Aprilia: Jorge Martin's accident during testing not caused by mechanical failure or rider error

"An unfortunate accident occurred seemingly without cause…"

Aprilia's CEO, Massimo Rivola, has stated that neither the motorcycle nor Jorge Martin was at fault for the crash that may have prematurely concluded Martin's MotoGP pre-season preparations.

During the first day of trials at Sepang on Wednesday, the current world titleholder suffered two accidents, the latter at Turn 2 being a severe highside crash that resulted in numerous broken bones.

Martin is set to stay overnight in the hospital before he heads back to Europe for surgery, casting uncertainty on his ability to take part in the upcoming Buriram test scheduled for next week.

Rivola states that Aprilia's analysis indicated Martin's motorcycle was functioning normally and he wasn't accelerating during the incident, with his tires also being within the optimal operating range.

According to Rivola, the accident occurred while using the same set of tires, but he refrained from pointing fingers at Michelin.

In a troubling turn of events, @88jorgemartin experienced a severe highside crash shortly after debuting with the prestigious number 1 plate. He is currently in the hospital for evaluations related to pain in his left foot and right hand. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. Our thoughts are with the reigning World Champion during this difficult time 💪#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/2UQtHKOq1w

"Clearly, we're facing an issue here," Rivola remarked.

"A disastrous accident occurred seemingly without cause, with neither the motorcycle nor the rider at fault."

Inquired about the similarities between Martin's two accidents, he noted, "What's fascinating is that they occurred on the same set of tires.

The initial one was positioned to the right, while the subsequent one was found on the left.

"However, the medium tire has an uneven design. Thus, when it's suggested that the medium isn't the top choice for the right side, it implies that upon turning right, the medium tire should exhibit more softness on that side."

"I'll entrust you with gathering further details."

Rivola has announced that for the remaining duration of the test, test rider Lorenzo Savadori will be taking over the bike. He also acknowledges that Martin's initial significant day of testing on the RS-GP 2025 might not occur until the first free practice session at the Thailand Grand Prix.

"He explained that the procedure involves spending 24 hours in the hospital as a standard protocol."

"He will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow. Following his release, he plans to travel to Europe the next day for his surgical procedure."

"Afterward, we'll monitor the body's response and healing process. The truly encouraging update is that there's no concussion, which honestly is the most crucial aspect."

"Today, we feel fortunate to have witnessed the crash. Following this, we are assured of his participation in the first race."

"We witnessed Jorge, along with numerous other cyclists, performing wonders, so it's plausible to anticipate him in Thailand.

"I believe that when we're in Thailand, we'll also take Sava along as a precaution for additional testing, though it's expected to be challenging."

"It's possible that Martin's initial experience on the 25 bike might occur during FP1."

Martin wasn't the sole Aprilia racer sidelined by injury during the test, since Trackhouse's Raul Fernandez also experienced a crash that resulted in a fractured left hand.

Trackhouse team leader Davide Brivio described Fernandez's crash as "somewhat peculiar," noting that he wasn't exerting much effort at the time.

Comments offered by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Uncovered: Comparison of Lap Times Between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc in Recent Ferrari Trial

Recent data from Lewis Hamilton's latest test in a Ferrari F1 car showcases a side-by-side comparison with Charles Leclerc.

Lewis Hamilton finished his initial test drive in Ferrari's latest Formula 1 vehicle in Barcelona on Tuesday.

The seven-time world champion made a comeback to race for Ferrari at the Spanish Grand Prix site almost a week following his accident with the team's 2023 vehicle at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Hamilton, alongside his new colleague Charles Leclerc and the McLaren team, are participating in a two-day trial of Pirelli tyres, aimed at aiding the advancement of their 2026 models.

In contrast to Hamilton's earlier confidential trials with Ferrari, this initiative was conducted for the advantage of Pirelli and was orchestrated by Formula 1's tyre provider.

The examination aims to assess the newest designs for the 2026 tyres, along with the C1, C2, and C3 hard compounds.

Ferrari and McLaren have implemented updates to their respective race cars. However, for Hamilton, it marked his initial experience behind the wheel of the SF-24, following his earlier two test drives in the SF-23 model.

Norris Outpaces Leclerc

In today's session, Lando Norris clocked the quickest lap, recording a time of 1 minute and 15.215 seconds, while also covering 159 laps in the McLaren MCL60 for the 2023 season.

Moving onto the leaderboards, Hamilton secured his position with a time of 1 minute and 15.930 seconds over 87 laps. Outpacing both Ferrari drivers, it's important to note that lap times are largely insignificant during testing.

Leclerc completed 86 laps, achieving his fastest time at 1 minute and 16.060 seconds.

It's understood that on Tuesday, Ferrari had their SF-23 on the track for a TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) session. This move was intended to offer Hamilton and Leclerc extra opportunities to recover from the delay resulting from Hamilton's mishap the previous week.

Pirelli's tire evaluation is set to proceed into Wednesday. The task of testing for Ferrari will be divided between Hamilton and Leclerc, while Oscar Piastri steps in for Norris to take the wheel for McLaren.

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Championship-winning Brawn GP Formula 1 vehicle to be auctioned

A further championship-winning F1 vehicle is on the market…

The renowned 2009 Brawn GP Formula 1 car, which carried Jenson Button to his championship victory, is set to be auctioned off during the Miami Grand Prix later in the year.

Button, who acquired the car as a gift following his unforgettable 2009 season, has kept it in his private collection.

Bonhams is set to oversee the auction taking place in Miami.

Button's victory in 2009 was like a storybook tale, coming from a team established by the iconic Formula 1 team leader Ross Brawn after Honda's unexpected exit from the competition at the close of 2008.

Operating with limited funds, Brawn GP arrived at the season opener with the quickest vehicle and secured the top two spots.

In their sole season in Formula 1, the squad secured the constructors' championship, after which Mercedes acquired them.

Button secured the championship title with a race left in the season, outpacing Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel in the overall rankings.

The particular chassis available for purchase is labeled 001/01, which was piloted by Rubens Barrichello during the initial races of the season.

Regarding the auction, Louis Frankel from Bonhams Cars remarked, "This vehicle embodies the quintessential Formula 1 dream – an innovative design that transformed the boundaries of possibility.

"Chassis 001/01 stands as a significant artifact in the realm of motorsport, and its appearance on the auction block is poised to draw the attention of collectors from around the globe.

"We are privileged to showcase this unparalleled chance during the Miami Grand Prix, an event that truly matches its iconic stature."

Top-priced Formula 1 vehicles auctioned

The Brawn GP vehicle probably won't approach the staggering auction record set earlier in the year.

The Mercedes W196R fetched £42.7 million at an auction organized by RM Sotheby’s, which took place at the Mercedes’ headquarters in Stuttgart.

Coming in at a far second place is another W196R, piloted by the legendary F1 racer, Juan Manuel Fangio.

In 2013, it fetched a price of £19.6 million.

In 2023, Lewis Hamilton's inaugural Mercedes Formula 1 vehicle, known as the W04, fetched a sale price of £15.1 million.

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Zhou Guanyu secures position at Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season

After being dropped, Zhou Guanyu secures a new position with Ferrari for the 2025 F1 campaign.

Zhou Guanyu has become a part of Ferrari's team, serving as one of the two backup drivers for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Sauber terminated Zhou's contract at the close of 2024, resulting in him losing his position on the starting lineup.

The driver from China faced challenges in his last season with the team, yet managed to earn Sauber's sole points through an impressive performance at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou has reaffirmed his commitment to staying involved in Formula 1, despite not securing the secondary position with Sauber, including the role of a backup driver.

He and Antonio Giovinazzi will alternate responsibilities throughout the season, sharing the workload.

If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc is absent during a grand prix weekend, Zhou or Giovinazzi will have the opportunity to step in as drivers.

Oliver Bearman filled in for Carlos Sainz during the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, following Sainz's emergency hospitalization due to appendicitis.

Ferrari has made an announcement stating that Zhou Guanyu will be joining as a reserve driver for the Scuderia Ferrari HP team, alongside Antonio Giovinazzi, who will maintain his position in the same role.

"For the driver from China, this return feels like coming back home, having devoted four years to training at the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy between 2015 and 2018."

Ferrari mentioned, "Zhou is splitting the backup driver duties with Antonio Giovinazzi, who has been part of Scuderia Ferrari HP since 2017.

The Italian driver is set to continue his participation in the World Endurance Championship, piloting the number 51 Ferrari 499P, the same vehicle he drove to victory at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours.

Is Zhou poised for a return to the grid in 2026?

Zhou will encounter tough rivals in his bid to return to the grid in 2026.

Ex-teammate Valtteri Bottas, along with Sergio Perez, are looking to make a comeback with Cadillac in 2026, and Kevin Magnussen is being considered as well.

Cadillac, poised to enter the F1 circuit in 2026 as the eleventh team, is said to be keen on having an American driver pilot one of their vehicles.

Consequently, Colton Herta is widely regarded as the top contender for securing one of those positions in 2026.

Cadillac's decision to use Ferrari engines in 2026 could potentially enhance Zhou's prospects for a comeback.

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F1 secures a fresh champagne partnership for the 2025 season, welcoming back a classic brand.

F1 is set to reunite with Moët & Chandon, who will return as the official champagne sponsor for the 2025 season.

Moët & Chandon's comeback is a component of F1's recent decade-long "landmark" alliance with LVMH.

Formula 1 has unveiled new collaborations with luxury brands Louis Vuitton and Rolex. Louis Vuitton will be the sponsor for the season's first race, the Australian Grand Prix, while Rolex replaces Tag Heuer as the official timekeeper for the series.

Moët & Chandon is set to take over from Ferrari Trento as the official sparkling wine sponsor of Formula 1, a position Ferrari Trento has held since 202

Before this period, from 1966 to 1999 and then again in 2020, Moët & Chandon served as the official champagne supplier for Formula 1.

In 2025, podium-standing racers will have the opportunity to celebrate with the renowned champagne from Moët & Chandon.

Additionally, they will serve as the main sponsor for the Belgian Grand Prix taking place in July.

Regarding recent announcements, Formula 1's CEO, Stefano Domenicali, expressed enthusiasm by stating, "The act of celebrating with champagne on the podium stands as a hallmark celebration in our sport, and we're excited to have Moët & Chandon back as the Official Champagne of Formula 1.

"This collaboration honors the shared legacy, passion, and distinction that unite Formula 1 and Moët & Chandon, showcasing a harmonious blend of high achievement and elegance during an exceptional year marked by our 75th anniversary celebration."

"The comeback of Moët & Chandon to the forefront reinforces our dynamic alliance with LVMH even more, and we're eagerly looking forward to celebrating this remarkable teamwork."

Sibylle Scherer, the Chief Executive Officer of Moët & Chandon, expressed her enthusiasm and honor in reinstating the brand's role as the Official Champagne of Formula 1. She highlighted the longstanding partnership and mutual values of collective success and commitment that have united the two since the 1950s. Scherer praised the remarkable collaboration, unparalleled accuracy, and continuous quest for superiority that characterize both the world of motorsport and their champagne-making tradition.

"This collaboration celebrates the collective success and camaraderie of motivational racers, their committed crews, and the worldwide supporters that cheer them on.

"Moët & Chandon ascends to the podium once more, and we are honored to keep creating celebratory moments for all who are dedicated to this remarkable journey with us."

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Lewis Hamilton bestows a farewell present upon 3,000 Mercedes employees

Lewis Hamilton has delivered a farewell present to each of the 3,000 members of his previous Mercedes F1 team.

Lewis Hamilton has dispatched a unique present to all 3,000 of his ex-Mercedes teammates in light of his departure from the F1 squad.

It was disclosed that the seven-time world champion arranged for a unique piece of art to be created for his former teammates upon his departure from the Silver Arrows.

Hamilton, securing six out of his seven global titles during a remarkable 12-year period with Mercedes, made a high-profile move to competitor Ferrari during the offseason.

The 40-year-old man from Britain desired to give every employee a unique present before his departure.

Hamilton commissioned celebrated motorsport illustrator Paul Oz to create a portrait capturing his poignant win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton devoted his third win on the Monte Carlo circuit to the recently deceased Niki Lauda, who passed away just before the race that year.

Every employee has been given a personal copy of the artwork, while the original piece is showcased at the team's headquarters in Brackley.

"Given that this information is out in the open and all 3000 staff members of Mercedes GP have gotten their copies, I'm free to discuss it," Oz shared in an Instagram post that has since been removed.

"Lewis personally arranged for this to be a farewell gift for everyone at Mercedes… truly a graceful gesture!

"My sole directive was to concentrate on the vehicle instead of Lewis. Therefore, I decided to depict a scene from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, shortly after Niki Lauda's death, when the team displayed a red halo in his memory. Lewis clinched the pole position and then led the race dominantly."

Hamilton is currently engaged in a thorough pre-season testing schedule, gearing up for his inaugural F1 season with Ferrari.

He is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, creating what many consider the most formidable driving duo for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Hamilton is striving to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship with Ferrari, an achievement that would place him ahead of the legendary Michael Schumacher in the annals of history.

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Valtteri Bottas disclosed discussions with two Formula 1 teams regarding a possible driving opportunity in 2025, prior to his departure from Sauber.

Valtteri Bottas disclosed that he engaged in discussions with two competing Formula 1 teams prior to being replaced at Sauber for the 2025 season.

The Finnish driver, aged 35, has returned to Mercedes to serve as a reserve driver for the next season, providing support for George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Bottas made his way back to Mercedes following his departure from Sauber, as the team decided to overhaul its roster of drivers for the 2025 season. Sauber brought on board Nico Hulkenberg from Haas and Gabriel Bortoleto, the Formula 2 titleholder.

Bottas has verified that he engaged in discussions with both Williams and Haas as they considered their choices for drivers in the forthcoming season.

"Bottas revealed to RacingNews365 that they had extensive discussions with Williams over a significant period."

"Making that my top concern, we had discussions with Ayao about a potential opportunity to race for Haas earlier in the year."

"However, I made the choice to commit more fully to joining Williams. This plan fell through due to Carlos and the financial benefits he contributes to the team."

"Subsequently, I found myself solely responsible for the [Audi] initiative. It could have been a great opportunity, yet it seems that the decision-makers at the top believed a transformation was necessary, extending even to the drivers."

Bottas anticipated playing a crucial role in Audi initiative

Bottas expressed his belief that he would remain with Sauber as the team transitioned into Audi by 2026.

Bottas quickly realized that Audi's senior leaders began to evaluate alternative candidates.

"As my contract was drawing to a close, I began to ponder a lot about what lay ahead," he shared. "However, I remained quite sure that I would still be part of the lineup, as that's what it seemed like.

"The Audi board will have to approve any decisions that shape the company's future direction."

"Certain individuals were indeed interested in having me, while others were keen on introducing a fresh face and opting for a younger driver."

"It was challenging because I consistently received signals, particularly when Mattia came on board, that I would be the cornerstone of the project. Therefore, it was difficult to fully commit to anything else given the assurance that I would have a position."

"Obviously, you're still exploring options without making any firm commitments, so I found myself wondering, 'Alright, when will we finalize this?'"

"This question arose weekly, despite all agreements and preparations being finalized in writing."

"When the delay occurred, I realized something was wrong and it wouldn't end well for me."

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Sepang MotoGP Test 2025 – Day 2 Results (Thursday)

Here are the lap times recorded by 12 PM on the second day of the official MotoGP test in Sepang for the year 2025.

Regular updates on results every hour…

Text:

^X Rider has moved up X spots compared to the past hour.

= The rider remains in the same position as they were in the last hour.

X Rider has dropped X spots compared to the last hour.

Quickest time on the first day:

Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha recorded a lap time of 1 minute and 57

Quickest time recorded in a Shakedown Test

Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha recorded a time of 1 minute and 57.794 seconds on the third day.

Official records from the Sepang MotoGP:

Fastest lap: Francesco Bagnaia on a Ducati with a time of 1 minute 56.337 seconds (2024)

Quickest lap in the race: Alex Marquez on a Ducati with a time of 1 minute and 58.979 seconds (2023)

Following a three-day preliminary session for newcomers, official test riders, and racers from Yamaha and Honda, the Sepang MotoGP Test is set to take place from Wednesday to Friday in Malaysia.

The first day was tough as Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez were all sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Fabio Quartararo, who led the Shakedown, set the fastest time for Yamaha, outperforming Marc Marquez, the recent addition to the factory Ducati team.

Following the Sepang session, there will be just one additional official test scheduled at Buriram, set to take place from February 12 to 13, before the commencement of the Thai season on February 28.

The engine specifications for Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia will remain unchanged starting from the Thai Grand Prix and continuing through the end of 2026. This decision aims to lower development expenses in preparation for the upcoming 850cc era set to begin in 2027.

Due to their D concession status, Honda and Yamaha are allowed to keep working on their engine development.

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Aston Martin unveils the debut schedule for Fernando Alonso's 2025 Formula 1 contender

Aston Martin has disclosed their unveiling strategy for the year 2025.

Aston Martin has announced the official unveiling of their 2025 Formula 1 car on February 23, ahead of its inaugural track appearance in Bahrain.

All 10 teams are set to attend F1 75 Live at the O2 in London on February 18, but the focus will likely be on unveiling team colors instead of introducing their latest car models.

Aston Martin has officially announced their new car, revealing it five days following the premier launch event of F1.

On February 24, Aston Martin is set to make its debut on the circuit during a promotional activity at the Bahrain International Circuit.

This event is set to take place just 48 hours prior to the pre-season trials in Bahrain.

Outlook for Aston Martin in 2025

Among all the teams set to compete in the F1 2025 series, Aston Martin stands out as one of only two squads keeping their driver lineup unchanged.

Double Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso continues to team up with Lance Stroll.

Based on their performance last year, it appears doubtful that they will be contenders at the forefront of the competition.

In the initial stages of 2024, Aston Martin managed to hold their own against competitors like Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari, but their performance rapidly declined thereafter.

In 2023, they faced challenges with developing their car throughout the season, leading to a decline in their competitive ranking.

Aston Martin might shift its focus to the next season, anticipating changes in regulations set to take effect in 2026, potentially sidelining their efforts this year.

Adrian Newey is set to start his role as the managing technical partner for the team on March 3, concentrating on their preparations for the 2026 season.

Andy Cowell has been named as the new team principal for the upcoming season, while Mike Krack transitions to a position focused on trackside activities.

Enrico Cardile holds the position of technical director at Aston Martin after transitioning from Ferrari.

Given the strong performances towards the end of the 2024 season from both Alpine and Haas, Aston Martin may find themselves dropping below their recent fifth-place finishes in the constructors' championship.

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Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso have encountered a setback for Le Mans from Jos Verstappen, leaving them in search of a new teammate for the event.

Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso are in search of a third teammate to fulfill their shared goal of participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

Renowned champions Verstappen and Alonso have shown an interest in participating together in the globally celebrated endurance race sometime down the line.

The idea was to have a trio of drivers including Max Verstappen's dad, Jos, as part of the team. However, they're now on the lookout for a new member since the ex-Formula 1 driver indicated he's no longer interested in competing at Le Mans.

Four-time global champion Verstappen, who has never participated in the iconic race, has disclosed that they are currently looking for a third driver to fill in for his father.

"Verstappen Jr shared with Mirror Sport, 'It's something we're always thinking about, we're aware that it's something we'd like to pursue.' He mentioned that [Jos] still has a lot of skill, yet he has no desire to continue. He simply doesn't wish to do it any longer."

"Okay, let's wait and see how things unfold. Plenty of outcomes are possible. There's a wide selection of outstanding drivers to choose from. I also have numerous friends in racing, making the choice quite difficult."

Last year, Verstappen disclosed that Alonso, who drives for Aston Martin, had expressed a desire to join him as a teammate for a possible attack on Le Mans.

"Le Mans is certainly on my list," he remarked at that moment. "I've visited before during my dad's racing days, and the vibe is incredible. The endurance aspect, the crowds, racing into the night and witnessing the dawn – I find it absolutely fascinating."

"I've had a conversation with Fernando on the subject. He mentioned he'd be interested in partnering up with me for another round. That sounds awesome."

"One aspect of Le Mans is the absence of a specific weight requirement for drivers. Being on the heavier side, I have to team up with lighter colleagues to balance it out. Fernando is notably lightweight, which works in our favor, but we still have to scout for another teammate to ensure a perfect fit – it's something I need to consider!"

Speculation persists around Red Bull's Verstappen possibly making a dramatic move to Aston Martin, where he might join forces with double world champion Alonso as F1 teammates.

A representative from Aston Martin firmly rejected a story by The Daily Mail, as reported by Crash.net, that suggested the Silverstone-based team was preparing a staggering £1 billion offer to lure Verstappen away.

Verstappen has a deal with Red Bull that lasts until 2028, and he has consistently emphasized his commitment to stay.

His prolonged career prospects are expected to continue being a major topic of conversation in the near future.

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Jean Todt shares his opinion on if Ferrari would improve with Lewis Hamilton

Jean Todt offers his perspective on the potential impact of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari.

Ex-Ferrari chief Jean Todt is uncertain about the team's improved chances to compete for F1 championships with Lewis Hamilton on board.

The major news of Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, moving from Mercedes to Ferrari has been the focal point of F1 coverage ever since its revelation last year, with excitement mounting as his first season with the Scuderia approaches.

The British racer, aged 40, is intensifying his efforts for the 2025 season by piloting Ferrari's models from 2023 and 2024. This is part of a detailed pre-season trial phase aimed at enhancing his familiarity and comfort level with his new squad.

After a 17-year hiatus from clinching a world title, Ferrari is setting its sights on triumph, having narrowly missed out on the previous year's constructors' championship to McLaren by a mere 14 points. In a significant team shuffle, Hamilton has stepped in to fill the void left by Carlos Sainz, who has transitioned to Williams.

However, their previous team leader and ex-FIA president Todt remains skeptical that Hamilton joining the team will be the essential element Ferrari requires to get back to their victorious form.

"Ferrari is on the verge of victory, needing only a minor push to succeed. They've nearly clinched wins before," he shared with Italian publication La Repubblica.

"The combination of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz as drivers was a strong match; their loss cannot be attributed to their performance."

"Clearly, the roster continues to be elite, even with Hamilton's inclusion."

"Is it going to surpass the last one? I'm uncertain; we'll need to evaluate the car's performance."

Leclerc finds inspiration in Hamilton's joining

In 2025, Hamilton will team up with Charles Leclerc, giving Ferrari what is considered by many as the most formidable pair of drivers in Formula 1.

However, Todt believes that Leclerc, who has now triumphed in eight grand prix races, will not be intimidated by the challenge of competing against one of the most legendary drivers in F1 history.

Rather, Todt is of the opinion that Leclerc will be inspired to elevate his performance even further.

"Todt clarified that he believes [Leclerc] will not be impacted by Hamilton."

"For Charles, this could serve as a chance to boost his motivation, similar to the effect experienced by George Russell at Mercedes."

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Lewis frequently visits various Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. He usually covers the events directly from the location, sharing insights and narratives about the key figures in the racing world.

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Carlos Sainz followed his gut feeling in deciding to join Williams, drawing parallels to his time at McLaren

"In conclusion, it was this mix of factors that truly convinced me to become part of Williams and team up with you all."

Carlos Sainz disclosed that his stint with McLaren influenced his choice to move to Williams, acknowledging he had to 'follow his gut feeling'.

In 2025, Sainz is set to join Williams following his departure from Ferrari, which came about as Lewis Hamilton took over

The Spanish driver had multiple options for teams to join in the next season, despite being passed over by both Mercedes and Red Bull.

Alpine had shown interest in acquiring Sainz for a more extended contract, and there were connections to Audi even prior to the surprising news about Hamilton.

Sainz decided to join Williams, convinced by James Vowles' future plans for the squad and the advancements being made offstage.

During his initial trip to the Williams' facility in Grove, Sainz shared insights into his choice to become part of one of F1's legendary teams.

"In my perspective, the critical aspect wasn't really the initial short-term period when I faced the need to make a significant choice," Sainz mentioned during a conversation with Vowles on the Williams YouTube channel.

My attention was primarily on identifying which team would gain a speed advantage by 2025. I questioned who was creating greater downforce and who was uncovering innovations that would enhance their speed. Eventually, it dawned on me that my choice should hinge on two critical factors: the nature of the project and the individuals involved.

"Upon delving deeper into conversation with James, it became evident to me that he had assembled a robust project right here in Williams."

"He was assembling a group, fueled by a clear vision and a project, in collaboration with Dorilton that, in my opinion, will propel this team to the forefront through solid leadership and a compelling vision that captivated me from the start and earned my trust in his leadership."

Sainz draws parallels with his time at McLaren

Before Sainz joined Ferrari, he dedicated two years to McLaren.

Throughout his tenure with Woking, McLaren climbed the ranks, securing a fourth-place finish in 2019 before advancing to third place in 2020.

Sainz believed upon his departure from McLaren that they had the potential to become future world champions, a prediction that materialized in 2024.

"Then I refer to individuals, though it's essentially the same concept, ultimately it comes down to the individuals. Reflecting on my departure from McLaren, I genuinely believed in the exceptional individuals within that team, convinced they had the potential to become world champions someday," he further stated.

McLaren secured the world championship title last year, prompting me to think, 'Alright, it's time to follow my gut feeling.' I'm aware that Williams has a solid plan in place. They possess both the financial support and the right team.

"Ultimately, it was the blend of these two factors that convinced me of Williams' potential and led me to become a part of your team."

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