need to move into F3 and hopefully to F2 and then the pinnacle of Formula 1. The more opportunity there is the better and this is designed to provide another route for the drivers to succeed.

    Formula 1 President & CEO, Stefano Domenicali.

    I am very excited to launch this new category. Diversity is extremely important in motorsport, and with the F1 Academy we will prove that female drivers have what it takes to compete at high levels. I am absolutely convinced that if young women are given the same amount of experience as any other driver, they can successfully make their way through the pyramid. Our goal is to see female drivers on the F3 grid in the next two to three years, and for them to quickly challenge for points and podiums. The aim is to increase the field in the near future, because we hope that this category will inspire more young girls to compete in motorsport at the highest of levels.

    Bruno Michel, Manager of the F1 Academy.

  • Round 22- Abu Dhabi GP

    What a season, but more importantly the final race weekend of the 2022 season is complete which means it was Sebastian Vettel’s last race as well.

    The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the race where it decides the runner-up this season, as well as the closeness in the Constructors too.

    But it was Max Verstappen who wins the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix making it 15 wins in a season for the Dutchman, Charles Leclerc comes home to make it 2nd, and also second in the drivers championship too. Sergio Perez rounds out the podium, after falling short not being able to overtake the Monegasque driver.

    The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Leclerc, P3: Perez, P4: Sainz, P5: Russell, P6: Norris, P7: Ocon, P8: Stroll, P9: Ricciardo and P10: Vettel.

    First and foremost it was wonderful to see Seb get points in his last race, as well as Daniel too. Two out of four drivers leaving the sport this weekend, but managing to hold on and get points is probably more than what they could wish for!

    Not the best race for Mercedes, they had their first mechanical retirement of the season, as Lewis had to pit due to loosing power because of an hydraulic issue. Their fight for P2 in the constructors was then over.

    A good finish for Ferrari, after an up and down season I think they will be pretty pleased with 2nd in the drivers and constructors, there is definitely some things they need to work on if they want to be in the title fight again, but its all apart of learning.

    The Championship-

    Firstly looking at the Drivers championship, Leclerc finishes his highest in the championship, as well George Russell in his first year as a Mercedes driver. But one person I have to mention, Mr Lando Norris (Mr P7…) being best of the rest and beating out both Alpines.

    Now taking a look at the Constructors, Alpine beat McLaren to that all important P4. Alfa Romeo manage to stay ahead of Aston Martin due to Valtteri Bottas’s 5th place in Imola. Haas finish 8th ahead of Alpha Tauri and Williams in P10.

    Now, we have 105 days until the next race at the beginning of March and we obviously have testing aswell! It’s been a mad season, keep your eyes peeled for the latest news and some articles coming out soon on the 2022 season!

  • Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

    The final race weekend is here, and its set to be an emotional one as it will be 4 time World Champion’s Sebastian Vettel’s last race as well as saying goodbye to Daniel Ricciardo, Nicholas Latifi and Mick Schumacher…

    But, there is still so much up for grabs! The fight for P2 in the Driver standings is still available, as well as the teams getting as many points as possible to see if they can move any further up!

    Who needs a good weekend?

    McLaren will be hoping for a good weekend as last weekend saw them have a double DNF, not only this they are in the fight with Alpine for fourth in the constructors and will be hoping for a double points finish, which would be a great way to send of the Honey Badger.

    Perez will be hoping for a good weekend as Red Bull seeks 1-2 in the Constructors and will be hoping that his teammate will be helping him this time round…

    The battle for 6th in the Constructors is heating up as Alfa Romeo sits in 6th on 55 points and Aston Martin in 7th on 50 points, and with Aston Martin having scored quite a few points recently so Alfa Romeo will be hoping to score big.

    Predictions-

    My top five predictions for qualifying are: P1: Hamilton, P2: Verstappen, P3: Perez, P4: Russell and P5: Leclerc.

    I think we will see all top 3 teams in the top 10, maybe a bit mixed up. As well as Lando, Fernando and Ocon mixed up in the top 10 and possibly a Haas or an Aston Martin joining them in the top 10.

    Times for the weekend-

    Friday 18th-

    • F2 Qualifying: 11:30am – 12:00pm (GMT)
    • Free Practice 2 F1: 13:00pm – 14:00pm

    Saturday 19th-

    • Free Practice 3 F1: 10:30am – 11:30am (GMT)
    • Sprint Race F2: 12:20pm – 13:05pm
    • Qualifying F1: 14:00pm – 15:00pm

    Sunday 20th-

    • Feature Race: 09:00am (GMT)
    • F1 Race: 13:00pm

  • McLaren special livery

    McLaren will be saying farewell to their MCL36 car with a special one-off livery for this weekend’s 2022 season finale, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

    Having run a special paint scheme in Singapore and Japan, McLaren have taken a different route for the season-ending race at Yas Marina, the team having collaborated with Lebanese artist Anna Tangles for the Abu Dhabi livery.

    Produced for the Driven by Change programme which was an initiative launched last year to give underrepresented creatives the platform to showcase their work to a global audience through motorsport.

    Last season, the team collaborated with Emirati artist Rabab Tantawy for their one-off Abu Dhabi look.

    As a lifelong F1 fan, I never believed that I would one day have my artwork showcased at a Grand Prix – and it’s all thanks to Driven by Change. I dedicate my spare time to training and encouraging other artists, particularly other Middle Eastern female creatives, to embrace their passion and skills, and so it’s a privilege to be a part of a community that supports the same ambition of empowering underrepresented artists in this way

    Anna Tangles.

    We are delighted to represent an emerging artist’s design on our race cars once again, championing creativity together with Vuse. Anna Tangles produces stunning artwork and has a powerful story which perfectly embodies the spirit and values of the Driven by Change campaign. The initiative is building a legacy which we are excited to continue driving, using our global platform to amplify the talent of emerging creatives.

    Louise McEwen, executive director of brand and marketing at McLaren.
    https://www.instagram.com/p/ClB7uI8Lyqh/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

  • Schumacher out, Hulkenback!

    Mick Schumacher and Haas will be parting ways at the end of the season – with his hopes of finding a seat at another team for 2023 looking slim…

    The German driver joined Haas for 2021, to race alongside Nikita Mazepin, with Schumacher having won the F2 Championship the previous year.

    This year, alongside Kevin Magnussen, Schumacher scored his first points at Silverstone with eighth, following that up with sixth at the following race in Austria.

    However, he has failed to score since then, and has contributed less than a third of Haas’s total points tally – with the American squad eighth in the constructors championship. Schumacher has also had several crashes which have been quite costly. As a result, Haas have opted not to keep the German for a third season.

    I would like to thank Mick Schumacher for his contribution to the team over the past couple of years. Mick’s pedigree in the junior categories was well known and he has continued to grow and develop as a driver in his time with Haas F1 Team – culminating in his first Formula 1 points-scoring successes earlier this season. While choosing to go in separate directions for the future, the entire team wishes Mick well for the next steps in his career path and beyond.

    Haas team principal, Guenther Steiner.

    Nico Hulkenberg will be making a full-time racing return to Formula 1 with Haas in 2023, replacing Mick Schumacher.

    The German, 35, left F1 at the end of 2019 but subsequently made five substitute appearances for Racing Point and Aston Martin, most recently standing in for Sebastian Vettel for the first two races of the year.

    He has amassed 181 Grand Prix starts – driving for Williams, Force India, Sauber, Renault, Racing Point and Aston Martin – as well as playing the reserve role for Aston Martin for the last two seasons.

    Hulkenberg has scored 521 points with a career high finish of fourth plus one pole position which was achieved at the Brazilian Grand Prix in his rookie season in 2010 with Williams.

    I’m naturally very pleased to be welcoming Nico Hulkenberg back to a full-time racing role in Formula 1. The experience and knowledge base Nico brings to the team is clear to see – with nearly 200 career starts in Formula 1 – and a reputation as being a great qualifier and a solid, reliable racer. These are attributes, which when you pair them together with Kevin Magnussen’s experience, gives us a very credible and well-seasoned driver line-up which we believe will help push the team onwards up the grid. That’s obviously the goal and it was that ambition that has prompted Nico’s return to Formula 1 – he shares our vision and can be a key player, together with the rest of the team, in building on the foundations we’ve laid this year with our return to the points battle.

    Haas boss, Guenther Steiner.

    I’m very happy to move into a full-time race seat with Haas F1 Team in 2023. I feel like I never really left Formula 1. I’m excited to have the opportunity to do what I love the most again and want to thank Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for their trust. We have work ahead of us to be able to compete with all the other teams in the midfield, and I cannot wait to join that battle again.

    Nico Hulkenberg on his return.

  • Fittipaldi joins RB academy

    Red Bull have added Brazilian racing driver and currently Formula 2 driver, Enzo Fittipaldi grandson of two-time former World Champion, Emerson Fittipaldi, to their junior academy.

    It has been a strong season for the Brazilian driver who drives for Charouz, having achieved a trio of P2 finishes and the same number of P3’s.

    Fittipaldi stated it ad been his performance back in Hungary where he finished P3 in the sprint and then P2 in the feature race which caught Red Bull’s attention before then having a meeting Marko at the Belgian GP round.

    The 21 year old, currently sits in P6 in the standings, and is one of three drivers tied on 126 points. Logan Sargeant in P3 who is set to join Williams next season should he secure his super licence, is only nine points further up, so a lot can change.

    I think after my result in Budapest, where I got two podiums on the same weekend, we started [talking more seriously]. I’ve always had a bit of contact since last year with Dr Helmut Marko and then at Spa this year we had a meeting — so after Budapest — and we were talking and I’m very happy to announce I’m now part of the Red Bull family. The junior team is an amazing opportunity for me.

    Enzo Fittipaldi on joining the RB Academy.

    It’s difficult to say now. I still have to do a really good job in Abu Dhabi. I’m fighting for third in the championship in Formula 2, I have the race this week, so it’s really important I do a good job there, so the goal is to finish top three this year. Let’s just say Abu Dhabi is very important for me. It’s very important I do a good job there. We’ll see what comes after. For sure, being part of a [Formula 1] team for me has always been a dream, especially Red Bull — the championship-winning team, the best team in Formula 1. It’s a dream for me. So all I can do is thank Dr Helmut Marko, Red Bull, Christian Horner — it’s an unbelievable opportunity. Now is the time to work hard and keep pushing.

    Enzo on his future

  • Abu Dhabi Tyre Allocation

    The last race of the season is here and the tyres have been chosen for this weekend’s Grand Prix. Pirelli have nominated the three softest compounds in the range those being: C3 (Hard), C4 (Medium), C5 (Soft).

    The circuit characteristics aren’t particularly demanding for the tyres, as well as the asphalt not being as abrasive, which allows the use of the softer compounds. It’s important to consider the falling track temperature during the race as the chequered flag falls late into the evening.

    The Yas Marina circuit is made up of 16 corners as well as some fast sections, where aerodynamics are an important aspect to guarantee a strong performance.

    The teams used a number of different strategies at last years Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Verstappen won the race after being on a 3 stop, as he put the soft tyres on 5 laps from the end due to a safety car appearing.

    At Abu Dhabi, a truly thrilling season comes to an end. Last year’s modifications to some of the straights and corners on the Yas Marina track have made the circuit faster, balancing the longitudinal and lateral demands on the tyres – whereas previously it was more about traction and braking. Despite these changes to the layout, there is still going to be a lot of attention paid to the rear tyres in order to guarantee the best traction over long stints. On the Tuesday after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the 2023 slick tyres will be tried out during a full day of testing, where the teams will be able to decide their run plans as well as which drivers to use: race drivers or young drivers..

    Mario Isla, Motorsport Director.

    Formula 2-

    Abu Dhabi hosts the final round of this year’s Formula 2 season, two months after the penultimate round in Italy. Whilst the Driver’s title is claimed, the teams title is still up for grabs. The medium compound and soft compounds have been chosen for this weekend. The Sprint race will last 23 laps, whilst the feature race will last 33 laps.

  • Round 21 – Sao Paulo GP

    What. A. Race. Where do I even start? I hoped for a crazy race and we definitely got part of that mixed into the race.

    But, we now have a new F1 race winner… GEORGE RUSSELL wins the Sao Paulo GP and takes home Mercedes first win of the season as well as his! Not only this but… Lewis Hamilton makes it a 1-2 for the Silver Arrows! Carlos Sainz rounds out the podium in P3.

    The full top 10 are- P1: Russell, P2: Hamilton, P3: Sainz, P4: Leclerc, P5: Alonso, P6: Verstappen, P7: Perez, P8: Ocon, P9: Bottas and P10: Stroll.

    A great weekend for Mercedes, this is exactly what they needed, Hamilton did have a little battle which caused contact between himself and Verstappen but it wasn’t too much where his race was ruined.

    A decent race for the Ferrari team, Leclerc had a battle with Norris which saw the pair also make contact and it looked like Charles’ race was over but his spin into the wall wasn’t as bad as it looked. Norris was deemed at fault for the collision and got a 5 second time penalty.

    Carrying on with McLaren things went from bad to worse as Daniel Ricciardo was caught up in a first lap incident with Magnussen which saw both drivers retiring from the race. Later on in the race Lando then pulled over on the side of the track. A double DNF for McLaren which doesn’t help in their fight with Alpine.

    Now onto Red Bull, they haven’t been on the pace much this past weekend, Max has definitely struggled more than Perez. Now for Perez his battle for 2nd in the Championship is still alive so you would think Red Bull would do anything to help that… Well not according t Max Verstappen, towards the end of the race he was told to let Checo through if MV couldn’t pass Alonso. He couldn’t, but he didn’t let his teammate through which has compromised Perez quite a bit going into the last race now as the Mexican and the Monegasque go into Abu Dhabi level on points…

    A great race for Alpine, they definitely made up for Saturday’s Sprint with a double points finish on Sunday, one more race together as team-mates and then it will be a new driver pairing for both of the drivers, lets hope for no more teammate collisions between the pair of them.

    We haven’t got long to wait as we are back this weekend, for the final round in Abu Dhabi to see how the drivers will all finish in the standings!

  • Round 21- Sao Paulo Sprint

    Round 21- Sao Paulo Sprint

    WOW, we are being treated to such an amazing weekend so far! An amazing qualifying on Friday, and an exciting sprint yesterday what could this mean for the race??!

    But it was George Russell who won the Sprint after keeping it cool and collected once he passed Magnussen and Verstappen! Carlos Sainz finished 2nd and Lewis Hamilton makes it a 1-3 for the Silver Arrows.

    The full top 10 are- P1: Russell, P2: Sainz, P3: Hamilton, P4: Verstappen, P5: Perez, P6: Leclerc, P7: Norris, P8: Magnussen, P9: Vettel and P10: Gasly.

    What a sprint for the Merc boys! George was absolutely on fire, overtaking Magnussen first and then holding on to Verstappen and not letting him get away, it took the Brit 3 tries to get past the Dutchman but once he did he was off. Lewis made up good ground aswell, with Carlos having a 5 place grid drop it makes it an all Mercedes front row lockout for the first time this season!!

    Not the best of days for RB, they didn’t show much pace, it was definitely the wrong decision for Max to be on the Mediums, but Checo did a few good overtakes to get further up the grid. So they have a bit of work to do in the race if they want to win.

    The same goes for the Ferrari boys, especially with Carlos having his penalty. With the Mercedes at the front, the Italian team will be wanting to grab as many points as possible to minimise the gap Mercedes may close in on them.

    Even though, K-Mag dropped down 7 positions he still earned a point and has the opportunity to score more in the race today. As for his teammate who started P20 in the sprint will start the race in P12 after doing some overtakes to get further up the grid, so will be interesting to see how Mick will do today.

    Predictions-

    My top five are- P1: Hamilton, P2: Verstappen, P3: Russell, P4: Perez and P5: Charles.

    I feel like we will get a bit of a crazy race today, only two more races left so the gloves will be off and all teams and drivers will be fighting for those all important points… It will be nice to see Mercedes win today, as they haven’t done this season yet.

  • Round 21- Sao Paulo Qualifying

    What. A. Qualifying. It started off a wet qualifying but with the track soon drying out, drivers were at risk of a potential shock exit.

    But, for the first time ever!!! KEVIN MAGNUSSEN is on POLE for the São Paulo Sprint!! With Max Verstappen joining him on the front row, and George Russell rounding out the top 3.

    The full top 10 are- P1: Magnussen, P2: Verstappen, P3: Russell, P4: Norris, P5: Sainz, P6: Ocon, P7: Alonso, P8: Hamilton, P9: Perez and P10: Leclerc.

    A very mixed top 10 for the sprint later today! Carlos Sainz has a 5 place grid penalty which will be added on after the Sprint.

    What a result for Haas! I don’t think anyone expected it at all and that’s what makes it so great! K-Mag had to wait 141 races to grab that all important pole position.

    Not the best qualifying for the top 3 teams, they all have one driver in the top 5 and then another driver at the back end of the top 10. Having the sprint today, will bring these drivers further up the grid especially if it’s wet…

    Alpine have a strong start for this weekend both drivers P6 & P7, which is needed as there battle with McLaren is still ongoing .

    Predictions-

    My top five for the sprint are: P1: Verstappen, P2: Russell, P3: Norris, P4: Magnussen and P5: Perez.

    If it rains and we have a wet track then it would most definitely be interesting and I can’t wait to see how K-Mag will do athletes the front!

    Timings-

    Saturday 12th-

    • Free Practice 2: 15:30pm – 16:30pm (GMT)
    • Sprint: 19:30pm – 20:30pm

    Sunday 13th-

    • Race: 18:00pm (GMT)

  • Sao Paulo Tyre Allocation

    Pirelli will be bringing the three compounds in the middle of the range to the Brazilian Grand Prix this weekend those being: C2 (Hard), C3 (Medium), C4 (Soft). The previous two races had the same selection.

    Interlagos will be hosting the third and final F1 Sprint race of the season, after Imola and Spielberg. As a result, the Pirelli Pole Position Award will be given out on Friday after qualifying.

    The Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, runs anti-clockwise and contains 15 corners,which place medium lateral demands on the tyres.

    The Brazilian Grand Prix is known for plenty of overtaking and frequent appearances from the safety car. With the weather taking its part in it aswell, as it looms a big question mark over the weekend, could it be torrential rain as well as high temperatures and sunshine?

    The teams used various strategies in 2021 but the drivers on the podium all stopped twice. Hamilton who won, finished the race on the hard tyre ahead of Verstappen and Bottas on the same compound.

    Formula 1 heads to Interlagos next weekend: the shortest lap of the year after Monaco and Mexico. It’s a historic track run anti-clockwise, which alternates some quick sections as well as medium-speed sequences of corners, such as the famous ‘Senna esses’. There aren’t any big demands on the tyres in terms of traction and braking because it’s a very flowing layout, and the lack of slow corners means that the teams are able to control the degradation on the rear tyres. Brazil will host the “Sprint” also this year, the last of the season, and it will be particularly interesting with this car package to see what will happen on the track and, once again, the key role of the different strategies that can be used: in 2021 the grid on Saturday was equally split between drivers starting on the medium and the soft tyres. Despite the short length of the track, there’s normally plenty of overtaking. Just think of Lewis Hamilton who was the protagonist of a comeback that brought him to victory from 10th place, using a two-stop strategy. So the new generation of cars and tyres seems set to provide us with another thrilling race this year.

    Mario Isola, Motorsport director.

  • Vesti, Young Driver Test with Mercedes

    Mercedes junior driver, Frederik Vesti will be getting his first Formula 1 opportunity at the post-season Abu Dhabi test, with the team confirming that the Dane will be at the wheel of the W13 on the rookie day of the session.

    Vesti, signed to the Mercedes young driver programme prior to the 2021 season, going on to finish fourth in the FIA Formula 3 Championship and graduated to Formula 2 with ART Grand Prix for the 2022 season.

    He took his maiden victory in the series in the Baku Sprint Race earlier in the season and has scored a further four podium finishes so far this year. The 20 year-old currently sits eighth in the F2 drivers’ standings on 117 points ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi next week.

    The post-season test is set for November 22nd to 23rd following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

    A childhood dream coming true! On the 22. of November I will complete my first ever running in a Mercedes Formula 1 car at the Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi! It’s an incredible sign of trust from Mercedes which I like to thank them for! No words can describe the feeling of getting this opportunity. It’s something that will boost my career in the future and I can’t wait to be behind the wheel of W13! A lot of preparation is coming ahead of the test with seat fit, simulator and quite a few procedures to learn.

    Frederik Vesti took to social media.

  • Vandoorne joins AM as test & reserve driver

    Aston Martin has announced that reigning Formula E World Champion, Stoffel Vandoorne will be joining the team as test and reserve driver for the 2023 season.

    The Silverstone based team, revealed that he will be sharing duties with Formula 2 Champion, Felipe Drugovich who joined the team’s driver development programme back in September – with Aston Martin saying that Vandoorne will undertake an intensive simulation and development programme at the team’s Silverstone factory.

    Vandoorne is a former GP2 winner and has made 41 Grand Prix starts – all for McLaren from 2016 to 2018. The Belgian driver has also been the Mercedes reserve driver since 2019, whilst also racing in Formula E – where he won the championship earlier this year.

    Vandoorne will be conducting his role with Aston Martin alongside his commitments in Formula E where he will be racing for the DS Penske team for the 2022/23 season.

    It is incredibly exciting to be stepping into a reserve-driver role in Formula 1 – and I’m delighted to be doing it with Aston Martin. I’ve watched with great interest how the team has developed and expanded operationally, and I know how incredibly determined it is to make progress in every area. Joining Fernando [Alonso], who I already know from my Formula 1 racing career, and Lance [Stroll], to help them develop and improve next year’s car will be a terrific job, and I’m really looking forward to the challenge – and reward – of working together with the whole organisation at Silverstone.

    Vandoorne on his new role.

    Stoffel has all the capabilities we need for this new and expanded role within the team: he is fast, analytical, hard-working and a fantastic team player, and will fit perfectly into our growing organisation, working alongside our other test driver, Felipe Drugovich. The whole team is hugely motivated for next year, and the appointment of Stoffel, alongside Fernando, Lance and Felipe, gives extra depth to our fantastic driver line-up. This will be a significant role for Stoffel, and we will be reliant on him to work hard with both our track and simulation and engineering teams to improve our performance for 2023 and beyond.

    Mike Krack, Aston Martin Team Principal.

  • AM enter agreement with FIA over breach of ’21 Regs

    Aston Martin have entered an Accepted Breach Agreement (ABA) with the FIA following a procedural breach of the 2021 Financial Regulations.

    After the submission of financial documents by all 10 Formula One teams, the Cost Cap Administration carried out a review under the Financial Regulations, and Aston Martin were found to be in a procedural breach of the rules – even though their costs during the 2021 reporting period were under the cost cap.

    The Silverstone based team were found to have incorrectly excluded and/or adjusted costs pertaining to the building of their new headquarters, new F1 simulator, wind tunnel fees, R&D tax credit, a signing bonus cost, use of transferable components, used inventories, service desk costs, cost of catering services at their headquarters, costs of desks and chairs, sponsor services and outsourced personnel services.

    The team now must pay a financial penalty of $450,000 within 30 days of the date of execution of the ABA, plus bear the cost incurred by the Cost Cap Administration.

    The Cost Cap Administration recognised that AMR has acted cooperatively and in good faith throughout the review process and has sought to provide additional information and evidence when requested in a timely manner, that this is the first year of the full application of the Financial Regulations and that there is no accusation or evidence that AMR has sought or obtained any undue advantage as a result of the breach.

    FIA statement.

    Non-compliance by the team with any terms of the ABA will result in further procedural breach and automatic referral to the cost cap adjudication panel.

  • Round 20- Mexico GP

    Round 20 is now complete, and it’s definitely safe to say that it wasn’t the most exciting race this season however a special record got broken after 9 years!

    Max Verstappen wins the 2022 Mexico Grand Prix, making it 14 race wins in a season passing Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel! Lewis Hamilton comes home in 2nd and Sergio Perez rounds out the podium – the exact same podium as the 2021 Grand Prix.

    The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Hamilton, P3: Perez, P4: Russell, P5: Sainz, P6: Leclerc, P7: Ricciardo, P8: Ocon, P9: Norris and P10: Bottas.

    What a day for the World Champion, we all know Max isn’t really one for records but this one I think feels a bit different for the Dutchman as the last person who equalled the record (Sebastian Vettel) was with Red Bull when he accomplished this! Not only this Max Verstappen has scored the most points in a season with two races to go!

    A great day for the Silver Arrows, they’re getting closer and closer to that win but will it be too late with only two races left? With Hamilton finishing 2nd and Sainz finishing 5th, Hamilton now sits in-front of Sainz in the Driver standings.

    A good race for McLaren with both drivers scoring points, even though Daniel got a 10 second time penalty for his collision with Yuki Tsunoda, he drove his heart out and managed to build up a big enough gap between himself and Esteban and stay in the same place!

    On the other hand for Alpine, it wasn’t the best of days for them, Alonso DNF’ing to an engine problem during the race and Ocon not doing as much as expected… It definitely brings McLaren back into contention for the fight for fourth in the Constructors.

    Not much can be said about Ferrari, the whole weekend they were off the pace or having problems with the car, it may be because we were in Mexico and we were quite high up, hopefully we see them bounce back in Brazil and they will hope so too as Mercedes are now only 40 points behind them in the Constructors.

    We are back racing in just under two weeks for round 21, where the Sprint returns in Brazil which could shake a few things up for the drivers…

  • RB enter agreement with FIA over breach of ’21 Regulations

    Red Bull have entered an Accepted Breach Agreement (ABA) with the FIA following a breach of the 2021 Financial Regulations, F1’s governing body have said.

    For the first time in Formula One history, all 10 teams were required to submit their accounts of their annual spending against the Cost Cap for 2021 by the following March. On Friday in Mexico, the FIA announced that Red Bull was found to be in breach.

    The Cost Cap Administration recognised that Red Bull Racing has acted cooperatively throughout the review process and has sought to provide additional information and evidence when requested in a timely manner, that this is the first year of the full application of the Financial Regulations and that there is no accusation or evidence that RBR (Red Bull Racing) has sought at any time to act in bad faith, dishonestly or in fraudulent manner, nor has it wilfully concealed any information from the Cost Cap Administration. In these circumstances, the Cost Cap Administration offered to RBR an ABA to resolve this matter. That offer was accepted by RBR.

    The FIA.

    In the summary, it was revealed Red Bull exceeded the cost cap in 2021, of £118,036,00 by less than 5% by less than 5% ( £1,864.00 or 1.6%) which is a minor breach. The FIA said they acknowledge that had Red Bull applied “the correct treatment within its full year reporting documentation of their Notional Tax Credit within its 2021 submission of a value of £1,431,438” and therefore would have exceeded the cap by $432,652 or 0.37%.

    Regarding sanctions for breaching the cost cap, Red Bull must pay $7 million to the FIA within 30 days of the date of execution of the ABA.

    They also receive a minor sporting penalty in the form of 10% reduction in their allocated Restricted Wind Tunnel Testing and Restricted Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) limits. Based on Red Bull’s championship position, the coefficient used to calculate their allocation will drop from 70% to 63%.

    Non-compliance by Red Bull with any terms of the ABA will result in further procedural breach and automatic referral to the Cost Cap Adjudication Panel.

  • Round 20- Mexico Qualifying

    Qualifying is complete for the Mexico Grand Prix and it was a close call, as one team gets closer to the top team and another aren’t as close as previous weekends.

    It was Max Verstappen who took pole position, with George Russell lining up on the front row in P2, and Lewis Hamilton rounding out the top 3!!

    The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Russell, P3: Hamilton, P4: Perez, P5: Sainz, P6: Bottas, P7: Leclerc, P8: Norris, P9: Alonso and P10: Ocon.

    A great qualifying result for Mercedes – there best this season and they have a great shot at the win tomorrow. We all know what they say about starting 3rd here in Mexico, even 2nd might be worth it, but the most important thing is that long run down to turn 1.

    A great qualifying for Bottas, splitting the two Ferrari’s. He will be hoping for a good points finish, as he hasn’t scored since Canada!

    Only two drivers have penalties for tomorrow’s race those being Lance Stroll for causing a collision at the previous round and Magnussen 5 places for use of additional power unit elements.

    Predictions-

    My top five predictions for the race are – P1: Hamilton, P2: Verstappen, P3: Perez, P4: Russell and P5: Sainz.

    Going off the fact that for quite a few years now the person who takes pole position doesn’t win the race here… We saw last year Max starting P3 and he took the lead at Turn 1 so it could be a repeat again…

    Time for tomorrow-

    • Race – 20:00pm (GMT)

  • F1 to race in Mexico City until 2025

    The Mexico City Grand Prix at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will be remaining on the calendar until 2025, following an agreement between F1, the Government of Mexico City and the race promoters.

    Formula 1 returned to Mexico in 2015 and this season’s race is set to attract 350,000 fans over the three days. The first Grand Prix held under the contract extension is set to take place on October 27th to 29th, 2023.

    Between 2015 and 2021, the event generated over $2,443 million USD in economic activity and created 57,080. The 2021 event created 9,236 jobs alone and generated an economic benefit for the region on $768 million USD with a further $494 million USD in global media exposure.

    I am very pleased to announce that Formula 1 will continue to race in Mexico City for another three years under this new agreement. Every year the race attracts a large number of passionate fans, and the atmosphere is incredible, and I know everyone will be excited by this news. I want to thank Claudia Sheinbaum, the Head of Government for Mexico City, and Alejandro Soberon and his team for their ongoing commitment to Formula 1 and the continued success of the event.

    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    The Mexico City Grand Prix contract extension has been made possible thanks to the leadership of Claudia Sheinbaum and the Mexico City Government. The ability to host the race in the nation’s capital until 2025 is the result of a coordinated effort to preserve an event that brings benefits to the city and excitement to thousands of fans. We will keep working to ensure the race continues to be a strong contributor to our city’s economy.

    Corporacion Interamericana de Entretenimiento (CIE) President and CEO, Alejandro Soberon.

    Formula 1 is very important for the city, not only because of its considerable economic impact, but also because millions of people around the world watch it and it showcases the beauty and grandeur of Mexico City to the whole country and the entire world. Since we took over the government of Mexico City, we endeavoured to put in place a mechanism that would allow Formula 1 to be held with the participation of entrepreneurs who not only benefit from the event but are also keen to make it happen because they love the city, and they love Mexico.

    Head of Government of Mexico City, Claudia Sheinbaum.

  • Doohan FP1 sessions

    Formula 2 racer, Jack Doohan will be making his Formula 1 race weekend debut at the Mexico City Grand Prix when he drives for Alpine in the opening practice.

    Doohan, is part of Alpine’s Driver Academy, will tackle the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Esteban Ocon’s car. As well as this he will get a second outing in FP1 in the season-ending Abu Dhabi GP.

    Mexico will be the second time the 19 year old has sampled 2022-spec machinery, having completed the permitted 100km of running on demonstration tyres during the teams filming day at Monza last month.

    Doohan, son of five time 500cc motorcycle world champion Mick, has also tested last year’s Alpine this season through test days in Qatar in May, Monza in June and Budapest in September.

    The Australian, is currently fourth in his debut season in F2, having stepped up a class after finishing second in F3 in 2021. He has won three races this season, plus scored three further podiums and three pole positions and is in the hunt to claim third in the standings.

    Doohan is Alpine’s most high-profile junior driver following the departure of F2 champion Oscar Piastri who will be making his F1 race debut alongside Lando Norris at McLaren next year.

    I’m extremely grateful to Alpine for giving me this opportunity to drive in Free Practice in Mexico. It’s always a huge honour to be entrusted to drive a Formula 1 car, so to have the opportunity on a Grand Prix weekend is very special. Ultimately, the aim is to be doing this every week and this experience is another step closer to achieving that goal. I’ve prepared as best as I can, and I think it’s going to be very exciting to experience the car at this type of circuit with the high altitude and very high top speed. I’ll work hard on the day, do everything the team sets out and, at the same time, enjoy the moment as I know it’s going to be a unique opportunity.

    Jack Doohan on FP1 sessions.

    We are very pleased to announce Jack will join the team in Mexico and take over driving duties for Free Practice 1. We have all been impressed with Jack’s progression across many areas this season and he’s deserving of this chance as we continue to nurture his high potential. It’s important to give our young drivers opportunities to test Formula 1 cars and our Academy programme has proven to be successful in doing just that. We expect Jack to work hard during the session and take as much as he can from the experience of being involved in a Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend.

    Otmar Szafnauer, Team Principal.

  • Tyres for Mexico

    As was the case last weekend, the C2 (Hard), C3 (Medium), C4 (Soft), has been chosen for the Mexican Grand Prix weekend.

    Mexico is the highest event on the F1 Calendar, at more than 2200 metres above sea level. The thin air affects engines as well as aerodynamics, generating less downforce at lower speeds especially. With this year’s ground effect floors, its going to be interesting to note the impact on downforce compared to previous years.

    During the day in Mexico, there’s quite a lot of temperature variation, even in the space of a few hours, which affects thermal degradation an important parameter that the teams will need to monitor.

    The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez is the ‘contingency plan’ to replace the cancelled 2023 tyre test planned for the Japanese Grand Prix. The FP2 session in Mexico will run for 90 minutes to assess the softer slick compounds for next year, while in Austin the harder prototypes were run.

    If a team uses a young driver for FP1, t is allowed to run its own programme for the first part of FP2 before concentrating on the tyre test, for the remainder of the session.

    Over the course of a season, our tyres have to cope with a wide variety of conditions depending on the individual characteristics of each venue. If you look back at the last two races, Suzuka was all about lateral forces and Austin was well-balanced aerodynamically, but Mexico this weekend focuses on traction and braking. The Hermanos Rodriguez circuit does not offer a lot of grip and the energy demands on the tyres are reasonably low, as the cars do not generate much downforce in the thin air at high altitude, especially in slow corners. This year, the circuit might be more front-limited, as the current generation of car tends to understeer through slow corners – which Mexico has plenty of – and this can lead to some sliding on the front tyres. Due to the nature of the venue the circuit tends to feature a dusty surface with plenty of track evolution. Understanding this and getting the tyre warm-up exactly right is likely to be the key to success.”

    Mario Isla, Motorsport Director

  • Audi & Sauber to join forces in 2026

    Audi have reached an agreement with Sauber to make the Swiss Formula 1 operation their works team from 2026.

    The German manufacturer announced in August that they will be joining F1 as a power unite supplier, when new regulations that feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels will be introduced in four years time.

    Ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend, Audi said Sauber – who are currently running under the Alfa Romeo banner – will become their “strategic partner” for their F1 programme and that the automotive company plans to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group.

    Audi will create their power unit at their base in Neuburg in Germany where already more than 120 people are working on the project – while Sauber will develop and manufacture their race car at their headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland. Sauber will also be responsible for planning and executing the race operations.

    Ahead of Audi’s arrival, Alfa Romeo will end their title sponsorship of Sauber a the end of the 2023 campaign. The Swiss team will continue to use Ferrari power units through to the end of 2025, before taking on Audi power for the following campaign.

    Audi who are apart of the Volkswagen Group – say expansion of their Neuburg facility in terms of personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure should “be largely in place for 2023”. They intend to do their first tests of the 2026 power unit in an F1 test car in 2025.

    We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project. We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.

    Oliver Hoffmann, Audi AG Board Member.

    The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid. To become Audi’s official works team is not only an honour and a great responsibility: it’s the best option for the future and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in Formula 1.

    Sauber Motorsport CEO and Team Principal, Fred Vasseur.

    It is great news to hear that Audi will have a partnership with Sauber for their entry into Formula 1 in 2026. The combination of those two names is a very exciting prospect for our sport. It highlights the strong momentum that Formula 1 has and the belief in our strategy to further grow and enhance the sport while delivering on our sustainability plans to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 with advanced sustainable fuels in the cars in 2026. We look forward to seeing their progress over the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race.

    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1.

  • Sargeant to race for Williams if enough SL points

    Team Principal of Williams, Jost Capito has said that Logan Sargeant will be racing for the team, alongside Alex Albon in 2023 IF he manages to get the requisite Super Licence points in the final Formula 2 round later this season.

    Sargeant replaced Nicholas Latifi in the Williams FW44 during last Friday during free practice 1 at Austin, and in doing so became the first American driver to run in an F1 session since 2015.

    On Saturday, Capito announced that the American driver will step up to a full-time race seat with Williams if he gets his F1 super licence.

    The 21 year old currently sits in third in the 2022 Formula 2 standings, behind Theo Pourchaire and Champion Felipe Drugovich, Sargeant needs to finish fifth in the standings, or sixth provided he gains the two extra points for completing the season without receiving any penalty points, in order to acquire the 40 Super Licence points needed to make it to F1.

    Yeah, we feel he’s ready to race. under the condition that he has enough Super Licence points after Abu Dhabi, he will be our second driver next year. He’s had one season in F2, and I’m a fan of getting young drivers as quick through as possible into Formula 1 because the series below, the cars compare to Formula 1 cars… so get him in as quick as possible and find out if he’s capable of staying in Formula 1 for a long time, which we believe he is. And his first year in F2, and he won races, and he has been qualifying very strong all these years in his career – and we believe he’s absolutely ready to get into Formula 1. Yeah, I think we can have a rookie because with Alex we have a still young, but also very experienced driver. He is established so well in the team, fantastic results, he’s working well with the team – so we can put the rookie alongside him

    Jost Capito.

    FP1 Sessions-

    Logan will be borrowing Albon’s car in Mexico and Latifi’s in Abu Dhabi as well as getting a full day in the car at the Young Driver Test at Yas Marina Circuit.

    Williams also say he will be completing a number of private testing days and extensive simulator work adding to the development work he has already carried out as part of his Williams Academy role.

    I’d like to start by saying thank you again to Williams Racing and Dorilton Motor Sports for giving me the opportunity to drive on home turf yesterday (Friday) here at COTA. It was one of the most enjoyable moments of my career so far. I’m very grateful to be given further time in the FW44 at Mexico and Abu Dhabi. My aim is to make the most of every minute in the car and with the team to build on the progress I’ve made in Austin and throughout my time on the simulator at Grove. Of course, my focus is on finishing my Formula 2 season in Abu Dhabi in the best position possible, and I’m sure my time in the FW44 will keep me sharp and ready for the F2 finale.

    Logan Sargeant on the latest news.

    Logan showed a high level of understanding during his FP1 debut in Austin and provided useful feedback to help in the team’s preparations for the rest of the weekend. We are providing Logan further opportunities in Mexico and Abu Dhabi to integrate himself with the team trackside in both free practice sessions and the Young Driver Test as we work hard to support Logan in his efforts towards earning the FIA Super Licence. It’s great that as a team we can provide invaluable time for Logan to get behind the wheel of the FW44 to continue his development as a Williams Academy Driver and harness his talents. We’re looking forward to seeing how Logan progresses this season and finishes out his last race of the season in Formula 2.

    Williams Sporting Director, Sven Smeets.

  • Moneygram Haas F1 Team

    American Formula 1 team Haas have signed a deal with MoneyGram which will see the digital payment firm become the title sponsor from next season and beyond.

    Haas have been on the look out for a new lead partner after terminating their contract with Russian company Uralkali and Russian driver Nikita Mazepin ahead of this season.

    After months of talks, Haas announced a multi-year agreement at the Circuit of The Americas ahead of the United States Grand Prix last week – that includes team naming rights. The livery will also be revised to incorporate the new partner and unveiled ahead of the 2023 season.

    We are pleased to welcome an incredible brand like MoneyGram as our new title sponsor. Since our entrance into the F1 World Championship in 2016, Haas F1 Team has earned a reputation of strength, agility and resilience. MoneyGram brings a similar drive to the world of financial services, and we’re ready to work together to maximize results on and off the track.

    Owner, Gene Haas.

    MoneyGram is a global leader in fintech and payments and is always setting out to push the boundaries of technology. It’s that eagerness for innovation that really drew us to partner with MoneyGram, and we’re confident that we will continue to grow together and reach our full potential.

    Team Principal, Guenther Steiner.

  • Singapore track changes

    Singapore’s Formula 1 track layout is being changed temporarily for 2023 to help accommodate the construction of a new events venue.

    Work on redevelopment of the float area at Marina Bay into a new entertainments and stage area means the previous section of the circuit from Turns 16 to 19 cannot be used next season. This section of the circuit is most famously known as the scene of Nelson Piquet Jr’s deliberate crash in 2008 that helped teammate Fernando Alonso win that years grand prix.

    Work on what is to be ‘NS Square’ will begin in March next year and it means for next year’s Singapore GP, the track will be missing the entire section. Instead, the circuit will now feature a flat-out section from the right hander at Turn 14, which will incorporate a new 379.3 metre long straight from Turn 15 to the new tight Turn 16.

    Early simulations of the changes to the track estimate that the lap time will drop dramatically down to 1m 27.7 seconds. This year’s Singapore GP, Charles Leclerc took pole position with a lap time of 1m 49.412s.

    As the result of the revisions, which will reduce the track length to 4.928 kilometres, the number of laps will be increased to 63 from its current 61.

    Whilst the changes have been sorted with local architects and approved in principle by F1, they are still subject for formal approval from the FIA’s world motorsport council. It is anticipated that the track will revert back to its traditional layout for 2024 once the new NS Square is complete.