The incident when Mohammed Ben Sulayem crashed a Renault F1 car

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who serves as the president of the FIA, had an occasion where he crashed a Formula 1 car

During a demonstration event for Renault, Mohammed Ben Sulayem was involved in an accident where he crashed a Formula 1 car.

In 2009, the president of the FIA had the chance to try out Formula 1 equipment during a demonstration event organized by Renault in Dubai. This event was held to promote the first-ever Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which occurred that same year.

As construction continued on the Yas Marina Circuit, the event was held at the Dubai Autodrome.

Behind the wheel of the 2008 Renault R28, Ben Sulayem was involved in a drag race with a Ford GT, which ended in a crash.

After a rapid start that put him in front, Ben Sulayem lost control of his Renault and crashed into the wall on the pit straight.

Although the Emirati was not injured in the accident, the Formula 1 car sustained significant damage on its left side.

The demonstration had to be cut short due to the accident.

Footage of the accident is available for viewing below.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem's experience behind the wheel

Although Ben Sulayem lacks experience in single-seater racing, he does possess a history in driving.

He is an ex-rally driver who secured victory in the Middle East Rally Championship on 14 occasions.

Ben Sulayem participated in 23 World Rally Championship events from 1988 to 1995, driving for Toyota and Ford, and accumulated 12 points throughout his rally career.

In 2005, Ben Sulayem shifted his focus away from racing to assume a leadership role off the track. He took on the position of president of the Emirates Motorsports Organisation, serving as the representative for the United Arab Emirates within the FIA.

In 2008, Ben Sulayem was chosen as Vice President for sport and became a part of the FIA World Motor Sport Council. He was instrumental in setting up the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

In December 2021, he took over from Jean Todt to become the president of the FIA.

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Ferrari hints on social media about the design of Lewis Hamilton's car for 2025

Reports suggest Ferrari plans to use a deeper red for their 2025 model.

Ferrari may have suggested a new design for their 2025 F1 season car, supporting the recent speculation that they are aiming for a more striking appearance.

As preparations for the upcoming season continue, several reports have surfaced about Ferrari’s latest car, which will be Lewis Hamilton's inaugural vehicle with the team.

According to Autoracer, Ferrari plans to select "a deeper shade of red" for their design in 2025.

According to the report, the red hue is expected to be lighter than the one featured at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix held in Mugello.

Since the beginning of the year, several updates on Ferrari's social media platforms may have suggested the specific red color they plan to feature on their upcoming Formula 1 vehicle.

A fitting room tag, a birthday cake for Hamilton, and a table set for a pair all share a deep red hue.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash.net's Formula 1 account (@crashnetformula1). The post is shared by Crash.net's Formula 1 page (@crashnetformula1).

Supporters will need to hold off until the official Formula 1 launch event, F1 75 Live, taking place at The O2, where all teams will be in attendance, to catch a first look at the new livery.

Ferrari is gearing up for Lewis Hamilton's initial testing experience with the team. As the countdown to pre-season testing in Bahrain ticks down to just over a month, Ferrari plans to provide Hamilton with several opportunities to familiarize himself with their 2022 car.

Hamilton couldn't participate in the team's testing session in Abu Dhabi at the close of the previous year because he was bound by contractual obligations with Mercedes.

Hamilton's participation will provide him with a vital chance to get acquainted with his new team and begin forming connections in anticipation of an important year for Ferrari.

In the 2024 F1 constructors' championship, Ferrari secured the second position, trailing McLaren by only 13 points.

Loïc Serra, formerly associated with Mercedes alongside Hamilton, is playing a pivotal role in shaping the design of the new vehicle.

Reports indicate that Serra has concentrated on the suspension system and its relationship with the Pirelli tires.

In 2024, Ferrari and Hamilton faced challenges during the qualifying rounds, and Serra has been assigned to improve this aspect.

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Christian Horner stated that the idea of leaving Formula 1 never crossed his mind, even amidst a difficult situation. Despite facing a particularly tough year in F1 2024, Horner was committed to staying with Red Bull.

Christian Horner has firmly stated that he "never, ever" thought about leaving Formula 1 following the controversy that surrounded him and his Red Bull team.

Just before the start of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Red Bull faced a crisis due to accusations of improper and controlling actions directed at team principal Horner.

A British man, aged 51, refuted the allegations against him and was found not guilty of any misconduct after an internal inquiry into his actions involving a female coworker. Her subsequent appeal was also rejected.

The situation involving Horner sparked a potential crisis for Red Bull, creating internal political unrest, as Jos Verstappen, father of Max Verstappen, demanded Horner's resignation.

Questions about Verstappen's future arose following the controversies away from the racetrack.

Red Bull experienced a decrease in performance halfway through the season. Nonetheless, Verstappen managed to secure his fourth consecutive world championship, even as McLaren's Lando Norris posed a significant challenge.

Despite their efforts, Red Bull was unable to hold onto their title as constructors' champions and ended up in third position in the championship standings, trailing behind McLaren and Ferrari.

Horner's enthusiasm never wavered

"Without a doubt, it was an exceptionally tough year," Horner admitted to PlanetF1.

"There were numerous challenges, yet we consistently kept our attention on the track."

"Clearly, we've undergone some team adjustments, but we're progressing with an eye on the future, and I believe we're well-prepared for it."

"My drive has always been fueled by the thrill of competition. It gets me up in the morning. If you’re a racer at heart, that never changes. When the race begins, that’s the essence of everything."

Although Red Bull has faced various challenges both on and off the racing track, Horner emphasized that resigning from his role never crossed his mind.

"Honestly, I've never even considered that idea," he stated.

Red Bull Powertrains is embarking on a thrilling new phase, marking the most ambitious undertaking in our two-decade history in the sport. This upcoming period promises to be among the most exhilarating yet.

"In this field, there's always something new to learn."

Several important members of the Red Bull team are departing as they approach the 2025 season. Among them, Adrian Newey has chosen to exit following the controversy surrounding Horner.

A renowned Formula 1 designer has become part of the Aston Martin team and is scheduled to start his position on March 2nd.

Jonathan Wheatley, who served as the sporting director, has left his position to take on the role of team principal at Sauber. This team is set to transform into the official Audi works team in 2026.

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Aston Martin has revealed the reserve drivers who will support Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in the upcoming Formula 1 season.

Felipe Drugovich is set to remain in his role as Aston Martin's reserve and test driver for the Formula 1 season in 2025.

Since 2022, Drugovich has been involved with Aston Martin's driver program, the same year he won the Formula 2 championship.

Despite having participated in multiple test sessions with Aston Martin, Drugovich has not yet secured a full-time racing position with any team.

According to reports, discussions had previously taken place between the Brazilian and Williams, prior to their decision to choose Logan Sargeant.

Aston Martin has announced that Drugovich will keep attending races to serve as a reserve for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.

The position will be jointly held by ex-McLaren racer Stoffel Vandoorne.

Discussing recent developments, Drugovich expressed his satisfaction by stating, "I'm truly delighted to continue with Aston Martin Aramco for a third consecutive year as the Test and Reserve Driver."

"This team has a strong drive, and I'm eager to see the accomplishments we can reach collectively."

"The impressive state-of-the-art facilities at the AMR Technology Campus, which feature a newly introduced simulator, highlight the ambition of the organization. I am dedicated to contributing to Aston Martin Aramco's lasting achievements. I also wish to express my gratitude to the team for their continuous support."

Mike Krack, who serves as the Chief Trackside Officer, expressed his thoughts by saying, "Felipe has played an essential role in our team since he came on board, and we're thrilled to keep collaborating with him until 2025. He truly is a valuable asset. His work behind the scenes, especially in the simulator and during test sessions, has been extremely beneficial, and he consistently performs flawlessly when driving."

Felipe's commitment and insights have been essential to our advancement, and we are sure he will keep contributing greatly to our team.

"We hope he does well in the upcoming 24 Hours of Daytona race."

Aston Martin's Expectations for the 2025 Season

In 2025, Aston Martin is expected to have a transitional year as they anticipate Adrian Newey starting his projects later in the year.

Aston Martin is setting its sights on 2026, as their vehicle will be shaped by Newey's influence and powered by a Honda works engine.

This suggests that the team located in Silverstone might face challenges again in 2025.

Aston Martin secured the fifth position in the constructors' championship once more, but they lagged significantly behind the leading four teams.

As the year concluded, they found themselves trailing behind Alpine and Haas in terms of sheer speed, frequently depending on Alonso's exceptional skill.

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Manager of Franco Colapinto discloses intriguing contract specifics following his switch to Alpine F1

Information about Franco Colapinto's agreement with Alpine has come to light…

Franco Colapinto's manager has provided insight into the discussions with Alpine and the "determined" Flavio Briatore regarding the Argentine driver's switch to a new team for the 2025 F1 season.

Just last week, it was revealed that Colapinto will serve as Alpine's reserve and test driver for the next season.

It is widely anticipated that Colapinto will eventually secure a permanent racing position as a teammate to Pierre Gasly, though this move hinges on Jack Doohan's performance.

Colapinto's standout performances for Williams, stepping in for Logan Sargeant mid-season, have caught the attention of both Alpine and Red Bull.

A disappointing conclusion to the year, marred by several incidents and a reportedly substantial release clause, led to a decline in interest in Colapinto.

Following extensive discussions with Alpine, an agreement was reached to have Colapinto join Enstone as their test and reserve driver.

In an interview with the Argentinian media outlet Infobae, Maria Catarineu, who is the Commercial Director at Bullet Sports Management, disclosed that Briatore showed a strong interest in Colapinto.

"The process was lengthy due to the complicated nature of the negotiations, much like this particular instance. However, Flavio remained consistently determined and became especially focused and driven in the past few weeks," she remarked.

The deal was reached as it satisfied the desires of both sides involved. Flavio succeeded in securing Franco's signature, while [Williams boss] James [Vowles] provided Franco with a racing opportunity, given that Williams' usual drivers are tied to long-term agreements.

She mentioned, "Ever since Franco started his Formula 1 career, Briatore has been aware of him. During our initial conversation, he remarked, 'I’ve recognized talent, and I want him on board.'"

"He paid close attention to every race and tracked his progress as a Formula 1 driver throughout the nine Grand Prix events he participated in."

Colapinto Secures Five-Year Contract with Alpine

Catarineu disclosed that Colapinto's contract with Alpine spans five years, which is remarkably lengthy for a driver who has competed in only nine races.

"Williams transferred Franco to Alpine under a five-year agreement," she clarified.

"I believe that if another team shows an interest in Franco during that time frame, it would likely lead to negotiations between Alpine and the other team."

It seems unavoidable that Colapinto will be promoted instead of Doohan.

Alpine has announced that Doohan will continue driving at the beginning of the season, but the Australian racer will face significant internal pressure.

Catarineu declined to comment on whether Colapinto would have the chance to join Alpine as a permanent driver.

She decided not to express her emotions.

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Franco Colapinto's Manager Shares Intriguing Contract Information Following Alpine F1 Transition

New insights have come to light regarding Franco Colapinto's contract with Alpine…

The manager of Franco Colapinto has provided details about her discussions with Alpine and the notably determined Flavio Briatore, which were related to the Argentine driver's team switch in preparation for the 2025 F1 season.

Just last week, Colapinto was revealed as the reserve and test driver for Alpine in the forthcoming season.

It is widely anticipated that Colapinto will eventually join Pierre Gasly as a full-time teammate, although this will rely on Jack Doohan's performance.

Colapinto's standout performances for Williams, where he took over for Logan Sargeant mid-season, caught the attention of both Alpine and Red Bull.

The year's conclusion was disappointing, marred by several incidents, and the substantial release clause reportedly attached to Colapinto led to a decline in interest.

Following extensive discussions with Alpine, an agreement was reached to have Colapinto join Enstone as their test and reserve driver.

In an interview with the Argentinian outlet Infobae, Maria Catarineu, who serves as the Commercial Director at Bullet Sports Management, disclosed that Briatore showed a strong interest in Colapinto.

"The negotiations were drawn-out due to their complexity, particularly in this instance. However, Flavio remained consistently determined and became particularly focused in the final weeks," she explained.

The deal was reached as both sides achieved their goals. Flavio succeeded in signing Franco, and Williams' team principal, James Vowles, provided Franco with the opportunity to compete, as the team's usual drivers are tied to long-term agreements.

She mentioned, "Briatore has been aware of Franco since his entry into Formula 1. On the day we initially spoke, he remarked, 'I've noticed his skill, and I want to work with him.'"

"He paid close attention to each race, observing his development as a Formula 1 driver throughout the nine Grand Prix events he participated in."

Colapinto Secures Extended Contract with Alpine

Catarineu disclosed that Colapinto has signed a lengthy contract with Alpine, spanning five years. This is notably long for a driver who has competed in only nine races so far.

"Williams arranged for Franco to be with Alpine for a period of five years," she stated.

"I realize that if another team shows interest in Franco during that time frame, it would likely lead to discussions between Alpine and the other team."

It seems certain that Colapinto will be promoted instead of Doohan.

Alpine has announced that Doohan will continue driving for the beginning of the season, but the Australian driver will face significant internal pressure.

Catarineu declined to comment on the possibility of Colapinto becoming a full-time driver for Alpine.

"I’m not going to express my emotions," she finished.

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Aston Martin has revealed the F1 reserve drivers who will be supporting Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. The team has officially announced their backup drivers for the upcoming season.

Felipe Drugovich is set to remain in his role as reserve and test driver for Aston Martin for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Since 2022, Drugovich has been involved in Aston Martin's driver program, the same year he became the Formula 2 champion.

Despite having participated in multiple test sessions with Aston Martin, Drugovich remains without a full-time driving position as teams have consistently passed him over.

According to reports, the Brazilian had discussions with Williams previously before the team decided on Logan Sargeant.

Aston Martin has announced that Drugovich will keep participating in races as a reserve driver, supporting Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.

Former McLaren driver Stoffel Vandoorne will share the position.

In a recent statement about the news, Drugovich expressed his excitement about continuing with Aston Martin Aramco for a third consecutive year as their Test and Reserve Driver.

"The team is currently experiencing a strong sense of forward movement, and I'm eager to discover what we can accomplish as a group."

The impressive facilities at the AMR Technology Campus, featuring the latest simulator, reflect the high ambitions in this place, and I am dedicated to contributing to Aston Martin Aramco's future achievements. As ever, I express my gratitude to the team for their continuous support.

Mike Krack, who serves as the Chief Trackside Officer, expressed his thoughts by saying, "Felipe has played an essential role in our team since he came on board, and we are delighted to maintain our collaboration with him through 2025 – he truly is an asset. His work in the background, especially in the simulator and during testing, has been incredibly valuable, and he consistently performs flawlessly when driving."

Felipe's commitment and insights have been essential to our development, and we are certain that he will keep making a meaningful difference within our team.

"We send our best wishes for his success at the upcoming 24 Hours of Daytona event."

Aston Martin's Expectations for 2025

The year 2025 is expected to serve as a transitional period for Aston Martin while they anticipate Adrian Newey starting his projects later this year.

Aston Martin is setting its sights on 2026, with their vehicle expected to be shaped by Newey's influence and powered by a Honda works engine.

This suggests that the team based in Silverstone might face challenges again in 2025.

Aston Martin secured the fifth position in the constructors' championship once more, but they lagged significantly behind the leading four teams.

As the year drew to a close, they fell behind Alpine and Haas in terms of sheer speed, frequently depending on Alonso's exceptional skills.

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Ferrari hints at the 2025 car design for Lewis Hamilton on social media. Reports suggest that the team will switch to a deeper red color for their livery in 2025.

Ferrari may have provided a clue regarding their new paint scheme for the 2025 Formula 1 season, supporting a recent assertion that they plan to embrace a more daring design.

As the new season approaches, there are numerous reports about Ferrari's latest vehicle, which will be the first car for Lewis Hamilton with the team.

According to Autoracer, Ferrari plans to adopt a "deeper shade of red" for their color scheme in 2025.

According to the report, the red hue will be lighter compared to the one featured at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix in Mugello.

Several updates on Ferrari's social media platforms since the beginning of the year may have suggested the particular red hue they plan to feature on their latest Formula 1 vehicle.

A dressing room tag, Hamilton’s birthday dessert, and the small table set for two all share the same deep red color.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash.net – Formula 1, which is available under the handle @crashnetformula1.

Supporters must hold on until the F1 75 Live event at The O2, where all the teams will be in attendance, to catch a first look at the new design.

Ferrari is gearing up to allow Hamilton to test their 2022 car as he prepares for the upcoming pre-season sessions in Bahrain, which are just over a month away.

Due to his contractual obligations with Mercedes, Hamilton was not able to participate in the team's testing session in Abu Dhabi at the end of the previous year.

Hamilton's appearances will provide him an essential chance to get acquainted with his new team and begin forming connections in anticipation of an important year for Ferrari.

Ferrari secured the runner-up position in the 2024 Formula 1 constructors' championship, trailing McLaren by only 13 points.

Loïc Serra, a former Mercedes colleague of Hamilton, is playing a crucial role in the development of the new vehicle.

Sources indicate that Serra has concentrated on the suspension system and how it works with Pirelli tires.

In 2024, Ferrari and Hamilton faced challenges during the qualifying sessions, and Serra has been assigned to help improve their performance in this area.

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Christian Horner stated that the idea of stepping away from Red Bull in the face of controversy in the 2024 Formula 1 season never crossed his mind.

Christian Horner has firmly stated that he "never, ever" thought about leaving Formula 1 despite the controversy that surrounded him and his Red Bull team.

Just before the start of the 2024 F1 season, Red Bull faced upheaval due to accusations of improper and domineering conduct directed at team leader Horner.

A 51-year-old British man refuted the allegations against him and was eventually exonerated after an internal inquiry examined his conduct towards a female coworker, whose subsequent appeal was rejected.

The situation involving Horner caused a stir at Red Bull, creating political unrest within the team. This turmoil was heightened when Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, demanded Horner's resignation.

Questions about Verstappen's future arose following the controversy away from the racetrack.

Red Bull experienced a decline in their performance during the middle of the season, yet Verstappen managed to secure his fourth consecutive world championship. This achievement came even as McLaren's Lando Norris posed a strong challenge.

Red Bull was unable to hold onto their constructors' title and fell to third place in the championship standings, finishing behind McLaren and Ferrari.

Horner expressed his enduring enthusiasm.

"It was definitely a tough year," Horner admitted to PlanetF1.

"There were numerous challenges, but our attention was consistently directed towards the track."

"Clearly, our team has undergone some changes, but we're adapting for the future, and I believe we're well-prepared for what's ahead."

"My love for competition has been a constant driving force in my life. It's the reason I wake up each morning. Being a racer is ingrained in me, and the thrill when the race starts is everything to me."

In the face of challenges both on and off the racing circuit, Horner emphasized that leaving his role was never a consideration for him.

"I can honestly say that I've never considered that idea," he remarked.

A thrilling new phase is about to unfold with Red Bull Powertrains, marking the most significant challenge we've encountered in our two decades in the sport. I believe this upcoming phase could be one of the most exhilarating parts of our journey.

"In this field, there's always something new to learn."

Several important members of the Red Bull team are departing as they approach the 2025 season. Among them is Adrian Newey, who has chosen to exit the team following the controversy surrounding Horner.

A renowned Formula 1 designer has become part of the Aston Martin team and will start his position on March 2nd.

Jonathan Wheatley, who has been serving as sporting director, has left his position to take on the role of team principal at Sauber. This team is set to transition into the Audi works team by 2026.

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When Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the FIA, had an accident involving a Renault Formula 1 car.

During a demonstration event for Renault, Mohammed Ben Sulayem experienced a crash while driving a Formula 1 car.

In 2009, the president of the FIA had the chance to experience F1 vehicles firsthand by participating in a demonstration event for Renault in Dubai. This event was part of the promotional activities for the first-ever Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held that year.

Since the Yas Marina Circuit was still under construction, the event was held at the Dubai Autodrome.

While participating in a drag race against a Ford GT, Ben Sulayem was behind the wheel of the 2008 Renault R28 when he experienced a crash.

Ben Sulayem, who initially took the lead with a quick start, lost control of his Renault and crashed into the wall on the pit straight.

Although the Emirati emerged unscathed from the accident, the F1 vehicle sustained significant damage on its left side.

The incident led to the early conclusion of the demonstration day.

You can view the video of the accident below.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem's history in racing

Although Ben Sulayem has not competed in single-seater racing, he does have experience in driving.

The individual previously competed as a rally driver and has achieved victory in the Middle East Rally Championship on 14 occasions.

Between 1988 and 1995, Ben Sulayem competed in 23 rallies within the World Rally Championship, driving for Toyota and Ford. During his participation, he accumulated a total of 12 points.

In 2005, Ben Sulayem shifted his focus to non-racing activities by taking on the role of president of the Emirates Motorsports Organisation, representing the United Arab Emirates in the FIA.

In 2008, Ben Sulayem was chosen as the Vice President for sport and became a part of the FIA World Motor Sport Council. He was instrumental in setting up the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

In December 2021, he was chosen to become the new president of the FIA, taking over from Jean Todt

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Alpine's company car GPS tracked Esteban Ocon's trip to Williams F1, according to former Alpine head Marcin Budkowski.

Marcin Budkowski revealed that Alpine became aware of Esteban Ocon's trip to visit F1 competitors Williams because of the GPS tracking on his company vehicle.

Ocon joined Haas following an announcement made by Alpine in June, stating that they would separate from him after the 2024 season.

In July, James Vowles, the head of Williams, disclosed that Esteban Ocon had been to Grove to try out a seat, as the team was considering its choices for drivers in the future.

Ex-Alpine executive director Budkowski, who departed from the French team in 2022, alleged that GPS data from Ocon's company vehicle indicated he had visited Williams.

According to Budkowski, as reported by Viaplay Poland, before the Silverstone race, he visited Enstone and used an Alpine provided to him as a company car.

"However, these vehicles are equipped with GPS tracking devices. Consequently, it was discovered that Esteban's Alpine car remained in the Williams parking area for a total of five hours while he was in the UK. This is how the team at Alpine learned that Esteban had spent a significant part of his day there."

"I doubt he realized it. However, the reality is that the team didn't renew his contract, which allows Esteban to explore opportunities with other teams."

"It's quite amusing how the information ended up being released in that manner."

Williams considered Ocon for future seasons

During the Hungarian Grand Prix last year, Vowles informed Autosport that Williams had been assessing Ocon as a possible driver for the 2025 or 2026 seasons.

After leaving Ferrari to accommodate Lewis Hamilton's arrival, Carlos Sainz secured a long-term contract with Williams.

"Vowles mentioned to Autosport that Esteban visited not for an actual seat fitting, but rather for an assessment regarding the 2025 and 2026 seasons."

"I had to check if he could actually fit in the car. Like Alex, he's a tall guy, but his measurements are somewhat challenging in certain areas."

To be clear, all of our current efforts are focused solely on drivers for 2025 and the future, with no other considerations.

He was certainly someone we thought about. I have been acquainted with him for quite a long time, particularly during his tenure at Mercedes, where he was under the guidance of Toto Wolff, Gwen, and myself.

"He has shown impressive speed. Beating Fernando Alonso in qualifying is no small feat, and it takes exceptional talent to do so. With the proper support system in place, he has the potential to be incredibly powerful. This is the reason he was a candidate."

At the time, Vowles indicated that Ocon probably won't be a future choice for Williams.

He expressed that, given the current circumstances, their paths are unlikely to intersect. He lamented this, suggesting that he could see certain opportunities for collaboration that would be beneficial.

However, there are aspects that I believe won't be feasible within our current timeline. Nevertheless, I am certain that he is destined to have a prosperous career in Formula 1.

In 2025, Ocon will team up with F1 newcomer Oliver Bearman, creating a fresh driver pairing for Haas.

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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem criticizes the media for what he perceives as their "unjust" depiction of him and makes a peculiar remark about the British Grand Prix.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has once more criticized how he is depicted by the F1 media.

Ben Sulayem has once again expressed his belief that he has been unjustly targeted by certain media outlets during his remarks at the Dakar rally in Saudi Arabia.

In what appeared to be an unprovoked outburst, the 63-year-old Emirati, who has been heavily criticized for his leadership of F1, expressed his thoughts, as reported by Autosport: “I have faced three years of criticism. Does it bother me? Was I elected to heed the media's opinions? No."

"I appreciate media that is constructive and uplifting. If I happen to make an error, I welcome objective criticism."

Since taking on the role of FIA president in December 2021, Ben Sulayem has been embroiled in a number of controversies and has stated that he has been subjected to treatment he considers "unfair."

He also remarked oddly about Qatar Airways sponsoring the British Grand Prix.

"Unjust. However, the world isn't just. Saudi Arabia has made significant reinvestments," he mentioned to journalists in Saudi Arabia.

"When you examine certain segments of the British media, you'll notice they sometimes criticize Saudi Arabia or me personally. However, I would suggest attending the British Grand Prix to see for yourself."

"Is it just the British Grand Prix? No, it’s actually the Qatar Airways British Grand Prix. Without the sponsorship, the funding disappears."

Previous remarks from Ben Sulayem to the press

During an interview with Autosport at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last year, Ben Sulayem criticized what he perceived as bias in the British media.

He made his remarks following comments by Adrian Newey, a former designer for Red Bull, who stated on the High Performance podcast that the British media had not treated Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel fairly.

Ben Sulayem concurred with Newey's viewpoint, expressing admiration for Max Verstappen. "As a fellow driver and former champion, I hold a deep respect for those who achieve victory and championships," he remarked.

"I acknowledge that he faced his own difficulties, but let's focus on my experiences. When you examine how the British press treated me… Honestly, they judged me harshly."

"They haven't charged me with anything, yet they continue their efforts. Do I mind? Not at all. Why is that? Because their main goal is to boost sales and increase their own media exposure. Absolutely."

"However, they do not hold any authority over me or the FIA."

"While I respect the British media and other media outlets, it's important to note that they do not have a say in our elections. We operate as an independent, democratic federation. It was the members who chose me, and the authority lies with the General Assembly, not the media."

"Can we please put an end to this silliness and focus on what truly benefits the sport? I’m asking if that's possible. If the media chooses not to, that’s their decision."

"Yet, life continues. Do you know what their actions did to me? They strengthened me. Now, I'm more cautious and have gained wisdom."

"I have backing from the club members. Should they determine that it's time for a new president, the decision is theirs to make."

"When all is said and done, it's the General Assembly and its members who placed me in this position. I understand that completely. If they are dissatisfied, the decision is in their hands."

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Lewis frequently travels to various countries to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He is commonly on-site to provide firsthand reports and shares narratives about the key figures in the racing world.

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