Today’s F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
Hamilton finds the current F1 tires frustrating due to their narrow operating window. He believes it's the smallest he's experienced, as it affects lap consistency. Pirelli disagrees, attributing the increased significance of tire peakiness to the tight competition in the field, where even minor details affect performance. They argue that while tire characteristics remain consistent, the narrower performance gaps between cars amplify the importance of staying within the optimal operating window. Pirelli defines the working range as within 3% of peak grip, which is crucial for maximizing performance in today's closely contested races.
Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)
Formula 1 had a strong financial start in 2024, with a 45% revenue increase compared to 2023's first quarter, which hit $553 million. This growth was boosted by the season starting earlier and having three races instead of two. Despite COVID-19 challenges, Liberty Media has seen positive results since restrictions were lifted, with CEO Greg Maffei and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighting significant deals and expansion plans.
Click here to read the full article by Balazs Szabo (f1technical.net)
Alpine has announced that Esteban Ocon will depart at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Ocon, who joined Alpine as a full-time driver in 2020, secured his first podium in Sakhir and a win in Hungary in 2021. Despite a podium finish in Monaco last season, Alpine's performance has declined, which prompted extensive restructuring within the team.
Click here to read the full article by Taylor Powling (motorsportweek.com)
Honda is contemplating developing a halo hypercar inspired by Formula 1, as revealed by Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe. Although details are scarce, it's unlikely to carry the NSX name, with Honda considering electric options for its successor. However, a hypercar integrating F1 technology would resonate with Honda's tradition of innovation. Collaborations with Aston Martin and shifts in the electric vehicle landscape could influence Honda's hypercar aspirations in the future.
Click here to read the full article by Sebastian Cenizo (carbuzz.com)
Alpine’s F1 drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly collided in the Monaco Grand Prix, which angered team principal Bruno Famin. Famin blamed Ocon and hinted at serious consequences. It’s not the first time they've clashed as teammates, and unless Alpine punishes Ocon so severely that he never drives for the team again, there’s a very good chance it won’t be the last.