Today's F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
The 2024 F1 season is approaching, and five drivers face significant pressure. Sergio Perez, despite a runner-up finish in 2023, had an underwhelming season, with a notable dip in performance. Logan Sargeant, confirmed as Williams' driver, must improve after a lackluster rookie season and Williams' growing competitiveness. Zhou Guanyu, retained by Alfa Romeo, needs to consistently outperform Valtteri Bottas to secure his place. Kevin Magnussen struggled in 2023, and with young talent Oliver Bearman waiting, Haas may consider a change for 2025. Daniel Ricciardo, eyeing a return to Red Bull, is under immense pressure in 2024 to secure a spot in a race-winning team.
Click here to read the full article by Connor McDonagh (crash.net)
The FIA, despite recent bump-induced crashes in Formula 1, does not feel compelled to mandate higher car setups for the upcoming season. Accidents involving Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz were linked to bumps on the track, exacerbated by the current generation of ground-effect cars designed for low running. While the FIA acknowledges the preference for higher car configurations, it hesitates to intervene in performance matters unless absolutely necessary, emphasizing the delicate balance between circuit improvements and team adjustments. The issue of cars running close to the ground also raised concerns about time-consuming inspections, leading to potential changes in plank and skid block regulations for the 2026 rules cycle.
Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)
The 2023 Formula 1 season will be remembered for Max Verstappen's dominant performance, overshadowing other key narratives. Fernando Alonso, at 42, defied age stereotypes with a fourth-place finish in the drivers' championship, underlining his enduring competitiveness. Mercedes' refusal to overhaul its flawed car concept led to a lackluster season, highlighting the need for significant changes. Oscar Piastri showcased elite speed in his rookie season, outperforming his experienced teammate, Lando Norris. The sprint format failed to add excitement, and Sergio Perez's one-lap struggles emerged as Red Bull's main weakness. Despite efforts to close the performance gap, the current F1 rules fell short of expectations, with overtaking challenges persisting.
Click here to read the full article at the-race.com
Alpine F1 Team rounded off the 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship at the season finale in Abu Dhabi, with Esteban Ocon finishing in twelfth and Pierre Gasly thirteenth at Yas Marina Circuit. A brief video review highlighted key moments from the 2023 season, covering Ocon and Gasly's entrance to the paddock, autograph sessions, on-track activities, and a podium finish.
Scott Mansell intends to drive an F1 car upside down - for 5 seconds - with aerodynamic force alone. The ambitious project's estimated cost is £14 million, covering expenses such as the car, tunnel construction, and location rental. The scale is impressive: 1330 tonnes of temporary steel, 131 tonnes of aluminum, and 49,000 square meters of plywood (equivalent to 7 football fields), secured with nearly half a million screws.