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Ferrari’s last chance to win the F1 World Championship: one key condition at the Las Vegas GP

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After a tough weekend in Brazil and two masterclasses in the prior Grand Prix races, Ferrari is looking to regain momentum at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

With a 36-point gap to close against McLaren in the fight for first place in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship, the Scuderia Ferrari is relying on their exceptional driver duo to score big on a track that could suit them well.

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Brazilian GP: a weekend to forget for Ferrari

The heavy rain at Interlagos wasn’t kind to Scuderia Ferrari. Charles Leclerc, after a brilliant win in Austin and Carlos Sainz’s triumph in Mexico, had to settle for a lackluster fifth place. The result? Only 10 points scored—two less than McLaren. To make matters worse, Carlos Sainz saw his race ruined by a crash and a DNF. According to Frédéric Vasseur, the Italian team’s director, the Spaniard is ready to bounce back: “Carlos has shown resilience in the past, and I’m confident he’ll come back stronger in Vegas. We faced unexpected issues, like the manhole cover incident, but that won’t happen again.”Indeed, this accident—hopefully an isolated one—should not reoccur, allowing Sainz to properly tackle the circuit during this year’s free practice sessions.

Las Vegas GP: a golden opportunity

The Las Vegas track, with its unique asphalt and long straights, could play to Ferrari’s strengths, as Vasseur pointed out: “It’s a circuit that resembles others where we’ve performed well this season. Last year, we also had a good pace here.” In fact, with so much emphasis on top speed, the Las Vegas circuit is reminiscent of Monza, where Charles Leclerc claimed his second victory of the year. If the goal is to close the gap with McLaren, Ferrari will need to seize every opportunity. The drivers, supported by an optimistic Vasseur, face additional pressure: proving that the Scuderia can still compete with the best, even against fierce competition like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris.

Las Vegas Formula 1 Circuit
Las Vegas Formula 1 Circuit

The F1 constructors’ championship at stake

So the question is: can Ferrari still win the 2024 Formula 1 season? With 36 points separating them from McLaren, Ferrari faces an uphill battle, but it’s not impossible. Fred Vasseur remains confident“This isn’t a catastrophic situation. We know what we’re capable of. In Vegas, every point will be crucial, and we have to aim high.” Beyond strategy, the team will also need to avoid the costly mistakes that have plagued them this season, whether in qualifying or pitstops. With only a few races left, Ferrari cannot afford any errors if they hope to surpass McLaren and end the season on a high note. McLaren, however, also boasts an exemplary driver lineup. While Piastri’s performances have dipped over the past three races, he’s still shown impressive potential.

F1’s return to Buenos Aires: how a rising star and a fervent nation could make the impossible happen

This article explores Ferrari’s struggles in Brazil, the unique challenges of the Las Vegas circuit, and the Scuderia’s battle to overtake McLaren in the constructors’ championship to claim glory this 2024 season.

Featured image: Scuderia Ferrari media

F1’s return to Buenos Aires: how a rising star and a fervent nation could make the impossible happen

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The idea of seeing a Formula 1 Grand Prix return to Argentina is a dream for many motorsport fans. With Franco Colapinto leading the charge, the country is looking to capitalize on this enthusiasm to bring F1 back to Buenos Aires.

However, this ambitious project faces significant financial and logistical challenges. Let’s dive into what’s at stake.

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Franco Colapinto: Argentina’s rising F1 star

Young driver Franco Colapinto is at the center of the growing interest in Formula 1 in Argentina. His recent entry into Williams Racing, replacing American Logan Sargeant, didn’t go unnoticed. Despite limited preparation, he delivered strong performances in an average F1 car and even outpaced his teammate Alex Albon, who has years of experience under his belt. Colapinto’s stint with the British team has garnered attention and sparked a wave of national enthusiasm, even catching the eye of Red Bull Racing. Thanks to his efforts, local sponsors like Mercado Libre and Globant have increased their involvement in the sport. While Colapinto was cheered on by a euphoric Argentine crowd at Interlagos, a delegation led by Tourism Minister Daniel Scioli met with Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of F1. Scioli highlighted Colapinto’s impact: “He represents not just a sporting hope but also a political and social lever for the country.”

Williams x Mercado Libre livery back view
Williams x Mercado Libre livery back view

Renovating Buenos Aires for F1’s return

The Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez circuit, which last hosted the Argentine Grand Prix in 1998, requires a complete overhaul to meet today’s F1 standards. Scioli emphasized that the project will have to rely on private funding, as Javier Milei’s government has adopted a strict austerity policy. The challenge is twofold: securing the necessary investments for the renovation and convincing F1 to make room in an already packed calendar. With only 24 races permitted annually, projects in Asia, Africa, and Europe are competing for attention. Argentina will need to present a strong commercial offer and a long-term vision to stand out.

“Bullshit” : think twice before criticizing NASCAR’s playoff system-this champion won’t hold back

Formula 1 in Argentina: a realistic dream?

While F1’s return to Africa still seems distant, countries like Thailand and South Korea are making strides to secure a spot on the calendar. Timing is crucial for Argentina. Colapinto, who doesn’t yet have a permanent seat in F1, might not remain the focal point by the time the project comes to fruition. Even so, the enthusiasm is palpable. F1 has taken notice of the growing interest in Argentina, even if significant hurdles remain. Scioli remains optimistic: “There’s still a lot of work to do, but Argentina has a rich history in F1. With determination, we can make it happen.” Considering the incredible atmosphere at the two Latin American Grands Prix in Mexico and Brazil, one can only hope to see the same passion in Argentina!

This article explores the renewed efforts to bring Formula 1 back to Argentina, the role of Franco Colapinto as a driving force for national enthusiasm, and the hurdles that the country must overcome to host the sport once again.

Featured image: Williams Racing Media

“Bullshit” : think twice before criticizing NASCAR’s playoff system-this champion won’t hold back

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Joey Logano has once again proven himself as one of the most formidable drivers under pressure, clinching his third NASCAR Cup Series title. However, his triumph hasn’t escaped criticism, with some questioning the legitimacy of his victory under the current playoff format.

But the driver of the No. 22 car didn’t hold back in defending his championship, so let’s take a closer look at his fierce statements and how he secured his win.

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A controversial yet effective NASCAR champion

Logano’s performance this season sparked debates, and for good reason: with an average finish of 17.1 across all races, he now holds the record for the lowest average finish for a NASCAR Cup champion. This figure even surpasses Ryan Blaney’s previous “record” last year, which stood at 14.1. Despite that, Logano expertly navigated the playoff system. Thanks to a regular-season win, he secured his spot in the finals, where he claimed three crucial victories — in the Round of 16, the Round of 8, and the Championship 4.
“We all know the rules from the start,” he reminded critics. “Everyone has the same chances. Those complaining should ask themselves why they couldn’t take advantage of them.” Honestly, he’s absolutely right. In competition, the rules are the same for everyone and clearly defined from the outset.

Playoffs tailored for modern sports

For Joey Logano, comparing NASCAR to sports like football or basketball is perfectly valid.
“In those sports, having a great regular season doesn’t guarantee a title,” he explained. “The playoff system creates high-pressure moments, those ‘do-or-die’ situations that fans love. Who would want a championship decided three races before the finale? That would be boring.” This format remains unique in motorsports. Take the 2023 Formula 1 season, for example, where Verstappen clinched the title long before the final race after a dominant year. While competitions like NHRA have used a playoff system since 2007, and Australian V8 Supercars will adopt a similar approach in 2025, most global series still operate on a cumulative points system throughout the season.

Drama for the Tifosis: Carlos Sainz won’t be driving his usual Ferrari F1 car for the final laps of the year

Logano defends NASCAR’s evolution and standing system

Joey Logano didn’t hide his frustration with ongoing criticism of the current format. For him, reverting to the old system would be a step backward. “Times change, and we have to adapt. NASCAR found a way to add suspense and keep fans engaged until the very end,” he emphasized. He also dismissed comparisons with the past, pointing out that races would play out differently if the rules were from another era. With three titles in the playoff era, Logano thrives under this system. And as he says with a grin: “I’ve got a shiny trophy, and I’m laughing all the way to the bank.” Classic Logano.

This article explores Joey Logano’s ability to thrive under pressure, the debate surrounding NASCAR’s playoff system, and how the series continues to evolve in the world of motorsport.

Featured image: NASCAR Media

Drama for the Tifosis: Carlos Sainz won’t be driving his usual Ferrari F1 car for the final laps of the year

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The F1 season is nearing its end, and Carlos Sainz, future Williams driver, will make his debut behind the wheel of the FW46, Williams Racing’s 2025 F1 car, during the end-of-season test in Abu Dhabi.

This testing session marks a significant transition for the Spaniard as he closes the Ferrari chapter and begins a new journey in the legendary British team in 2025.

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An early test for a smooth integration at Williams Racing

Carlos Sainz won’t wait until the 2025 season to join the Williams Racing team. Thanks to a special agreement with Ferrari, he’ll take part in the Pirelli test sessions held after the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Traditionally wrapping up the season, these sessions allow teams and drivers to test the following year’s tires while providing valuable adaptation time for new recruits. For Sainz, this test is far more than just laps on the track. After several intense seasons with Ferrari, his move to Williams represents a new challenge: a smaller but ambitious team led by James Vowles. These initial laps will help him get to grips with the FW46 and lay the groundwork for his partnership with future teammate Alex Albon. It’s also an opportunity to gauge the performance differences between his current SF-24 and this year’s Williams.

The strategic stakes of the Abu Dhabi test

The importance of this test goes beyond a simple shakedown. Under F1 regulations, teams must field two cars, with one driven by a rookie or a new signing — in this case, Carlos Sainz. This demands precise planning to maximize every minute on track. At Williams, the identity of the second driver for the test remains a mystery. While Sainz is confirmed, the team may opt for a young talent like Franco Colapinto or a seasoned driver to join the Spaniard. Behind the scenes, these decisions directly influence preparations for 2025 — a season where Williams hopes to take a leap forward in the paddocks. Personally, I’m rooting for them. While they’ve lagged behind in recent years, I truly appreciate the steps James Vowles has taken to rebuild the team. I hope Carlos can once again savor the thrill of podium finishes, even if that’s a lofty goal.

Carlos Sainz wins the 2024 Mexico GP
Carlos Sainz wins the 2024 Mexico GP

Albon and Sainz: a promising drivers pair

With Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, Williams Racing is forming a team that could surprise the grid. Albon, renowned for his consistency and ability to extract maximum performance from the car, and Sainz, bringing experience from Ferrari, create a balanced duo. This initial test in Abu Dhabi is a pivotal step in building that synergy. Through this move, Williams is signaling its ambition to climb out of the backmarkers and reestablish itself as a competitive force in Formula 1. With James Vowles at the helm, the team is making every effort to become a key player once again. If Sainz can quickly adapt to his new surroundings, the results might come as early as the first half of the 2025 season. For now, the momentum looks promising — go Williams!

F1 vs NASCAR: two drivers face off against NASCAR stars in a dirt track race that’s already legendary

This article explores Carlos Sainz’s early integration into Williams, the strategic importance of the Abu Dhabi test, and how this move sets the stage for the team’s ambitions in the upcoming F1 season.

Featued image: Scuderia Ferrari media

F1 vs NASCAR: two drivers face off against NASCAR stars in a dirt track race that’s already legendary

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When the two most popular motorsports in the United States collide, it results in a spectacle that’s as hilarious as it is thrilling. This explosive mix was bound to deliver an exceptional moment in motorsport!

That’s exactly what happened when Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, Formula 1 drivers for Racing Bulls, swapped their single-seaters for stock cars. Guided by Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch—two NASCAR stars—they took on a dirt oval in Texas. It’s a refreshing change from the traditional Formula 1 tracks!

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A stock car challenge outside the F1 paddocks

Imagine an F1 car, designed for glass-smooth circuits, going head-to-head with a beastly stock car on a dirt track. Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson had to adapt to these massive machines to tackle the Texas oval. With expert guidance from Van Gisbergen, a three-time Supercars champion and NASCAR sensation, and Zilisch, a rising stock car star, they learned to tame these monsters. The goal? Nail the perfect line between two cones. Tsunoda hit the mark on his first attempt, while Lawson gave everyone a laugh by sending a cone flying into the wall. But things evened out during cornering speed tests: Tsunoda eventually spun out, prompting laughter (and a few choice words) on his radio—classic Yuki, of course!

A tense qualifying session

During qualifying, Tsunoda showed why he’s an F1 driver, snatching pole position with a few tenths to spare over Lawson. True to his flamboyant style, he declared over the radio that he’d start the race “when he felt like it,” adding some spice to the session. Meanwhile, Van Gisbergen gave Lawson a classic NASCAR tip: “Don’t hesitate to give him a little tap on the right rear if needed.” It paid off. Lawson executed a daring pass, straight out of the dirt racing playbook. But Tsunoda wasn’t fazed—he countered with a clever move to retake the lead.

Chaos in Las Vegas: the city launches major projects to host the biggest events of the year in a single week

A breathtaking race to win

The five-lap final delivered a nail-biting battle. The two drivers fought tooth and nail, even making light contact at times, but always with flair. It felt like watching the most emotional playoff finales at Phoenix Raceway! In the end, Yuki Tsunoda crossed the finish line first, proving his skills extend beyond the F1 paddocks. With this performance, he reminded his rookie teammate that his four years of F1 experience still count for something. Well done, Yuki! Imagine a racing series where the Formula 1 drivers we know and love compete in completely different categories! Sounds amazing, right? Picture Hamilton and Russell or Norris and Piastri battling it out in karting… I’m in, no hesitation.

Tsunoda wins the F1 Drivers vs NASCAR Challenge
Tsunoda wins the F1 Drivers vs NASCAR Challenge

This article explores how Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson tackled NASCAR’s unique challenges, the fierce rivalry during their dirt oval showdown, and the invaluable lessons learned from top stock car drivers.

Chaos in Las Vegas: the city launches major projects to host the biggest events of the year in a single week

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After a successful yet slightly chaotic debut, the city and organizers have vowed to learn from the experience to make the second edition smoother and less disruptive for residents.

So, how is Las Vegas gearing up for this year’s Grand Prix, and what adjustments are being implemented to satisfy both fans and locals?

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Las Vegas adapts to F1: economic and logistical impact

The first Las Vegas Grand Prix made headlines on the Strip, generating record revenues for the city, with an estimated $1.5 billion in economic impact. However, this success came at a cost for locals. Circuit construction, road closures, and traffic disruptions lasted for months. Small local businesses, like the famous Battista’s Hole in the Wall, even filed complaints against the organizers, citing significant losses in revenue due to the extended construction period. This year, to mitigate the impact, organizers have spread out the preparation timeline and optimized traffic management plans to reduce disruptions—an important improvement for a circuit located entirely on the crowded streets of a bustling city!

Mercedes AMG at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
Mercedes AMG at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix

Improved communication to avoid chaos

One of the main issues in 2023 was poor communication. Residents were often left in the dark about road closures and detours. This year, Liberty Media and the organizers have addressed this by introducing an interactive map detailing real-time road closures and ongoing construction. This tool allows residents to adapt more easily to changes, minimizing the inconvenience caused by rerouting Las Vegas streets. According to Steve Hill, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the goal is to strike a better balance between residents’ needs and the success of an event that brings so many visitors to the city.

Red Bull Racing at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
Red Bull Racing at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix

Events for the whole city and a more inclusive approach

To ensure the F1 festivities aren’t confined to luxury hotels on the Strip, several initiatives are taking shape this year. Alongside the Grand Prix, an NFL game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Denver Broncos will take place at Allegiant Stadium, just a few miles from the F1 circuit. Concerts, including performances by Adele, also scheduled for the weekend, are expected to draw more local audiences and broaden interest in the event. By adding more general admission tickets and offering a free fan experience, organizers hope to extend the excitement of F1 beyond the track, attracting a more diverse and loyal audience. After last year’s scandals—such as the cancellation of a practice session due to Carlos Sainz’s incident with a poorly secured drain cover—these efforts aim to improve the overall fan experience while bringing the city together.

350,000 fans are expected for this unmissable event in 2025, but tickets are already nearly sold out

This article explores the economic and logistical adjustments made by Las Vegas for the 2024 F1 Grand Prix, improvements in communication for residents, and a more inclusive approach with local events.

Source: F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix

350,000 fans are expected for this unmissable event in 2025, but tickets are already nearly sold out

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As the World Endurance Championship has just concluded with another victory for Toyota Gazoo Racing, endurance fans are already looking forward to 2025 and the most iconic race of the year.

In 2025, the 24 Hours of Le Mans will celebrate its 102nd anniversary, and this edition promises to be even more spectacular. With over 330,000 visitors expected, let’s take a look at what will make this edition a must-see event.

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When will the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans take place?

More and more each year, motorsport, and especially endurance racing and Formula 1, are gaining in popularity. But if there’s one race that has seen its spectator numbers explode, it’s the 24 Hours of Le Mans. And that makes sense, it’s the most legendary race of all time. From 260,000 spectators in 2014, nearly 330,000 fans came to see the event in 2024. Given the trend, it’s not slowing down anytime soon, and it’s easy to understand why: every year, we get a race full of twists, overtakes, unpredictable weather, and drama that only this race can deliver. As usual, our favorite race will take place in mid-June, so mark your calendars for Le Mans, from June 11 to 15, 2025, with the start on Saturday, June 14. If you plan to go, hurry up and reserve your tickets online because they’re selling out fast!

24h Le Mans 2023 winners
24h Le Mans 2023 winners

2025: A season that promises to be exceptional

First, because Ferrari has won the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and expectations for the Scuderia are huge once again. It’s the most titled team in history, whether in WEC or F1, and there are obviously more Ferrari fans than seconds in 24 hours! Next, 2025 will feature a legendary new manufacturer in the Hypercar LMPH category: Aston Martin. Not only is this incredible, but it promises to be spectacular, as James Bond’s brand plans to bring a car based on the Valkyrie, a model developed by the famous Adrian Newey. Rumor has it that it sounds amazing. It’s great to see so many different manufacturers from diverse countries represented in WEC’s top category. Alongside Alpine and Ferrari, it’s also one of the three teams that also competes in Formula 1.

The most famous TV host congratulates Alpine F1 Team drivers for their double podium in Brazil by giving them a surprising gift

350,000 People Expected

With rising popularity comes overcrowded facilities. That was exactly my experience in 2024 when I attended the 24 Hours of Le Mans. But don’t worry, organizers are prepared. In 2025, extensive work will be done to expand the circuit’s infrastructure capacity. New stands accessible to visitors, more food outlets, and over $170,000 will be invested in restroom facilities to help cut down on the endless lines. Additionally, the audio and video broadcasting system will be upgraded around the track, allowing you to follow the race from anywhere. That’s definitely a real positive!

This article explores the new features of the 2025 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the scheduled race date, a new team in the LMPH category, and infrastructure improvements to welcome even more visitors.

Featured image: ACO – 24h du Mans

The most famous TV host congratulates Alpine F1 Team drivers for their double podium in Brazil by giving them a surprising gift

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Jeremy Clarkson is a huge Formula 1 fan, as everyone knows. After a tough start to the season for Alpine, the famous British presenter decided to surprise the team after their magnificent double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix.

Between the homemade beer and some well-timed advice, Clarkson once again proved he’s never one to hold back. But beyond the joke, this gesture symbolizes a major turning point for Alpine F1 Team this season.

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An unexpected double podium for Alpine F1 Team

Before the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, Alpine was far from being in good form. They were sitting in 9th place in the Constructors’ Championship, a tough situation after Renault’s decision to stop supplying engines to the team in 2026, not to mention the strikes shaking their factories in Viry-Chatillon, France. But, as often happens in Formula 1, everything can change from one race to the next. Thanks to a perfect strategy in the rain, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly secured an incredible double podium with 2nd and 3rd places. This result allowed Alpine to climb to 6th place in the standings, a position that could bring them up to $20 million if maintained. A giant step forward, not only a financial windfall but also a huge morale boost for the team!

Jeremy Clarkson, a man of his word

If you’ve been following Jeremy Clarkson’s news, you’ve probably noticed his recent career shift to farming and brewing. When Esteban Ocon finished on the podium in Monaco in 2023, Jeremy Clarkson promised to reward them with a pint of his own beer, Hawkstone. And true to his word, he kept his promise. After the fantastic double podium in Brazil, he showed up at the Enstone factory, all smiles, with crates of his craft beer. Clarkson, ever the joker, even teased Pierre Gasly, advising him to “drive faster” if he wanted to win. All of this took place in a relaxed, laughter-filled atmosphere, as if the team had just won a world championship.

The importance of motivation in Formula 1

Beyond the beer and jokes, this kind of gesture shows the importance of morale within a Formula 1 team. The pressure is immense, pit stops are timed down to the second, and every mistake can cost grid positions or, worse, penalties. But moments like this, where the stress of competition turns into camaraderie, are essential. F1 teams, especially those like Alpine, need this positivity to face the rest of the season. After all, even a small gesture like bringing beer can boost team spirit and prepare for the future. And this team needs it, to recover after a string of difficult seasons. Ultimately, the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix may be a turning point in the history of this team, whose headquarters is only a few miles from Jeremy Clarkson’s farm.

A game-changing new cooling system is likely to save drivers from overheating in their F1 cars and other FIA decisions that will change the race

This article explores Jeremy Clarkson’s unexpected yet heartfelt gesture of bringing his homemade beer to Alpine’s garage after their fantastic double podium in Brazil, highlighting the importance of morale in F1 teams, and how a bit of humor can fuel success.

A game-changing new cooling system is likely to save drivers from overheating in their F1 cars and other FIA decisions that will change the race

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With cockpit temperatures reaching up to 120°F during some Formula 1 races, driver cooling has become a critical issue. So for the next season, will there be air conditioning in F1 cockpit?

After the grueling Qatar Grand Prix in 2023, the FIA made decisions that could transform racing conditions starting in 2025. Here’s a look at these new measures, from grid adjustments to changes in the budget cap.

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Driver cooling: a priority for the FIA

The issue of heat management in Formula 1 surged after the Qatar race, where several drivers experienced severe heat exhaustion. In response, the FIA and F1 teams worked together to find a cooling solution for the driver. Forget standard air conditioning systems, as these would be too heavy and complex for an F1 car. The adopted solution will be a simplified cooling kit, activated only in extreme heat conditions. This means that cars might gain a bit of weight when this system is installed, but drivers will finally have an effective way to handle races in extreme temperatures.

2023 Qatar GP was Max Verstappen's toughest race yet
2023 Qatar GP was Max Verstappen’s toughest race yet.

A better adjusted starting grid

Besides the extreme cockpit temperatures in F1 cars, the FIA has been working on other issues that have recently come to light. The Brazilian Grand Prix highlighted a problem in grid management. When Alex Albon had to withdraw from his seventh-place spot due to a crash, the FIA couldn’t rearrange the grid in time, leaving a gap. This kind of situation will now be avoided thanks to a change in grid formation rules. Going forward, the final car placement will be set one hour before the race. So, if a car withdraws up to 75 minutes before the start, the cars behind can reposition to fill the empty spaces. This simplified protocol will ensure a more consistent grid and a better experience for fans.

What will Lewis Hamilton’s first days at Scuderia Ferrari look like

Budget cap adjustments for sustainability

The FIA also used the latest meeting to review financial rules. Starting in 2025, certain expenses related to sustainability initiatives will no longer count toward the budget cap. This will allow teams to fund projects aimed at reducing their environmental impact without risking overspending. This new exception is a step toward F1’s goal of becoming a more sustainable sport, paving the way for eco-friendly R&D projects without compromising team competitiveness. As we know, Formula 1 is moving towards a more sustainable competition, but until now, teams have struggled to work on projects that could stretch their already tight budgets. At the end of the season, many teams, including Williams and Red Bull Racing, are already close to hitting the budget cap, so it’s understandable that their priority isn’t working on additional projects. Now, it will be possible—great decision!

This article explores the FIA’s new cooling system for F1 drivers in extreme heat, recent changes to grid protocols for a fairer starting lineup, and budget cap adjustments that support sustainability efforts in Formula 1.

Images: Red Bull Content pool

What will Lewis Hamilton’s first days at Scuderia Ferrari look like

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Scuderia Ferrari is gearing up to welcome Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Although the British driver won’t be hitting the track in red right away in Abu Dhabi, his debut with Ferrari is on the horizon.

After twelve seasons with Mercedes, Hamilton will step into the world of Maranello, and Ferrari is eager to give him a proper welcome. So, what can we expect for Hamilton’s first drive in a Ferrari?

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Mercedes AMG keeps Hamilton until the end of the year

The Ferrari’s initial plan was to have Hamilton drive in the post-season tire test after the last race in Abu Dhabi on November 26, 2024. Unfortunately, Mercedes retained the seven-time champion for promotional commitments, specifically with sponsor Petronas, on the same day as the test. As a result, Ferrari will have to wait until early next year to see Hamilton in action. This delay means they’ll need to find the right moment for the seven-time world champion to get acquainted with his new team without rushing, though this doesn’t seem to worry the leaders in Maranello, Ferrari’s headquarters.

First drive in an F1 Ferrari

Ferrari won’t be allowed to put Hamilton in the 2025 car until pre-season testing in Bahrain, so the Scuderia plans to use one of the 2022-season cars instead, the F1-75. Thanks to the F1 Previous Car Testing (TPC) rules, Ferrari can bring out a car designed up to the 2022 season. The private Fiorano circuit, located right next to Ferrari’s Maranello factory, is expected to host Hamilton’s first laps in the red suit. This will give the team a chance to assess his adaptation to the car and let Hamilton familiarize himself with the feel of a Ferrari. Ferrari’s Sporting Director Fred Vasseur believes a few hours will be enough for the driver to get comfortable, especially given Hamilton’s vast F1 experience.

Unbeatable WEC team has just announced its lineup for 2025, and Formula 1 fans are going to be served

Behind-the-scenes preparation for a smooth transition

At Ferrari, preparations for Hamilton’s arrival go beyond track testing. Even now, part of the team is focused on the 2025 season, organizing the test plans, technical adjustments, and communication aspects to ensure a smooth transition. Vasseur stated that the race team remains focused on the current season, but the British driver will soon be immersed in Ferrari’s culture, aiming to be ready from the start of next season. The goal? To make Hamilton feel at home in the Maranello paddock from day one. In fact, it seems he will even have access to Enzo Ferrari’s famous house, a privilege last granted to the legendary Michael Schumacher.

This article explores Ferrari’s meticulous preparation for Lewis Hamilton’s transition into the Scuderia in 2025. While Abu Dhabi testing was ruled out, Ferrari has arranged for Hamilton to experience a previous Ferrari car, the F1-75, at Fiorano, helping him get comfortable before the season opener.