'Esteban Ocon Comments on Unexpected Departure from Alpine'

Esteban Ocon shares a composed statement after his early departure from the Alpine F1 team.

Esteban Ocon has expressed his thoughts after leaving the Alpine F1 team earlier than expected.

On Monday, Alpine revealed that following the Qatar Grand Prix, Jack Doohan, a newcomer in 2025, will take Esteban Ocon's place for the final race of the season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, this coming weekend.

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Rumors about a surprising driver exchange for the season's final race surfaced following the Qatar race on Sunday. Alpine then validated these reports on Monday.

On Tuesday, Ocon issued a statement expressing gratitude to his team at Alpine and stating that he did not wish for things to conclude with an early departure.

"I want to primarily express my gratitude to the mechanics and engineers from every department at the track, as well as those in Enstone and Viry-Châtillon, who have been my teammates over the past five seasons," Ocon stated.

"We've experienced a lot together, and I'm honored to consider many of you as friends. I understand the significance of all those shared moments for everyone, and it's the collective sense of accomplishment and happiness with the team that I'll cherish as I move forward."

"The team has faced a challenging year on the track, with the latter half of the season proving particularly tough for several reasons."

"I have no regrets because I know I put in my full effort during every session, just as I always do."

"I want to express my apologies to the many dedicated individuals working at Enstone and Viry, as I will not be able to visit in person to say a proper goodbye."

As you're aware, the intention was to compete for the final time this weekend and then bid a personal farewell to everyone next week. I had been eagerly anticipating both events.

"I didn't intend for things to conclude this way. However, the Formula 1 community is tight-knit, and I'm confident I'll cross paths with many of you again in the near future."

"I also want to extend my best wishes to my friend Jack as he embarks on this significant new chapter in his career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix happening this week."

Alpine released a short reply to Ocon's remarks, stating: "You will always be a part of our Team's legacy. Thank you, Esteban. Wishing you all the best."

A 28-year-old driver from France is set to be part of the Haas team next season. Reports suggest that his contract has ended early, allowing him to participate with the American team in the test session scheduled for next week, after the current season concludes.

Alpine asserts that separation is mutually beneficial.

On Sunday, prior to the official announcement, Alpine's team leader, Oliver Oakes, indicated that parting ways would be advantageous for both sides.

Nevertheless, in his farewell statement, Ocon expressed that he holds a contrasting opinion.

“It seems to come from various directions. You could argue that bringing Jack in sooner is beneficial, while from Esteban’s perspective, transitioning earlier is advantageous,” stated Oakes.

"I believe it works well for everyone, making the conversation quite straightforward. Esteban has played a significant role in this team, and it benefits both parties involved."

In essence, it's more about the natural progression of him transitioning to a new phase. The question is whether it's mutually beneficial for both parties to make this change slightly ahead of the final stage.

"On the flip side, it can be seen as beneficial to have Jack join the team now, allowing him to collaborate with everyone and overcome any nervousness before next year in Australia."

Lewis frequently covers Formula 1 races globally for Crash.net. He is typically on-site to provide firsthand accounts and shares the narratives of key figures in the motorsport community.

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EXCLUSIVE: I competed in the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and celebrated with Michael Schumacher

A story about Formula 1's debut in Abu Dhabi, which took place 15 years ago

The inaugural F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took place in 2009, and since then, many things have evolved.

Jenson Button entered as the freshly crowned Formula 1 champion following his victory in Brazil.

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The final race of the season, now a staple event, is set to take place. Formula 1 will conclude its 2024 campaign in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

Button described it as having a futuristic quality during an exclusive conversation with Crash.net.

The experience was incredible, involving racing at night and traveling to a country I had never visited before. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it marked my first podium finish after several races that season.

"I came to Abu Dhabi as the reigning World Champion after securing a victory in Brazil, which was an excellent race."

"I spent Sunday evening at Amber Lounge with Michael Schumacher and Ross Brawn, and it was incredibly enjoyable."

The Yas Marina circuit has undergone major modifications to enhance the quality of the races.

Button expressed his enjoyment of the track while driving it and mentioned that he will have the opportunity to drive there again in January.

"We're conducting tests for the WEC at that location, so I'll get a sense of the high-speed section soon. Overall, I find it enjoyable."

"The event is well-timed in the schedule. Unlike the rapid circuits found at Suzuka, Silverstone, or Spa, this track offers a different experience. Nonetheless, I always have a great time driving there, and I believe the competition is exciting."

Button reminisces about Abu Dhabi, recalling his full-time retirement and his second-to-last race in 2016.

He describes his most cherished experiences: "Standing on the podium during the inaugural year and then again the next year when we celebrated Sebastian [Vettel] becoming the World Champion."

"Standing on the podium with Lewis and me, both representing McLaren, was a memorable moment as we were the last two World Champions. It was quite exciting to celebrate by spraying Seb with champagne!"

"Those two are memorable, but my last race there also stands out."

"I experienced a suspension issue and ended the race prematurely. Afterward, I had some drinks and participated in numerous interviews where I expressed indifference about my departure from Formula 1."

"The statements weren't completely accurate! I've always had a great time there, and I'm excited to return and experience those moments again."

It has been 15 years since Button won his only Formula 1 title while driving for Brawn.

"It's hard to believe that 15 years have passed! I had the chance to get behind the wheel of the car again five years ago, and it was a wonderful experience," he mentioned.

Looking back, it was a year destined to be remembered in the annals of history. This wasn't simply due to my victory in the World Championship, but more so because a private team, Brawn GP, clinched their inaugural World Championship in their very first year.

"After 15 years, it's easy to forget a lot of details, which is unfortunate. That's why I feel fortunate that a documentary was created about it."

"Last week, my wife and I were in Paris when it appeared on TV, so we decided to watch it."

Having the season captured on record, where I can witness the emotions of all those who participated, is truly remarkable. I feel incredibly fortunate to have this. Keanu Reeves did an outstanding job with it. Although there are many fond memories from that season, it was also the most challenging year I've ever faced due to the immense pressure I placed on myself.

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Jack Doohan expresses his appreciation to Esteban Ocon following an unexpected shift at Alpine. He stated, "I'm also really thankful to Esteban, from whom I've gained a lot of knowledge over the past two years."

Jack Doohan expressed his gratitude to Esteban Ocon, highlighting his positive impact on his education and progress in Formula 1. This comes in the wake of Alpine's surprising announcement about a driver swap for the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Doohan is set to compete in his first Formula 1 grand prix during this weekend's race in Abu Dhabi, stepping in for Ocon at Alpine.

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Not long after the race in Qatar ended on Sunday, there were hints that Ocon might give up his position for the last race of the season, which would allow Doohan to get an early start on his F1 career.

It quickly became clear that Ocon had made an arrangement with Alpine's head, Flavio Briatore, to skip the last race. In exchange, he would be permitted to drive for Haas during the test session scheduled for next Tuesday after the season ends.

In 2025, Doohan will join Alpine's Formula 1 team, partnering with Pierre Gasly as part of their driver roster.

The Australian expressed gratitude to Ocon with an elegant message.

Doohan announced on his X account: "Excited to compete in my first Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Thankful to Alpine for their confidence and for this chance."

"I am extremely thankful to Esteban, from whom I have gained a lot of knowledge over the past two years. His contributions have been invaluable to my growth and progress in Formula 1, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

"This week, I am concentrating on my current tasks and collaborating with Pierre to assist the team in reaching its goals."

A vital competition awaits Alpine and Doohan in Abu Dhabi. Stepping into Formula 1 for the first time is a significant event for any racer.

Nonetheless, performing this action during the season's concluding race is unusual, especially given the current situation.

Doohan will have the chance to make a good impression on Alpine as he looks toward the upcoming year.

Although Doohan has secured a full-time driving position with the team for 2025, there is widespread speculation suggesting that Alpine is eyeing Franco Colapinto.

It is certain that Doohan will face instant pressure to deliver results in F1 in 2025.

Alpine is aiming to clinch the sixth position in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship, striving to finish ahead of Haas and RB.

The gap between the two teams is just five points.

Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives of Formula 1, is central to our objective journalism.

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Toto Wolff aims to conclude the "current chapter" with Lewis Hamilton "appropriately." Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton have a "week of celebration" in store.

Toto Wolff describes the final Formula 1 race of the season in Abu Dhabi as "a celebration" as Lewis Hamilton competes for Mercedes one last time.

Hamilton is set to make his final appearance with Mercedes after Sunday's race at the Yas Marina Circuit.

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The collaboration between Hamilton and Mercedes stands as the most triumphant alliance between a driver and a team in the history of Formula 1.

Hamilton has secured six out of his seven championship titles while racing for Mercedes, achieving 84 wins and surpassing 150 podium placements.

In what has been a challenging final year for the seven-time world champion in 2024, he succeeded in making a comeback by clinching victory at the British Grand Prix. He followed up this success with another triumph at Spa-Francorchamps just before the summer break.

As Lewis Hamilton prepares for his last weekend racing with Mercedes, Wolff reflected, "After an amazing 12-year partnership, we are set to conclude our racing journey with Lewis this weekend. It has been a remarkable experience. Back in 2013, when we first teamed up, we had no idea what lay ahead."

Six World Championships for drivers. Eight titles for constructors. A total of 84 race victories. Securing the pole position 78 times. Finishing on the podium 153 times. This marks the most triumphant collaboration between a driver and a team in Formula 1's history. We've celebrated numerous triumphs and faced some devastating setbacks, but we have conquered them as a team.

The significance of our partnership extends far beyond mere figures and data. It leaves a legacy that surpasses the boundaries of our sport, leaving a lasting influence that reaches beyond the racecourse. This legacy has actively worked to enhance diversity within our sport and has championed the cause of inclusion.

Lewis has played a pivotal role in driving these efforts, and we have felt privileged and proud to collaborate closely with him. This collaboration will continue beyond this year. However, it all started due to the momentum initiated by Lewis.

"Lewis will forever be a member of our family." Since debuting in Formula 1 in 2007, Hamilton has consistently raced with Mercedes-powered vehicles.

In 2025, Hamilton will join Ferrari, realizing a dream from his youth as he aims to secure his eighth world championship.

Prior to that, Mercedes plans to honor Hamilton's accomplishments and contributions by visiting four locations: Kuala Lumpur, where their primary sponsor Petronas is based, as well as Stuttgart, Brixworth, and Brackley.

"This weekend marks a festivity," he mentioned. "It's a festivity honoring all that we have achieved as a team." Lewis has been linked with Mercedes for 26 years, with every lap in his career driven by the iconic three-pointed star.

"We will celebrate this unique journey in Abu Dhabi and continue the celebrations over the next week with visits to Kuala Lumpur, Stuttgart, and finally Brixworth and Brackley. We do so with the understanding that although this chapter of our partnership is concluding, Lewis will forever remain a member of our family."

"At the moment, our attention is entirely on the upcoming race weekend. There's no finer way to conclude our journey together than by delivering a stellar performance on the track. The whole team is committed to creating one last memorable moment. Our goal is also to finish the season in a strong position."

"This will allow us to maintain our momentum through the winter and beyond as we begin the next phase of our journey in 2025. With George stepping into the role of lead driver and Kimi bringing fresh energy as a promising rookie, we have a promising future ahead. However, it's important to conclude this current chapter properly. Thank you, Lewis: let's make this last time count."

Connor, known for his keen insight into Formula 1's disputes and narratives, is essential to our objective journalism.

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Zhou Guanyu delivered an impactful performance at the F1 Qatar Grand Prix, signaling his readiness for future opportunities. "Indeed, a statement has been made, and now I'm anticipating my next chance," he expressed.

Zhou Guanyu believes he sent a strong message with his remarkable performance at the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou secured both his and Sauber's initial points of the 2024 Formula 1 season by delivering an impressive performance that led him to finish in eighth place.

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Zhou capitalized on challenging races for Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton, as well as Sergio Perez's late withdrawal, to craft an impressive performance that earned him his first top 10 finish of the season.

Following the debut of Sauber's newest set of improvements, Zhou has appeared more at ease, managing to out-qualify Valtteri Bottas in the past two races.

Prior to that, Zhou had managed to outqualify Bottas just a single time in 21 races.

For Zhou, the timing was unfortunate as he found himself off the 2025 F1 roster, similar to Bottas. Sauber chose to bring in Gabriel Bortoleto to team up with Nico Hulkenberg instead.

While addressing the press in Qatar, with representatives from Crash.net in attendance at the paddock, Zhou shared his thoughts on his remarkable achievement.

"Yes, a statement is being issued, and now we're just waiting for an opportunity," he mentioned.

"I'm excited about the final race with the team and then moving on to the next phase."

Zhou considers it a relief that he will be taking a break from the 2025 season.

According to various sources, Zhou might take on the role of a Ferrari test and reserve driver in the coming year.

With Robert Shwartzman departing Ferrari to focus on a career in IndyCar, a position has opened up within the team. Meanwhile, Oliver Bearman will be occupied with his role as a driver for Haas in 2025.

The Scuderia team still has Antonio Giovinazzi, who used to drive for Sauber, on their roster, but Zhou would bring them more up-to-date experience.

Any team that decides to sign him will gain a monetary advantage due to his connections with China.

Zhou expressed that securing his first points finish of the season felt like a "relief."

He mentioned that although he might have had a stronger opportunity to remain in the lineup next year, he doesn't view it as a letdown.

The way I see it, sometimes that's just how life unfolds. On the other hand, I feel a sense of relief because this season has been mentally exhausting. For me, taking a year off is actually positive, as it gives me a break and the opportunity to aim for a spot next year. If that doesn't happen, I'm hopeful for the year after.

"I'm anticipating the upcoming events, and I believe the key is to finish my Formula 1 career on a high note. I think I managed to demonstrate my capabilities, and I'm thankful for that opportunity."

With keen insight into F1's disputes and narratives, Connor serves as the core of our fair reporting.

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FIA's Mohammed Ben Sulayem suggests the possibility of a 12th team joining F1

FIA leader indicates that the entry of Cadillac may not be the final addition

The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, suggested that Formula 1 might grow by adding a 12th team.

Supported by General Motors, Cadillac is set to join as the 11th team in 2026 following an extended period of negotiations.

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However, their expected arrival could potentially mark just the beginning of Formula 1's growth.

When questioned by Reuters regarding the possibility of adding a 12th team, Ben Sulayem responded, "Why not?"

"The focus is on making the right choice. So, why do we have 12 options if we plan to reject them all?"

"In my view, having the 11th team is beneficial for everyone involved."

Cadillac plans to join Formula 1 in 2026. Michael Andretti's attempt to bring Andretti Global into the F1 circuit encountered resistance from the current teams, even though the FIA had shown support for the initiative.

Andretti withdrew from his leadership position, leaving an opportunity open for General Motors.

A project featuring Cadillac has received approval from the ten existing teams. However, during the Qatar Grand Prix, several team leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining fairness regarding the distribution of prize money.

General Motors Overcomes Challenges

Ben Sulayem told Reuters that General Motors met all the necessary criteria to gain access.

FIA CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that what is needed is an original equipment manufacturer rather than simply adding another team.

"They vanished for several months and then returned with an original equipment manufacturer."

General Motors subsequently devised a resolution for a problem related to a power unit.

Their goal is to transform into a complete works team before the decade concludes.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter with Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports, including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem suggests that Formula 1 may see the addition of a 12th team. He also notes that the entry of Cadillac may not be the final new team to join the grid.

According to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, there is a possibility for the addition of a 12th team in Formula 1.

Supported by General Motors, Cadillac is set to join as the 11th team in 2026 following an extended series of events.

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However, their expected participation may not mark the conclusion of Formula 1's growth.

When questioned by Reuters regarding the possibility of adding a 12th team, Ben Sulayem responded, "Why not?"

The essence is to act ethically. Therefore, why are there 12 choices available if we intend to reject them all?

"In my view, having the 11th team is beneficial for everyone involved."

Cadillac is set to join Formula 1 in 2026. Michael Andretti's attempt to bring Andretti Global into the F1 lineup faced resistance from current teams, even though it received a positive response from the FIA.

Andretti relinquished his top position, leaving opportunities open for General Motors.

A project led by Cadillac has received approval from all 10 existing teams, but during the Qatar Grand Prix, several team leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring fairness regarding the distribution of the prize money.

General Motors clears obstacles

Ben Sulayem told Reuters about how General Motors met the necessary criteria to be approved.

Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of the FIA, expressed that what is needed is an original equipment manufacturer rather than simply adding another team.

"They went away for several months and returned with an original equipment manufacturer."

General Motors subsequently devised a resolution for a problem related to a power unit.

Their goal is to establish themselves as a fully operational team by the close of this decade.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he covered a wide range of sports including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Carlos Sainz calls for a flawless performance from Ferrari to surpass McLaren in the fight for the Formula 1 championship. Sainz evaluates Ferrari's prospects for securing the constructors' title as they approach the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Carlos Sainz has urged Ferrari to achieve a flawless performance in Abu Dhabi if they hope to secure their first F1 constructors’ championship since 2008, surpassing McLaren.

As the final race of the season approaches on Sunday, Ferrari trails McLaren by 21 points.

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With 44 points available, Ferrari must achieve a first and second place finish at the Yas Marina Circuit to maintain any realistic chances of overtaking McLaren for the championship.

Currently, Ferrari will secure the championship if they achieve a first and second place finish, provided McLaren ends up in fourth and fifth positions.

Surprisingly, since the Abu Dhabi race was introduced to the schedule in 2009, Ferrari has neither secured a pole position nor achieved a victory there.

In contrast, McLaren has not secured a race victory since Lewis Hamilton's win in 2011.

Ferrari was possibly lucky to catch up with McLaren after the race in Qatar, as Lando Norris received a 10-second stop-go penalty, which resulted in him finishing in tenth place.

In the middle of the race, Sainz suffered a puncture, which led to the loss of a few points.

During a media session in Qatar on Sunday, with representatives from Crash.net in the paddock area, Sainz admitted that winning the title on Sunday remains a challenging task.

Carlos Sainz expressed that although it will be challenging, closing the 21-point gap necessitates an impeccable performance from Ferrari coupled with a poor showing from McLaren. However, he noted that racing has seen more unexpected outcomes, and they are committed to putting in their best effort. Sainz believes that if they execute their strategy well over the weekend, achieving their goal is still within reach.

"We're determined to put in our maximum effort, with no risks holding us back, and we're ready to invest everything to ensure we have the greatest opportunity for success."

The legendary F1 teams, Ferrari and McLaren, have been experiencing an extended period without winning a championship, with Ferrari's last title victory occurring in 2008.

McLaren last won the constructors' championship in 1998, with drivers Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard leading the team.

The 2007 constructors' title would have been theirs if they hadn't been disqualified due to the 'Spygate' scandal.

Norris and Charles Leclerc continue to compete fiercely for the runner-up position in the drivers' championship.

The McLaren driver is currently leading by eight points.

Connor, who is keenly attuned to the controversies and narratives within Formula 1, is the core of our fair and objective reporting.

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Bernie Ecclestone lists his renowned £500 million Formula 1 collection for sale

Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has decided to sell his famous £500 million collection of F1 memorabilia.

Former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has decided to sell his renowned car collection.

The assortment includes 69 vehicles, spanning from a 1931 Bugatti Type 54S to the legendary Ferrari F1 car driven by Michael Schumacher that clinched the championship in 2022.

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A 94-year-old individual is putting it on the market with the help of Tom Hartley Jnr, a UK company that specializes in high-performance cars.

Additional notable pieces in the collection are Formula 1 cars once driven by renowned champions like Mike Hawthorn, Niki Lauda, and Schumacher.

Several Brabham cars, which were part of the team owned by Ecclestone in the 1970s and 1980s, are also included.

Ecclestone is eager to sell his collection because he wants to see where it ends up, rather than leaving the task to his wife, Fabiana Ecclestone, in the future.

Ecclestone stated, "For over half a century, I've been acquiring these vehicles, always ensuring I choose the finest examples available."

“I cherish all of my vehicles, but I've reached a point where I need to consider their future if I'm no longer around, which is why I've chosen to put them up for sale."

"Having gathered and possessed them for quite some time, I want to know their whereabouts instead of leaving the task to my wife if I'm not here."

Hartley Jnr stated that the collection has a value that reaches several hundred million dollars.

He mentioned, "The collection includes numerous cars valued in the tens of millions, with the total worth of the collection reaching several hundred million."

"The collection covers seven decades of racing history, yet for me, the standout pieces are undoubtedly the Ferraris."

Among the notable Ferraris is the 'Thin Wall Special', renowned for being the first to defeat Alfa Romeo. Other significant models include the 375 F1, which secured victory for Alberto Ascari at the Italian Grand Prix, and the championship-winning cars driven by Lauda and Schumacher.

A Challenging Year for Ecclestone

The ex-Formula 1 chief has faced difficulties this year, now ranking as the second highest tax contributor in the United Kingdom.

He had to pay a large settlement after being convicted of not disclosing over £400 million stored in a Singaporean trust.

Ecclestone avoided a prison sentence by consenting to a tax payment of £652.6 million.

For more than four decades, Ecclestone led Formula 1, during which time the sport saw a significant rise in its popularity.

His time in office concluded in 2017 following the purchase of ownership by Liberty Media.

Since that time, Ecclestone has only occasionally been seen in the Formula 1 paddock.

He created a buzz by alleging that both he and former FIA president Max Mosley were aware of the 'Crashgate' scandal, in which Renault manipulated the outcome of a race to secure Fernando Alonso's victory at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

This subsequently affected the 2008 championship battle and might be the reason Felipe Massa did not secure the world title.

After Ecclestone initially admitted to the claims but later recanted, Massa initiated a lawsuit.

Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives of Formula 1, is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Max Verstappen criticizes F1 stewards with a remark about immediate investigations.

"I'm aware that if I hadn't eased off, it would have been looked into immediately."

Max Verstappen has stated that he believes he "would have been immediately scrutinized" if he had committed the same violation as Lando Norris during the F1 Qatar Grand Prix.

In the midst of the Qatar Grand Prix, Verstappen observed that Norris had considerably reduced his lap time on the start-finish straight while double-waved yellow flags were being displayed.

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Over the team radio, Verstappen asked, "Can you verify if he slowed down for the yellow flag? There was a yellow flag in the middle of the straight."

Gianpiero Lambiase, his race engineer, promptly verified that Norris had not eased off the throttle.

The F1 stewards quickly looked into the incident, resulting in Norris receiving a significant 10-second stop-and-go penalty.

Due to the penalty, Norris was pushed to the end of the pack but ultimately ended the race in 10

During the FIA press conference following Sunday's race, Verstappen expressed his belief that if he had exceeded the speed limit under yellow flag conditions, similar to what Norris did, it would have been scrutinized without another driver's involvement.

"To be honest, I realized I had eased off the gas when I noticed the double yellow flags," he explained. "I was fully aware that if I hadn't slowed down, it would have immediately triggered an investigation. So, you're just conscious of it. Yes, I did inquire if he had also eased off, especially since he got a DRS from a slower car at that moment."

Naturally, as we exited Turn 1, I noticed he had significantly closed the gap.

"I simply requested the team to verify it. It was a standard inquiry, after all. I'm aware that they're generally very stringent when it comes to double yellow flags."

Verstappen expressed his frustration in Qatar

Despite securing his ninth Formula 1 victory of the season and achieving his first win in dry conditions since the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen remained annoyed due to the actions of Mercedes driver George Russell.

After the qualifying session, Verstappen received a penalty that moved him back one spot on the starting grid. The race stewards determined that he had been driving excessively slowly during the third qualifying segment, which also caused an obstruction for Russell.

Verstappen received an unusual penalty because drivers are seldom penalized for going too slow during qualifying, especially since Russell, whom Verstappen allegedly blocked, was not on a fast lap.

Verstappen was also annoyed by Russell's conduct in the stewards' room.

The driver who has won the world championship four times expressed that he no longer respected Russell following the British racer's efforts to have Verstappen penalized.

Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's debates and narratives, is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Isack Hadjar's chances of entering Formula 1 have improved as Red Bull's enthusiasm for Franco Colapinto wanes. Hadjar might become a new face on the 2025 Formula 1 lineup.

Isack Hadjar might have the opportunity to debut in Formula 1 with VCARB, as Red Bull seems less interested in Franco Colapinto.

According to reports from The Race and AMuS, Colapinto's reputation has declined recently, following initial interest from Red Bull and Alpine in the Argentine driver.

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Franco Colapinto's standout early showings for the Williams team, stepping in for Logan Sargeant at the Monza circuit, attracted attention from both Red Bull and Alpine.

If Red Bull ultimately chooses to part ways with Sergio Perez, or if Perez himself opts to leave, the team will be in need of a new driver to join either their primary team or their development squad.

Red Bull had some reservations about Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, which led them to consider Colapinto as a compelling alternative.

Rumors circulated that Telmex, the Mexican sponsors of Perez led by Carlos Slim, might have supported Colapinto. This would potentially address the funding gap created by a driver exchange if Colapinto took over.

Should Red Bull decide to switch out Perez for Tsunoda or Lawson, Colapinto might have become part of VCARB.

Nonetheless, their enthusiasm for Colapinto has diminished following a series of challenging races he faced with Williams.

Mistakes made without pressure and slower speed compared to Alex Albon, along with a rumored release cost of approximately £20 million, have deterred Red Bull from pursuing Colapinto.

Consequently, Hadjar should be chosen to fill any open position at VCARB for the upcoming season.

Hadjar is involved with Red Bull and is competing for the Formula 2 championship.

Although Red Bull isn't completely sure that he will become a future world champion, he is the next candidate and would merit a chance.

Alpine and Flavio Briatore have decided not to pursue their interest in Colapinto, after considering the possibility of bringing him to Enstone.

Despite having secured Jack Doohan for the upcoming season, who will be making his Formula 1 debut by replacing Esteban Ocon at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend, Colapinto's performance has attracted Briatore's attention.

At least for the moment, Doohan seems to be secure as we approach 2025.

Ultimately, this indicates that Colapinto will be absent during the initial months of the coming year.

If a spot becomes available on the team during the season, he will likely be among the team's top choices for a new driver.

Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's disputes and narratives, is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Unexpected events outside the race attract attention at the F1 Qatar Grand Prix

A summary of what you may have overlooked in Qatar, brought to you by Stewart Bell

This year's event in Qatar was full of excitement, even though the drivers' championship had already been decided. The pyramid kerbs were adjusted, and the cooler temperatures were notable. The race featured several multi-car collisions, two tire blowouts, three safety car deployments, and a host of penalties.

Max Verstappen of Red Bull clinched his fourth championship title by finishing fifth in Las Vegas. On race day, he avoided any penalties and went on to achieve his second consecutive victory at Lusail, marking his ninth win of 2024 and the 63rd of his career overall.

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However, Lando Norris, his competitor, didn't have the same fortune in Qatar, even though he engaged in an intense contest with the Dutch driver for over half of the race.

The McLaren racer's hopes were dashed when he overlooked the double waved yellow flags on the main pit straight. As a result, he received a harsh 10-second stop-and-go penalty along with three penalty points. This left him finishing in 10th place at the end of the race, with the fastest lap earning him a bonus point as his only consolation.

In what appeared to be a possible violation identified by the top-ranking Dutch driver, who happens to be a friend of Norris, the situation intensified. This came after the Dutchman had already stirred things up earlier in the weekend by suggesting that, had he been behind the wheel of the British driver’s McLaren MCL38, he might have secured the championship before reaching Las Vegas.

After the race, Verstappen inquired whether the driver had slowed down. He remarked, "It's reasonable to question this, especially when you have complied by reducing speed. That's the consequence you face. The rules regarding yellow flags are pretty strict. I've experienced this firsthand with penalties before, and that's just how it goes."

Carlos Sainz and George Russell make a sponsor connection in Qatar

Away from the racing circuit, events took an unexpected turn when tennis icon Novak Djokovic was announced as the Global Brand Ambassador and Wellness Advisor for Qatar Airways, a key Formula 1 sponsor. Rather than playing tennis with some of the drivers, Djokovic found himself at the well-known Doha salon, HD Cutz. There, while getting a haircut, he engaged in a conversation about F1.

"This is like the Formula One of haircuts," remarked the Joker. "I can't see precisely what he's doing, but I completely trust him."

Novak Djokovic is quite familiar with Formula 1 and its racers. He crossed paths with Carlos Sainz from Ferrari at the Monte Carlo Masters in April. Additionally, he often encounters Mercedes' George Russell during his regular visits to a nearby gym.

He expressed his enthusiasm for Formula One, stating that he has been an avid supporter since childhood. Michael Schumacher was his hero in the sport, and he enjoyed watching him race. Since then, he has kept up with all the individuals who have contributed to making Formula One popular around the world.

The Joker, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles in men's singles, is eager to improve his skills alongside Lewis Hamilton, another champion based in Monaco.

In a recent encounter, Djokovic recounted their initial meeting, during which they discussed a variety of topics. Djokovic extended an invitation for a brief tennis lesson, which the individual seemed interested in accepting. The person admitted that he wanted to improve his tennis skills and expressed dissatisfaction with his current level. Djokovic believes he can assist him in enhancing his game.

Lewis Hamilton Faces Challenges at Qatar Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton experienced significant difficulties at the Qatar Grand Prix. The seven-time Formula 1 World Champion admitted, "I am certainly not quick anymore," following his seventh-place qualification for Saturday's Sprint. On Sunday, he was penalized twice during the race: initially receiving a 5-second penalty for a false start, followed by a drive-through penalty for exceeding the 80 km/h speed limit in the pit lane by 12.5 km/h. Ultimately, the British driver ended the race in 12th place.

However, Hamilton entered the weekend with a grin, fresh from completing astronaut flight training with the Polaris program in the United States.

As part of a program organized by Mercedes sponsor IWC Shaffhausen, the British individual geared up and was ready for a one-hour flight aboard the L-39 Albatros jet.

During a series of standard maneuvers, Hamilton experienced a peak force of 7.5G, which surpasses the gravitational forces astronauts endure during their launch into space. These maneuvers involved both speeding up and slowing down to feel lateral g-forces.

"It's like you're gliding through the clouds," he remarked. "It's quite a distinct experience. We descended, swooping near the runway, which was a bit wild because of how close we got. Then, we pulled back on the stick to ascend again – that was amazing!"

Before taking to the skies, Hamilton received a thorough briefing and examination of the aircraft. However, the instructor was quickly amazed by the racing legend's abilities as soon as they were in the cockpit.

"We were deeply engaged in aerobatics, conducting tests to assess acceleration and deceleration," stated John "Slick" Baum, who serves as the Philanthropy Director and Instructor Pilot for the Polaris Program.

Naturally, we aimed to experience some G-forces, beginning with four, then progressing to five and six, ultimately reaching seven and a half Gs today. The pilot demonstrated exceptional skill and control, and I was truly amazed by his flying prowess.

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