Today’s F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
Formula 1 aims to expand its Asian presence with a potential new race, as confirmed by CEO Stefano Domenicali's visit to two Asian countries this week for discussions. Thailand has expressed explicit interest in hosting an F1 event, with government spokesperson Chai Watcharong specifying a preferred location and ongoing efforts towards realization. Meanwhile, South Korea is also vying for a return to the F1 calendar, joining other Asian nations like China and Japan in the endeavor to host prestigious Formula 1 races.
Click here to read the full article by Fergal Walsh (racingnews365.com)
Top Formula 1 teams seem poised to support a proposed change to the points system, which would extend rewards down to 12th place starting in 2025. Concerns about the current system favoring the top teams and diminishing the midfield battle have led to this proposal. While the points for the top seven positions would remain unchanged, adjustments would occur from eighth place onward. The change is designed not to disadvantage leading teams competitively or financially. It requires majority support from teams, FIA, and FOM to proceed, with indications suggesting top teams won't block it. Supporters argue that extending points would address frustrations in the midfield battle and promote fairness and motivation across the grid.
Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)
Hamilton admitted to driving extreme set-up changes at the Chinese Grand Prix, acknowledging his mistake and the need for Mercedes to focus on fundamental aspects. This reflects a trend of experimenting with set-ups, often at Hamilton's direction, to unlock performance in troubled cars. However, this approach has backfired, as seen in Hamilton's 18th-place start and subsequent struggles during the race. Senior Mercedes figures acknowledged the need to avoid drastic changes and focus on incremental improvements. Despite challenges, both Hamilton and the team remain determined to fight for better results.
Click here to read the full article by Scott Mitchell-Malm (the-race.com)
Nico Hulkenberg tied Andrea de Cesaris for most F1 races without a win after the Chinese Grand Prix, where he finished tenth and secured Haas their fifth point of the season. Despite initial predictions of being at the back, Haas has impressed this season, earning five points in five races, thanks in part to Hulkenberg's consistent performance. Hulkenberg's 208th F1 race in China marks his continued quest for a victory, putting him alongside De Cesaris.
Click here to read the full article by Connor McDonagh (crash.net)
Has the Chinese Grand Prix gotten any better since F1 last raced here in 2019? F1 returned to the Shanghai International Circuit for the first time since 2019, but there were some issues, like reports of the track being painted and fires. The grand prix saw some good racing and interesting overtakes, but has it really improved? Click here to watch the video.