From Rally to Ruin: Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s Infamous Renault F1 Crash at Dubai Autodrome
When Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the FIA, had an accident involving a Renault Formula 1 car.
During a demonstration event for Renault, Mohammed Ben Sulayem experienced a crash while driving a Formula 1 car.
In 2009, the president of the FIA had the chance to experience F1 vehicles firsthand by participating in a demonstration event for Renault in Dubai. This event was part of the promotional activities for the first-ever Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held that year.
Since the Yas Marina Circuit was still under construction, the event was held at the Dubai Autodrome.
While participating in a drag race against a Ford GT, Ben Sulayem was behind the wheel of the 2008 Renault R28 when he experienced a crash.
Ben Sulayem, who initially took the lead with a quick start, lost control of his Renault and crashed into the wall on the pit straight.
Although the Emirati emerged unscathed from the accident, the F1 vehicle sustained significant damage on its left side.
The incident led to the early conclusion of the demonstration day.
You can view the video of the accident below.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem's history in racing
Although Ben Sulayem has not competed in single-seater racing, he does have experience in driving.
The individual previously competed as a rally driver and has achieved victory in the Middle East Rally Championship on 14 occasions.
Between 1988 and 1995, Ben Sulayem competed in 23 rallies within the World Rally Championship, driving for Toyota and Ford. During his participation, he accumulated a total of 12 points.
In 2005, Ben Sulayem shifted his focus to non-racing activities by taking on the role of president of the Emirates Motorsports Organisation, representing the United Arab Emirates in the FIA.
In 2008, Ben Sulayem was chosen as the Vice President for sport and became a part of the FIA World Motor Sport Council. He was instrumental in setting up the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
In December 2021, he was chosen to become the new president of the FIA, taking over from Jean Todt
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Lewis frequently travels to various international Grands Prix for Crash.net. He covers the events firsthand, sharing the narratives of key figures in the racing world.
Stay Informed
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the freshest F1 updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the paddock to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Recent Updates
Additional Stories
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP
Copying any portion of the text, images, or drawings, either entirely or in part, is strictly prohibited in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Aston Martin Strengthens Reserve Lineup: Felipe Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne Back Alonso and Stroll for 2025 F1 Season
Aston Martin has revealed the reserve drivers who will support Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in the upcoming Formula 1 season.
Felipe Drugovich is set to remain in his role as Aston Martin's reserve and test driver for the Formula 1 season in 2025.
Since 2022, Drugovich has been involved with Aston Martin's driver program, the same year he won the Formula 2 championship.
Despite having participated in multiple test sessions with Aston Martin, Drugovich has not yet secured a full-time racing position with any team.
According to reports, discussions had previously taken place between the Brazilian and Williams, prior to their decision to choose Logan Sargeant.
Aston Martin has announced that Drugovich will keep attending races to serve as a reserve for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
The position will be jointly held by ex-McLaren racer Stoffel Vandoorne.
Discussing recent developments, Drugovich expressed his satisfaction by stating, "I'm truly delighted to continue with Aston Martin Aramco for a third consecutive year as the Test and Reserve Driver."
"This team has a strong drive, and I'm eager to see the accomplishments we can reach collectively."
"The impressive state-of-the-art facilities at the AMR Technology Campus, which feature a newly introduced simulator, highlight the ambition of the organization. I am dedicated to contributing to Aston Martin Aramco's lasting achievements. I also wish to express my gratitude to the team for their continuous support."
Mike Krack, who serves as the Chief Trackside Officer, expressed his thoughts by saying, "Felipe has played an essential role in our team since he came on board, and we're thrilled to keep collaborating with him until 2025. He truly is a valuable asset. His work behind the scenes, especially in the simulator and during test sessions, has been extremely beneficial, and he consistently performs flawlessly when driving."
Felipe's commitment and insights have been essential to our advancement, and we are sure he will keep contributing greatly to our team.
"We hope he does well in the upcoming 24 Hours of Daytona race."
Aston Martin's Expectations for the 2025 Season
In 2025, Aston Martin is expected to have a transitional year as they anticipate Adrian Newey starting his projects later in the year.
Aston Martin is setting its sights on 2026, as their vehicle will be shaped by Newey's influence and powered by a Honda works engine.
This suggests that the team located in Silverstone might face challenges again in 2025.
Aston Martin secured the fifth position in the constructors' championship once more, but they lagged significantly behind the leading four teams.
As the year concluded, they found themselves trailing behind Alpine and Haas in terms of sheer speed, frequently depending on Alonso's exceptional skill.
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the most recent updates, special reports, interviews, and special offers from the world of F1 delivered straight to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives of F1, is the driving force behind our impartial coverage.
Explore Further
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 world directly in your email.
Please refer to our Privacy Policy for additional details.
Breaking News
Additional Updates
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Franco Colapinto’s Alpine Adventure: Inside the Five-Year Deal and Briatore’s Pursuit
Manager of Franco Colapinto discloses intriguing contract specifics following his switch to Alpine F1
Information about Franco Colapinto's agreement with Alpine has come to light…
Franco Colapinto's manager has provided insight into the discussions with Alpine and the "determined" Flavio Briatore regarding the Argentine driver's switch to a new team for the 2025 F1 season.
Just last week, it was revealed that Colapinto will serve as Alpine's reserve and test driver for the next season.
It is widely anticipated that Colapinto will eventually secure a permanent racing position as a teammate to Pierre Gasly, though this move hinges on Jack Doohan's performance.
Colapinto's standout performances for Williams, stepping in for Logan Sargeant mid-season, have caught the attention of both Alpine and Red Bull.
A disappointing conclusion to the year, marred by several incidents and a reportedly substantial release clause, led to a decline in interest in Colapinto.
Following extensive discussions with Alpine, an agreement was reached to have Colapinto join Enstone as their test and reserve driver.
In an interview with the Argentinian media outlet Infobae, Maria Catarineu, who is the Commercial Director at Bullet Sports Management, disclosed that Briatore showed a strong interest in Colapinto.
"The process was lengthy due to the complicated nature of the negotiations, much like this particular instance. However, Flavio remained consistently determined and became especially focused and driven in the past few weeks," she remarked.
The deal was reached as it satisfied the desires of both sides involved. Flavio succeeded in securing Franco's signature, while [Williams boss] James [Vowles] provided Franco with a racing opportunity, given that Williams' usual drivers are tied to long-term agreements.
She mentioned, "Ever since Franco started his Formula 1 career, Briatore has been aware of him. During our initial conversation, he remarked, 'I’ve recognized talent, and I want him on board.'"
"He paid close attention to every race and tracked his progress as a Formula 1 driver throughout the nine Grand Prix events he participated in."
Colapinto Secures Five-Year Contract with Alpine
Catarineu disclosed that Colapinto's contract with Alpine spans five years, which is remarkably lengthy for a driver who has competed in only nine races.
"Williams transferred Franco to Alpine under a five-year agreement," she clarified.
"I believe that if another team shows an interest in Franco during that time frame, it would likely lead to negotiations between Alpine and the other team."
It seems unavoidable that Colapinto will be promoted instead of Doohan.
Alpine has announced that Doohan will continue driving at the beginning of the season, but the Australian racer will face significant internal pressure.
Catarineu declined to comment on whether Colapinto would have the chance to join Alpine as a permanent driver.
She decided not to express her emotions.
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the racing world straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's disputes and narratives, is the driving force behind our objective journalism.
Explore Further
Join our F1 Newsletter
Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock delivered straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Breaking Updates
Additional Headlines
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Keep Up with Crash MotoGP
It is not allowed to fully or partially copy the text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Inside Franco Colapinto’s Five-Year Alpine Deal: Juicy Contract Details and the Briatore Influence
Franco Colapinto's Manager Shares Intriguing Contract Information Following Alpine F1 Transition
New insights have come to light regarding Franco Colapinto's contract with Alpine…
The manager of Franco Colapinto has provided details about her discussions with Alpine and the notably determined Flavio Briatore, which were related to the Argentine driver's team switch in preparation for the 2025 F1 season.
Just last week, Colapinto was revealed as the reserve and test driver for Alpine in the forthcoming season.
It is widely anticipated that Colapinto will eventually join Pierre Gasly as a full-time teammate, although this will rely on Jack Doohan's performance.
Colapinto's standout performances for Williams, where he took over for Logan Sargeant mid-season, caught the attention of both Alpine and Red Bull.
The year's conclusion was disappointing, marred by several incidents, and the substantial release clause reportedly attached to Colapinto led to a decline in interest.
Following extensive discussions with Alpine, an agreement was reached to have Colapinto join Enstone as their test and reserve driver.
In an interview with the Argentinian outlet Infobae, Maria Catarineu, who serves as the Commercial Director at Bullet Sports Management, disclosed that Briatore showed a strong interest in Colapinto.
"The negotiations were drawn-out due to their complexity, particularly in this instance. However, Flavio remained consistently determined and became particularly focused in the final weeks," she explained.
The deal was reached as both sides achieved their goals. Flavio succeeded in signing Franco, and Williams' team principal, James Vowles, provided Franco with the opportunity to compete, as the team's usual drivers are tied to long-term agreements.
She mentioned, "Briatore has been aware of Franco since his entry into Formula 1. On the day we initially spoke, he remarked, 'I've noticed his skill, and I want to work with him.'"
"He paid close attention to each race, observing his development as a Formula 1 driver throughout the nine Grand Prix events he participated in."
Colapinto Secures Extended Contract with Alpine
Catarineu disclosed that Colapinto has signed a lengthy contract with Alpine, spanning five years. This is notably long for a driver who has competed in only nine races so far.
"Williams arranged for Franco to be with Alpine for a period of five years," she stated.
"I realize that if another team shows interest in Franco during that time frame, it would likely lead to discussions between Alpine and the other team."
It seems certain that Colapinto will be promoted instead of Doohan.
Alpine has announced that Doohan will continue driving for the beginning of the season, but the Australian driver will face significant internal pressure.
Catarineu declined to comment on the possibility of Colapinto becoming a full-time driver for Alpine.
"I’m not going to express my emotions," she finished.
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the freshest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Connor brings keen insight into Formula 1's disputes and narratives, serving as the core of our objective reporting.
Explore Further
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Current Updates
Additional Stories
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to reproduce any part or the entirety of the text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Website Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Aston Martin’s Strategic Moves: Felipe Drugovich Continues as Reserve Driver Amid 2025 Challenges
Aston Martin has revealed the F1 reserve drivers who will be supporting Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. The team has officially announced their backup drivers for the upcoming season.
Felipe Drugovich is set to remain in his role as reserve and test driver for Aston Martin for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Since 2022, Drugovich has been involved in Aston Martin's driver program, the same year he became the Formula 2 champion.
Despite having participated in multiple test sessions with Aston Martin, Drugovich remains without a full-time driving position as teams have consistently passed him over.
According to reports, the Brazilian had discussions with Williams previously before the team decided on Logan Sargeant.
Aston Martin has announced that Drugovich will keep participating in races as a reserve driver, supporting Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
Former McLaren driver Stoffel Vandoorne will share the position.
In a recent statement about the news, Drugovich expressed his excitement about continuing with Aston Martin Aramco for a third consecutive year as their Test and Reserve Driver.
"The team is currently experiencing a strong sense of forward movement, and I'm eager to discover what we can accomplish as a group."
The impressive facilities at the AMR Technology Campus, featuring the latest simulator, reflect the high ambitions in this place, and I am dedicated to contributing to Aston Martin Aramco's future achievements. As ever, I express my gratitude to the team for their continuous support.
Mike Krack, who serves as the Chief Trackside Officer, expressed his thoughts by saying, "Felipe has played an essential role in our team since he came on board, and we are delighted to maintain our collaboration with him through 2025 – he truly is an asset. His work in the background, especially in the simulator and during testing, has been incredibly valuable, and he consistently performs flawlessly when driving."
Felipe's commitment and insights have been essential to our development, and we are certain that he will keep making a meaningful difference within our team.
"We send our best wishes for his success at the upcoming 24 Hours of Daytona event."
Aston Martin's Expectations for 2025
The year 2025 is expected to serve as a transitional period for Aston Martin while they anticipate Adrian Newey starting his projects later this year.
Aston Martin is setting its sights on 2026, with their vehicle expected to be shaped by Newey's influence and powered by a Honda works engine.
This suggests that the team based in Silverstone might face challenges again in 2025.
Aston Martin secured the fifth position in the constructors' championship once more, but they lagged significantly behind the leading four teams.
As the year drew to a close, they fell behind Alpine and Haas in terms of sheer speed, frequently depending on Alonso's exceptional skills.
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Connor, known for his keen insight into F1’s disputes and narratives, is central to our fair and balanced reporting.
Explore Further
Sign Up for Our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, special features, interviews, and exclusive offers from the world of Formula 1 delivered straight to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Current Updates
Additional Headlines
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP
Copying any portion of the text, images, or artwork is strictly prohibited in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Ferrari Teases Bold New Livery for Lewis Hamilton’s 2025 Car with Darker Red Hints on Social Media
Ferrari hints at the 2025 car design for Lewis Hamilton on social media. Reports suggest that the team will switch to a deeper red color for their livery in 2025.
Ferrari may have provided a clue regarding their new paint scheme for the 2025 Formula 1 season, supporting a recent assertion that they plan to embrace a more daring design.
As the new season approaches, there are numerous reports about Ferrari's latest vehicle, which will be the first car for Lewis Hamilton with the team.
According to Autoracer, Ferrari plans to adopt a "deeper shade of red" for their color scheme in 2025.
According to the report, the red hue will be lighter compared to the one featured at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix in Mugello.
Several updates on Ferrari's social media platforms since the beginning of the year may have suggested the particular red hue they plan to feature on their latest Formula 1 vehicle.
A dressing room tag, Hamilton’s birthday dessert, and the small table set for two all share the same deep red color.
Check out this Instagram post from Crash.net – Formula 1, which is available under the handle @crashnetformula1.
Supporters must hold on until the F1 75 Live event at The O2, where all the teams will be in attendance, to catch a first look at the new design.
Ferrari is gearing up to allow Hamilton to test their 2022 car as he prepares for the upcoming pre-season sessions in Bahrain, which are just over a month away.
Due to his contractual obligations with Mercedes, Hamilton was not able to participate in the team's testing session in Abu Dhabi at the end of the previous year.
Hamilton's appearances will provide him an essential chance to get acquainted with his new team and begin forming connections in anticipation of an important year for Ferrari.
Ferrari secured the runner-up position in the 2024 Formula 1 constructors' championship, trailing McLaren by only 13 points.
Loïc Serra, a former Mercedes colleague of Hamilton, is playing a crucial role in the development of the new vehicle.
Sources indicate that Serra has concentrated on the suspension system and how it works with Pirelli tires.
In 2024, Ferrari and Hamilton faced challenges during the qualifying sessions, and Serra has been assigned to help improve their performance in this area.
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the Formula 1 world straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
With keen insight into the controversies and narratives of Formula 1, Connor serves as the backbone of our impartial coverage.
Learn More
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
Please refer to our Privacy Policy for additional details.
Breaking Updates
Additional Reports
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to copy any part or the entirety of the text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Website Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Christian Horner’s Unyielding Resolve: Navigating Scandal and Challenges in F1 2024
Christian Horner stated that the idea of stepping away from Red Bull in the face of controversy in the 2024 Formula 1 season never crossed his mind.
Christian Horner has firmly stated that he "never, ever" thought about leaving Formula 1 despite the controversy that surrounded him and his Red Bull team.
Just before the start of the 2024 F1 season, Red Bull faced upheaval due to accusations of improper and domineering conduct directed at team leader Horner.
A 51-year-old British man refuted the allegations against him and was eventually exonerated after an internal inquiry examined his conduct towards a female coworker, whose subsequent appeal was rejected.
The situation involving Horner caused a stir at Red Bull, creating political unrest within the team. This turmoil was heightened when Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, demanded Horner's resignation.
Questions about Verstappen's future arose following the controversy away from the racetrack.
Red Bull experienced a decline in their performance during the middle of the season, yet Verstappen managed to secure his fourth consecutive world championship. This achievement came even as McLaren's Lando Norris posed a strong challenge.
Red Bull was unable to hold onto their constructors' title and fell to third place in the championship standings, finishing behind McLaren and Ferrari.
Horner expressed his enduring enthusiasm.
"It was definitely a tough year," Horner admitted to PlanetF1.
"There were numerous challenges, but our attention was consistently directed towards the track."
"Clearly, our team has undergone some changes, but we're adapting for the future, and I believe we're well-prepared for what's ahead."
"My love for competition has been a constant driving force in my life. It's the reason I wake up each morning. Being a racer is ingrained in me, and the thrill when the race starts is everything to me."
In the face of challenges both on and off the racing circuit, Horner emphasized that leaving his role was never a consideration for him.
"I can honestly say that I've never considered that idea," he remarked.
A thrilling new phase is about to unfold with Red Bull Powertrains, marking the most significant challenge we've encountered in our two decades in the sport. I believe this upcoming phase could be one of the most exhilarating parts of our journey.
"In this field, there's always something new to learn."
Several important members of the Red Bull team are departing as they approach the 2025 season. Among them is Adrian Newey, who has chosen to exit the team following the controversy surrounding Horner.
A renowned Formula 1 designer has become part of the Aston Martin team and will start his position on March 2nd.
Jonathan Wheatley, who has been serving as sporting director, has left his position to take on the role of team principal at Sauber. This team is set to transition into the Audi works team by 2026.
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive up-to-date news, special features, interviews, and offers from the world of Formula 1 straight in your email.
To learn additional details, please refer to our Privacy
Lewis frequently travels globally for Crash.net to cover Grand Prix events. He is often on-site to report on the events, sharing the narratives of key figures in the sport.
Explore Further
Join our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the world of Formula 1 straight to your email inbox.
For detailed information, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Breaking Updates
Additional Headlines
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to fully or partially reproduce any text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
GPS Drama: How Esteban Ocon’s Company Car Tracked His Secret Visit to Williams Amidst F1 Driver Market Shuffle
Alpine's company car GPS tracked Esteban Ocon's trip to Williams F1, according to former Alpine head Marcin Budkowski.
Marcin Budkowski revealed that Alpine became aware of Esteban Ocon's trip to visit F1 competitors Williams because of the GPS tracking on his company vehicle.
Ocon joined Haas following an announcement made by Alpine in June, stating that they would separate from him after the 2024 season.
In July, James Vowles, the head of Williams, disclosed that Esteban Ocon had been to Grove to try out a seat, as the team was considering its choices for drivers in the future.
Ex-Alpine executive director Budkowski, who departed from the French team in 2022, alleged that GPS data from Ocon's company vehicle indicated he had visited Williams.
According to Budkowski, as reported by Viaplay Poland, before the Silverstone race, he visited Enstone and used an Alpine provided to him as a company car.
"However, these vehicles are equipped with GPS tracking devices. Consequently, it was discovered that Esteban's Alpine car remained in the Williams parking area for a total of five hours while he was in the UK. This is how the team at Alpine learned that Esteban had spent a significant part of his day there."
"I doubt he realized it. However, the reality is that the team didn't renew his contract, which allows Esteban to explore opportunities with other teams."
"It's quite amusing how the information ended up being released in that manner."
Williams considered Ocon for future seasons
During the Hungarian Grand Prix last year, Vowles informed Autosport that Williams had been assessing Ocon as a possible driver for the 2025 or 2026 seasons.
After leaving Ferrari to accommodate Lewis Hamilton's arrival, Carlos Sainz secured a long-term contract with Williams.
"Vowles mentioned to Autosport that Esteban visited not for an actual seat fitting, but rather for an assessment regarding the 2025 and 2026 seasons."
"I had to check if he could actually fit in the car. Like Alex, he's a tall guy, but his measurements are somewhat challenging in certain areas."
To be clear, all of our current efforts are focused solely on drivers for 2025 and the future, with no other considerations.
He was certainly someone we thought about. I have been acquainted with him for quite a long time, particularly during his tenure at Mercedes, where he was under the guidance of Toto Wolff, Gwen, and myself.
"He has shown impressive speed. Beating Fernando Alonso in qualifying is no small feat, and it takes exceptional talent to do so. With the proper support system in place, he has the potential to be incredibly powerful. This is the reason he was a candidate."
At the time, Vowles indicated that Ocon probably won't be a future choice for Williams.
He expressed that, given the current circumstances, their paths are unlikely to intersect. He lamented this, suggesting that he could see certain opportunities for collaboration that would be beneficial.
However, there are aspects that I believe won't be feasible within our current timeline. Nevertheless, I am certain that he is destined to have a prosperous career in Formula 1.
In 2025, Ocon will team up with F1 newcomer Oliver Bearman, creating a fresh driver pairing for Haas.
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the racing world straight to your email.
Please refer to our Privacy Policy for further details.
Lewis frequently travels to various global locations to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He often provides on-the-scene reports, sharing the narratives of key figures within the motorsport community.
Explore Further
Join Our F1 Mailing List
Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the world of F1 delivered straight to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Breaking News
Additional Updates
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to reproduce any part of the text, images, or drawings, whether in full or in part, in any manner.
Site Layout
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
FIA President’s Media Clash: Mohammed Ben Sulayem Criticizes F1 Coverage and Questions British GP Sponsorship
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem criticizes the media for what he perceives as their "unjust" depiction of him and makes a peculiar remark about the British Grand Prix.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has once more criticized how he is depicted by the F1 media.
Ben Sulayem has once again expressed his belief that he has been unjustly targeted by certain media outlets during his remarks at the Dakar rally in Saudi Arabia.
In what appeared to be an unprovoked outburst, the 63-year-old Emirati, who has been heavily criticized for his leadership of F1, expressed his thoughts, as reported by Autosport: “I have faced three years of criticism. Does it bother me? Was I elected to heed the media's opinions? No."
"I appreciate media that is constructive and uplifting. If I happen to make an error, I welcome objective criticism."
Since taking on the role of FIA president in December 2021, Ben Sulayem has been embroiled in a number of controversies and has stated that he has been subjected to treatment he considers "unfair."
He also remarked oddly about Qatar Airways sponsoring the British Grand Prix.
"Unjust. However, the world isn't just. Saudi Arabia has made significant reinvestments," he mentioned to journalists in Saudi Arabia.
"When you examine certain segments of the British media, you'll notice they sometimes criticize Saudi Arabia or me personally. However, I would suggest attending the British Grand Prix to see for yourself."
"Is it just the British Grand Prix? No, it’s actually the Qatar Airways British Grand Prix. Without the sponsorship, the funding disappears."
Previous remarks from Ben Sulayem to the press
During an interview with Autosport at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last year, Ben Sulayem criticized what he perceived as bias in the British media.
He made his remarks following comments by Adrian Newey, a former designer for Red Bull, who stated on the High Performance podcast that the British media had not treated Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel fairly.
Ben Sulayem concurred with Newey's viewpoint, expressing admiration for Max Verstappen. "As a fellow driver and former champion, I hold a deep respect for those who achieve victory and championships," he remarked.
"I acknowledge that he faced his own difficulties, but let's focus on my experiences. When you examine how the British press treated me… Honestly, they judged me harshly."
"They haven't charged me with anything, yet they continue their efforts. Do I mind? Not at all. Why is that? Because their main goal is to boost sales and increase their own media exposure. Absolutely."
"However, they do not hold any authority over me or the FIA."
"While I respect the British media and other media outlets, it's important to note that they do not have a say in our elections. We operate as an independent, democratic federation. It was the members who chose me, and the authority lies with the General Assembly, not the media."
"Can we please put an end to this silliness and focus on what truly benefits the sport? I’m asking if that's possible. If the media chooses not to, that’s their decision."
"Yet, life continues. Do you know what their actions did to me? They strengthened me. Now, I'm more cautious and have gained wisdom."
"I have backing from the club members. Should they determine that it's time for a new president, the decision is theirs to make."
"When all is said and done, it's the General Assembly and its members who placed me in this position. I understand that completely. If they are dissatisfied, the decision is in their hands."
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter to receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the world of Formula 1 delivered straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Lewis frequently travels to various countries to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He is commonly on-site to provide firsthand reports and shares narratives about the key figures in the racing world.
Explore Further
Join Our F1 Mailing List
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the world of Formula 1 straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Breaking Updates
Additional Stories
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Keep Up with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to reproduce the text, images, or drawings, either wholly or in part, in any manner.
Website Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
David Croft Defends Max Verstappen: Champion’s Aggression Sparks Debate Amid Fourth F1 Title Win
David Croft steps up to support Max Verstappen following backlash from fans who labeled him as "petulant." Croft argues that Verstappen's actions are driven by his desire to win and become a champion, which aligns with Red Bull's expectations, as they are paying him to achieve these exact goals.
David Croft, a commentator for Sky Sports F1, has stood up for Max Verstappen regarding his "overly aggressive" actions during races, labeling the Dutch driver as a "champion."
In 2024, Verstappen clinched his fourth straight F1 drivers’ championship, successfully holding off a strong end-of-season push from Lando Norris.
Verstappen's performance this season was likely his most remarkable, especially considering Red Bull faced difficulties during the latter part of the year.
In the first 10 races, Verstappen secured seven wins, but in the last 14 races, he only managed to win twice.
Because Verstappen had a points advantage over Norris, he was able to take a more aggressive approach during their side-by-side duels.
The driver from Red Bull received two separate 10-second penalties due to his aggressive driving behavior during the race in Mexico.
During the Autosport International event held in Birmingham, Croft had a conversation with a fan.
A fan commented on Verstappen, describing him as excessively aggressive during races and behaving immaturely towards his fellow drivers.
Croft responded, "You have a right to your opinion, sir, and I won't argue with you."
"He tends to be excessively aggressive during races and often acts childishly towards fellow drivers. These traits might be what make him successful and a champion. But the question is, do we admire champions? Do we appreciate those who come out on top? Everyone has their personal preferences, and I completely understand that."
"Max's primary goal is to achieve victory and claim the championship title, which aligns with Red Bull's expectations as they compensate him for these accomplishments. He's fulfilling his role perfectly. I completely understand and support that. I've always had a fondness for Max."
"Since his debut in Japan during the first practice session in 2014, I've admired his incredible skills and truly value his abilities."
Croft compares Verstappen to Schumacher
Croft notes that Verstappen shares a similar intense determination to win in Formula 1 as Michael Schumacher.
He believes Verstappen deserves more recognition because he has a strong winning attitude.
"Michael Schumacher holds a special place in our hearts. We have great admiration for Lewis Hamilton too," he remarked. "These individuals are victors and champions. Sebastian Vettel is also cherished for his remarkable achievement of securing four championships over the years."
"He took the necessary actions to secure victory. If his teammate happened to suffer as a result, it was just part of the process. Ultimately, his focus was on winning."
"Perhaps we need to recognize that Max has a knack for winning. It might be time to actually applaud the fact that he has remained at the pinnacle for the past four years."
"The last occasion Max wasn't at the forefront of the drivers' championship was in Spain 2022. Envision waking up each day with the objective of maintaining your lead for almost four years. The strain from that is immense."
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates on F1, special features, interviews, and offers straight from the paddock delivered to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's debates and narratives, is the core of our impartial journalism.
Explore Further
Join Our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the world of Formula 1 straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Top Headlines
Additional Updates
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Keep Up with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to fully or partially copy any text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Sergio Perez Breaks Silence: Sets Six-Month Deadline for F1 Future Decision After Red Bull Exit
Sergio Perez establishes a timeline for deciding his future in Formula 1 after speaking out. In the wake of his departure from Red Bull last month, Sergio Perez has finally addressed the situation…
Sergio Perez has broken his silence following the announcement of his departure from Red Bull, stating that he plans to decide within the next six months if he will make a comeback to Formula 1.
Following a challenging 2024 Formula 1 season, Red Bull has opted to terminate his contract ahead of schedule and bring in Liam Lawson for the next season.
The timing of the decision results in Perez sitting out the 2025 season, allowing him a break to recuperate after a tough few years with Red Bull.
In his last season with the team, Perez did not secure any victories and ended up in eighth place in the drivers' standings.
Due to his performances, Red Bull ended up in third place in the constructors' standings, marking their poorest result since 2019.
Perez has spoken out, promising to "have fun" before making any decisions about his future later this year.
In a statement to ESPN Deportes, he expressed that his main focus is to have fun, try new experiences, and spend time with his family.
Over the upcoming six months, I will choose the direction I wish to take for the next phase of my professional journey.
"It's premature to decide if I plan to come back to Formula 1."
"At the conclusion of last season, events unfolded rapidly, and I was taken by surprise when I had to part ways with the team."
Is there a chance that Perez could make a comeback to Formula 1 in 2026? Perez may believe that his journey in F1 is not yet complete.
Nevertheless, Red Bull's timing in making this decision does not favor him in relation to the driver market.
Several drivers still have several years remaining on their contracts, as teams are choosing to maintain stability from 2025 through 2026 with the upcoming regulations.
However, there might be an opportunity with Cadillac.
Cadillac is anticipated to join Formula 1 as the 11th team in 2026, and they are seeking a seasoned driver.
Perez's skill in the middle ranks of Formula 1, along with his financial support, makes him a desirable candidate for any new racing team.
The question is whether Perez is driven to compete at the rear of the pack once more.
Moreover, he will encounter tough rivals for the Cadillac position, as Valtteri Bottas is among those interested in securing that spot.
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email inbox.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
With a keen sense for the controversies and narratives in F1, Connor serves as the core of our impartial journalism.
Explore Further
Join our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.
To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Current Updates
Additional Headlines
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Keep Up with Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to reproduce any part or the entirety of the text, photos, or images in any manner.
Website Layout
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Angela Cullen’s Cryptic Post Ignites Speculation of Lewis Hamilton Reunion at Ferrari
Angela Cullen's social media activity fuels speculation about a possible reunion with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
Is there a chance Angela Cullen will rejoin Lewis Hamilton as his physiotherapist at Ferrari?
Angela Cullen's recent post on social media has fueled speculation about her possibly reuniting with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
The major headline for the 2025 Formula 1 season is Hamilton's move from Mercedes to Ferrari.
As Hamilton begins his new journey in Italy, he will be missing several well-known individuals.
Lewis Hamilton's current race engineer, Peter 'Bono' Bonnington, will remain with the Mercedes team, while Riccardo Adami is anticipated to join Hamilton's engineering squad in 2025.
Throughout the years, Adami has served as the race engineer for both Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz at Ferrari.
Hamilton might benefit from having someone he knows well in his close group of associates.
Cullen, serving as Hamilton's physiotherapist between 2016 and 2023, shared a photo on her Instagram that caused a frenzy across social media platforms.
Cullen was dressed in red, and behind him was a flag displaying the number 44.
Notably, Cullen shared a post of herself skiing at the same time Hamilton was also in the mountains partaking in some winter activities.
Hamilton shared a photo of himself snowboarding on his Instagram stories, expressing gratitude to his fans for their birthday greetings.
It remains unclear if they were actually back together, yet this uncertainty hasn't deterred fans from speculating about a potential reconciliation.
Hamilton is anticipated to take the driver’s seat for Ferrari soon, piloting their 2022 race car for the first time before the end of the month.
Hamilton will use these tests to familiarize himself with his new team, understand the controls of the steering wheel, and start building connections with his new engineers.
This event is scheduled to occur before pre-season testing begins, which starts at the end of February in Bahrain.
Who is Angela Cullen? Cullen was instrumental in aiding Hamilton during his multiple championship victories with Mercedes.
After experiencing dissatisfaction with his previous physiotherapists, the British driver Hamilton teamed up with Cullen, as he faced various issues with his body.
Having been exposed to Cullen's work while in the UK, Hamilton inquired whether she would be interested in collaborating with him consistently during the season.
With backing from Cullen, Hamilton achieved victory in four additional championships in the years 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.
After departing from Formula 1 in 2023, Cullen has collaborated with Marcus Armstrong, a prominent figure in IndyCar racing.
After Cullen's unexpected departure in 2023, Hamilton expressed his deep appreciation.
"Angela is truly embracing her life at the moment," Hamilton remarked. "She's brimming with plans and aspirations. We exchange messages nearly daily. We still have plans to go skydiving together and will always remain a part of each other's lives."
"We're bound together, for better or worse! We've faced many challenges together. I'm thankful for the strong bond we share. In this sport, our relationship is likely one of the longest. I'm extremely appreciative of her and love her deeply."
Sign up for our F1 Updates
Receive the newest Formula 1 updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the track straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives of Formula 1, serves as the driving force behind our impartial journalism.
Discover More
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the racing paddock directly in your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Breaking News
Additional Headlines
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Get the Latest from Crash MotoGP
It is prohibited to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Site Map
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
F1
Debate Rages: Is Lewis Hamilton the Right Choice for 2025 F1 Champion with Ferrari?
Accusations directed at Lewis Hamilton as the 2025 F1 champion – yet not all concur
Debate within the community concerning Lewis Hamilton's potential performance in a Ferrari
The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be thrilling, with multiple drivers contending for race victories and the championship title.
This is the last season under the existing rules, so it's improbable that any team or car will significantly outpace their rivals.
As Formula 1 teams concentrate on the upcoming rules set to be implemented in 2026, it's anticipated that the competition will become even more intense this year, leading to some thrilling races.
The battle for Max Verstappen's championship title is intense.
Our journalists share their predictions on which driver will win the 2025 Formula 1 championship…
Lewis Larkam: Lewis Hamilton. It's all about taking risks or not trying at all, isn't it?
Although Hamilton recently experienced one of his most challenging seasons in F1, his transfer to Ferrari is set to revitalize his career.
Teaming up with Fred Vasseur, someone he's familiar with from his early career, will ease Hamilton's adjustment. I believe he'll be highly motivated and eager to silence his critics.
Ferrari appears to have addressed the operational issues that previously held them back, and they now have a speedy vehicle. It's important to remember that they came close to winning the constructors' championship last season.
Imagine the narrative if Hamilton were to break Ferrari's championship dry spell and surpass the iconic Michael Schumacher at the same time.
These are the wind tunnel testing hours allocated to each Formula 1 team for the first half of 2025. 👀 💨 Who do you think will take the constructors’ championship this season? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/rXUJfll32d
Connor McDonagh suggests that Lando Norris has demonstrated the quickness and skill necessary to compete at a championship-caliber level.
His path to securing the championship against Max Verstappen involves addressing several shortcomings. In the latter half of 2024, he improved in areas like better positioning during the first lap and enhancing his performance in close battles with competitors.
Lewis Duncan reports that Red Bull encountered significant difficulties last year when the performance of their car declined during the latter half of the season. Max Verstappen has openly cautioned his team, stating that they won't be able to secure the championship in 2025 if the car's performance doesn't improve.
McLaren presents a significant challenge, yet Red Bull managed to make some adjustments and improvements during the latter part of the season.
During the winter, Verstappen disclosed that his input regarding the car resulted in the team abandoning the planned upgrades that were supposed to be implemented after the Monza race.
It is evident that Red Bull must increase their speed, and they plan to achieve this in 2025 without the expertise of their technical expert, Adrian Newey.
When the car was performing well, Verstappen managed to dominate the early part of the season. However, when his vehicle started to falter, he focused on consistently earning points.
If the Red Bull improves slightly from its performance at the end of last year, Verstappen could secure his fifth world title.
Since Lando Norris wasn't really a main contender for the title, he hasn't had to deal with the intense pressure that comes with being in a tight championship race.
This is definitely an opportunity that a determined Verstappen can take advantage of.
Another element that will benefit Verstappen in 2025 is the increasing discord within the McLaren team. Oscar Piastri seems unlikely to accept a secondary position if he maintains his strong performance from 2024.
Sign up for our F1 Newsletter
Receive the most recent Formula 1 updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the racing scene straight to your email.
For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy
Explore Further
Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the world of F1 straight to your email.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Recent Updates
Additional Stories
Stay Updated with Crash F1
Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP
Reproducing the text, photos, or images in whole or in part is prohibited in any manner.
Site Layout
Crash.Net
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
-
AI3 months ago
News Giants Wage Legal Battle Against AI Startup Perplexity for ‘Hallucinating’ Fake News Content
-
Tech1 month ago
Revolutionizing the Road: Top Automotive Technology Innovations Fueling Electric Mobility and Autonomous Driving
-
Tech1 month ago
Revving Up the Future: How Top Automotive Technology Innovations Are Paving the Way for Sustainability and Safety on the Road
-
Tech3 months ago
Revving Up Innovation: How Top Automotive Technology is Shaping an Electrified, Autonomous, and Connected Future on the Road
-
Tech3 months ago
Revving Up the Future: How Top Automotive Technology Innovations are Accelerating Sustainability and Connectivity on the Road
-
Tech3 months ago
Revving Up Innovation: Exploring Top Automotive Technology Trends in Electric Mobility and Autonomous Driving
-
Tech1 month ago
Driving into the Future: Top Automotive Technology Innovations Transforming Vehicles and Road Safety
-
Tech3 months ago
Revving Up the Future: How Top Automotive Technology is Paving the Way for Electric Mobility and Self-Driving Cars