Today's F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
Vettel fears F1 ban over sustainability, Ricciardo "pitching" for 2025 Red Bull seat, and other big updates from around the world of Formula 1.
Former F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel has warned that the climate crisis could lead governments to ban F1 and other motorsports. Vettel has been actively involved in environmental initiatives within the sport, including his Race without Trace campaign that promotes sustainability. Recent extreme weather events, such as floods and wildfires, have impacted F1 races, highlighting the connection between climate change and motorsports. Vettel expressed concerns that governments may prioritize cutting and banning activities like motorsports due to environmental considerations, potentially resulting in the loss of the sport.
Click here to read the full article by Ewan Gale (racingnews365.com)
Daniel Ricciardo's return to Formula 1 with AlphaTauri is seen as a strategic move to eventually secure Sergio Perez's seat at Red Bull Racing, according to team boss Christian Horner. Ricciardo, who joined Red Bull as a third driver in 2023 after ending his contract with McLaren early, aims to position himself for a 2025 Red Bull seat. While Red Bull plans to retain Verstappen and Perez for the next season, Ricciardo sees his temporary stint with AlphaTauri as an opportunity to showcase his abilities and make a case for a future Red Bull seat.
Click here to read the full article by Scott Mitchell-Malm (the-race.com)
Fans attending the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort next year will face an additional €3 fee, known as the 'fun tax,' to cover the costs incurred by the Zandvoort City Council in managing the event. The tax will be charged to the promoter and passed on to the attendees starting from 2024. The promoters are unhappy with the tax but have reluctantly accepted it. The tax applies to any event with over 10,000 visitors, potentially impacting Zandvoort's chances of retaining its spot on the F1 calendar. However, the ticket prices for the Dutch Grand Prix are comparatively reasonable, although Formula 1 may not appreciate the passing on of a government-imposed tax to its fans.
Click here to read the full article by Sam Cooper (planetf1.com)
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur dismissed rumors of Alex Albon joining Ferrari, stating that Albon's focus is on a long-term future with Williams, where he has a contract for 2024. Vasseur believes Albon is well settled at Williams and downplayed any talk of Ferrari seeking a new driver. Vasseur emphasized that his priority is understanding the team and its workings before discussing driver contracts, as both Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have deals until the end of 2024. Ferrari has struggled this season, and Vasseur acknowledged Charles Leclerc's aggressive approach, which can lead to both exceptional performances and critical errors. He also praised Carlos Sainz's consistency and ability to avoid major mistakes.
Click here to read the full article by Taylor Powling (motorsportweek.com)
The Red Bull squad recently took on a unique sim racing challenge: driving a virtual lap using one simulator, with Max Verstappen blindfolded, Checo controlling the pedals, and Ricciardo guiding them solely through verbal instructions. It becomes chaotic as they navigate the twists and turns of the Silverstone circuit. Will they manage to complete a full lap?