Liberty Media appoints Derek Chang as new CEO, Alpine signs WEC champion Hirakawa as reserve driver, and other big updates

Liberty Media appoints Derek Chang as new CEO

Liberty Media has named Derek Chang as its new CEO, replacing Greg Maffei, who left at the end of 2024 after nearly 20 years. Chang has worked at EverPass Media, DIRECTV, and NBA China and has been on Liberty Media’s board since 2021. He will officially start in February 2025, with chairman John Malone handling CEO duties until then. Chang will oversee Liberty Media’s key assets, including Formula 1 and MotoGP, while working closely with executives like Chase Carey and Stefano Domenicali.

Click here to read the full article by Lydia Mee (si.com)

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Alpine signs WEC champion Hirakawa as reserve driver

Le Mans 24 Hours winner Ryo Hirakawa has joined Alpine as a test and reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season. He will take part in Alpine’s testing program, contribute to car development in the simulator, and drive in FP1 at the Japanese Grand Prix. Hirakawa has raced for Toyota and McLaren and now brings his experience to Alpine. In 2025, Alpine will have rookie Jack Doohan replacing Esteban Ocon alongside Pierre Gasly.

Click here to read the full article by Rachit Thukral (motorsport.com)

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Binance gives fans the chance to design Gasly’s helmet

Binance is offering F1 fans the opportunity to design Pierre Gasly’s helmet for the Australian Grand Prix in March. After a successful 2023 contest, fans can submit creative designs that match Binance’s values. The winner will have their design worn by Gasly during the race weekend and get a signed helmet, a virtual meet-and-greet with Gasly, and a race-day experience. Gasly, who is interested in crypto, teamed up with Binance to help fans learn more about crypto through a fun series.

Click here to read the full article by bandt.com (bandt.com)

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Williams Car Launch scheduled for February 14th

While the Williams team as well as Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz will be attending the F1 75th Anniversary launch event at the O2 in the UK on February 18th, the team have opted to do a separate livery launch at Silverstone just days prior. "As part of our comeback plan, we have been working on our 2025 car for some time and I can’t wait to see it at Silverstone on February 14." Said team principal James Vowles.‍

Click here to read the full article by Williams

Inside the journey of an F1 trainer

It's another episode of FanAmp Insider, and Greg sits with Patrick Harding, who talks about his journey from a self-proclaimed country boy to a Performance Coach for Alex Albon. Harding, who never saw himself working in motorsport, has worked with Arsenal in the Premier League, supported pro boxers, and even helped Team Great Britain win Olympic gold. There's a lot more to being a performance coach for the Williams star driver, and Harding isn't holding back on the details.