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EXCLUSIVE: The Surprising Turn in the Career of Aston Martin's Former Chief

In an exclusive interview with Crash.net, Mike Krack shares his astonishment at becoming a team principal, marking his comeback to Formula 1.

Mike Krack didn't originally plan on becoming a principal for an F1 team, but he ended up serving in that role at Aston Martin for a duration of three years.

At the age of 52, his professional journey started in the motorsport and Formula 1 engineering sectors. His initial role was as a test engineer at BMW in 1998. By 2001, he had moved to Sauber, where he quickly climbed the career ladder.

He collaborated with Felipe Massa in the role of race engineer before being elevated to the position of chief engineer, where he had the opportunity to work intimately with Sebastian Vettel prior to his first grand prix appearance. Departing Formula 1 in late 2009, Krack undertook various roles at BMW and Porsche, eventually becoming the lead of trackside engineering for their team in the World Endurance Championship.

Krack's initial venture into the realm of motorsport leadership occurred when he rejoined BMW. From 2014 to 2022, he was in charge of their Formula E, IMSA, and GT initiatives. Subsequently, his professional path shifted dramatically after an unforeseen offer from Lawrence Stroll, the owner of Aston Martin, who reached out to him unexpectedly to propose a position on the F1 team.

Krack revealed to Crash.net that his initial assumption was the conversation would center around a technical position. However, upon learning it was actually for the team principal role, he was taken aback, yet experienced a surge of enthusiasm.

"Krack revealed in an exclusive interview held at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which marked the end of last season, that his anticipation for engineering stemmed from his previous engineering positions in Formula 1."

"For many years, I was engaged in engineering positions, even after my time in Formula 1. It was only in the two or three years preceding that I transitioned into management roles. I believe this shift was primarily the cause."

Subsequently, I discovered that the subject matter wasn't engineering throughout these conversations, and with a sense of humility, I realized, 'this is a significant challenge'. However, there are moments when you must grab the chances that come your way. Asking yourself, 'am I prepared to leave my comfort zone?' is crucial, especially since there will be numerous situations that push you out of your familiar settings.

Without meaning to come off as conceited, after spending a significant amount of time in engineering, you become familiar with your key resources and understand clearly what elements contribute to a car's speed and the necessary steps to achieve that. However, transitioning into a team management position introduces a variety of different responsibilities.

"Here are tasks that need to be addressed with your involvement, and as an engineer, these are aspects you might typically overlook. Therefore, numerous elements will be unfamiliar."

During his tenure at Sauber, Krack gained important insights into effective leadership, which would later prove beneficial as he assumed the role of team principal at Aston Martin for the first time.

"Krack emphasized the importance of being genuine and establishing credibility."

To begin with, it's essential to show respect towards everyone and set a positive example. It wouldn't be right for me to expect everyone to be present at 8am if I myself show up at 10am. Similarly, it's not fair to demand that everyone comes fully prepared for a meeting if I turn up without any preparation at all.

"I believe that leading through one's actions simplifies things. In my past experiences, I've looked up to certain leaders who embodied this principle, and it's something I've strived to emulate."

Former technical director Willy Rampf and team principal and owner Peter Sauber of Sauber played significant roles in shaping Krack's career.

"A prime illustration is Willy Rampf, who served as the technical director for Sauber then. Alongside Peter Sauber, their strong leadership greatly motivated me,” he mentioned.

"Maintain composure, proceed with resolve, yet with determination. Whenever Peter or Willy made a decision, stating 'we take this action or move in that direction,' their decision guided our course. Hence, considerable contemplation was dedicated to our subsequent moves, without constant shifts in plans."

"This gave those of us on the receiving end a great sense of safety and direction. It was like, 'Here's our task, and here's what we need to aim for.' It made things crystal clear for everyone, ensuring we all knew our responsibilities."

At the beginning of this year, Aston Martin underwent a significant reorganization that led to Krack being appointed as the chief trackside officer, while CEO Andy Cowell took on the duties of team principal.

The restructuring has led to the formation of distinct groups concentrating on operations at the race track and within the factory settings, all of which will fall under Cowell's oversight. This adjustment follows a period where Aston Martin's initial strong showing in 2023 was followed by a decline in success in subsequent seasons.

Despite securing fifth place in the constructors' championship for two consecutive years, Aston Martin experienced a concerning trend in their development, becoming less competitive last season than they were in the previous one.

The shift in Krack's position, though technically a step down, places him back in a setting where he can fully leverage his expertise. This move marks a return to his origins in motorsport, coming around full circle to where his career began.

The mundane and unexciting aspects of Krack's departure from F1 were driven by two primary factors that led to his decision to leave the sport after the 2009 season.

Krack was notably frustrated by BMW's choice to halt major development efforts after Robert Kubica achieved a 1-2 victory in Canada, securing the top position in the drivers' championship.

He viewed the campaign as an ideal chance to secure a championship title, yet BMW had different plans. They chose to focus their resources on preparing for the 2009 regulation changes, believing it would offer a stronger opportunity to clinch the championship.

Historical records will demonstrate that a significant opportunity was missed. In 2008, BMW dropped out of the race for the championship and did not successfully adapt to the 2009 regulations, suffering two major setbacks.

Another, more intimate reason, was Krack's responsibility towards his small family.

He mentioned that taking a break was a deliberate choice as he had a young family and didn't wish to be absent constantly, so he decided to pause his activities at that point.

"After spending nine years with Sauber, I didn't have a strong desire to return. My decision to leave was voluntary, and I was at peace with it. I hadn't been forced out; it was entirely my choice. At the time, I was content and satisfied with my activities."

Witnessing my children mature and being involved in their lives was truly amazing. At the same time, I was in charge of BMW's motorsports division. One day, while I was enjoying a Formula 1 race on television as a spectator and keeping an eye on a small timing screen to grasp all the details, I received an unexpected phone call.

"However, there was a lack of genuine drive or strategy. I made no effort to collaborate with anyone in my network to make a return. Yet, when I received that phone call, it unexpectedly rekindled my motivation. I thought to myself, 'incredible, I must pursue this,' and that marked my return."

Outside the Formula 1 spectacle, Krack portrays himself as an average individual, characterized by humility, a strong focus on family, and potentially a bit of dullness. He maintains an air of authenticity, presenting himself exactly as he is.

"Occasionally, when I return after participating in a couple of races, folks inquire about my weekend activities. My response involves regular tasks – retrieving my children from school, collecting them post their sports practice, and doing some grocery shopping. Just everyday stuff," he elaborated.

"I enjoy hosting a barbecue and inviting friends over, or taking my children out for a fun day of go-kart racing. Sometimes, I'll go to the field to see my son play soccer, or cheer on my daughter during her pole vaulting events. These activities might seem ordinary, but they're what I truly cherish."

The Formula 1 schedule has reached a record-breaking 24 races, presenting an incredibly demanding itinerary. The increased time dedicated to travel has made moments at home even more valuable. For this reason, Krack is focused on maintaining a clear divide between his professional responsibilities and his private life.

"Clearly, upon my return home on the first day, my family shows a lot of support for my activities, leading them to ask numerous questions about my thoughts on the upcoming race, the position of the car, and so forth," he mentioned.

"However, things settle during the weekend, and then it becomes just an ordinary, typical family."

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Christian Horner’s Resilience: Navigating Red Bull Through Its Toughest Year Amid Personal and Professional Turmoil

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Former F1 team leader lauds Christian Horner for his commendable management during the toughest year he's faced.

Guenther Steiner believes Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing in Formula 1, should be commended for his management during what he calls the "worst year of his life."

Before the 2024 season started, Horner was already at the center of a dispute when a woman leveled charges of improper and manipulative conduct against the 50-year-old British man. After conducting a probe into the matter, Red Bull's directors found the accusations to be without merit, exonerating Horner from any misconduct.

Horner found himself managing a particularly challenging season for Red Bull, faced with internal politics, development struggles, and on-track performance problems.

Red Bull dropped to third in the team standings, primarily due to disappointing performances by Sergio Perez, yet Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive world championship title.

Ex-Haas team leader Steiner thinks Horner rightfully earned commendation for his management of challenging circumstances at Red Bull.

"Steiner mentioned to GPBlog that he believes he will look back on 2024 as arguably the worst year of his life, considering everything that occurred. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging his efforts."

He consistently advocated for it. We're not even discussing the start of the year, his personal matters, but moving forward, it's evident that the team had that one driver as their focus.

"They were unable to retain the Constructors' World Championship title due to having just a single car in the competition."

“They were up against a McLaren that had a pair of highly skilled drivers behind the wheel. It's not to say that Checo [Perez] lacks talent, but it's fair to mention he didn't quite show it last year. That's the reality of the situation.”

"Previously, he excelled as a driver, securing victories in competitions, yet the previous year saw him fall short of expectations. Ultimately, they had to confront the situation, which clearly made it challenging to maintain team unity throughout the difficult period."

Red Bull faces challenges with key figures leaving, including iconic designer Adrian Newey moving to Aston Martin and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley taking up a new role as the team principal at Sauber, ahead of the 2025 season.

Steiner highlights that the difficulty in searching for substitutes for Red Bull is significant.

"Clearly, they experienced some loss of personnel," he further stated.

"They are parting ways with Adrian [Newey], Jonathan [Wheatley] is also leaving, and the strategy engineer, Will Courtenay, is set to join McLaren, all of whom are highly skilled individuals.

"Despite Red Bull possessing a strong backup team, those individuals have remained in their positions for an extended period."

"They are familiar with every aspect, and while bringing in fresh talent can be beneficial, finding a substitute for someone like Adrian will be challenging."

"However, it remains to be seen what Christian can achieve, though it appears his current situation isn't becoming simpler."

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Ferrari to Evaluate Reserve Driver Options as Hamilton and Leclerc Sit Out Final Barcelona Test Day

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Ferrari selects two substitute drivers to give Lewis Hamilton a break during the last test day in Barcelona

Lewis Hamilton is set to sit out Ferrari’s concluding test day in Barcelona

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will not participate in the last day of Ferrari's exclusive Formula 1 testing event in Barcelona.

Hamilton and Leclerc will conclude their two-day stint behind the wheel of a 2023 vehicle, making way for Ferrari to assess various reserve driver prospects on Thursday.

The arrangement was set in place prior to Hamilton's Ferrari accident on Wednesday, which disrupted the team's scheduled testing activities for that day.

Ferrari secured the Spanish Grand Prix circuit for a three-day period this week, facilitating Hamilton's ongoing preparations for the 2025 Formula 1 season with his new team partner, Leclerc.

Hamilton has gained additional experience with Ferrari's methods and has begun forming a professional bond with his new race engineer, Riccardo Adami, during a private test session that is part of the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program.

The seven-time world champion took to the track for a drive on Tuesday afternoon and returned to pilot Ferrari’s SF-23 contender on Wednesday morning. However, this session was cut short because of an accident.

Nonetheless, Thursday is scheduled to offer additional drivers within Ferrari's roster an opportunity to accumulate some Formula 1 experience.

Former Sauber racer Antonio Giovinazzi, who has been serving as a backup driver for Ferrari since 2017, will have the opportunity to hit the track with Dino Beganovic.

At 21 years of age, Beganovic, who is part of the Ferrari Driver Academy, is set to participate in his inaugural complete season of Formula 2 racing with Hitech in the year 2025.

The day will offer Beganovic a crucial opportunity to get acquainted with Formula 1 equipment, while also allowing him to cover the necessary distance to qualify for a Super Licence.

Ferrari has not yet made an official announcement regarding their backup driver selections for the 2025 season.

In 2024, Oliver Bearman stepped in to fill Carlos Sainz's shoes during the Saudi Arabian race. However, with Bearman clinching a permanent position at Haas for the next season, Ferrari is on the lookout for other options.

Giovinazzi has long been considered a potential safety net for Ferrari, yet Beganovic might also come into the picture as a potential option for the team.

Beganovic is expected to receive several FP1 session opportunities this year to meet Ferrari's required quota for young drivers.

Zhou Guanyu is also rumored to be considered for the position following his departure from Sauber.

In the coming week, both Hamilton and Leclerc are scheduled for additional track time in Barcelona, participating in a test of Pirelli's 2026 tyres with McLaren on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 4th and 5th.

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Sepang Shakedown Test Day 2: Yamaha Joins Amid Damp Delays in 2025 MotoGP Warm-Up

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2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test – Day 2: LIVE COVERAGE

Stay tuned for real-time updates on the second day of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test happening this Saturday.

Anticipation is high for a more eventful day two at the Sepang Shakedown test, as the four Yamaha riders are set to take part following the unveiling of their team last night.

Nevertheless, the wet conditions on the track resulted in no activity as the testing session commenced at 10 a.m.

On Friday, the absence of newcomer Somkiat Chantra was significant. Meanwhile, KTM test rider Pol Espargaro posted the fastest time, ahead of rookie and current Moto2 champion Ai Ogura. Takaaki Nakagami, the new test rider for HRC, secured the third spot.

Newcomers, official test riders from factories, and racers from Honda and Yamaha are permitted to participate in the Shakedown.

However, Joan Mir and Luca Marini, who ride for the factory Honda team, will be absent once more today because they are attending their team's launch event in Jakarta.

The Sepang test, which will include all the racers competing in the 2025 season, is scheduled to occur from February 5th to 7

At 11:12 a.m., Michele Pirro, who serves as a test rider for Ducati, was the first to hit the track today.

Several motorcycles have been heard revving up, yet the pit lane remains quiet as we near the conclusion of the first hour on Saturday. The track conditions are neither wet enough for rain tires nor dry enough for standard tires.

The wet conditions at the beginning of the second day have delayed the appearance of the first bike on the track.

Regrettably, the presence of cloudy skies suggests that the track may take longer to dry.

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George Russell Channels Legends Hamilton and Schumacher as He Embarks on Leadership Role at Mercedes Amid F1’s Youth Movement

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George Russell discusses being inspired by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton

"Lewis joined Mercedes at 29 and began clinching numerous championships, while Michael was in his early 30s when he started his successful stint with Ferrari…"

George Russell is drawing motivation from Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher as he embarks on a "fresh phase" in his Formula 1 journey.

After Hamilton announced his move to Ferrari in 2025, Russell will lead Mercedes' efforts in the upcoming seasons.

Having 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli as his partner, Russell will bear the majority of the responsibility.

Russell, who will be celebrating his 27th birthday next month, believes he is ideally positioned to guide the team ahead.

In a discussion featured on Mercedes' own site, Russell mentioned that Hamilton was 29 and Schumacher was in his early thirties when they began to excel in the sport.

"Russell stated, "I'm transitioning into a fresh phase of my professional life. I'm concluding the initial stage and moving into the intermediate phase."

Lewis was 29 years old when he became a part of Mercedes and began securing numerous championships, while Michael joined Ferrari in his early 30s.

"In the present day, individuals commence their careers at increasingly early ages – I began at 20. However, I now feel prepared to take on responsibilities within the team, with the crucial aspect being to drive as fast as possible. I believe I am well-positioned to achieve this.

"I'll keep striving to absorb knowledge, remain receptive, and never assume anything. Speed is either in your possession or it's not, yet it's certain the newcomers will pose a strong competition."

Russell acknowledges his position in Formula 1.

The Formula 1 lineup for 2025 introduces five newcomers.

Antonelli steps in for Hamilton at Mercedes, as Oliver Bearman embarks on his inaugural full-season run with Haas in 2025.

Isack Hadjar has taken a driving position with Racing Bulls, while Gabriel Bortoleto has been chosen to join Sauber, getting the nod ahead of Valtteri Bottas.

Jack Doohan rounds out the list as the fifth and last newcomer to join the Alpine team on the grid.

Russell stands out as one of the grid's most seasoned drivers, and he also leads the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), a key organization in ensuring the drivers' perspectives are heard.

Russell acknowledged his position as the driver with more experience.

"The emergence of numerous talented young drivers onto the scene serves as a reminder that one is no longer the new kid on the block."

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George Russell Targets Improved Race Performance for F1 2025: Aims to Overcome Key Weakness

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George Russell identifies crucial area for improvement in F1 2025

George Russell is focused on enhancing his Sunday race outcomes in 2025.

George Russell has recognized the necessity to enhance his performance during races, conceding that it "was not always at its optimum" in 2024.

Russell had an impressive season in 2024, significantly outshining his teammate Lewis Hamilton.

Russell surpassed Hamilton in qualifying 19 times out of 24 races, becoming just the second teammate, following Nico Rosberg, to outperform the seven-time world champion in Saturday's sessions.

The ex-Williams racer secured victories in two 2024 competitions, notably achieving a win from pole position in Las Vegas.

Nonetheless, Russell believes he must enhance his performance during the race.

"Russell mentioned in an interview on Mercedes' official website that his objectives remain unchanged, and his strategy is consistent."

"Formula One stands out in its uniqueness, making it difficult to establish specific objectives in that manner. Declaring a goal to triumph in four races this year, up from three the previous year, doesn't necessarily equate to satisfaction. This holds especially true if I manage to secure five victories, yet the car had the potential for ten."

I usually focus my objectives on more specific benchmarks. In the previous year, my performance in Qualifying stood out, yet my pace during the races often fell short. While I'm confident in my ability to be fast for a single lap, there's no justification for why I can't maintain that level of performance throughout an entire race.

"I have to focus on certain aspects to accomplish my objective, and there are additional targets – which might not be obvious to the supporters watching from their homes but are a priority for me.

"One of the remarkable aspects of Formula 1 is the fresh start each year brings, featuring a brand-new car and a set of different constraints. What might have been an advantage in the previous season might not hold the same value in the current one. It constantly demands adaptation."

Russell steps up as Mercedes' primary driver

With Hamilton moving to Ferrari, Russell emerges as Mercedes' foremost driver in 2025.

Russell is teamed up with the 18-year-old prodigy, Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Considering Antonelli's limited background, it's anticipated that Russell will take the helm at Mercedes.

His superior performance compared to Hamilton in 2024 indicated that he’s poised to contend for the championship.

Moreover, he hasn't hesitated to confront Max Verstappen, at least when it comes to off-track matters.

However, given Mercedes' difficulties in adapting to the ground effect era, it's uncertain if they will possess a competitive car to vie for the championship.

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Lewis Hamilton Masters Ferrari’s Nuances in Second Test: Embracing New Challenges Ahead of Debut Race

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Unveiled: Essential Insights Gained by Lewis Hamilton in His Follow-Up Ferrari Trial

Significant insights have been disclosed from Lewis Hamilton's subsequent Formula 1 evaluation with Ferrari.

Significant developments in Lewis Hamilton's transition have apparently surfaced after his second Formula 1 trial with Ferrari.

As reported by the Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Hamilton became acquainted with the startup processes and the operation of the Ferrari clutch.

It's also mentioned that Hamilton has adapted to using Ferrari's braking system.

Ferrari employs Brembo braking systems, and the seven-time world champion reportedly commended the system's performance, deeming it compatible with his driving techniques.

The seven-time world champion, who was accustomed to utilizing a braking system from Carbone Industries during his tenure at Mercedes, has had to adjust to using a different set of brake discs.

Hamilton had the opportunity to test the modifications to the pedals he had asked for from Ferrari, following his initial on-track appearance at Fiorano the previous Wednesday.

La Gazzetta reports that Hamilton deemed the modifications acceptable, and they are scheduled to be implemented in Ferrari's 2025 vehicle.

The British driver, aged 40, took his second spin in Ferrari's 2023 race car on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain.

Hamilton experienced an accident late Wednesday morning, but he was not injured. Ferrari promptly minimized the significance of the event, describing it as nothing out of the ordinary.

The setback didn't quash Hamilton's enthusiasm for his first season with Ferrari, and he went on to post pictures from Thursday's Barcelona test session on social media.

Hamilton expressed his eagerness for the season to start, captioning his post with: “Eagerly awaiting the first race.”

Hamilton, alongside his fresh team member Charles Leclerc, is scheduled to make a comeback to Barcelona on February 4th and 5th, where Ferrari plans to conduct tire trials for Pirelli for the year 2026, employing an altered model of their previous season's SF-24 vehicle.

The two racers will initially experience Ferrari's 2025 vehicle for a short period during its unveiling on February 19, followed by additional opportunities to drive the SF-25 on the circuit during the formal pre-season trials, scheduled to occur in Bahrain from February 26 to 28.

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Lewis Hamilton Unveils SF-25 as First Ferrari F1 Challenger Amid New Beginnings

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Title Unveiled for Lewis Hamilton's Initial Ferrari F1 Vehicle

The inaugural Ferrari F1 vehicle driven by Lewis Hamilton has been officially named…

The inaugural Ferrari F1 vehicle belonging to Lewis Hamilton has been unveiled.

Ferrari has announced that their Formula 1 car for the 2025 season will be called the SF-25, making the revelation through their online platforms.

In the past few years, Ferrari has adhered to a noticeable trend, with the SF-24 and SF-23 serving as the forerunners to the vehicle they introduced this year.

Kicking off the year with a fresh identity 👊 pic.twitter.com/JC4Ou0OfRJ— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) January 30, 2025

In 2022, Ferrari named their Formula 1 car the F1-75 in celebration of their 75th anniversary.

In 2020, they chose the name SF1000 to mark Ferrari's milestone of competing in their 1000th Grand Prix.

Initially scheduled as the 2020 Monaco Grand Prix, the event was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ferrari commemorated their 1000th Grand Prix by choosing a striking, deep red color scheme for the 2020 Tuscan GP.

Based on the clues Ferrari has been dropping on social media lately, it seems they might opt for a deeper red hue for their car this year.

Hamilton gears up for debut season with Ferrari

The past few weeks have been packed for Hamilton, who made his inaugural visit to Ferrari's Maranello factory just last week.

This past Monday, Hamilton was captured in a photo outside the legendary former residence of Enzo Ferrari.

Following discussions with several of his engineers and main team members, Hamilton made his initial appearance on the Fiorano circuit.

He and Charles Leclerc alternated behind the wheel of Ferrari's car for the 2023 season.

This week, they took to the track once more, this occasion at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya.

Following an uneventful initial day of racing, Hamilton experienced a crash on the subsequent day, Wednesday.

Hamilton experienced an accident in the last section of the circuit in Barcelona.

The seven-time world champion emerged unharmed from his Ferrari after the incident.

Consequently, this led to Ferrari having to cancel Leclerc's subsequent attempt.

Hamilton is set to have another opportunity to race for Ferrari, as the team is scheduled to participate in the Pirelli tyre trial happening in Barcelona next week.

This will further ready him for his pre-season appearance in Bahrain at February's close.

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F1 Drivers Left in the Dark: GPDA Claims New FIA Misconduct Penalties Were a Media Surprise

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F1 racers were informed of the FIA's new penalties for swearing through news outlets, according to reports.

The chairperson of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) has stated that Formula 1 drivers were made aware of the FIA's updated rules on misconduct through media coverage.

This month, it was revealed that Formula 1 drivers risk losing points or potentially facing suspension if they continuously use foul language or express criticism towards the sport's regulatory authority, the FIA.

The International Automobile Federation has outlined fresh penalties for improper behavior in the most recent edition of the International Sporting Code.

Adjustments were made following an incident where Max Verstappen, the current world titleholder, was mandated to complete a public service task by the end of 2024. This was due to his use of offensive language during a press conference held by the FIA at the previous year's Singapore Grand Prix.

FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed a strong desire to prohibit F1 drivers from using profanity.

Former F1 racer and GPDA leader Alex Wurz has stated that the FIA did not seek input from the drivers before announcing the changes.

"The Austrian was cited by RacingNews365, stating, 'We were not consulted.' He mentioned that they learned about it through news outlets.

"There may be potential for enhancements that we [the FIA and the GPDA] are collaboratively addressing."

For instance, looking at the NFL in the United States, players are part of a union and actively participate in the process.

"In this situation, we have no involvement. It's unclear to me whether the FIA has engaged its drivers' commission. That's information I'm not privy to.

"Hopefully, there won't be a large number of fines being imposed."

Wurz mentioned that the GPDA hasn't had the chance to convene and talk about the recent regulations yet.

"He further mentioned, "We haven't been able to meet up. It's a hectic time for the drivers, and I don't wish to overwhelm them."

"The regulations stipulate this. Alterations cannot be made spontaneously."

Certainly, we'll gather. Subsequently, we'll meet to talk about our activities and plan our next steps.

"The optimal approach is to refrain from using swear words. It's quite straightforward."

Crash.net has learned that Wurz's assertions about the GPDA's exclusion from the process by the FIA are accurate.

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McLaren Braces Cold to Test Pirelli’s 2026 Wet Weather Tyres Ahead of F1’s Regulatory Overhaul

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McLaren conducts trials on Pirelli's 2026 Formula 1 rain tyres amid challenging low temperatures.

McLaren has recently conducted tests in preparation for the 2025 Formula 1 season, featuring Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris at the Circuit Paul Ricard.

The pair of drivers from McLaren conducted trials with Pirelli's wet-weather tyres for 2026 at the circuit in France.

On Wednesday, Piastri took the wheel of McLaren's 2023 race car, later passing the driving duties to his colleague Norris.

Pirelli observed that the track temperature was a cold -2 degrees Celsius during the morning, which resulted in Piastri being unable to finish the intended number of laps.

Activity intensified later in the day when Piastri successfully finished a total of 120 laps.

He achieved his fastest lap at 1 minute and 7.008 seconds, indicating that McLaren opted for a condensed configuration of Circuit Paul Ricard, different from the track version utilized for the French Grand Prix from 2018 to 2022.

On Thursday, Norris was behind the wheel, however, Pirelli has not yet disclosed specifics about how he performed.

Norris, similar to Piastri, has been assigned the role of evaluating Pirelli's intermediate and wet tires for the year 2026.

2026 marks a pivotal year in Formula 1, as it will see the introduction of new regulations for both the power units and chassis.

Adjustments have been made to the regulations regarding tires.

The diameter of the tires will continue to be 18 inches, however, there will be a minor decrease in both the width and the overall diameter across both axles.

Pirelli will continue its testing throughout the year in preparation for the upcoming regulations.

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Lewis Hamilton Champions Dream of African F1 Race: South Africa’s $50M Bid for 2027 Calendar Spot

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Lewis Hamilton aspires to generate $50 million for a 2027 Formula 1 race proposal, potentially bringing the competition back to Africa.

South Africa is actively pursuing the possibility of hosting a Formula 1 race and is aiming to secure $50 million as part of its recent initiatives.

Lewis Hamilton, who has clinched the world championship seven times, has once again expressed his wish to see a race held in Africa as part of the Formula

In a 2023 interview with ESPN, Hamilton revealed, “I’ve been actively advocating for South Africa, working behind the scenes to make it happen. Hopefully, you’ll witness the results of these efforts shortly.

"Competing in South Africa, and indeed racing across the African continent, is an immense dream of mine."

"I'm aware that I have a significant number of supporters and that Formula 1 has garnered a lot of interest. Therefore, I'm putting in a lot of effort behind the scenes and taking it to higher levels to ensure that we make the race a reality."

The effort for South Africa to become a part of the Formula 1 schedule is being led by the country's sports minister, Gayton McKenzie.

McKenzie has verified that conversations have been occurring in preparation for their attempt to become part of the 2027 Formula 1 calendar.

Until that time, McKenzie aims to gather $50 million and intends to discuss potential support with additional sponsors, including Red Bull and Heineken.

According to Bloomberg, McKenzie is optimistic about achieving their goal by 2027.

He stated, "It's evident that there's a strong interest in investing in this. Additionally, we've received encouraging information indicating that Holland won't be returning, which means we could secure that space by 2027."

What is the location for the race in South Africa?

In 2023, South Africa's attempt to secure a Formula 1 grand prix at the Kyalami circuit was unsuccessful.

Efforts are underway to bring Formula 1 racing back to Africa after a 32-year break.

Kyalami continues to lead the pack, with the specially designed track most recently serving as a race venue in 1993.

An additional contender is an urban racing event in Cape Town.

Street circuits are increasingly appearing in the Formula 1 schedule, including recent introductions in Miami, Las Vegas, and an upcoming street race in Madrid.

Johannesburg is also a contender.

Beyond South Africa, Rwanda has shown enthusiasm for being part of the schedule.

Nonetheless, this appears increasingly improbable due to worries about capability and structural facilities.

McKenzie has committed to reintroducing Formula 1 to Africa, making a strong declaration.

He emphasized, "Should I not succeed in bringing Formula 1 to South Africa, then I have not fulfilled my duties as the Sports Minister," he continued. "One way or another, Formula 1 will make its way here."

Competing in Africa may inspire Hamilton to extend his career past 2026, achieving yet another one of his aspirations.

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Louis Vuitton Crosses the Finish Line into F1: A Decade-Long Partnership to Kick Off with 2025 Australian Grand Prix

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High-end brand announced as the official sponsor for the 2025 Grand Prix in Formula 1

Formula 1 adds a new luxury brand to its roster of collaborations…

High-end fashion label Louis Vuitton has become an official partner of Formula 1, sponsoring the inaugural race of the season in Melbourne.

Louis Vuitton has entered into a decade-long partnership, becoming an official collaborator.

This is included in a broader agreement with LVMH that will introduce several of its high-end brands to the sport.

The agreement, said to be valued at up to $1 billion, also includes Tag Heuer becoming the official timekeeper for F1.

They formerly possessed the championship from 1992 to 2003.

In 2025, Tag Heuer will take over from Rolex, who has been a crucial ally since 2013.

Louis Vuitton to Serve as Principal Sponsor for 2025 Australian Grand Prix

The luxury brand Louis Vuitton has been announced as the primary sponsor for the inaugural race of the season at Albert Park,

In line with this, Formula 1 has announced that Louis Vuitton's iconic 'Trophy Trunks' will be awarded to the top three racers in Melbourne.

The opening race of the season is garnering extra attention, as it marks Lewis Hamilton's debut as a driver for Ferrari.

For the first time since 2019, Melbourne is kicking off the season.

Commenting on the recent announcement, F1's chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, expressed his excitement about Louis Vuitton coming on board as the main sponsor for the inaugural 2025 race. He highlighted that this collaboration brings together two internationally recognized brands, both of which are celebrated for their commitment to innovation, excellence, and creativity, marking a union of two uniquely enduring legacies.

"Louis Vuitton's involvement elevates the allure of our sport, highlighting the blend of opulence, skillful artistry, and the pinnacle of car racing. The year 2025 promises to be monumental for Formula 1, and I am thrilled to embark on this journey with our enthusiastic allies at Louis Vuitton."

Pietro Beccari, the head of Louis Vuitton, expressed his immense pride in the collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Formula 1, highlighting their common goal of continuously pursuing innovation, craftsmanship, and accuracy.

"The collaboration between our distinct domains is mirrored in the expertise of our workshops and garages, craftsmen, and technicians, honoring the remarkable achievements of elite drivers globally who pursue a path of excellence in every competition."

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Ferrari Dismisses Doubts Over Hamilton’s Form, Welcomes F1 Legend with Open Arms

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Piero Ferrari dismisses speculations about Lewis Hamilton's F1 performance issues

Piero Ferrari, offspring of the iconic founder of Ferrari, Enzo, has waved off doubts regarding Lewis Hamilton's capabilities as the 2025 F1 season approaches.

The seven-time world champion faced challenges in his last season with Mercedes, with teammate George Russell significantly surpassing him in performance during both qualifying rounds and the actual races.

He secured victories in two races, yet fell to his worst position in the drivers' championship, ending up in seventh place behind Russell.

Hamilton's difficulties, especially in single-lap scenarios, have sparked inquiries into his performance levels and if he might have surpassed his prime.

Sky Sports analyst Martin Brundle recently hinted that Hamilton might not be as sharp as before but believes he still has the potential to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship, possibly with Ferrari.

Nonetheless, Ferrari dismissed those concerns, asserting that the 40-year-old British driver is in "excellent condition".

"[Hamilton] is fit and in excellent condition, both in terms of his physical and mental state. I believe that age is not an issue in any way," he conveyed to the Italian magazine Autosprint.

"He embraced the task with great eagerness, showing strong belief in his capabilities."

Ferrari amazed by Hamilton's reception from supporters

Ferrari expressed his astonishment at the warm reception Hamilton was greeted with upon his initial visit to the team's renowned Maranello base.

Approximately 1,500 enthusiastic supporters of Ferrari gathered along the boundary barriers of the Fiorano test circuit to witness the first appearance of their latest star on the track with the team, which occurred last Wednesday.

"It was almost unbelievable! The genuine passion really hit me," Ferrari exclaimed.

Individuals crowding the small bridge with a view of the Fiorano circuit, encroaching upon the bicycle lane, showcased a beautiful display of affection.

Upon his arrival in Fiorano, I approached to welcome him. From the car windows, he had noticed the fans eager to see him and was pleasantly surprised by their presence.

Ferrari took note of Hamilton's fashion sense. On his initial day with the team, Hamilton made an appearance dressed in traditional Italian attire, sporting a suit with pinstripes and a double-breasted coat.

"Ferrari remarked that they couldn't recall any other drivers displaying such elegance during their initial day with the team."

"A flawless suit, a necktie, a drawing. For instance, we, as managers, didn't wear ties…"

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