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

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Max Verstappen finds himself at the end of the season facing a significant challenge: attempting to secure his fourth F1 championship title despite a race car that no longer holds the advantage of previous Red Bull models.

As explained by Guenther Steiner, former director of Haas F1 Team, the Dutchman is working hard to maximize every point, despite often underwhelming performances compared to the cars of McLaren and Ferrari. This mindset pushes him to take risks— sometimes a successful strategy, as seen in Austin—but it has also cost him valuable points, such as during the Mexican Grand Prix.

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A feared driver, as calculating as he is unpredictable

Max Verstappen is a driver who is both bold and unpredictable. According to Steiner, Max is well aware that beating Norris is a complex task due to the current limitations of his F1 car. Indeed, the Red Bull driver hasn’t won a race in over ten Grand Prix, yet he remains at the top of the drivers’ standings. For the first time since the iconic 2021 season, Verstappen must battle on track and confront other drivers directly. He is extremely aware of the situation, able to master his F1 and push his limits turn after turn. (This might be a bit debatable for the Mexican GP, I concede.) Often, his boldness pays off, but in rare cases, as seen last week, it deprives him of a podium finish. “Max knows he can’t win purely on performance,” notes Steiner, but he plays for every possible point to make up for it.

What will be the approach for the Brazilian Grand Prix?

With Brazil on the horizon, one might wonder which Verstappen will show up on the track: the aggressive attacker of recent races or the patient strategist willing to let Norris take the lead? According to Steiner, it’s likely that Max will adopt a measured approach to minimize risks and accumulate precious points. After all, he is still comfortably leading the drivers’ championship. “He’s one of the smartest drivers on the grid; he knows when to play the risk card, Steiner reminds us, although Verstappen will certainly not back down from a fight. His duel with Norris could be one of the season’s most anticipated, given the stakes and the growing rivalry between them. Can you feel the tension building over the last two or three races?

Max Verstappen P2 at the Singapore GP
Max Verstappen P2 at the Singapore GP

Verstappen’s success formula

How does Verstappen stay ahead in the championship despite not winning? How does he consistently come out on top in each duel with his rival Lando Norris, even with a decidedly less performant car? Simply put, he knows the rules: the infamous “racing guidelines.” By mastering the regulations, Verstappen can exploit gray areas-undefined or unclear zones-to launch his attacks. He turns every overtaking into a fuzzy situation where his rival, as well as the stewards, will struggle to determine the legality of the move. The catch is that his opponent must yield if he doesn’t want to end up on three wheels. Ultimately, if Max Verstappen wants to win, he doesn’t need to be the fastest; he needs to be the smartest. With such a lead in the championship thanks to his seven victories early in the season, Verstappen may have already clinched his fourth Formula 1 title.

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

This article explores the challenges Max Verstappen faces with an underperforming F1 car, his strategic approach to the final races, and his secret to winning the 2024 Formula 1 season.

Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool

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

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Mercedes has experienced significant crashes during the last two Grands Prix, with troubles piling up as the Formula 1 season draws to a close.

While the German team aimed to boost performance to rival Red Bull, McLaren and Ferrari, a particularly costly string of crashes has forced Toto Wolff and his team to slow down their development. From Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s crash in Monza to George Russell’s incidents at the last two weeks in Austin and Mexico, the mounting repair costs face the cap limits set by the FIA for a F1 season.

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The annual budget nearly reached

In Formula 1, when a driver’s car is damaged, the team covers the costs regardless of the cause. As we’ve seen before, an F1 car is incredibly expensive, and after each crash, Mercedes must pour substantial sums into repairs. Sometimes they can reuse old parts, but often, a rebuild is necessary. These expenses, subject to strict budget control, threaten the team’s development strategy. Toto Wolff recently announced that only a few tweaks will be possible for the Brazilian Grand Prix and that there will be no further major improvements this season due to the limited number of remaining Grands Prix. The are only four Grand Prix and two Sprint races left.

Challenges of the Formula 1 budget cap

The FlA’s budget cap of $135 million, imposed to encourage fairer competition, has become a real constraint. As a reminder, this budget cap was established to allow teams with more modest means, like Haas F1 Team, to compete with industrial giants such as Mercedes or Ferrari, who can rely on financial backing from their respective parent companies. Wolff emphasized that the severity of the accidents and the need to replace chassis-which can cost up to $750,000-as well as engines and other components, slows the team’s potential for development. The damage from Austin and Mexico may further force Mercedes to prioritize safety over performance, with an even more frugal approach to their stock of parts.

Drivers need to stay low-key

Mercedes’ decision has not impacted the team’s commitment to letting Lewis Hamilton and George Russell fight on the track, as they did during the Mexican Grand Prix. Wolff remains confident in his drivers’ ability to handle critical situations and show mutual respect while they are fighting on the track. However, this limitation on upgrades could impact their performance. For the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, Mercedes will need to test the cars with different configurations, which may reveal potential aerodynamic imbalances. Hopefully, these won’t lead to further loss of control for Russell or Hamilton.

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

This article explores the impact of budget restrictions on Mercedes’ ambitions, the cost of repairs on their development budget, and the strategic decisions the team must make for the rest of the season. With only four Grands Prix left and a constructors’ championship battle that now seems out of reach, it appears evident that Mercedes is more focused on damage control than chasing peak performance.

Featured image: Mercedes AMG F1 Team press release

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

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The 2024 Mexican Grand Prix was marked by an incident that is rarely seen in Formula 1.

Liam Lawson and Sergio Perez, two drivers from the Red Bull program, had a fierce battle that culminated in a controversial gesture from Lawson. In this article, we will dive into the details of this clash, the consequences for both drivers, and how the team is managing the situation.

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The on track duel between Lawson and Perez

Nothing went as planned for Sergio Perez during this Grand Prix in Mexico City. After a difficult qualifying that left him in 18th place on the grid, he completely missed his start by overshooting the mark where he was supposed to stop on the grid to take off. As he tried to make his way up the pack, he found himself in a direct fight with Liam Lawson for 10th place and therefore 1 point. The two drivers battled it out on the 18th lap, quite physically. At Turn 4, Perez attempted an inside pass, forcing Lawson off the track before coming back into contact with Perez. The Mexican saw his F1 car damaged, and the damage ultimately compromised his race. Lawson managed to pull ahead a bit and gave Perez the middle finger in the process. A gesture not without consequences.

Lawson’s inappropriate gesture

In the heat of the moment, Lawson had a moment of frustration and raised his middle finger while passing Perez, which obviously fueled another controversy. After the race, he admitted his regret over the gesture. “It wasn’t my intention to provoke him, but I felt blocked,” he explained. This reaction, while not often shown, definitely exists in F1. Although understandable in the context of a stressful race, it was poorly perceived, even by his team. Christian Horner, the director of Red Bull Racing, stated that it was essential for drivers to show mutual respect, especially within the same team. With tension already high, he emphasized that such incidents can affect team dynamics. But does this gesture risk compromising Lawson’s progression?

A catastrophic race for Perez

Despite his efforts, Sergio Perez was unable to turn his race around. With a five-second penalty for his irregular start, the situation worsened for the Mexican driver, who finished in P17. Horner did not mince words when discussing Perez’s “horrible” weekend, emphasizing that Formula 1 is ruthless and that results need to meet expectations, and above all, be present. The pressure continues to mount on the Mexican driver as he fights to maintain his place in the team, and this incident does not help his case. The atmosphere within Red Bull now seems tenser than ever, with drivers having to manage not only competition on the track but also interpersonal relationships. To make matters worse, Perez failed to secure the fastest lap as requested at the end of the race. Horner announced that difficult decisions needed to be made.

Ferrari 2024 F1 champion, 3 things we learned at the 2024 Mexico GP

This article explores the intense rivalry between Liam Lawson and Sergio Perez during the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix. After a challenging race marked by contact and heated exchanges, both drivers have had to reflect on their actions.

Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool

Ferrari 2024 F1 champion, 3 things we learned at the 2024 Mexico GP

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After a race weekend full of action and tension, the Mexican Grand Prix spotlighted these three essential points.

Between Verstappen’s clashes, Ferrari’s performances, and altercations between drivers, this Mexican GP is sparking plenty of debate. Let’s take a look at the top 3 things to remember from the 2024 Mexico GP.

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Norris is ready to play in Verstappen’s league

Right from the first laps, the tone was set. Max Verstappen, with his well-known aggressive style that often pushes the limits of the rules, didn’t hesitate to battle Lando Norris in multiple corners, particularly in turns 4 and 8. This time, the verdict fell: 2 × 10-second penalties. Norris, however, was ready to fight back and didn’t back down. Once again, this shows that the Red Bull driver is prepared to leverage the rules to his advantage, walking a fine line, but for the first time, his rival managed to push him over that line. In my opinion, this added to the show. The problem now is that we’re entering a phase of rule disputes, track limits, and penalties that detract somewhat from the racing and the sport itself. This clash brings to mind the 2021 Verstappen-Hamilton battle, where the Dutch driver’s aggression also drew criticism. Ultimately, should we blame Max for his aggressive style or see it as a way to spice up the battles on track?

Norris vs Verstappen
Norris vs Verstappen

Ferrari could be the 2024 F1 constructors’ champion

Amid this chaos, Ferrari clearly knew how to make the most of their weekend. Carlos Sainz, as the big winner of the Mexican GP, and Leclerc, a strong third after a big scare in the final corner. Sainz took advantage of his limited remaining time at Ferrari to win, leading the race with mastery. Sure, he lost the lead in the first corner, but that’s often the reality given the extreme length of the initial acceleration. He regained control with a fantastic, forceful overtake on Verstappen, proving he’s here to battle. This victory shows one thing: Ferrari is back at the front; they understand their F1 car, and their sporting director Fred Vasseur has guided the team to this point. And with only a 29-point gap to McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship, Ferrari fans (myself included) can dream of a world championship title in 2024. Just imagine…

Lawson could push Perez out of Formula 1.

During the Mexican Grand Prix, the tension between Sergio Perez and the young Lawson reached a boiling point, as expected. To recap, Perez, currently with Red Bull, is at risk of losing his seat next year due to a lack of pace, and Lawson, now a driver at Racing Bulls (Red Bull Racing’s sister team), is one of the candidates to replace him. In a tight battle, the two collided, causing damage to Perez’s car, putting him under even more pressure with replacement rumors swirling and racing on home turf to boot. Lawson didn’t hesitate to give Perez a middle finger during the overtake to express his frustration. A bit much for a rookie… After the race, Perez didn’t hold back, criticizing Lawson’s lack of humility as an F1 newcomer. For Lawson, it’s about proving his worth against a veteran. Stay tuned at the Brazilian GP on November 3, 2024.

Is favoritism ruining F1 after the post-Mexico GP incident

This article explores the tensions between Verstappen and Norris, Ferrari’s rise, and the budding rivalry between Perez and Lawson. Between spectacle and fair play, Formula 1 will need to decide how to ensure a fair and exciting championship for all fans and teams alike.

Featured image: FIA Press Release

Is favoritism ruining F1 after the post-Mexico GP incident

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After a Mexico GP full of twists and turns, Charles Leclerc sparked fresh controversy by dropping the “F word” in the middle of a post-race press conference.

An incident echoing that of Max Verstappen just a few weeks earlier. But this time, no penalty for the Ferrari driver. So, we might wonder: is F1 consistent in managing its penalties?

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What happened at the press conference?

During one of the final laps of the Mexican Grand Prix, in the thick of a battle with Lando Norris, Leclerc almost sent his Ferrari into the wall at the last corner. “I lost the rear, and then you forget about Lando and just hope you’ll get it back. I had an oversteer, and when I recovered from that, I had oversteer on the other side and thought, ‘f**k,” Leclerc stated in the post-race press conference. He immediately realized his slip-up, adding a humorous touch with, “Oh no, I don’t want to join Max!” This ironic comment referred to the penalty Verstappen received for the exact same word in Singapore, which cost him public reprimand and community service hours. Yet this time, no penalty for Leclerc, raising questions about fair treatment among drivers.

Are the stewards playing favorites?

This difference in treatment obviously fuels a new controversy. The stewards present in Singapore and Mexico, including Johnny Herbert, seem to apply different standards based on situations and drivers. For Verstappen’s incident, they deemed an educational penalty necessary, but for Leclerc, nothing was done. The word used was the same, though its meaning may differ. This decision raises eyebrows: the stewards, meant to ensure fair and consistent rules, send an ambiguous message to the F1 world. Herbert, who had previously expressed concerns about drivers’ behavior in press conferences, did not apply the same level of strictness to Leclerc as he did with Verstappen. Is this favoritism or a shift in policy?

Press conference post Mexico GP
Press conference post Mexico GP

A rulebook lacking consistency

This situation highlights a sensitive issue: the lack of consistency in enforcing rules. Some observers feel F1 needs to clarify its expectations of drivers, especially in media interactions, to prevent incidents like this. There’s a real risk of arbitrary decisions, and a clear set of guidelines is becoming essential. If Verstappen was penalized for swearing in a press conference, why not Leclerc? Fans and drivers alike are calling for a clarification of the regulations to avoid perceptions of favoritism and ensure fair treatment. Especially in an already tense context with contested on-track penalties. It’s reminiscent of the inconsistent handling of Verstappen’s driving over the last two GPs. He’s either hit with a outstanding 20-second penalty or walks away without any consequences.

Ferrari made a huge mistake and it’s Carlos Sainz who’s going to pay the price

This article explores the reactions surrounding Leclerc’s comments during the press conference after the 2024 Mexico GP and the differences in treatment compared to Verstappen. The controversy sheds light on the stewards’ practices and raises the question of consistent rule enforcement in F1.

Source: FIA Press Conference post Mexico GP

Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool

Ferrari made a huge mistake and it’s Carlos Sainz who’s going to pay the price

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After a superb qualifying session and an amazing race at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz delivered a memorable performance that landed him to the first step of the podium.

A true feat on Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, where every element has to come together for a perfect lap. This win isn’t just a technical victory-it’s also filled with emotion for the Spanish driver, who will be leaving Ferrari at the end of the season. Here’s why Ferrari may already regret letting go of their Spanish driver.

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2024: Carlos Sainz’s best F1 season

In 2024, Carlos Sainz’s record with Ferrari includes 240 points scored, two remarkable wins in Australia and in Mexico and seven podiums. His teammate Charles Leclerc is also having one of his best seasons, with three wins and 291 points. Together, Ferrari’s driver duo is currently one of the strongest on the grid. Among the frontrunners, Red Bull relies heavily on one driver, while McLaren also boasts a strong duo, and Mercedes is a bit behind in terms of performance. Off the track, Leclerc and Sainz get along well and have given us great on-track battles, like the one at the 2023 Italian GP and the USGP Sprint Race this year. Ferrari has two highly talented drivers here, but Sainz has proven multiple times that he knows how to keep a cool head and has an excellent reading of race strategy—a quality that’s still challenging for Leclerc. Winning the Mexico Grand Prix once again proves that Sainz is here to compete and is not a No. 2 driver.

Swapping Carlos Sainz for Lewis Hamilton next year

First of all, when I mention Ferrari’s huge mistake, I’m not talking about hiring Hamilton, but simply about parting ways with Sainz. When Scuderia Ferrari announced Leclerc’s contract extension for 2025, few were surprised. We thought Sainz’s renewal would follow, but instead, Hamilton was chosen as his replacement. It’s possibly one of the most shocking F1 announcements I’ve heard in the last 10 years. Why sign such a driver? Hamilton is arguably one of the best, if not the best, with seven world championships, 103 victories, and 17 years in Formula 1 with teams like McLaren and Mercedes. His resume alone would justify Ferrari’s decision. With Hamilton, Ferrari gains not only a highly talented driver to fine-tune and develop an F1 car but also one of the most marketable drivers in the paddock. There are indeed excellent reasons to pair a Lewis Hamilton with Charles Leclerc, “Il predestinato,” Ferrari’s homegrown talent.

Is this already the end of Sainz’s career?

In leaving Ferrari to join Williams in 2025, Sainz knows he’s stepping away from a team that’s steadily improving, ready to compete for wins. Far more stable and high-performing than in recent years, largely thanks to Fred Vasseur, I think it’s the worst timing to leave such a team. It’s terribly unfortunate for Sainz, as he also brings a level of stability and consistent performance that Leclerc, who can be both outstanding and unpredictable, doesn’t always have. In this sense, I regret Carlos Sainz‘s departure, because beyond being a genuinely great person, he’s missing out on an opportunity to fight for more wins and podiums. Let’s be honest-even if Williams has made constant progress in recent years, they aren’t yet at the front of the field. Ultimately, though, it’s an excellent opportunity for him to help develop a team and lead it to the top. I don’t think this is the end of his career. The 2024 season has been an excellent one for Carlos, showing us race after race that he’s not just a number two. If Ferrari had to decide today, I’m not sure they’d let him go. I hope to see him back on the podiums in a year or two!

Perez hammers the final nail in the coffin of his Formula 1 career at his home GP in Mexico

This article explores Sainz’s career in F1, especially his strong season and his win at the 2024 Mexico GP. Sainz is no longer a number two driver, and I hope he’ll return to the top of the standings in the coming seasons.

Featured image: Pirelli News

Perez hammers the final nail in the coffin of his Formula 1 career at his home GP in Mexico

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Sergio Perez, beloved by the Mexican fans, couldn’t get past the first stage of Q1 in the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix.

This is a nightmare scenario for the Mexican driver, who was expected to shine at home and restore his image. Despite a huge crowd cheering him on, Checo couldn’t make it into the top 15 needed to continue in qualifying. He’ll start from 18th position, wiping out any real chance of reaching the podium for the 2024 Mexico City Grand Prix.

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This was a qualifying session not to be missed

For his fans and local media, seeing Perez eliminated in Q1 was a heartbreaking blow. The Mexican press, always strong supporters of Checo, didn’t hold back. For them, this was a real disaster. The newspaper Esto called Perez’s performance “disappointing,” and the website Record went with the term “tragedy!” These reactions capture the shock felt by his supporters, who expected their hero to at least reach Q3, as did Helmut Marko. With this 18th position on the grid, Perez will have to give everything in the race if he hopes to aim for a top 10 finish and points on a track where overtaking is fairly tough.

Mexican fans support Perez at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix
Mexican fans support Perez at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix

Horner tries to ease the pressure

After this disappointment, Red Bull’s Sporting Director Christian Horner kept a measured tone. Known for his pragmatism, Horner defended his driver while acknowledging Perez’s struggle to feel comfortable with his car this weekend. Horner reiterated that Perez holds his seat through 2025, downplaying any rumors of pressure on him or the competition from young talents like Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson. This claim still sparks confusion among paddock observers—and honestly, myself too. In contrast, Verstappen took a front-row spot, further highlighting the odd lack of performance from Perez in the same F1 car. However, Horner remains confident in Perez’s ability to give his all during the race, even though there’s clearly more work to be done to perform at the expected level.

No chance to score points at the Mexico GP

For Perez, this Mexican Grand Prix isn’t just a home race; it’s a battle for his reputation and to meet the hopes of fans completely behind him. Even though Red Bull management keeps saying his 2025 seat is guaranteed, I don’t think that’s the case. This year, team tensions have risen, with Lawson and Tsunoda more than determined to take his place, and plenty of F2 drivers, including Isaac Hadjar, ready to step up to F1 with RB Visa Cash App. Perez just isn’t bringing in results, and Red Bull Racing risks losing the Constructors’ Championship because of it. Horner and Marko have every reason to play the youth card alongside Verstappen, who is rock-solid. For Checo, the Mexican Grand Prix was meant to be a chance to show he’s still got it. Starting from 18th, that’s looking like mission impossible.

Disastrous news for Norris and McLaren with only 5 races left in the 2024 F1 season

This article explores the shocking Q1 elimination of Sergio Perez at his home GP, the reactions from local media, Christian Horner’s steady response, and the stakes for Perez as he fights to redeem his performance

Images: Red Bull Content Pool

Disastrous news for Norris and McLaren with only 5 races left in the 2024 F1 season

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Following the US Grand Prix, the FIA refuses to review its decision on Norris’ penalty.

A few days after the 2024 United States Grand Prix, McLaren invoked its “right of review” regarding the penalty given to Norris following his overtake on Verstappen outside track limits. The FIA rejected this request for review, a major blow for the Papaya team.

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Background: the controversial overtaking at the U.S. Grand Prix

During the 2024 USGP, Norris attempted to overtake Verstappen at Turn 12 but had to complete his maneuver off the track. This earned him a five-second penalty, pushing him back behind Verstappen at the finish line and depriving him of a crucial podium for the drivers’ championship. Naturally, McLaren quickly responded by filing for a review, hoping the new data would turn things around by proving that Norris had gained the advantage before leaving the track. However, the FIA wasn’t swayed. This raises questions about the rigidity of the rules, especially in an F1 season where overtakes and rivalries between drivers have sparked numerous controversies.

The FIA rejects McLaren's appeal
The FIA rejects McLaren’s appeal
The FIA rejects McLaren's appeal
The FIA rejects McLaren’s appeal

How does the “right of review” work in Formula 1?

To be able to use this right of review in F1, teams must provide evidence meeting four criteria: it must be significant, relevant, new, and unavailable at the time of the incident. McLaren believed it had these elements with an FIA document proving an “objective error.” Yet, the FIA rejected the request, responding that the new evidence didn’t meet the necessary conditions. This decision highlights the complex role of the “right of review” in current F1 competition—a right that’s hard to enforce. McLaren even brought in Andrea Stella to argue the case, emphasizing just how crucial this issue is for the team and their driver, especially with only five Grands Prix left and every point counting in the championship race.

Overly rigid racing regulations

The incident recalls the famous Verstappen-Hamilton battle at the 2021 Brazilian GP, during that wild season when Mercedes also tried to have a stewards’ decision reviewed by submitting additional video footage. Although it didn’t change anything for Mercedes, the precedent showed that FIA decisions could indeed be contested. For McLaren and Lando Norris, a review could have been a decisive move in the F1 championship standings. Unfortunately, this outcome once again demonstrates the rigidity of the regulations, which, disappointingly, often prevent drivers from battling more freely and giving fans a more authentic spectacle. It’s a shame that every overtake seems to end up in court.

Why has Williams choose yellow for its livery for the next GPs

This article explores the heated debate around McLaren’s denied appeal on Norris’ USGP penalty, the limits of the “right of review” in F1, and comparisons to the 2021 Brazil GP case. Will this controversial decision impact future appeals and bring clarity on F1’s penalties process?

Featured image: McLaren

New evidence, Mclaren determined to overturn Norris’ penalty at USGP

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As the Mexican Grand Prix begins, new evidence has emerged related to Norris’s overtake on Verstappen in Austin.

To recap, Norris was penalized at last week’s U.S. Grand Prix, costing him valuable points in the F1 driver standings. While the penalty was initially justified by the FIA, it has since sparked considerable debate. McLaren has now brought new information to light that could challenge this penalty – and possibly the rules themselves.

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Norris vs. Verstappen: the clash of the 2024 season

In their clash at Austin, Norris and Verstappen battled for every inch of track at Turn 12 of the Circuit of the Americas. According to Norris, he was clearly ahead before being forced off the track, while the stewards saw it differently. They felt that Norris overtook Verstappen “off track,” gaining a time advantage and thus forfeiting his right to maneuvering space. McLaren disagrees with this view and wants to introduce fresh evidence to reopen the penalty case. Fans are closely following this debate, as it raises questions about roles on track: who was truly “attacking,” and who should have been defending? Was Verstappen’s move really fair?

Norris vs Verstappen
Norris vs Verstappen

McLaren provides new video evidence

This week, additional footage from both drivers’ onboard cameras has surfaced, putting the penalty back into question. This rarely-seen video reveals that Norris seemed to be ahead at the braking point. Could this new perspective overturn the decision? The incident echoes the 2021 Brazilian GP, where Mercedes used video evidence to challenge Verstappen’s (again) aggressive defense against Hamilton. McLaren hopes that with these 360-degree camera angles, the stewards will reassess the incident, allowing Norris to reclaim his P3 finish and three crucial points in the F1 driver standings. The gap between the two drivers remains substantial, and McLaren must leave no stone unturned if they hope to see their driver crowned champion.

Brazil 2021: a game-changing precedent

McLaren’s push is the “right of review” of stewards’ decisions, a rarely used process in Formula 1. Back in 2021 at the Brazilian GP, Verstappen forced Lewis Hamilton off the track in an overly aggressive move. Mercedes-AMG later submitted video evidence, prompting the stewards to reexamine the incident. This time, however, McLaren’s case is backed by precise camera angles and testimony, unlike 2021, when no formal decision was made against Verstappen. McLaren’s challenge now is to convince the stewards that the new footage offers a significant element capable of reversing the verdict. If the stewards decide to proceed with the review, it could pave the way for more future revisions, providing teams a means to contest penalties based on new evidence. Perhaps the issue isn’t Verstappen’s defense or Norris’s attack, but rather the rulebook itself.

Why has Williams choose yellow for its livery for the next GPs

This article explores the intriguing context behind McLaren’s review request and its potential impact on the 2024 season. With fresh video angles, debates on defense and attack, and critical stakes around penalty revisions, this Norris-Verstappen duel might just rewrite some F1 rules.

Images: Red Bull Content Pool

Why has Williams choose yellow for its livery for the next GPs

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Formula 1 is heading into its Latin American tour over the next two weeks, and Williams has chosen to go with yellow starting at the Mexican Grand Prix.

This weekend in Mexico, the FW46 of Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto will feature yellow along with the usual blue, echoing the team’s glory days. For those who remember, it’s a nod to Williams’ illustrious past and a bold way to celebrate their partnership with Mercado Libre, the Argentine e-commerce giant.

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Use the yellow to pay tribute to Williams’ golden age

With a yellow engine cover, the FW46 pays homage to Williams Racing’s golden era. Yellow was a hallmark of Williams liveries in the 80s and 90s, notably gracing Nelson Piquet’s car during his 1987 triumph. For this Latin American tour, bringing back this iconic color celebrates that legacy. If yellow stands out as much today as it did 31 years ago, it’s thanks to the partnership with Mercado Libre.

Williams x Mercado Libre livery
Williams x Mercado Libre livery

The Williams Racing-Mercado Libre deal

With over 100 million users, Mercado Libre is the undisputed leader of e-commerce in Latin America. By partnering with Williams Racing, they could have simply placed their logo on the car’s bodywork, but instead, we’re treated to a massive section of the car painted yellow, along with their famous logo. Personally, I love it! This partnership makes perfect sense, as both brands share two strong values: speed and reliability. This collaboration goes beyond simple stickers; for this weekend’s race, the drivers’ suits will also feature a hint of yellow, creating a cohesive visual identity.

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

Mercado Libre asserts its reputation

With such a presence in F1 alongside Williams on home turf, Mercado Libre captures everyone’s attention. Franco Colapinto, Williams’ first Argentine recruit and newcomer to Formula 1, will also be highlighted in a regional ad campaign. This partnership is more than just a financial commitment—it’s a genuine strategy to build an emotional connection between millions of F1 fans in Latin America and the brand. And there are plenty of motorsport fans down there! The Argentine giant even rebranded itself as “Mercado Livre” for the Brazilian Grand Prix, showcasing its cultural awareness and commitment to the region. I can’t wait to see how it all plays out on the track.

This iconic F1 track crosses a baseball stadium in the mountains

This article explores the return of yellow on Williams’ FW46 livery, symbolizing a link between their legendary past and the current F1 season. By reviving this iconic color with Mercado Libre, Williams not only celebrates a valuable partnership but also resonates with fans across Latin America. From the racing suits to dedicated commercials, this collaboration goes beyond sponsorship to create a deep connection with millions of passionate fans through the next two Grands Prix.

 

Source: Williams Racing

Featured image: Mercado Libre on X