Leading the rankings as Formula 1's highest-paid driver

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen feature as the top earners among drivers

Reports suggest that Lewis Hamilton is set to reclaim his position as the top earner in Formula 1 this year.

His move from Mercedes to Ferrari is expected to propel him beyond Max Verstappen.

Hamilton is set to establish a new "salary benchmark" following his 2025 agreement with Ferrari, according to a Forbes article.

Charles Leclerc, his new team member, is set to receive a significant salary increase for 2025 following the agreement he signed last year.

Top earners among F1 drivers

The roster of F1 driver earnings long positioned Hamilton at the peak.

Lewis Hamilton's wealth continues to increase, thanks to his lucrative deals off the racing circuit and his substantial earnings from his athletic career.

Last year, Max Verstappen of Red Bull slightly outearned him, being on an extended contract with his team.

Verstappen's financial rewards for securing race victories and the overall championship significantly surpassed Hamilton's earnings.

By 2025, Hamilton's latest deal with Ferrari is set to transform the landscape.

The team's dedication to Leclerc also indicates that they are investing heavily in their pair of drivers.

McLaren boasts the high-salary duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Sergio Perez, who was the eighth highest earner last year, will be succeeded by Liam Lawson as Red Bull's new driver this year.

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McLaren Criticized for Missing Opportunities in Unsuccessful F1 Championship Effort

"McLaren is still somewhat in the process of getting their bearings"

An ex-mechanic has pointed out the blunders made by McLaren that affected Lando Norris negatively last season.

Norris was unable to surpass Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in the race for the F1 drivers’ title in 2024.

He was propelled to victory in the swiftest vehicle in Formula 1, with McLaren remarkably surpassing Red Bull in the competition for innovation to clinch the constructors' award.

Marc Priestley, an ex-mechanic for McLaren, maintains that the unsuccessful effort to unseat Verstappen should be seen as a crucial phase towards securing their first drivers' championship since 1998.

"Speaking from my own journey, it's not always an instinctive process," Priestley shared on the Fuelling Around podcast, discussing McLaren's progress.

Observers from the outside see the achievements of Max and Red Bull, similar to what Mercedes accomplished previously.

One might wonder, "Now that McLaren has an impressive vehicle, why can't they consistently perform at the same level?"

"However, you must work your way towards it."

Red Bull and Max possess a recent track record characterized by immense confidence and trust in their abilities. Their capability to make swift and intuitive choices during races, especially regarding strategy on the pit wall, is usually accurate.

"McLaren is currently in the process of rediscovering their winning formula."

"It might sound odd, but it's accurate – developing the assurance needed to quickly make decisions is essential."

Reflecting on this season, there have been several instances where, upon introspection, McClaren might acknowledge they've missed opportunities to secure more points due to moments of hesitation in decision-making.

McLaren's strategy of not designating a primary driver was questioned last season due to mistakes that impacted Lando Norris.

The decision to give Norris and his team member, Oscar Piastri, equal treatment faced backlash once it was evident that their veteran driver had a chance at winning the F1 championship.

The team's internally established Papaya Guidelines outlined the expected conduct between Grand Prix victors Norris and Piastri when competing with one another.

In the second part of the season, the strategy was adjusted to focus on boosting Norris' chances of outperforming Verstappen.

However, their tactics were closely scrutinized, as errors were committed in various stages.

Remarkably at Silverstone, Norris was in the lead until the last pit stops when Lewis Hamilton managed to overtake him with a strategic undercut, securing the victory.

Following a 1-2 result in the sprint race in Brazil, Norris, who started from pole position, ended up in sixth place after Verstappen passed him during a pit stop, amidst criticism of McLaren's team communication.

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Toto Wolff reignites past conflict by taking a jab at Christian Horner over "entitlement" remarks

"Toto Wolff did not hear a single word from Christian…"

Toto Wolff has reignited discussions around the controversial 2021 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

In the closing stages of the season's final race, Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton narrowly missed securing a historic eighth F1 championship title.

Michael Masi's contentious implementation of the Safety Car regulation paved the way for Max Verstappen to secure his inaugural championship, signaling the beginning of a successful period for Red Bull.

Mercedes chief Wolff criticized Christian Horner's Red Bull team on the Armchair Expert podcast, stating, "The other party – excluding Max – failed to acknowledge even once that it was a tough day for Mercedes, recognizing both teams as deserving champions, and today luck was not on Mercedes' side."

"Neither Christian nor his team expressed any recognition of that. It came across as entitlement."

Wolff asserts that Mercedes would have approached the problem in another manner.

"He was adamant that they would have expressed it."

Lewis Hamilton was prevented from securing a historic Formula 1 championship

Wolff maintains that the incidents during the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix rank as some of the most contentious in the realm of sports.

"He suggested that in many sports, it was evident that the referee chose to take an action that wasn't outlined in the official rules."

"The decision wasn't even a matter of interpretation; it simply wasn't covered by the regulations."

Wolff elaborated, saying, “According to the precise application of the regulation, it's required to allow the lapped cars to overtake and then reposition them at the end of the line.

"After that, we secure the championship victory. It's evident. There's insufficient time left. The race concludes with a Safety Car on the track."

"The revised rule states: after allowing the cars to unlatch, an additional lap must be completed before a green flag can be waved. This secures our championship victory."

“The third scenario? It deviated from the norm, bending the regulations, yet it was comprehensible – a scenario where there's a green flag lap without the Safety Car leading. Under those circumstances, Lewis would have emerged victorious, given the gap of three or four cars that separated him from the rest.

"Regardless, this wasn't included in the regulations."

Wolff went on to discuss Masi's role, saying, "At that point, a decision was made to conclude the championship in the span of a lap. The idea of allowing cars to unlap themselves in such a situation was unprecedented.

"Each of the drivers had rightfully earned their status as world champions."

Hamilton suggested he might retire soon after the 2021 season's final race.

Upon his comeback, Mercedes fell into a terrible slump that lasted for two years.

Despite breaking his streak without a win at Silverstone the previous summer, Hamilton has faced three years driving a car that hasn't consistently competed at the forefront.

This year, he has made the switch from Mercedes to Ferrari, in pursuit of securing the much-coveted eighth F1 championship.

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Speculation Surrounds Marc Hynes as Lewis Hamilton Establishes Core Group at Ferrari

Insights Emerge Regarding Lewis Hamilton's Close-Knit Team

Italian newspapers have discussed the specifics of Lewis Hamilton's close associates at Ferrari.

Hamilton's move from Mercedes to Ferrari this season represents a major shift in the Formula 1 landscape.

Hamilton is set to be joined by notable figures such as Fred Vasseur and Charles Leclerc, while also being part of a more intimate circle behind the scenes.

Lewis Hamilton establishes a close-knit group within Ferrari

Marc Hynes is set to maintain his position as Hamilton's manager, as reported by Gazzetta.

Hynes, an ex-racing driver, served as Hamilton's agent and managed Project 44 between 2015 and 2021.

One year prior, Hamilton reconnected with a long-time companion, and their partnership is set to continue as the Ferrari period commences, according to the Italian press.

Hamilton will be supported by a group of people as he moves to a different team.

According to the newspaper, he is set to appoint at least one individual to handle communications and public relations beyond the Formula 1 circuit.

Hamilton is expected to collaborate with a photographer, fitness coaches, and security staff.

Hamilton shares a historical connection with Ferrari's team principal Vasseur, dating back to Hamilton's early career, a period during which Vasseur played a significant role.

Loic Serra, the chassis chief, and Jerome d'Ambrosio, the assistant team leader, have transitioned from Mercedes to Ferrari, making them recognizable figures in their new environment.

Hamilton's First Ferrari Test Approaches

Hamilton is on the verge of getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari for his inaugural test drive at Fiorano in the coming weeks.

He is set to take the helm during a private trial session. It's also said that Ferrari plans to bring him to Barcelona for additional rounds on the track.

Hamilton is scheduled to attend the official F1 gathering at The O2 in London, together with representatives from all the other teams.

The following day, February 19, Ferrari is set to reveal their car for the 2025 season.

Following a three-year stretch where Mercedes equipment fell short compared to Red Bull, Hamilton is setting his sights on securing an unprecedented eighth F1 championship this season with his latest team.

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Guenther Steiner highlights the F1 driver 'who maximized minimal resources'

"He maximized minimal resources…"

Guenther Steiner has recognized an F1 driver who managed to surpass the challenges presented by his problematic vehicle.

On The Red Flags Podcast, the ex-principal of the Haas F1 team was requested to identify the individual or team that achieved the most while having the least resources in 2024.

The candidates for the nomination included Zhou Guanyu, Pierre Gasly, Nico Hulkenberg, the team of mechanics from Williams, or Max Verstappen.

Steiner quickly dismissed Zhou, who won't have his F1 spot in 2025, stating: "No, he didn't make an impact! He had one notable race. I acknowledge he performed well in that one race.

"However, for the remainder? His contributions were minimal."

"I'm caught in the middle of Pierre and the Williams team's mechanics, those unfortunate souls! They really had their hands full! They exceeded expectations."

However, Steiner made his selection.

"He announced his decision to accompany the Alpine driver, referring to him as Pierre."

Pierre Gasly celebrated for outstanding 2024 performance

"Steiner remarked on Gasly's ability to achieve the maximum from minimal resources.

"Despite having a poor-quality car, they managed to secure the sixth position, a feat attributable to his efforts."

"David Sanchez deserves the recognition, having previously been part of Ferrari and then joining from McLaren."

David had a bit of understanding. He stated, "we must head in this direction to conclude the season successfully with a functional plan."

"David was the crucial factor."

Alpine secured the sixth spot in the constructors' standings, replicating their performance from 2023.

Despite a concerning beginning to the 2024 season that left Gasly and his teammate Esteban Ocon puzzled and lamenting their vehicle's performance.

Alpine had to manage a situation where their drivers crashed into each other in Monaco.

This marked the start of a downward spiral for Ocon, who was let go and has since transferred to Steiner's former team, Haas, for the 2025 season.

This year, Gasly is set to greet Jack Doohan, who will be joining as his new teammate

Prominently, seasoned F1 figure Flavio Briatore took up a high-ranking position at Alpine the previous year, aiming to enhance the performance of the team, which has been competing in the middle of the pack.

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"Fine equilibrium" during Yamaha's era with Fabio Quartararo and Valentino Rossi

Exiting Yamaha leader contemplates key choice

Yamaha has mused over the "challenging periods" and the complexities of managing both Fabio Quartararo and Valentino Rossi within their team.

Rossi transitioned to the Petronas team, a subsidiary of the main factory team, for his last season in MotoGP in 2021.

He opened a path for rising star Quartararo to take the helm of a factory Yamaha – and in return, he rewarded the manufacturer by clinching the MotoGP title.

"Bringing Fabio into the Petronas squad was primarily a choice of the Petronas team itself," Lin Jarvis, the departing Yamaha chief, told MotoGP World.

They took a daring step, with nothing at stake.

"In his debut season, he outperformed Franco Morbidelli, which led us to negotiate his move to the factory team.

"When he joined the factory squad, we found ourselves having to relocate Valentino once more since he was approaching the conclusion of his career. That became the secondary concern."

"Ultimately, the choice proved to be the right one, as Fabio's immediate impact with the factory team was explosive, securing the top spot in his debut season."

"These were intriguing moments, with fine equilibriums, concurrent realities, and nuanced choices to be determined."

Three years later, Quartararo has become the top-earning MotoGP rider, having signed a new extended contract to remain with Yamaha.

Despite the setbacks the manufacturer has faced since winning the championship.

At the last race of 2022, Bagnaia from Ducati outperformed Quartararo, a point at which Quartararo's motorcycle started to show a decline in performance.

After two seasons away from leading the pack, there's hope that Yamaha will return to its victorious form.

In 2025, the inclusion of Pramac as a satellite team will increase their number of riders on the grid twofold, enhancing their data collection capabilities significantly.

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Jorge Martin identifies 2025 championship frontrunner – a choice that may disappoint many supporters…

Reigning MotoGP champion discusses his prospects for retaining the title

MotoGP star Jorge Martin has pinpointed the top contender for the 2025 championship.

However, the individual who clinched the top category title for the first time did not choose himself.

He hasn't chosen Marc Marquez either, a decision that may disappoint his numerous supporters who believe that moving to the top motorcycle in MotoGP might help him secure his ninth global championship.

Francesco Bagnaia has been selected instead.

"Currently, I view Pecco as the frontrunner with Marc not far behind," Martin said to AS.

"However, it's anyone's guess. I consider myself among the top three contenders, ready to compete with them in certain races, while expecting to face more challenges in others."

“However, the crucial aspect lies in enhancing and making progress.”

Martin clinched the 2024 championship with the Pramac satellite team, outperforming their competitors from the Ducati factory team.

Yet again, he was passed over for a factory Ducati spot, with that honor awarded to Marquez. Marquez, alongside Bagnaia, is set to create a powerful pairing equipped with the top machinery available in 2025.

Martin has relocated to Aprilia, which means he'll have to adapt to a different setup as he aims to retain his title.

"Martin expressed, 'I continue to view Ducati as being above the rest, and I must add, they have an excellent team with Pecco and Marc.'"

Ultimately, that box will contain numerous titles, but it's anyone's guess.

"MotoGP is defined by its dominant periods – we've seen the reigns of Yamaha, Honda, and Ducati… and it's anyone's guess which powerhouse will define the next chapter."

Martin maintains that he harbors no ill will against Ducati, even after their separation.

"Ultimately, Ducati offered me the chance to reach MotoGP, and beyond that, they've consistently shown faith in me,” he stated.

"The team has provided me with excellent contracts and a highly competitive motorcycle, particularly in the past two years. I've been equipped with the same machinery as Pecco and Enea Bastianini, enabling me to outperform them on the circuit, which is ultimately the key aspect."

Martin is relieved that his worry about ending his career without securing a championship title has been dispelled.

"I had this idea once, but it's not something I'll think about anymore," he mentioned.

"I became anxious and blurted out, 'Gosh, if I ever retire and haven't clinched a world championship…'"

Precisely, it feels as though I haven't accomplished my objectives. Initially, contemplating how to cope with this unfulfilled goal was challenging. However, ultimately, I managed to realize it, removing one uncertainty from my mind.

Reflecting on it previously caused me pain, and there are moments when the mere anticipation of events can cause distress, even before they unfold, and occasionally these fears do materialize.

"However, I attempted a reverse approach, thinking, 'it will happen, it will happen', and eventually, it did."

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Jorge Martin Discusses Concerns About Clashes With New Teammate Marco Bezzecchi

Jorge Martin Admits "We Haven't Been Closest Friends"

Jorge Martin has addressed worries regarding his rapport with Marco Bezzecchi.

This year, Martin and Bezzecchi will team up as the fresh factory Aprilia rider pairing.

However, their history is marred by controversy, further complicated by Bezzecchi's close ally, Pecco Bagnaia, fiercely competing for the championship title against Martin in the previous season.

"Martin admitted to Motorsport that Bezzecchi hasn't exactly been his closest ally over the past few years."

"Ever since our time competing in Moto3, we've encountered numerous clashes."

For me, the important thing is having a partner who has a competitive spirit.

"If he succeeds in providing guidance to enhance the bike, it'll benefit me as well. The same goes the other way around."

Martin clinched the Moto3 title, finishing the season 46 points ahead of Bezzecchi.

From time to time, their encounters have been marked by tension, with Bezzecchi expressing frustration over the stewards' failure to penalize Martin for his role in triggering a collision during the 2023 Austria sprint.

However, each competitor has now departed from Ducati in pursuit of a factory position and will unite at Aprilia.

Martin, naturally, might show up flaunting the top spot, having secured the MotoGP championship in the previous year.

"Despite not being Aleix Espargaro, I've now assumed the mantle of leadership, and as the world champion, it's my duty to steer this Aprilia project," Martin declared.

"This implies maintaining a strong bond with my significant other."

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Allegation that Ducati's worry over "hazard" prompted partnership with Marc Marquez

New speculation regarding the reason behind Ducati's significant decision

It's been proposed that Ducati's worry over "risk" influenced their decision to partner with Marc Marquez.

A year ago, Marquez made the switch from Honda to Gresini Ducati and shone brightly in 2024, competing on a machine from the previous year. He was in the running for the championship, but his challenge faded in the last few races.

His performance was sufficient to secure a promotion to Ducati's premier team this season, providing him access to the top equipment in the competition.

The decision made by the manufacturer negatively affected Jorge Martin, who, after clinching the MotoGP championship riding a Ducati, has since moved to Aprilia.

"Wayne Gardner expressed to Motosan that he was not taken aback by the choice to select Marquez over Martin."

Frankly speaking, had I been in that situation, I likely would have remained alongside Jorge.

"Indeed, Marc possesses remarkable riding skills, undeniably. They both hail from Spain, correct?"

"I believe Ducati's actions effectively sidelined Marquez from the contest."

Having him collaborate with them is preferable to him being in opposition.

"They are aware of Marc's talent. It appears he has greatly enhanced his abilities since becoming part of the Ducati team.

It's clear that Ducati possesses the premier motorcycle in the lineup, a status it has maintained for several years.

"Marc has been struggling to handle the Honda, leading to his numerous accidents."

"He continues to experience several accidents, but there's now a bit more stability in his performance, likely due to the improved quality of the motorcycle.

"However, from Ducati's perspective, they cannot afford to let Marquez join a competing team."

"Adding him to their squad ensures victory next year, whether with Pecco or Marquez."

"Thus, they were compelled to reach a conclusion, and that was the sequence of events."

"Now, Martin is making a move to Aprilia; I believe it will be amazing with that motorcycle.

"In my opinion, this will add more excitement to the championship, to be honest."

Last summer, Marquez complicated matters for Ducati as they were deliberating on their roster for 2025.

He emphasized that Pramac, despite having a factory-spec motorcycle, was not a consideration.

This led Ducati to reverse their initial decision to honor Martin.

Following his signing with Aprilia, Martin wrapped up an ideal season by clinching the MotoGP championship title.

He now has the opportunity to race with the number 1 on an Aprilia in 2025.

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Chico Lorenzo openly positions himself in the Marc Marquez versus Valentino Rossi controversy

“When Valentino entered the scene, he faced no comparable opponents…"

Chico Lorenzo has definitively expressed his opinion on who he believes stands as the all-time best MotoGP rider.

The discussion often splits supporters between two names: Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

Jorge, the son of Chico, found himself at the heart of their most intense conflict and has made a name for himself as a MotoGP icon.

Chico has defended his opinion that Marquez surpasses all others, including Rossi, as the greatest of all time.

"Upon entering the 500cc category, Valentino Rossi was on the same motorcycle as Mick Doohan," he shared with Moto.it.

"He competed alongside the same adversaries as Doohan, who had triumphed over those competitors for five consecutive years."

Upon Marquez's arrival, he faced competition from Lorenzo, Dani Pedrosa, and Valentino Rossi – riders who rank among the top 10 in history.

"When Valentino made his entrance, there were no competitors of such caliber, none. He was up against Gibernau, Capirossi, Biaggi, Melandri…"

Rossi, undeniably the most recognizable figure in MotoGP, is now stepping into his fourth year since retiring.

Marquez, his perennial rival, has the potential to match his record of nine world championships this season.

Marquez is making the switch to a factory Ducati, a motorcycle significantly distinct from the one Rossi struggled to master during his unsuccessful period.

Jorge Lorenzo's dad has issued a caution, noting that Marquez will have to contend with a specific rider for the 2025 championship title.

Chico is convinced that Pecco Bagnaia is the sole individual certain to offer strong competition.

"Chico clarified that the reason is Jorge Martin's association with Aprilia."

"I believe Martin matches Marquez in skill, yet it remains uncertain how he will perform with Aprilia."

"In my opinion, if Aprilia performs well, Bagnaia, Marquez, and Martin are likely contenders for the top three positions, with Martin having a strong chance to secure a spot among them."

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Chico Lorenzo has expressed a definitive opinion on the ongoing debate between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi. He remarked that during Valentino's early days, he did not face competitors of the same caliber…

Chico Lorenzo has openly expressed his opinion on who he believes is the all-time best rider in MotoGP history.

The discussion, often centered around whether Marc Marquez or Valentino Rossi is superior, splits enthusiasts.

During their most intense argument, Chico's son Jorge, who is a notable figure in the world of MotoGP, found himself at the center of the conflict.

However, Chico has defended his opinion that Marquez surpasses Rossi and is the greatest of all time.

He mentioned to Moto.it that Valentino Rossi joined the 500cc category riding the same motorcycle that Mick Doohan used.

He competed against the same opponents as Doohan, who had secured victories over them for five consecutive years.

When Marquez made his debut, he faced tough competition from Lorenzo, Dani Pedrosa, and Valentino Rossi, all of whom are considered among the top ten riders in the history of the sport.

"When Valentino made his entrance, he faced no competitors of such caliber. Instead, he contended with riders like Gibernau, Capirossi, Biaggi, and Melandri…"

Valentino Rossi, undoubtedly the most recognizable figure in MotoGP, is now beginning his fourth year since hanging up his helmet.

This season, Marquez, his long-standing rival, has the chance to match his record of nine world championships.

Marquez is switching to a factory Ducati, a motorcycle that is significantly different from the one Rossi struggled to control during his unsuccessful attempt.

Jorge Lorenzo's dad has issued a cautionary note, stating that Marquez will encounter a challenge from another racer for the 2025 championship.

Chico thinks that Pecco Bagnaia is the sole person sure to offer a challenge.

"Chico clarified that Jorge Martin is associated with Aprilia."

"Martin is believed to be on par with Marquez as a rider, but it's uncertain how well he will perform with Aprilia."

"In my opinion, the top three could include Bagnaia, Marquez, and Martin. If Aprilia performs well, Martin has a strong chance of securing a spot in the top three."

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Guenther Steiner highlights an F1 driver who excelled despite minimal resources.

"He achieved the most with the fewest resources…"

Guenther Steiner has recognized a Formula 1 driver who managed to perform well despite having a challenging car that didn't attract much attention.

During an episode of The Red Flags Podcast, the ex-team principal of Haas F1 was questioned about which individual or team achieved the greatest success with minimal resources in 2024.

The candidates included Zhou Guanyu, Pierre Gasly, Nico Hulkenberg, the Williams crew, and Max Verstappen.

Steiner quickly dismissed Zhou, who will not have a spot in F1 for the year 2025, by stating: "No, he hasn't achieved much! He performed well in one race. I have to acknowledge that he had one excellent race."

"As for the remainder, he didn't accomplish much."

"I'm standing with Pierre and the Williams mechanics, those unfortunate folks! They had a tough job ahead! They really went above and beyond."

However, Steiner chose his selection.

"I'll accompany the Alpine driver," Pierre stated.

Pierre Gasly receives praise for his remarkable performance in 2024. "He managed to achieve a lot despite limited resources," Steiner commented regarding Gasly.

"Despite having a terrible car, they managed to finish in sixth place, and it was all due to his efforts."

"David Sanchez, who has experience working with McLaren and previously with Ferrari, deserves the recognition."

David expressed that he possessed some understanding, suggesting that they should take a certain path to successfully conclude the season with a positive outcome.

"He was crucial, David."

Alpine secured the sixth spot in the constructors' championship, mirroring their performance from 2023.

This comes after a concerning beginning to the 2024 season, which has left Gasly and his teammate Esteban Ocon puzzled and expressing dissatisfaction with their vehicle.

Alpine had to manage a situation where their drivers crashed into each other during the Monaco race.

This marked the start of Ocon's departure, as he was let go and subsequently joined Steiner's former team, Haas, for the 2025 season.

Pierre Gasly will have Jack Doohan joining him as his new rookie teammate this season.

In a significant move, experienced F1 figure Flavio Briatore took on a high-level position at Alpine last year, with a clear focus on boosting the performance of the team, which is currently in the middle of the pack.

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

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