As we were gearing up for the qualifying session of the Brazilian Grand Prix yesterday, torrential rain hit Interlagos, near Sao Paulo.

The session was postponed, then postponed again, and ultimately canceled because the lighting conditions did not allow for a safe qualifying session. But what happens if a qualifying session in F1 is canceled?

Read more:

• Formula 1 heads to Africa with the support of Hamilton and Verstappen, possibly a first since 1993!
• At only 19 years old Ollie Bearman already holds a Formula 1 record after just 2 races and this is just the beginning.

Why were the qualifications for the Brazilian GP postponed?

At Interlagos on Saturday, heavy rain fell on the circuit, leading to multiple postponements and eventually pushing the event to the following day. However, the area around Sao Paulo lives up to its name Interlagos means “between lakes,” and the ground is highly saturated with water. When it rains, the water struggles to seep into the ground, resulting in accumulation that leaves the track soaked. The Interlagos circuit is also quite dated in its design, and the concrete and asphalt areas quickly form large puddles. Even after the rain stopped on Saturday afternoon, the track remained un-drivable for a long time due to poor drainage.

Unfortunately, we won’t have any more track action today

Qualifying has been postponed until tomorrow morning 🌧️ #BrazilGP 🇧🇷 #F1 pic.twitter.com/MumjtrbaCr

— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) November 2, 2024

Postpone rather than cancel

First, it’s important to understand that whenever possible, a Formula 1 qualifying session will always be postponed rather than canceled. In fact, there is no time limit on Saturdays for conducting this qualifying session, except for the visibility on the track. Stefano Domenicali, President of Formula 1, announced yesterday the cancellation of the session due to insufficient lighting after several postponements. Thus, qualifying was supposed to take place on Sunday morning, but as I write this, the session has once again been postponed. (I hope at least we can attend the race!) In Formula 1, a qualifying session must finish at least 4 hours before a race start. Since the race is scheduled at a fixed time this afternoon, qualifying may well be canceled.

What happens if qualifying is canceled?

If, unfortunately, a Formula 1 qualifying session were to be canceled after being postponed on Sunday, the starting grid for the race would still need to be determined Therefore, even though don’t think this has ever happened in F1, the FlA could use the timing sheets from Free Practice 1 to determine the drivers’ starting order. This would result in a wild top 5, with Norris and Russell (P1 and P2) joined by Ollie Bearman, who is replacing Kevin Magnussen, in P3! Alex Albon would start in 5th place. This would be an incredible start for them! For Max Verstappen, it would be a disaster, as his time from Free Practice 1 would only put him in 15th place. Fortunately for him, if the race turns out to be wet, he would have many opportunities to gradually climb back up and earn points.

The last straw for Verstappen at the São Paulo GP and the FlA’s relentless pursuit is starting to frustrate Red Bull

This article explores the possibilities available to Formula 1 if a qualifying session were to be postponed or canceled and the wild impact on the starting grid for the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 for the drivers.

While we thought the “penalties on Max Verstappen” saga was over, the Red Bull driver has once again received a sanction from the FlA— a third time in just two races.

Verstappen was hoping to extend his championship lead during the São Paulo GP Sprint, but he was hit with a 5-second penalty for attempting to overtake Oscar Piastri under the Virtual Safety Car (VSC). This decision cost him his third place and handed Norris a 3-point advantage.

Read more:

• At only 19 years old Ollie Bearman already holds a Formula 1 record after just 2 races and this is just the beginning…
• From Texas to Formula 1 could Jak Crawford achieve the American dream on the track

Review of the VSC incident at the Brazilian GP

At the end of the Sprint, when Nico Hülkenberg triggered a yellow flag by retiring his smoking Haas at the side of the track, the VSC was activated. Though it took quite some time for the decision to come, Verstappen, sensing the end of the VSC was near, tried to overtake Piastri while braking into a corner in Sector 1, just before the green lights were given. The stewards deemed the move non-compliant as Verstappen was under the allowed delta time, which they viewed as an unfair advantage. The Red Bull driver defended his action by explaining the difficulty in adjusting his speed instantly, but the penalty came through regardless—5 seconds and a point added to his license.

BREAKING: Max Verstappen receives a five-second time penalty for infringing Virtual Safety Car rules during #F1Sprint

Verstappen, who finished third, drops to fourth place#F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/sQHUFlmETl

— Formula 1 (@F1) November 2, 2024

Verstappen loses podium in Sprint race

With this penalty, Verstappen managed to minimize the damage, dropping just one position in the Sprint race standings. By conceding third place to Charles Leclerc, who was under four seconds behind, he lost only one extra point, totaling three in all. While this might seem minor, every point counts in Formula 1, and the frustration is evident. In his typical style, Verstappen kept his comments brief, merely stating he was “too close to Piastri.” This penalty raises a question: why is he being penalized now when he wasn’t in 2021, in Abu Dhabi, for applying the same kind of pressure on Hamilton at the end of the race?Other reports indicate that he was also above the delta time imposed on drivers during a Virtual Safety Car.

Outstanding 25 seconds of penalties in 2 races

Red Bull sporting director Jonathan Wheatley accompanied Verstappen to the hearing but failed to sway the stewards. VSC regulations are strict to prevent any exploitation, leaving Verstappen under increasing pressure to avoid any infractions for the remainder of the season. With an additional point on his license, Verstappen now has seven points of the twelve needed for a race suspension. For reference, once drivers accumulate 12 points, they face a race suspension-like Magnussen in Baku earlier this year. Currently, Verstappen seems firmly in the FIA stewards‘ sights, having received three penalties over the last two races for a cumulative 25 seconds-an impressive figure.

Formula 1 heads to Africa with the support of Hamilton and Verstappen, possibly a first since 1993

This article explores Verstappen’s costly penalty in the São Paulo Sprint race, its impact on his standing, and the added pressure on the Dutch driver as his penalty points accumulate. The incident highlights the strict regulations surrounding the VSC and how small decisions can alter race outcomes significantly.

Featured image: Red Bull Content pool

As we dive into the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024, discussions about a possible return of Formula 1 to Africa have reignited hopes of seeing a Grand Prix on the continent.

Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have recently shared their enthusiasm for the idea of racing in Africa. This isn’t the first time the Mercedes AMG driver has expressed a desire to see Formula 1 return to the African continent so let’s explore this ambition that could rejuvenate the F1 landscape.

Read more:

• From Texas to F1 could Jak Crawford achieve the American dream on the track.
• Russell and Verstappen ALREADY have solutions for a fairer penalty system to reduce controversies in F1!

Verstappen wants to race in Africa

Currently, no races take place on this continent, and the only interaction with the world of Formula 1 is the FlA gala planned in Rwanda this year. In a press conference just before the Brazilian Grand Prix, Verstappen was asked about a potential Grand Prix in Africa. The Dutch driver is quite positive about the idea, stating, “Having races on all continents would be fantastic.” Essentially, he believes this could give Formula 1 a boost and allow for the discovery of new interesting circuits. This desire to include Africa in the calendar is a beautiful way to celebrate the diversity and history of the sport while reaching out to all continents.

Kyalami, South Africa: the fight for a Formula 1 return

Recently, the Kyalami circuit in South Africa has been pushing to get the green light from the FlA to host races again. Through a partnership with Apex Circuit Design, Kyalami is being updated to meet F1 standards. To allow the premier category of motorsport to run on a circuit, the track must obtain the coveted Grade 1 license, ensuring the infrastructure provides the necessary safety. Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, recently discussed this with Formula 1 officials, affirming that the country is on the right track. There hasn’t been a Grand Prix here since 1993, but the commitment to modernize the circuit could change that.

Rwanda: a desire to be part of it

Rwanda is also aspiring to host an F1 race. This project is backed by Formula 1, especially with the FIA end-of-year gala taking place on its soil. Lewis Hamilton has expressed his dream of racing in Africa before retiring, adding the weight of a seven-time world champion in support of this initiative. “I really want this to happen,” he said, showing how much this dream resonates with the drivers. Having two different countries candidates vying to host F1 in Africa demonstrates the growing interest in the continent and its potential in the motorsport world.

At only 19 years old Ollie Bearman already holds a Formula 1 record after just 2 races and this is just the beginning

This article explores the growing excitement about the potential return of Formula 1 to Africa, highlighting the ambitions of Kyalami in South Africa and Rwanda’s rising interest. With support from prominent drivers like Verstappen and Hamilton, the dream of racing on African soil is becoming increasingly realistic. The future looks promising, and who knows, maybe a Grand Prix in Africa will soon become a reality.

Featured image: Mercedes AMG Press Release

Formula 1 never fails to surprise, and Oliver Bearman driving for Haas F1 Team this weekend is proof of that.

Called up to replace Kevin Magnussen at the last moment for the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, Bearman showcased his talent by securing a spot in the top 10 during the sprint race qualifying. An unexpected challenge, an impressive performance, and a Formula 1 weekend that promises excitement!

Read more:

• Russell and Verstappen ALREADY have solutions for a fairer penalty system to reduce controversies in F1
• Lewis Hamilton’s special relationship with Brazil finally explained

A morning call to remember

Bearman’s weekend took a sudden turn at 6:30 a.m. Friday when he received a call from Haas F1 Team principal Ayao Komatsu. Magnussen, unwell, couldn’t compete in the first sessions of the Grand Prix, which gave the young British driver the chance to prepare for his third Formula 1 Grand Prix this year. Bearman first raced in Saudi Arabia earlier in the season and previously stepped in for Magnussen in Baku when he served a one-race suspension. “When I saw Ayao’s name, I was much less annoyed than if it had been my mom calling and forgetting about the time difference!” he jokes. He’s clearly determined to give his all for the team that will be welcoming him officially next season in 2025.

BREAKING: Ollie Bearman will contest the full weekend for Haas in Brazil

Already confirmed for Friday's sessions and the Sprint, he will now take part in qualifying and the Grand Prix while Kevin Magnussen recovers from illness#F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/uBzzQ6OuCH

— Formula 1 (@F1) November 1, 2024

A standout performance right from the first laps

Right from his first free practice session (FP1) on Friday, Bearman showed an impressive pace in the Haas. During sprint race qualifying, he managed to secure a top-10 spot, even outpacing his teammate Nico Hulkenberg. “The car felt great. From the first lap, I got a good feeling,” he shared, though a small error in the first sector cost him a few precious seconds. Sure, the track improves lap after lap, which can distort the drivers’ actual performances, but still, it’s a feat, wouldn’t you agree? The Sprint race will be a first for him, as there weren’t any in Jeddah or Baku during his other two races this year. To put it in perspective, Ollie Bearman, with just two races under his belt, is already ranked 17th in the drivers’ championship among the 23 drivers who participated this season. Incredible!

From Texas to F1 could Jak Crawford achieve the American dream on the track

First driver to score for two teams: Bearman already making his mark

Bearman made F1 history as the first driver to score points for two different teams in his first two races. The achievement began with a 7th place for Ferrari in Jeddah and continued with a 10th place for Haas F1 Team in Baku. Starting at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, one of the season’s most demanding circuits, was far from easy, especially in Sainz’s Ferrari. The pressure was enormous, and although the main expectation was just for him to finish the race intact, he managed to score points. For this Brazilian weekend, Bearman hopes to replicate his previous performances and score points for Haas once again. This Brazilian weekend offers a great opportunity for him to continue familiarizing himself with Formula 1 as he gears up to drive for Haas next year. Go, Ollie!

This article explores Bearman’s impressive journey, his skill behind the wheel of the Haas, and the potential impact he could have on the team’s future in Formula 1.

Images: Ferrari Press / Haas F1 Team press release

With Formula 1’s growing popularity in the United States in recent years, fans are eagerly awaiting an American driver capable of shining on the world F1 stage.

After Logan Sargeant’s stint with Williams, young Texan talent Jak Crawford might just be the one America has been waiting for. But as we know, Formula 1, rooted in Europe, is a tightly closed world. Crawford will need to prove his worth if he hopes to secure an F1 seat in the coming years.

Read more:

• Lewis Hamilton’s special relationship with Brazil finally explained…
• Verstappen penalized again even before the Brazilian GP after the outstanding 20-sec penalty in Mexico.

From Texas sun to England’s rainy tracks

From a young age, Jak Crawford was introduced to karting circuits. At only 14, he left his family to move to England, where it’s much easier to progress in junior formulas if you’re aiming for a shot at Formula 1. Through a contract with the Red Bull Junior Team, Crawford has been able to compete against the best talents of his generation, receiving essential funding to keep moving forward. Unfortunately, with so many talents at Red Bull, breaking into F1 has only become harder for the American, who has to withstand intense competition. This is especially true now, with Tsunoda, Liam Lawson, and young Frenchman Isaac Hadjar all eyeing Perez’s seat for 2025. Crawford ultimately joined Aston Martin, hoping to break through by 2026.

The pressure of a national hope

The American desire to taste success in Formula 1 isn’t new. Since Mario Andretti in 1978, no American has won a Grand Prix, and Sargeant’s struggles this season with Williams have only heightened skepticism. The only American team, Haas F1 Team, has been making headlines recently but not for podium finishes. Yet Liberty Media, owner of F1, has bet big on the US market. Crawford will have to prove himself in an arena where Americans have often struggled, highlighted by Andretti’s ongoing difficulties in securing entry as an 11th constructor team. In a mostly European paddock, it’s clear that breaking in as an American driver remains a major challenge.

Russell and Verstappen ALREADY have solutions for a fairer penalty system to reduce controversies in Formula 1

His potential still to be proven

At the end of the F1 season, after the final race, Abu Dhabi hosts the post-season tests. It’s a chance for teams to test new drivers with current F1 cars. As Crawford gears up for these tests with Aston Martin, expectations and hopes for him only continue to grow. The American has already shown his talent with multiple podiums in F2, but Formula 1, with its technical and mental demands, is another level. You can shine in F2 and still face struggles in F1, as shown by De Vries, for example. Fortunately, Crawford can count on the support and advice of two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso, an Aston Martin driver. Let’s hope for him and for the USA that he manages to join Aston Martin in 2026 even though Felipe Drugovich is also on the waiting list!

This article explores how Jak Grawford, a young Texas prodigy, might become America’s hope in Formula 1. With personal sacrifices, pressure from a booming Us market, and opportunities with Aston Martin, could Crawford finally achieve the American dream in F1 for the first time since 1978?

Featured image: Aston Martin F1

With four Grand Prix left in the 2024 Formula 1 season, the last two weekends in Austin and Mexico City have been marred by a series of controversial penalties.

One question has come up repeatedly: are the stewards’ decisions consistent enough? For George Russell, Mercedes driver and director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, the answer is clear: it’s time for the FIA to hire full-time, paid stewards to ensure greater consistency in sanctions.

Read more:

• Verstappen penalized again even before the Brazilian GP after the outstanding 20-sec penalty in Mexico

Recurring stewards for greater consistency

With sometimes ambiguous rules and gray areas in the regulations, officiating remains unclear and inconsistent. Russell believes the key to fairer regulation lies in having full-time, salaried stewards who are better trained and, most importantly, better compensated. Currently, the FIA relies on a rotating team of stewards from race to race, making decisions too variable in his view. Indeed, the same action involving the same two drivers on two different tracks can be judged differently, which goes against fairness in sport. According to the Mercedes driver, a permanent team of stewards would be better able to make uniform decisions on infractions. With competitive pay, these stewards would also be less likely to be seen as mere volunteers and could truly influence the consistency of officiating in F1.

More clarity, fewer rules

Max Verstappen, multiple world champion, has also shared his view on the issue, but sees the problem differently. To him, Formula 1 has become over-regulated, with an increasingly strict code that doesn’t help drivers simply race. On the contrary, Verstappen feels that the rulebook grows every year, complicating races for drivers and increasing interpretive zones for the stewards, causing one controversy after another. In this regard, going back to fewer, clearer guidelines could help avoid penalties that are sometimes seen as excessive and make on-track overtakes easier, creating a more natural and spontaneous competition. I somewhat agree with him on this point, though he did exhibit unsportsmanlike behavior during the last race at the Mexican GP. Lately, every clash between him and Norris has been subject to a stewards’ investigation, which clearly detracts from the racing spirit.

Lewis Hamilton’s special relationship with Brazil finally explained

Adapting penalties and reducing gray areas

While Russell is in favor of more stable officiating, he also believes there are adjustments needed in the rules themselves. According to him, incidents are always unique, and the current guidelines don’t cover all situations encountered on track. Some rules, like those on erratic or dangerous driving, lack precision and leave too much room for interpretation. With clearer rules and well-trained stewards, Russell is convinced that Formula 1 could avoid controversial incidents that spark new debates. This model could even be likened to car safety improvements, where serious accidents have often driven real progress, such as the introduction of the Halo after Jules Bianchi’s crash in 2014.

This article explores the push for professional race stewards, a clearer rulebook, and the impact of variable penalties on Formula 1’s competitive nature. Voices like Russell and Verstappen are calling for more consistent decision-making.

Featured image: FIA Press Release

The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix is fast approaching, and it’s always a very special moment for Lewis Hamilton.

At the Interlagos circuit in São Paulo, most local fans come out to support Hamilton. While the Mercedes driver will have the honor of taking a few laps in Ayrton Senna’s iconic 1990 McLaren, let’s look at the reasons why Hamilton is so connected to the Brazilian people.

Read more:

• This thorny $20 million headache for Red Bull absolutely must be resolved before 2025
• Record $1 million in fines for Alpine and Honda F1 engine manufacturers

Hamilton is honorary citizen of Brazil

To understand the relationship between this Latin American country and the British driver, we need to consider his connection with Ayrton Senna. Lewis Hamilton doesn’t needs an introduction—he’s a 7-time world champion, with his first title won driving for McLaren in 2008. Before him, Ayrton Senna clinched three world titles, all with McLaren too, between 1988 and 1991. These shared achievements link the two drivers in a way. Both extremely talented, both legendary, and both with great personalities, it’s as if Hamilton walked in Senna’s footsteps, continuing his career that was tragically cut short in 1994 after the terrible crash in San Marino Grand Prix. As Senna’s biggest fan, Hamilton paid tribute after an astounding weekend at Interlagos in 2021, doing a victory lap while carrying the Brazilian flag and bringing it to the podium with him to celebrate. In gratitude for this gesture, the Brazil’s politicians granted him honorary citizenship in 2022. That’s how Sir Lewis Hamilton became an honorary citizen of Brazil.

Interlagos: a special circuit for Lewis

The Brazilian Grand Prix has often been synonymous with remarkable moments for Hamilton. Over the years, he’s stood on the podium four times, with three impressive victories in 2016, 2018, and 2021. In 2008, after an incredible season and a unexpected race finish, he won his first world title there, with McLaren, on Senna’s home soil. Imagine the crowd’s excitement at that moment. (Please, go check out the highlights of this race, it’s worth it!) In 2017, he started from the back of the grid after a qualifying issue and finished P4 by the race’s end. And who could forget the famous 2021 season? Penalized and forced to start last in the sprint race, Hamilton charged up to fifth. Then, starting from tenth on Sunday, he won the race, making for an incredible comeback for a legendary weekend.

Verstappen penalized again even before the Brazilian GP after the outstanding 20-sec penalty in Mexico

He will drive Senna’s MP4/5B this weekend

The British driver is now preparing to pay a special tribute to Ayrton Senna in Brazil by getting behind the wheel of the iconic McLaren MP4/5B, the very car Senna drove to win the world championship in 1990. This tribute isn’t just about a few laps for show, but rather a gesture filled with respect and admiration for Senna, his idol, who inspired an entire generation. For Brazilian and F1 fans, seeing the Briton at the wheel of this legendary F1 car, with Interlagos’ unique atmosphere in the background, will create a deeply symbolic moment in the F1 world.

This article explores the special link between Hamilton and Senna, his decision to take the wheel of the historic McLaren to honor the Brazilian idol at the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, and the symbolic choice of Interlagos for this powerful moment.

Featured image: Mercedes AMG

It’s official, Max Verstappen will be penalized at least 5-place grid on the start for the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix.

The reason: the engine change after a challenging race in Mexico where issues affected his performance. Red Bull had to act quickly to get back on track.

Read more:

• Record $1 million in fines for Alpine and Honda F1 engine manufacturers
• Verstappen’s radical technique to win the F1 championship even with a slower car

Engine issues piling up for Verstappen

During the last Grand Prix, Verstappen encountered difficulties with his engine, forcing him to make an unexpected replacement. An engine already used this season was reused, but despite this change, the performance was not up to par, especially on the straights where he recorded speeds significantly lower than his teammate Sergio Perez. Red Bull decided to take action before the situation became critical, especially since Scuderia Ferrari has now moved ahead in the Constructors’ Championship. As a reminder, in Formula 1, each driver is allowed a certain number of components for their car throughout the season. Regarding the internal combustion engine, Verstappen has already used the 4 allowed by the regulations. However, he can use a 5th engine, incurring the 5-place penalty. This is a decision often made at the end of the season by many teams on the grid.

Interlagos circuit is the best opportunity

Interlagos is known to be a circuit where overtaking is frequent, which could mitigate the impact of a five-place grid penalty for Verstappen. Indeed, starting further back on the grid is less of a problem in Brazil since it’s easier to move up. According to Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, the team aims to improve straight-line speed, an ultra-important aspect to remain competitive. With Verstappen’s recent difficulty in getting the tires to work, a new engine could provide the necessary boost for the RB20 in Sao Paulo. Additionally, with a comfortable 47-point lead over Lando Norris in the standings, Verstappen can afford to take some risks, especially since the risk is limited on this circuit. Let’s not forget that this weekend also features the Sprint race, which could help Max limit point losses to his rival.

The necessity of renewing F1 engines

The engine Verstappen used during the Mexico Grand Prix was not intended for that race. As Marko pointed out, the older an engine gets, the more it wears out, and the more its performance decreases. Thus, the engine change becomes a necessity to ensure Verstappen can compete at the front of the race, especially against opponents like Ferrari and McLaren, who show impressive performances week after week. Red Bull’s decision could also influence the team’s strategy for the rest of the season, especially if they aim to optimize Verstappen’s performance for the upcoming races.

This thorny $20 million headache for Red Bull absolutely must be resolved before 2025

This article explores Verstappen’s grid penalty for the Brazilian GP due to an engine change, the challenges he faced in Mexico, and how Red Bull plans to tackle these issues strategically. As the season approaches its climax, every decision could significantly impact both Verstappen’s championship bid and Red Bull’s overall performance.

Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool

Source: Motorsport.com

Sergio Perez’s future with Red Bull is more uncertain than ever, as the Mexican driver’s results struggle to impress and directly threaten Red Bull Racing’s championship standings.

As the battle for second place in the Constructors’ Championship tightens between McLaren and Ferrari, Red Bull may be looking to a promising alternative to Perez: Franco Colapinto. But can this young Argentine talent truly bring a strategic refresh to Red Bull?

Read more:

• Lawson’s middle finger at the Mexico GP will give Red Bull a hard time

Red Bull is going to lose $20 million in prize money

Sergio Perez’s poor performances have put Red Bull in a tough spot, especially with | Ferrari and McLaren making a strong comeback this season. If Red Bull finishes third in the championship, it would mean nearly $20 million lost in FlA prize money. Each place in the Constructors’ standings is worth tens of millions in rewards, and Red Bull knows that if Perez doesn’t meet expectations, justifying this lost income will be difficult. But who could replace the Mexican driver? Heard of Franco Colapinto? A young, talented driver with both impressive results and potential popularity in the Latin American market. He joined Formula 1 after the summer break, replacing Sargeant at Williams, and has already scored five points in five races.

GAME. ON. 👊

Another win for Ferrari leapfrogs them ahead of Red Bull in this thrilling Constructors' title fight 📈#F1 #MexicoGP pic.twitter.com/gAexEkeDKb

— Formula 1 (@F1) October 27, 2024

Why not rookie Franco Colapinto?

Choosing Colapinto as Max Verstappen’s future teammate offers Red Bull two main advantages. First, his young and dynamic profile could inject new energy into the team and deliver solid points in the championship. Red Bull might take this bold move since they have little to lose. Meanwhile, the Argentine attracts many sponsors in Latin America as we have seen with Mercado Libre, having already benefited from the Mexican market through Perez. However, Colapinto is currently tied to Williams, posing a challenge: Red Bull won’t develop him only to see him later return to Williams. Any transfer decision would require a contract buyout or tough negotiation with Williams for a potential starting role in 2025.

Record $1 million in fines for Alpine and Honda F1 engine manufacturers

Red Bull has the choice for 2025

If Colapinto joins Red Bull, it could rebalance performance between Red Bull Racing and Alphalauri, especially with the Liam Lawson option also under consideration. Lawson, currently substituting for Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull’s sister team, is already impressing with his aggressive performances and determination. However, Red Bull will also need to avoid overloading the main team by moving all its talent there. The team must also weigh the commercial benefits of each driver to optimize its global position in F1. With the Latin American market on the rise and competition heating up, Red Bull’s 2025 choice is as much a strategic decision in sports as it is a commercial one. One thing is clear, it may be time for Sergio Perez to consider retirement.

This article explores Red Bull’s potential driver lineup decisions for 2025, focusing on Perez’s challenges, Colapinto’s appeal, and the balance needed between Red Bull Racing and VCARB RB for optimal team and financial performance.

Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool

The FlA has struck hard again, imposing significant fines on F1 engine manufacturers Honda and Alpine for failing to adhere to their budget cap procedures.

A costly mistake for both manufacturers, as the FlA strives to maintain financial fairness in Formula 1, especially through the Budget Cap. But what infractions were committed? Here’s a look at the federation’s decision, the reasons behind it, and what it could mean for these historic manufacturers.

Read more:

• Mercedes almost reached the $135 Million budget cap and they’re facing a dilemma

Small mistakes that prove very costly

The FIA’s investigation revealed different yet costly oversights for Honda and Alpine. For Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), which supplies engines to both Red Bull group teams, the issue lies in documentation that the FIA deemed inaccurate. Honda’s cost calculations included non-compliant adjustments and exclusions, resulting in a $600,000 fine. That hurts. On the French side, Alpine failed to meet deadlines for submitting certain documents, with essential information missing. This procedural violation cost them a slightly smaller fine of $400,000. That still hurts. So a total of one million for both engine manufacturers. Despite these lapses, the FlA emphasized that neither team gained any advantage from these errors, and the engines of Red Bull Racing, VCARB RB and Alpine F1 Team are still considered compliant.

A settlement agreement is possible for Alpine and Honda

The FlA chose to settle these infractions through an Accepted Breach Agreement with both manufacturers. Rather than imposing severe sanctions, the federation focused on financial penalties, assuring that none of these breaches provided Honda or Alpine with a technical or competitive edge. This choice reflects the FlA’s flexibility towards teams acting in good faith but does not question its firmness in enforcing budget cap rules. Historically, the FlA has shown its commitment to this issue, as evidenced by Red Bull Racing’s fine for exceeding the Budget Cap during the 2021 season.

Verstappen’s radical technique to win the F1 championship even with a slower car

What are the implications for the new 2026 regulations?

For Alpine, this sanction comes at a strategic moment, as Renault, its owner, decided to halt engine development in 2026. Looking ahead, Alpine might become a customer of engine supplier Mercedes, a decision that could shift the team’s performance and competitiveness. Luca De Meo, the head of the French group, justified this decision by citing substantial savings achieved by outsourcing this task. As for Honda, this penalty doesn’t affect its plans for 2026, with the Japanese manufacturer expected to supply engines to Aston Martin F1 Team under the new engine regulations. Thus, this fine serves as a mere reminder of the vigilance required for manufacturers, as the FIA continues enforcing strict rules to ensure fairness in Formula 1.

This article explores the financial penalties imposed on engine manufacturers Honda and Alpine for procedural breaches in their engine development, the cooperative approach taken by the FIA, and the potential future impact for these two Formula 1 giants under new regulations for the 2026 season.

Images: Alpine F1 Team, Red Bull Content Pool