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

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Just days after being crowned WEC Champions, Toyota Gazoo Racing has unveiled its lineup for the 2025 World Endurance Championship season, and Formula 1 fans won’t be disappointed!

Once again, the Japanese brand is fielding a strong lineup of proven drivers. With talents like Nyck de Vries, Kamui Kobayashi, and Sébastien Buemi, Toyota seems determined to defend its title at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and continue shining in endurance racing.

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A trio of drivers ready for battle in car #7

In car #7, we’ve got Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries. They enjoyed the victory in the 2024 season, so these three drivers are more determined than ever to push the GR010 HYBRID to the limits and chase more podium finishes in 2025, even a victory at the 24h of Le Mans! With Kobayashi both driver and team director, the goal is clear: keep the team united and focused, especially with the growing competition in the Hypercar class (next season, we will see more team in the highest class: Aston Martin is joining the game) “We fight every race to push our limits,” Kobayashi says, confident his team can fight for the top spots. Conway, who’s already competed twice in the Indianapolis 500, brings a wealth of experience, while Nyck de Vries, after leaving Formula 1, is ready to make his mark in this new challenge, having struggled to adjust to F1’s unique demands.

Toyota Gazoo Racing car #7
From left to right: Conway, Kobayashi, de Vries

F1 veterans in car #8 return

In car #8, the trio of Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa, already two-time world champions, is determined to come back stronger in 2025. After a mixed 2024 season, Swiss veteran Buemi says he is “very happy” to continue this journey with a team he considers family. For Hartley, the lessons from last season will help improve their game to face the new teams joining the category. Hirakawa, for his part, is ready to fight for every win, motivated by Toyota’s unwavering support. For this car, Buemi and Hartley also raced in Formula 1 a few years ago, between 2009 and 2017.

Toyota Gazoo Racing car #8
From left to right: Hartley, Buemi, Hirakawa

New challenges and big ambitions for 2025

The 2025 season won’t be easy for Toyota, with even more competitors in the Hypercar class. Despite this, the Japanese team remains calm and confident thanks to thorough preparation and ultra-modern facilities, including their base near Silverstone. Drivers of the #7 and #8 cars are clearly focused on the 24 Hours of Le Mans as the main goal, while also aiming for a solid season across the eight planned races, from Qatar in February through to November. As a reminder, even though Scuderia Ferrari has won the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, it is Toyota that has dominated the World Endurance Championship without question since 2018.

Catastrophe at Aston Martin F1 Team: a key team member announces an unexpected departure with only 3 GPs left in the season

This article explores Toyota Gazoo Racing’s ambitious 2025 lineup in the World Endurance Championship. With seasoned F1 veterans at the wheel, Toyota aims to maintain its winning streak in the Hypercar class. The team is more united than ever, ready to face new challengers and eager to capture victory at Le Mans in June.

Source: Toyota Gazoo Racing

Catastrophe at Aston Martin F1 Team: a key team member announces an unexpected departure with only 3 GPs left in the season

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To everyone’s surprise, Aston Martin announced that Dan Fallows will no longer serve as the team’s Formula 1 Technical Director. Hired in 2022 after a long career at Red Bull where he held key aerodynamic roles, Fallows leaves his position effective immediately.

However, he will remain active within the Aston Martin group in a still-to-be-defined role. This sudden departure marks a turning point for the team as they strive to catch up with their rivals in the midst of the 2024 season.

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Aston Martin : promising growth, but a decline in 2024

Fallows’ arrival at Aston Martin marked a new chapter for the team. Under his leadership, the AMR23 had an excellent start in 2023, securing eight podiums for Fernando Alonso. However, this success was short-lived. In 2024, the new AMR24 has struggled to keep up with the front-running teams, leaving Aston Martin stuck in fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship. In light of these challenges, the team decided to change direction. Fallows, who was soon to work under Enrico Cardile, set to become Technical Director in 2025, leaves his role, paving the way for a new era of technical leadership.

High-profile reinforcements to turn things around

Dan Fallows’ departure comes amid a restructuring at Aston Martin. Alongside the upcoming addition of Enrico Cardile from Ferrari, expected in 2025, the team scored a major coup by recruiting Adrian Newey, the design mastermind from Red Bull, who will join in March. For now, Fallows’ responsibilities will be shared between Eric Blandin, Deputy Technical Director, and Bob Bell, Executive Technical Director. This transition could breathe new life into the team, which now relies on these experts to redefine its technical strategy and regain competitiveness. Personally, I can’t wait to see if Adrian Newey will keep up his streak of designing dominant cars!

Aston Martin F1 Team Headquarter
Aston Martin F1 Team Headquarter

A new chapter for Aston Martin and Dan Fallows

Although Dan Fallows is leaving his F1 role at Aston Martin, he remains with the group, hinting that he might work on technical projects outside of F1. We know that the James Bond brand frequently works on wildly impressive road cars that require true motorsport expertise, like the Valkyrie, for instance. Aston Martin, on the other hand, is moving forward with a new ultra-modern HQ near the Silverstone circuit and a cutting-edge wind tunnel in development. All these changes aim to equip the team to fight for podiums and even for the title in upcoming seasons. Fallows’ departure may mark the end of an era, but with this powerhouse of talent, Aston Martin seems ready for the challenge. Now they just need a pair of drivers fully committed to the cause…

Formula 1: the unexpected departure of a key FIA figure just before the Las Vegas GP

This article explores the sudden departure of Dan Fallows from his role as Aston Martin’s F1 Technical Director, the strategic hires of Adrian Newey and Enrico Cardile to strengthen the team, and Aston’s ambitious plans to build a competitive infrastructure. Will these moves finally pay off and push Aston Martin closer to the top of the F1 standings?

Source: Aston Martin F1 Team

Formula 1: the unexpected departure of a key FIA figure just before the Las Vegas GP

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Just days before the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix, Race Director Niels Wittich has officially stepped down. This 2024 F1 season is certainly never short on surprises!

The FIA confirmed the sudden departure, announcing that Wittich would be moving on to “new opportunities,” leaving race direction in the hands of Portuguese Rui Marques. This mid-season change reignites the debate over the challenges facing the FIA in managing race direction.

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A sudden change in 2024 F1 season

The timing of Niels Wittich’s departure is striking, given that he had been in the role since the 2022 season, succeeding Michael Masi after the controversial end to the 2021 season in Abu Dhabi. His mission was to restore trust in race direction after that dramatic finale involving Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Rui Marques, who will step in at the Las Vegas GP, is no newcomer. Having overseen races in F2 and F3, he arrives with solid experience as a steward, deputy director, and race director on various international circuits.

The FIA’s challenge in attracting race direction talent

The FIA has been struggling to attract talent for leadership roles in Formula 1, as highlighted by its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The role of a race director demands rare expertise and quick decision-making amid the unexpected events of races, not to mention the constant pressure from the public and teams. According to Ben Sulayem, training new talent is essential to avoid the current gaps, due to a lack of qualified directors. With the goal of building a more robust team of officials, the FIA is now focusing on an intensive training program.

The biggest event in F1 history is set for February 2025 to celebrate de 75th anniversary but for once no cars will be racing

Rising tensions between drivers and race direction

In recent months, the relationship between the FIA and the drivers has grown more intense, especially following the new restrictions imposed by Ben Sulayem. The call to reduce swearing and driver behavior has sparked strong reactions, notably from the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association). Recent sanctions against Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc for comments made off-track have fueled a tense climate between race direction and the drivers. Rui Marques’ arrival could provide an opportunity for a more open dialogue between the two sides, though the challenge remains significant.

This article explores the sudden departure of Niels Wittich and the impact of this decision on the FIA and Formula 1. With Rui Marques stepping in, race direction faces high expectations amid rising tensions with drivers. Will the FIA manage to maintain balance during this turbulent end to the season?

Source: Formula 1

The biggest event in F1 history is set for February 2025 to celebrate de 75th anniversary but for once no cars will be racing

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For the first time in history, Formula 1 is gearing up for a spectacular launch event bringing together all the teams to unveil their new cars.

An event as unique as it is thrilling awaits fans on February 18, 2025, at London’s 02 Arena, featuring interviews, entertainment, surprises, and of course, the reveal of the 10 new liveries for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

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A historic launch event to celebrate F1’s 75th anniversary

This launch isn’t just a simple car reveal; it’s a first in F1 history! For the very first time, all teams – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, McLaren, and the rest – will gather for a unique show. Scheduled between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM GMT, the event promises interactive moments with drivers and team principals, perfect for immersing fans in the paddock atmosphere before the season even begins. The evening will be hosted by Brian Burke and his creative team, already known for putting on the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix, so we’re in for a real show. But why reveal all 10 liveries at once? Actually, it’s the perfect opportunity to kick off this historic season, celebrating 75 years of Formula 1.

F1 season launch event - 18 February 2025
F1 season launch event – 18 February 2025

How much are tickets to see the show live?

Tickets, priced between £58 and £113, are expected to sell out fast once available. This price includes various booking fees, but for those who can’t make it to London, there will be options to watch the event online. F1 and the FlA have promised to announce streaming details soon so that no fan misses out. This evening is a golden opportunity for fans of all ages to get up close with the drivers and their F1 cars, not to mention interview sessions with the main figures of the upcoming season. For the lucky ones attending in person, the 02 Arena will transform into a true temple of Formula 1! If you ask me, I think it’s going to be simply incredible.

The 2025 season will be F1’s closest in recent years

The 2025 season is set to be packed with drama, especially following the suspense of the 2024 season. This past year saw tense on-track moments, surprise penalties, safety car interventions, and thrilling races that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1’s CEO, clearly understands this: he wants to turn this evening into a memorable event to kick off a season everyone is eagerly awaiting. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience up close the incredible spectacle that is Formula 1,” he said. The FIA, represented by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is also thrilled about this initiative and is preparing to celebrate the F1’s 75th anniversary properly. With the current level of competition among the top teams, it’s safe to say that the 2025 season will be one of the closest in recent years!

€170,000 invested in toilets: how the most legendary race is preparing to host 350,000 fans in 2025

This article explores the spectacular announcement of F1’s 2025 season launch, with all teams gathered for an exclusive evening. Discover the details of this unprecedented event, its goals for fans, and its connection to F1’s 75-year history, promising an epic season ahead.

Source: Formula 1

€170,000 invested in toilets: how the most legendary race is preparing to host 350,000 fans in 2025

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329,000—that was the number of spectators at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans. And as one of them, I can tell you it was packed.

The 2025 edition is shaping up to be epic, and even more crowded! With enhancements for fans and a new viewing area, the Automobile Club de L’Ouest (ACO) aims to meet the growing enthusiasm for this legendary endurance event. Here’s how this flagship competition of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) is preparing for a memorable weekend.

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Facilities to accommodate an ever-growing crowd

The 24 Hours of Le Mans attracts more fans each year, and the 2025 edition will be no exception. The ACO plans to open a new viewing area near the Porsche Curve, a strategic and particularly thrilling spot for motorsport enthusiasts. This elevated hill will host up to 10,000 people with a standard “General Admission” ticket. Spectators will have a prime view of the cars navigating this technical curve, with giant screens and a fan zone for a full experience of the paddocks and pitstops. Two new grandstands will also enhance the experience at Maison-Blanche, while a camping area at Tertre-Rouge will provide fans with a well-deserved relaxation space between two yellow flags or safety car appearances.

In red, the new spectator zones for 2025 at the 24h of Le Mans
In red, the new spectator zones for 2025 at the 24h of Le Mans

Enhanced services for a better spectator experience

As fan expectations evolve, the ACO is committed to meeting the needs of this new generation of enthusiasts. Over €170,000 will be invested to increase the number of restrooms by 160%, reducing wait times during peak hours. The number of food outlets will also rise to 70, nearly doubling from 2019. A sound system will be deployed throughout the circuit, ensuring that fans can follow the 24h of Le Mans live without missing a single second of on-track drama. These improvements should offer an unprecedented level of comfort for visitors, making every moment spent at Le Mans unforgettable.

An official announcement has just dealt the final blow to Alpine F1 Team despite the high hopes of fans

Attractive ticket prices despite new developments

For this 93rd edition, ticket prices remain affordable despite the upgrades. For €118, a ticket grants access to the entire race week, concerts, and all offered activities. Pierre Fillon, president of the ACO, highlights that this is a highly competitive offer compared to other sports and music events, staying well below the prices for F1 circuits, which can easily be double or triple. In addition to these financial efforts for fans, the ACO is planning long-term investments, including the expansion of the 24 Hours Museum in 2026, allowing it to showcase an extended collection of iconic cars and offer visitors a fully immersive dive into the history of this legendary race. In 2025, I’m planning to return, and I hope to see the difference!

This article explores what the 2025 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans has in store for fans, with improved facilities to manage the growing crowds, competitive ticket pricing, and an enriched program for an unforgettable experience at the heart of the World Endurance Championship.

Images & source: ACO

An official announcement has just dealt the final blow to Alpine F1 Team despite the high hopes of fans

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Alpine F1 Team is changing engines for 2026! Starting that season, the F1 team will leave behind its own engines to adopt Mercedes’ powerful engines.

A decision that had been anticipated for months, but is this really good news for the French team? Is this new Mercedes engine a revival attempt, or a critical move aimed at selling the team in the medium term?

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Why Alpine is betting on Mercedes AMG?

Alpine’s choice to turn to Mercedes marks a strategic shift for the French team, which is stepping back from developing its own engines. Despite ambitious plans at their Viry-Châtillon site, where Renault engines are designed, Renault CEO Luca de Meo and strategy advisor Flavio Briatore decided to steer the team toward a strong collaboration with Mercedes. This choice ensures Alpine F1 Team top-notch technology while simplifying the integration of components into the chassis. Alongside engines, Alpine will also use Mercedes gearboxes, another step to optimize performance and efficiency. Although it’s a tough pill for Alpine fans to swallow, this move is expected to save tens of millions annually.

What this means for Alpine F1 Team starting in 2026

This alliance between Alpine and Mercedes is set to last until at least 2030, covering the entire new regulatory era in Formula 1. Beyond securing reliable engine performance, the addition of Mercedes gearboxes could offer Alpine F1 Team greater flexibility in designing their F1 cars. Observers believe this strategy is both a cautious and ambitious choice: Mercedes has a long track record and proven reliability in F1 engines and currently supplies teams like Aston Martin, McLaren, and Williams. While the French team will no longer make its own transmissions, they still retain the option to explore a return to in-house engine design as early as 2027. But unfortunately, that seems highly unlikely to me. A more commercially logical solution would be to sell the team to the highest bidder, capitalizing on a significant profit after spending one or two seasons climbing back up the rankings.

Pierre Gasly P3 at the 2024 Brazilian GP
Pierre Gasly P3 at the 2024 Brazilian GP

Immediate impact on the paddock and rivals

This engine shift at Alpine F1 Team has set off a true game of musical chairs in the paddock. While the French team takes over the engine supply agreement Mercedes previously had with Aston Martin, Aston Martin will switch to Honda engines in 2026. Meanwhile, teams like McLaren and Williams will continue to benefit from Mercedes technology, keeping four teams powered by German engines. Alpine’s Sporting Director, Oliver Oakes, emphasizes that the goal is to strengthen the team for 2026. With strong backing from Luca de Meo and Briatore, Oakes is optimistic about Alpine’s future performance on the grid. This partnership could indeed boost the team’s competitiveness, allowing them to fight among the best. Looking at McLaren’s performance this year, they’re clearly ahead of Mercedes in the standings-even as a customer team.

Is 60% of Red Bull’s revenue enough to save their F1 driver with only 6 wins

This article explores how the Alpine and Mercedes partnership for 2026 could transform the F1 landscape, influencing other teams’ strategic decisions and redefining the sport’s technological stakes.

Source: Alpine F1 Team Press release

Is 60% of Red Bull’s revenue enough to save their F1 driver with only 6 wins

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Plenty of rumors have circulated this year around this Red Bull Racing driver. While everyone was speculating who might become Max Verstappen’s new teammate, one crucial question went unasked.

Will Sergio Perez be let go at the end of the 2024 F1 season? Surprisingly, it seems Checo will continue driving for Red Bull next year. Let’s try to understand the Austrian team’s decision.

Perez: performance on the decline

The Mexican driver isn’t bad on paper; he actually has an impressive track record with 6 wins and 39 podiums. In fact, he was brought on by Red Bull Racing to back up Max Verstappen, the team’s No. 1 driver. So far, it’s been a winning gamble, as Max claimed the championship title in their first year together and continued with titles over the next two years. As we approach the season’s end, he even seems poised for a fourth crown. Yet, since late 2022 and into 2023, Sergio Perez has struggled to run the F1 car at the same pace as his teammate. Worse, he’s often eliminated early in qualifying. This season, before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, he’s only brought in 151 points compared to Max’s 393. This gap is the largest between teammates across the entire grid.

Why Perez needs to go in 2025

Although they’ve held the constructor’s title since 2022, Red Bull Racing may have to give it up this year. With a 49-point gap behind McLaren and only three races remaining, catching up seems out of reach. Perez’s underperformance is certainly to blame for this ranking. Red Bull would clearly benefit from testing another driver in their second F1 car, aiming to earn more points in future Grands Prix. Looking at McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes, each of their drivers is extremely productive, and their teams can count on them. Having two drivers who reliably score points is reason enough to replace Perez, not to mention the young drivers waiting for a promotion. Tsunoda is an option, though unlikely. There’s also Lawson, who’s already driven for Racing Bulls, and Colapinto, who is desperately seeking and deserving of a seat. Doesn’t it make sense for Red Bull to give them a shot?

The world’s most famous chocolate bar enters F1, ready to change the sport’s image forever

Checo is super bankable

But one last factor can’t be ignored: money. Sergio Perez is extremely bankable. He alone represents close to 60% of Red Bull Racing’s revenue from merchandise, far more than Verstappen, even as a world champion! Perez has a certain presence in Central and Latin America, and we know Formula 1 is a true commercial platform. Having a driver with such appeal on the team generates significant sales, especially in an underrepresented region on the grid. Except for Perez, there’s no American. This will change next year, as Brazilian driver Bortoleto joins Aston Martin in 2025, but Red Bull needs Perez to captivate Latin America. I interpret their strategy as follows: the constructor’s title is sidelined in favor of the massive financial gain Perez brings, and Max Verstappen is strong enough to chase championship titles on his own. It’s a weak sports strategy but an excellent business move.

This article explores Red Bull’s decision to keep Sergio Perez on their team for 2025 and why Checo remains in Formula 1.

Featured image: Red Bull Content pool

The world’s most famous chocolate bar enters F1, ready to change the sport’s image forever

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F1 and Nestlé are announcing an exciting new partnership! Starting in 2025, KitKat will become the official chocolate bar of the Grand Prix races, aiming to offer immersive experiences for fans of the sport.

With exclusive activations and relaxation zones at the circuits, these two brands plan to bring a fresh vibe to the paddock like never before. Let’s dive into how this partnership will unfold.

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A global partnership for F1 enthusiasts

With this partnership, Formula 1 and KitKat are joining forces to celebrate a dual anniversary in 2025: KitKat’s 90th birthday and Formula 1’s 75th anniversary. And this is only the beginning! In 2026, this partnership will expand globally, with events planned at each Grand Prix. KitKat promises spectators a unique experience with dedicated “fan zones” designed especially for Formula 1 fans. These areas will allow visitors to take a delicious break while enjoying unique activities, all in the fun and laid-back spirit that makes KitKat a hit in the United States and around the world. When you think about it, it’s pretty incredible to realize that KitKat will be an integral part of upcoming F1 Grand Prix events. Imagine seeing the KitKat logo on the safety barriers, it’s already crazy!

Prioritizing the fan experience

For Formula 1 fans, this collaboration is absolutely brilliant. Not only will they see the famous slogan “Have a Break, Have a KitKat” throughout the circuits, but they’ll also have the chance to win exclusive prizes. According to Emily Prazer, F1‘s Chief Commercial Officer, this partnership promises to make the Grand Prix events even more festive and accessible. By adding playful content and trackside branding, F1 aims to strengthen fan loyalty and attract a broader audience, especially among younger fans. This marketing strategy enhances F1’s positive image, which continues to grow in popularity with a diverse audience. In addition to KitKat, we’ll also see brands like Lego and Hot Wheels alongside F1, proving the sport’s intent to reach a younger crowd.

The most successful team is planning to make the riskiest gamble in its history — and it could pay off big

KitKat: adding humor to the seriousness of F1

For Bernard Meunier, Head of Strategic Business at Nestle, the company that owns KitKat, the chocolate bar brand is the perfect partner for Formula 1. Known for its slogan encouraging people to “take a break,” KitKat aims to bring a touch of lightness to the high-intensity world of motorsport. With extensive visibility on circuits and social media, KitKat hopes to reach Formula 1 fans through fun and lighthearted content while boosting the popularity of its iconic chocolate bar. By integrating into F1’s dynamic ecosystem, KitKat finds a new way to remind fans of the importance of taking a break amid the thrill of the races. So, have a break, have a KitKat.

This article explores how the partnership between KitKat and Formula 1 could transform the fan experience, offer new immersive activations, and add a fun touch to the Grand Prix paddocks.

Sources: Formula 1 / KitKat

The most successful team is planning to make the riskiest gamble in its history — and it could pay off big

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The Formula 1 world is buzzing with rumors about the new regulations set to shake up the 2026 season.

Ferrari may be considering a radical strategy to maximize its wind tunnel time— an asset crucial for car performance. The goal? To get a head start by sacrificing the 2025 F1 season and focusing all efforts on the new rules.

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The stakes of the new aerodynamic regulations

With more powerful hybrid engines and revamped aerodynamics arriving in 2026, F1 is on the brink of a new era. For Scuderia Ferrari and other teams, this shift means making strategic choices right now. Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur envisions some teams might “sacrifice” next season to put everything into 2026. In fact, wind tunnel time is awarded based on team rankings: the championship team is limited to only 70% of the standard development time, while the last-place team can use up to 115%. This compensatory system could shake up the current order in the paddock—a notable advantage for teams that, instead of chasing immediate glory, might commit to intensive preparation for 2026.

Scuderia Ferrari F1
Scuderia Ferrari at the 2022 Italian GP

Ferrari ready to gamble on the 2025 season?

The idea that Ferrari might accept a tough season to better prepare for the future isn’t far-fetched. According to Vasseur, the gains from wind tunnel time during a regulatory overhaul are far more significant than in periods of stability. So, a team like Ferrari could choose not to invest heavily in 2025, instead focusing on climbing a few positions in 2026 with aggressive development. It’s a bold gamble: prioritizing the long term could let them reclaim the dominance of the 2000s. However, Ferrari isn’t alone in considering this strategy. Other teams, particularly midfielders, might also adopt this approach. A less competitive team in 2025 could find itself with a massive development advantage the following year. The risk? That a team may be tempted to “fall” in the rankings on purpose to accumulate more wind tunnel time.

F1: Jeremy Clarkson drops the bombshell, Hamilton is finished and no longer the GOAT

Team principals’ dilemma: dividing resources between 2025 and 2026

Team principals will need to juggle resources to stay competitive in 2025 while also preparing for the 2026 F1 season. This could create a gap between teams. For a top team, letting up in 2025 is risky since they’d lose critical points, even if it means less development time. Ferrari’s team boss seems willing to adjust priorities based on their championship position but remains cautious. The ideal strategy? Not to aim too high in 2025 to avoid sacrificing the valuable development time that could push them to the top in 2026. A big gamble indeed, but history has shown us that in Formula 1, boldness has a way of rewarding those who dare to take risks!

This article explores the potential strategies teams might take for the 2026 F1 season, the impact of the new aerodynamic regulations, and how they plan to handle their development time. The 2025 season might just be a springboard for the boldest competitors!

Featured image: Formula 1 Press conference

F1: Jeremy Clarkson drops the bombshell, Hamilton is finished and no longer the GOAT

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Verstappen vs Hamilton: Who’s Really the Best? Clarkson Has His Strong Opinion The recent Grand Prix races have clearly been spectacular, but it’s a statement from the famous Top Gear presenter that has really shaken the paddocks after the race.

Jeremy Clarkson shared his opinion on Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton’s performances, and he didn’t hold back. With Verstappen dominating every race and Hamilton seemingly past his prime, it’s safe to say the debates are far from over.

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Max Verstappen: already a legend

For Jeremy Clarkson, there’s no question-Max Verstappen is a real talent. At the Brazilian GP, the Dutch driver once again showed just how good he is. After pulling out a 62-point lead over his closest rival, Lando Norris, Verstappen seemed to dominate the race from start to finish. Clarkson’s verdict? The debate’s over: “Max Verstappen is one of the greatest drivers in F1 history. He might even be the best we’ve ever seen.” It’s a bold statement, but one that reflects Clarkson’s deep respect for Verstappen’s consistency and talent. The Red Bull driver has clearly hit his stride this season, with flawless pit stops, exceptional tire management, and overtakes that continue to wow fans. The question now is: Is Max already the greatest of all time?

Max Verstappen F1 World Champion
Max Verstappen F1 World Champion

Lewis Hamilton: a champion on decline

But in this analysis, Clarkson didn’t just praise Verstappen. He also made a pretty sharp conclusion about Lewis Hamilton. Despite his status as a seven-time world champion, the Mercedes driver struggled to shine at Interlagos, finishing a disappointing tenth. While it’s known that qualifying performance can sometimes be affected by external factors, the contrast with his teammate George Russell, who managed to secure the front row, left Clarkson puzzled. For the presenter, Hamilton seems to have passed a certain point. “Lewis Hamilton is no longer in his prime,” he said. When you think about it, age does eventually play a role, even in the ruthless world of Formula 1. With Verstappen seemingly having found his rhythm, Hamilton may find it difficult to make a comeback, especially with changes on the horizon for him, like his move to Ferrari at the end of the season. It’s an opportunity for a fresh start, but with the weight of experience.

Future challenges for Mercedes AMG

While Hamilton’s performance has been widely discussed, Mercedes’ performance, and more specifically that of F1 car, has also been at the center of the debate. Although Hamilton mentioned issues with his car, it’s important to note that his teammate managed to make the most of the situation, securing a spot on the front row. The Mercedes car doesn’t seem to be on the same level as Red Bull this year, nor even McLaren or Ferrari. A championship title will be impossible for the German team this year. Add to that some questionable strategic decisions and a lack of adaptability on certain circuits, and it’s clear that Mercedes still has a lot of work to do for 2025, especially with a promising yet inexperienced rookie to manage: Kimi Antonelli.

Formula 1: a country is set to buy out a team to save it – a historic first

This article explores the evolving performances of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, Clarkson’s critiques of Mercedes‘ form, and the challenges ahead for F1’s future. The rivalry between the two is more intense than ever, but time might just work in Verstappen’s favor.