"Remove him" suggestion rejected as Mercedes advised to remain with Kimi Antonelli

Request for "room to breathe" for Toto Wolff

Mercedes has been advised to allow Andrea Kimi Antonelli some "breathing room" during his debut season.

Young sensation Antonelli has been chosen by Toto Wolff to succeed Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025.

Despite his exceptional talent, it is yet to be determined how Antonelli will adjust to Formula 1.

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"We're uncertain about Mercedes' position in the rankings. Over the last few seasons, they have been inconsistent and haven't secured a clear standing," Lewis Larkam mentioned on the Crash F1 podcast.

"They haven't consistently maintained championship-level seasons, occasionally showing strong performances such as those in Vegas. However, they couldn't provide any reasoning for their success during those times."

"If this trend extends into 2025, which I expect it will at least initially, setting a specific target for Antonelli becomes challenging."

According to Toto Wolff, it seems unlikely that they will establish any particular objectives to reach.

"He has shown a strong desire to minimize the buzz surrounding Antonelli."

Kimi is likely to aim for podium finishes, victories, and pole positions, although it's uncertain if there will be a concrete goal established.

"Although there is some pressure involved, he should be allowed some room to breathe at the start."

"They are introducing an 18-year-old with a promising future ahead of him. They consider him to be their solution to a competitor like Max Verstappen."

"I don't think they'll simply get rid of him if he begins slowly or fails to meet the anticipated expectations."

Mercedes may prefer that he stays unnoticed and avoids any accidents, instead of delivering standout performances that are expected to develop over time.

'Kimi Antonelli Expected to Show Impressive Speed'

Connor McDonagh remarked, "This is an opportune year for Antonelli to come on board. The pivotal year is 2026. Toto has mentioned that the atmosphere within the team is positive as they prepare for the introduction of new engines."

Antonelli will spend the year gaining knowledge and experience.

"We'll witness his natural speed, but it's possible to enhance it by managing the tires effectively."

In his rookie season, Charles Leclerc showed impressive speed when competing against Sebastian Vettel. By his second year, he had significantly enhanced his ability to manage his tyres.

Lewis Larkam further stated, "In his debut season, Oscar Piastri was undeniably fast, but he has made progress in terms of maintaining consistency and managing his tires effectively."

"The situation will be comparable for Antonelli."

"Bringing him on board at this moment is perfect for Mercedes, as there's not as much pressure. The team is taking a long-term approach with Antonelli."

"They view him as the key to their future success. Right now, he has the opportunity to learn and err before the team is competing for a championship, a time when the pressure and expectations will be much higher."

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Key Ferrari advancement spotted that signals promise for Lewis Hamilton

Sebastian Vettel's old curse might be ending at last

Reports suggest that Ferrari's recently developed skill in enhancing their car's performance mid-season may benefit Lewis Hamilton.

In recent years, the Italian company has struggled to make beneficial improvements to its machine amidst the intense competition of development battles.

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz managed to recover from a challenging time last year, suggesting that Hamilton might be able to rely on Ferrari for the current season.

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According to Connor McDonagh on the Crash F1 podcast, a key achievement for Ferrari in the previous year was their ability to address and resolve their challenges during the season's development.

In Barcelona, their enhancements set them at a disadvantage, causing them to fall to the third or fourth fastest team. At Silverstone, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc tested different setups.

"They moved past that challenge. They returned with an improved setup for Monza and achieved a surprising victory at COTA."

"They finished the season on a high note, demonstrating their ability to enhance their vehicle."

Has the Vettel Curse at Ferrari Come to an End?

Connor McDonagh observed that during Sebastian Vettel's time competing with Hamilton, the team's performance seemed to decline as the season progressed.

"There are many positive indicators for Ferrari. Bringing Hamilton on board means you must compete for the championship!"

A car capable of competing for the championship will also inspire Hamilton.

"Everything seems positive for Ferrari, yet McLaren holds an advantage regarding their vehicle."

"Naturally, you can't dismiss the possibility of Red Bull and Max Verstappen."

Last year, Ferrari secured victories at five Formula 1 grand prix events and ended the season in second place in the constructors' championship, following McLaren.

Hamilton has already dedicated a week in Maranello to familiarize himself with his new team before the start of the 2025 season.

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Ducati Shares Insights on Marc Marquez's Input for the GP25

Ducati's Head of Technology Discusses Marc Marquez's Adjustment to the 2025 Motorcycle

The technical director at Ducati has described the ways in which Marc Marquez is adjusting to the GP25.

In the previous year, while racing for Gresini, Marquez piloted a GP23 that breathed new life into his career and propelled him to the leading positions on the grid.

This season, he advances significantly as a factory Ducati rider, having access to the top equipment in MotoGP.

However, Francesco Bagnaia, who is on the same team, has already begun adjusting ahead of others.

Davide Barana mentioned to Marca that Marquez's style is somewhat distinct from Pecco's.

Marc excels when it comes to cornering. He possesses remarkable intuition, particularly on specific tracks and in certain turns, allowing him to achieve feats that other riders struggle with.

"I have to acknowledge that he desires this, although he hasn't stated it outright; it's implied in his remarks."

"We aim to assist him by adjusting the configuration, as making changes to the setup can significantly impact the bike's performance."

"There is no need to use a different frame or similar components. The existing frame, along with the setup, weight balance, and bike's design, can already greatly alter its performance."

Marquez has probably completed the toughest phase of moving from Honda to Ducati.

Barana mentioned that initially, there was a focus on electronics, as he continued to implement the techniques he had used at Honda upon his arrival. However, Barana noted that he has since made significant progress in changing his approach.

"He has figured out the mechanics of our bike and has adjusted his style to match the other riders somewhat. He likes an engine with a bit of a raw feel, more aggressive."

"Part of this stems from a routine I developed at Honda, which is partly due to their distinct engine management system."

"He prefers to maintain some control over the engine, though the change is more subtle than significant."

Marquez and Bagnaia took their first rides on the GP25 during the post-season test in Barcelona.

Fortunately for Ducati, their responses were alike.

Barana mentioned that in Barcelona, their remarks were very much in agreement.

"That's positive, but we're prepared to take alternative routes if necessary."

"They don't have to be compelled to pursue it. However, their agreement on the matter is beneficial."

Barana has examined Marquez's data and is eager to see what kind of magic he can create.

"Barana mentioned that his greatest strength is navigating corners. He possesses a keen sensitivity to the front tire, which I believe enables him to push the bike to its absolute limits."

Actually, there are instances when it goes beyond this threshold, but this typically occurs during training, and steps are implemented to address it.

"Riding a Ducati results in fewer falls. He is an exceptionally well-rounded racer. We'll try to encourage him to brake with great force, a skill that Pecco already possesses and is also a trademark of Marc."

"As an individual, it's clear that he possesses a high level of intelligence, and he's more than just physically strong or gifted."

“World Championship winners in riding possess more than just talent. They demonstrate intelligence, a strong work ethic, situational awareness, team management skills, and the ability to inspire their team.

"They also exhibit leadership qualities; merely riding a motorcycle doesn't suffice. The moment you lay eyes on him, you get that sense."

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Anger Clarified After "Blind or Stupid" Remark Directed at Michael Schumacher

"I would have been fine if he had admitted in the interview, 'I forced him off the track.'"

Juan Pablo Montoya has expressed his frustration with Michael Schumacher following their notorious confrontation, famously labeled as the "blind or stupid" incident.

During the first lap of the 2004 San Marino Grand Prix, Schumacher from Ferrari forcefully defended his position against Montoya from the Williams team.

Schumacher ultimately took the victory, while Montoya, who finished in third place, later criticized: "You must be either blind or foolish to not notice me!"

During a recent episode of the Beyond The Grid podcast, Montoya shared his thoughts, saying, "Their pace was faster than ours. However, we had the advantage of speed and new tires."

"In order to overtake him, I needed to move immediately. He forced me off the track, but I managed to stay safe."

"I would have acted in the same way!"

"I was fine with it. If he had mentioned during the interview that he forced me off the track, I would have accepted it."

He stated, "I didn't notice him."

"While most people tend to think before they speak, I do the opposite—I speak first and then think, catching everyone around me off guard!"

"Many believed I was out of my mind, but it proved successful." Montoya voiced his frustration over the reluctance of other racers to challenge the formidable Schumacher at the height of his career with Ferrari.

Juan Pablo Montoya expressed frustration, saying that the problem with Michael was that no one challenged him in races.

"When he approached from behind, people would say, 'Oh, Michael is approaching, move aside.'"

"That really frustrates me."

The sentiment was akin to, "That's Michael, don't mess with him." He commanded a great deal of respect.

"When it came to racing, I had a really aggressive attitude. Many people considered me to be out of my mind, but that actually played to my advantage."

"When I maneuvered the car into position, they realized I wasn't going to back down. They had two options: either they make space for me, or we collide!"

"The sole occasion I spoke with Michael was during my time racing for BMW, while he was associated with Ferrari."

"Following the race, we received an invitation to attend a gathering at the Nurburgring."

"The incident involved Michael, Rubens, and myself. We ended up getting intoxicated, and that sums it up!"

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Lewis Hamilton is believed to have the drive and determination needed to lead Ferrari to a championship victory in 2025.

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert firmly believes that Lewis Hamilton has the determination to pursue a championship with Ferrari if he is provided with the necessary resources.

This week marked a historic moment for Hamilton as he made his inaugural visit to Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello.

Hamilton not only had the opportunity to meet a large number of Ferrari's team members, but he also experienced driving one of their Formula 1 cars for the first time.

On Wednesday, Hamilton took to the track at Fiorano, the team's home circuit, to drive the Formula 1 car for the 2023 season.

It was a momentous event, attended by Hamilton's parents, while Ferrari's passionate Tifosi gathered along the roads to see the seven-time world champion.

In a conversation with Casinoutanspelpaus.io, Herbert expressed his belief that Hamilton would have increased motivation, as the Ferrari setup is expected to surpass the performance he experienced with Mercedes the previous year.

According to Herbert, if Lewis Hamilton has the determination at Ferrari and a competitive car that provides the necessary speed, he is certainly capable of securing another championship victory.

"The incentive is one aspect to consider. The encouragement he'll receive from the car has certainly gotten better with fewer minor errors. I might point out that Hamilton has made more errors than usual, but I believe the circumstances at Mercedes were not conducive to his performance."

In the final races of last year, he demonstrated exceptional racing skills and was incredibly strong. Hamilton is undoubtedly eager to win the championship at this point, and it falls to Fred Vasseur to provide him with a car capable of making that possible.

The year 2025 presents a valuable chance for Ferrari to enhance their performance compared to 2024 by introducing a more competitive package. This timing could be ideal, and looking ahead to 2026, the focus remains on perfecting the car.

Hamilton is charged with the mission of breaking Ferrari's long-standing title dry spell, which has persisted since 2008.

In 2024, Ferrari nearly clinched the constructors' championship, ending the season a mere 13 points behind McLaren.

The Scuderia regretted a mid-season update that hindered their progress for the rest of the season.

A change made in Barcelona caused the porpoising issue to come back, which placed them behind Red Bull, McLaren, and Mercedes in the rankings.

Even though they made improvements with an upgrade at Monza, it ended up being too late because they had already fallen too far behind McLaren.

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Lewis Hamilton has received a caution regarding the dynamics with a Ferrari teammate, drawing a contrast to his time at Mercedes. "This isn't to take anything away from Lewis, but the circumstances differ – Leclerc is far from being Bottas. He's significantly faster."

Former Formula 1 team manager Peter Windsor anticipates that Lewis Hamilton will not exhibit the same level of dominance at Ferrari this season as he did during his time with Mercedes.

After a 12-year stint with Mercedes, Hamilton is set to join Maranello in 2025, marking a significant change.

The collaboration between Hamilton and Mercedes was iconic, securing six championships for drivers and eight for constructors.

Mercedes' inability to grasp the existing 'ground effect' regulations led to Hamilton feeling increasingly frustrated.

Rather than pursue other options, he chose to realize a childhood ambition by signing with Ferrari for the upcoming two years.

Hamilton is up against a significant challenge as he competes with Charles Leclerc, who is considered by many to be the quickest driver in Formula 1 when it comes to single-lap speed.

Windsor, a well-regarded Formula 1 analyst, thinks that Hamilton will struggle to achieve the same level of success at Mercedes because of the high quality of his teammate.

Peter Windsor, speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that anyone expecting Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari to perform as he did during his dominant years at Mercedes should reconsider. He pointed out that Hamilton's success at Mercedes was partly due to having an excellent teammate who contributed to his achievements.

The statement compares two Formula 1 drivers, highlighting that although Valtteri Bottas had an excellent car, it wasn't Nico Rosberg. The speaker emphasizes that this isn't meant to diminish Lewis Hamilton's skills. However, they point out a notable difference: Charles Leclerc is significantly faster than Bottas.

Hamilton has experience dealing with challenging teammates in Formula 1.

In his inaugural year with the team, he competed directly against Fernando Alonso, who has won the F1 world championship twice.

In 2010, he teamed up with the current world champion, Jenson Button.

While he was with Mercedes, he faced off against Nico Rosberg and later George Russell, both of whom presented a significant challenge.

In 2025, the competition between Hamilton and Leclerc is expected to be just as intense.

Since beginning his Formula 1 career in 2018, Leclerc has consistently outperformed his teammates in every qualifying session.

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Lewis Hamilton has been cautioned regarding the dynamics with a Ferrari teammate, highlighting a contrast with Mercedes. "This isn't to undermine Lewis, but the scenario differs – Leclerc is not like Bottas. He's significantly faster."

Former Formula 1 team manager Peter Windsor is not anticipating that Lewis Hamilton will display the same level of dominance with Ferrari this season as he did with Mercedes.

After spending 12 years with Mercedes, Hamilton is set to make a major move to Maranello in 2025.

The collaboration between Hamilton and Mercedes was iconic, securing six drivers' championships and eight constructors' championships.

Mercedes' inability to grasp the existing 'ground effect' regulations led to Hamilton's increasing frustration.

Rather than that, he chose to realize a dream he had since he was a child by signing with Ferrari for the upcoming two years.

Hamilton is up against a significant challenge as he competes with Charles Leclerc, who is considered by many to be the quickest Formula 1 driver when it comes to one-lap speed.

F1 analyst Windsor is of the opinion that Hamilton will struggle to achieve the same level of success he had with Mercedes, largely because of the high quality of his current teammate.

In a statement on his YouTube channel, Windsor suggested that if people expect Lewis Hamilton to exhibit the same level of dominance at Ferrari as he did at Mercedes, they might be mistaken. He emphasized that Hamilton's success was partly due to having an excellent teammate who contributed to his ability to dominate.

"Instead of Nico Rosberg, it was Valtteri Bottas who had an excellent car. This doesn’t take anything away from Lewis Hamilton, but the circumstances are different—Charles Leclerc is not like Bottas. Leclerc is significantly faster."

Hamilton has a long history of dealing with challenging teammates in Formula 1. The experience of having a formidable partner on the team is not new to him.

In his debut season with the team, he competed directly against Fernando Alonso, who has won the F1 world championship twice.

In 2010, he teamed up with the current world champion, Jenson Button.

While with Mercedes, he faced tough competition from Nico Rosberg and later from George Russell.

In 2025, the competition between Hamilton and Leclerc will be just as intense.

Since beginning his Formula 1 career in 2018, Leclerc has consistently outperformed his teammates in every qualifying session.

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Toto Wolff cautions Mercedes about the upcoming 2026 F1 regulation changes, stating there's "no place to conceal." He emphasizes that excellence is required in every aspect of their work and that having a strong engine by itself is not sufficient for success.

Toto Wolff acknowledged that Mercedes will be fully exposed when the new Formula 1 regulations take effect in 2026.

Significant modifications to the technical rules, especially concerning the power unit, are expected in 2026.

Starting in 2026, F1 engines will incorporate more electric elements due to the compulsory adoption of sustainable fuels.

Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull, has called these alterations the most significant ever in the history of the sport.

Consequently, the competitive landscape is likely to shift, placing more focus on engine-related aspects.

In 2014, Mercedes became well-known for mastering the introduction of the new engine regulations.

The power unit developed by Mercedes stood out as the best in the competition, leading to their dominance in the sport.

Ferrari didn't manage to close the gap until 2018, although their methods were questionable, as evidenced by the FIA's decision to implement changes at the end of 2019 to restrict the team.

The narrative for 2026 might unfold in a similar way, but Wolff remains cautious about one aspect as they approach the upcoming year.

In an interview with AMuS, Wolff mentioned, "I’m not feeling uneasy. It’s an incredibly fascinating challenge."

"It's essential to perform your duties to the best of your abilities in every aspect. Simply having a powerful engine won't take us far."

"McLaren will also possess that capability. Therefore, our challenge is to surpass them with our chassis. We cannot avoid this responsibility."

Mercedes Optimistic Looking Towards 2026

Although Wolff has expressed worries about the challenge from McLaren, the overall sentiment within Mercedes remains upbeat.

James Allison, the technical director, mentioned that the current atmosphere is "comparable" to what it was like in 2014.

During an interview with Sky Sports at Imola last year, he mentioned, "I wasn't part of the team leading up to 2014 when the new wave of power units was being developed and there was a significant effort to bring them to fruition."

"However, according to team members who were there, they describe the sensation as being quite comparable."

There is a significant push within Mercedes High Performance Powertrains to ensure its success, as it will shape the future for those fortunate enough to have it powering their vehicles in upcoming seasons.

"We are fortunate to benefit from the positive investments they are making for both of us."

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Uncertainty surrounds Lewis Hamilton's potential debut with Ferrari in Australia

"Historically, Ferrari has performed strongly in Australia…"

A significant uncertainty looms over Lewis Hamilton's first race with Ferrari in Australia.

The 2025 Formula 1 season is set to begin in Melbourne from March 14 to 16.

This event marks Hamilton's debut race with Ferrari at a track he historically enjoys.

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"It's intriguing to kick off the season in Australia," commented Lewis Larkam from Crash on the Crash F1 podcast.

Historically, Ferrari has performed admirably in Australia.

Reflecting on past seasons when it kicked off the racing calendar, there was a time when Sebastian Vettel spearheaded the excitement, sparking the buzz that 'Ferrari has returned!'

"Clearly, it didn't turn out that way in the end."

"This year, it's once more a reality."

Lewis Hamilton boasts an impressive track record in Australia. The circuit is among his best, and he holds the highest number of pole positions at this venue.

Uncertainty surrounds Lewis Hamilton's future

The seven-time Formula 1 champion has seven potential opportunities as he begins with Ferrari. Will this be the chance for Lewis Hamilton to secure his eighth title? 👀🤔 pic.twitter.com/Npw2RuQv1u— Crash.net – Formula 1 (@CRASH_NET_F1) January 20, 2025

"It's thrilling to begin the season and observe how this partnership will perform," stated Lewis Larkam.

"The most significant uncertainty is how quickly Hamilton will adapt."

Observing how much time it will require for him to get used to the vehicle.

"There is consistently a procedure involved. However, historically, this track has been favorable for both Ferrari and him, at least on paper."

"From the very beginning, they might be competitive. Last season, they had a quick car and were in the running for pole positions and wins. I see no reason why that wouldn't happen again."

This week, Hamilton began his journey at Maranello.

He underwent a seat fitting, spent time using the simulator, got acquainted with his new engineering team, and experienced driving a Ferrari F1 car for the first time.

His latest journey will intensify as Formula 1 arrives in Bahrain next month for the official testing sessions.

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Michael Schumacher's environment was described as unfriendly, with little communication between people. The saying went, "If you're looking for friends, bring your own, as this is not the place to forge new friendships."

Juan Pablo Montoya, a former rival of Michael Schumacher, described Schumacher's most successful period as being "hostile".

Montoya has drawn a comparison between the tense interactions among Formula 1 drivers during the 1990s and 2000s and the more amicable environment seen today.

The friendly relationship among the current generation faced a challenge last season when Max Verstappen stirred up tensions with Lando Norris and George Russell.

In an interview on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Montoya mentioned that teammates nowadays, thanks to social media, have become very close friends. They dine together and enjoy playing padel as a group.

"Back in my time, we didn't really converse with others much. I chatted with Fernando Alonso, and I continue to do so, as well as Rubens Barrichello. Occasionally, I also talk to Felipe Massa, but that's about the extent of it."

Tense Environment in F1 Paddock

Montoya described the scene as extremely unfriendly, noting that people were not communicating with one another.

Chip Ganassi once made a memorable remark. I had shown kindness to an opponent during a race, choosing not to be overly aggressive. Ganassi told me, "If you want friends, bring them with you, because this isn't the place to make friends."

"Indeed, that's correct."

These days, people are chatting and being friendly with each other.

"Being kind makes it challenging to act like a jerk. It's tough to intentionally force someone off the track when you have a good relationship with them."

"If it's the person you dined with yesterday evening, it's more challenging to dismiss them. The situation isn't as ruthless."

"These days, the regulations aren't as strict. Back in my era, it was possible to force other drivers off the track!"

Montoya famously had conflicts with Schumacher, who was dominant during that period.

Colombian racer Montoya achieved victory in seven Formula One grand prix events and competed for the teams Williams and McLaren.

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Toto Wolff acknowledges the Formula 1 budget cap challenges following a crash-heavy 2024 season. "Towards the year's end, we were unable to implement certain aerodynamic and mechanical enhancements due to a lack of funds needed to manufacture those specific components…"

Toto Wolff disclosed that Mercedes nearly exceeded Formula 1's budget limit due to a series of crashes towards the conclusion of the 2024 season.

Towards the end of the 2024 season, Mercedes faced challenges as three significant accidents led to a shortage of replacement parts.

Kimi Antonelli's accident at Monza, along with two crashes involving George Russell later in the season, has placed Mercedes in a challenging situation.

After crashing during practice on Friday, Russell had no choice but to use a floor designed for Miami while competing in Mexico.

The situation not only affected Mercedes' performance during races but also put them in a challenging financial situation.

Wolff stated that it would greatly affect how they allocate their finances for the year.

"Extremely tight. Accumulating a substantial reserve of eggs isn't an option," Wolff explained to AMuS. "What typically happens is that you exceed your limits early in the year and then have to begin conserving."

As the year concluded, we were unable to implement certain enhancements in aerodynamics and mechanics due to a lack of funds for manufacturing the necessary components.

"The mishaps that occur towards the end of the season can cause significant issues. Kimi Antonelli had an incident in Monza, while George Russell faced problems in Austin and Mexico. There was a moment when we were left with just a single set of a specific wing type."

"In Mexico, returning to the previous aerodynamic setup wasn't possible due to a lack of spare parts. The budget restrictions left no funds for new components."

Mercedes faces a fresh era as they enter 2025 with Lewis Hamilton no longer driving for them.

Eighteen-year-old prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to join the team for his Formula 1 debut, partnering with Russell.

Mercedes has faced challenges in adapting to Formula 1's existing rules during the "ground effect era".

Even though Mercedes secured four victories last year, they lagged significantly behind the top three teams in the rankings.

Mercedes has struggled with maintaining a steady performance, frequently baffled by the fluctuations in how well they perform.

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Max Verstappen is anxiously anticipating whether Red Bull can bounce back without Adrian Newey. “Will the team members influenced by Newey be able to fix the issues with Red Bull? If not, I doubt he’ll be able to keep up with the McLarens or Ferraris.”

Max Verstappen is considered the top contender for the championship if Red Bull can overcome last season's challenges, even in the absence of Adrian Newey's guidance.

In 2024, Verstappen secured his fourth straight F1 drivers' championship, but the journey was anything but smooth.

In the first 10 races, Verstappen claimed victory in seven, but then managed to secure only two additional wins in the following 14 competitions.

Red Bull fell behind McLaren and later Ferrari, dropping in ranking and depending on Verstappen's exceptional talent, especially evident in Brazil, to secure the championship, ultimately at the cost of Lando Norris.

In an interview with Sky Sports News, Brundle expressed his belief that Verstappen is the clear favorite in the title race. He noted that this is especially true because the McLaren and Ferrari drivers could end up splitting points among themselves.

Brundle mentioned that the crucial aspect is whether Red Bull has managed to get their car back in shape.

If Red Bull manages to get their car back in top condition and Verstappen is performing well, he will remain the favorite for the championship. This is because Piastri might take points away from Norris, and Hamilton and Leclerc could end up taking points from one another.

Influence of Adrian Newey

Red Bull faces the challenge of reclaiming their top position in Formula 1 performance, now without the expertise of their brilliant designer, Newey.

Midway through last year, it was revealed that Newey would be leaving the team, allowing him to move to Aston Martin.

Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull, has assured that the team possesses a robust foundation to manage even if Newey leaves.

Newey's exit occurred at the same time as Red Bull's decline in performance.

Brundle acknowledged that the controversies outside the racing circuit involving Red Bull did cause the team to lose focus. However, the most significant hurdle in 2025 will be improving performance without Newey's involvement.

He mentioned, "I believe it was a distraction." He continued by praising Max for maintaining his focus amidst the events that unfolded during the first part of last year. His bigger worry, however, was that the car's performance declined while McLaren and Ferrari made strides forward.

"He'll be anxiously anticipating the outcome of whether they've managed to recover it. Adrian Newey essentially departed from the team halfway through last season. Will those who have taken over from Newey be able to fix the issues with Red Bull? If they're unable to do so, I doubt he'll be able to keep up with the McLarens or Ferraris."

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With keen attention to the controversies and narratives in Formula 1, Connor serves as the core of our impartial journalism.

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