Today's F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
Sainz's pre-contract with Audi rumor, why Ferrari can't catch up with Red Bull, and other big updates from around the world of Formula 1.
Ferrari's Carlos Sainz has reportedly signed a pre-contract with Audi for the 2025 F1 season, indicating his interest in leaving Ferrari as his current deal expires in 2024. While not binding, this move suggests his openness to alternatives, possibly including a move to Sauber for 2025, which will become Audi in 2026. Earlier denials by Sainz regarding such speculations had emerged as he expressed his commitment to Ferrari. Alfa Romeo's current drivers, Bottas and Zhou, seem set for 2024, with Bottas staying until Audi's takeover in 2025.
Click here to read the full article by Lewis Larkam (crashnet.com)
Ferrari's Frederic Vasseur has said that closing the gap with Red Bull has become more challenging due to F1's cost cap. F1 has operated under a $135 million budget cap per team since 2021. Red Bull's dominant 2023 performance, winning all 12 races so far, has given them a significant lead in both Championships. Teams like Ferrari can't invest as much in development due to the cap, making it harder to narrow the gap. Vasseur emphasizes Ferrari's focus on self-improvement while acknowledging Red Bull's consistent upgrades and substantial lead.
Click here to read the full article by Fergal Walsh (motorsportweek.com)
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri attended the British Grand Prix at the Silverstone circuit and connected with the MotoGP action. Their passion for racing extends beyond specific disciplines, forming a common thread in their high-speed journey. Norris, who once adored MotoGP before F1, supported Yamaha rider Fabio Quartararo during the main event, even exchanging helmets with him. Unfortunately, Quartararo finished 15th in the race, won by Aprilla's Aleix Espargaro. Although Norris had experienced MotoGP before, Piastri's visit marked his first encounter with the sport, allowing him to meet various riders and even try Johann Zarco's Pramac Racing Ducati machine.
Click here to read the full article by Phillip van Osten (f1i.com)
At the end of this season, seven drivers might need new contracts or have contract options decided by their teams. Who among them will likely stick with their current team, and who might switch to a different team?
Performance balancing is a disputed idea seen as a catastrophe. But why do many people feel so strongly about it, and what made this topic so contentious?