Unveiled: Lewis Hamilton's Upcoming Role with Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton is preparing to embark on his inaugural Formula 1 season as a driver for Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton spent two days testing Ferrari's 2024 Formula 1 car to gear up for his first season with the team.

The seven-time world champion took the wheel of Ferrari's SF-24 car for the first time this week in Barcelona during a Pirelli tyre test, aimed at assisting with the development of tires for F1's supplier for 2026.

Over the span of two days, Hamilton completed a total of 161 laps at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. He took turns driving with his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, in the Ferrari car. This vehicle had been adjusted to mimic the anticipated downforce levels set for 2026.

The length is more than twice the distance covered in two Spanish Grand Prix races.

This event was Hamilton's third time testing for Ferrari. The 40-year-old from Britain first appeared on the track for the legendary team last month, driving a 2023 Ferrari at their Fiorano test circuit, as part of their Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program.

Lewis Hamilton took part in two testing sessions with Ferrari. Last week, he spent two days driving the SF-23 in Barcelona, but he experienced a crash on Wednesday.

Hamilton is scheduled to drive for Ferrari again on February 19, showcasing their new car for the 2025 season.

Ferrari is set to reveal their SF-25 model just a day following the F175 season launch, which takes place at the O2 Arena in London on February 18. They plan to conduct a preliminary shakedown run of the car, allowing both Hamilton and Leclerc to test it out.

Hamilton and Leclerc are scheduled to travel to Bahrain for the official Formula 1 pre-season testing, which will take place from February 26 to 28.

Fred Vasseur, the head of the Ferrari team, has already shared some preliminary information regarding their 2025 racing car.

Vasseur mentioned that they would discover whether it will be competitive during the pre-season testing in Bahrain.

"Often, you only recognize the risks you're taking once it's too late. The vehicle will be entirely redesigned, with fewer than one percent of the components being the same as those in the 2024 model. It's a distinct endeavor, yet this situation is the same for all involved."

"While it's uncertain whether 2025 will be our breakthrough year, I have confidence in the ongoing project. It promises to be as demanding as the recently concluded endeavor."

"I'm extremely pleased with how we managed challenges throughout 2024, but we need to make progress in achieving greater consistency."

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Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grands Prix for Crash.net. He often provides on-site reports, sharing the narratives of key figures in the sport.

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Pecco Bagnaia: Jorge Martin's crash was "the most unfortunate manner imaginable"

"It's perhaps a reminder for some enthusiasts that handling these motorcycles is not as simple as it seems…"

Francesco Bagnaia attributes Jorge Martin's accident during the MotoGP Sepang trial to misfortune rather than excessive risk-taking.

Current MotoGP titleholder Martin experienced two falls during his initial day testing the Aprilia RS-GP, marking just his second day with the team. His second mishap involved a high-side accident at the second turn, resulting in broken bones in his left hand and foot. Consequently, he was unable to participate in the following two days of the official testing session.

"When asked about his thoughts on the risks associated with MotoGP after spending a few months away from riding, Bagnaia responded that it truly doesn't cross his mind, especially after the initial day in Sepang."

"It's always a possibility, yet today proved to be an unfortunate day as Martin took a fall and ended up back in the garage. Furthermore, during his first timed lap, he experienced another crash, this time a significant one."

Perhaps the back tire hadn't sufficiently heated up due to it being of a harder type, which typically doesn't perform as well. There's also a possibility that the temperature wasn't optimal, leading to a crash similar to the one Marc Marquez experienced in 2019.

"For me, it's an unfortunate circumstance, but I'm holding onto the hope that he'll soon return to Thailand, or at the very least, be prepared for the opening race."

"He didn't take a risk today; instead, he had an accident at the slowest turn, in the most unfortunate manner, but it's an incident that can occur.

"Perhaps it's worth noting for certain enthusiasts that handling these motorcycles is not as straightforward as it might seem."

Improved power output but diminished braking on the GP25

Regarding Bagnaia's performance, it was somewhat subdued when it came to lap times, with the three-time World Champion ending up in 17th place, trailing by 1.392 seconds behind the leading time posted by Fabio Quartararo.

However, the Italian mentioned that his ability to run was restricted because of a shortage of tyres, which also hindered his capacity to accurately evaluate the newly introduced Desmosedici GP25 in relation to its previous model, the GP24.

"Bagnaia expressed challenges in evaluating the motorcycles, citing a shortage of tyres as a significant impediment to conducting thorough tests. He referred to the initial day of the season as more of a day for making sacrifices."

"Frankly, our approach was to begin sifting through everything. Therefore, we kicked things off with the most significant aspect and quickly realized, through our experiences with another specification, that it wasn't quite effective. However, a change in perspective came thanks to Marc [Marquez], who managed to perform an impressive time attack on the GP24 towards the day's end, giving us a clearer sense of direction."

"We've gathered a significant amount of information to go through, and I believe we performed exceptionally well today. Our instincts were largely in sync, which reaffirms our trust. We opted for an alternative approach and ultimately united towards the day's end."

"Therefore, we provided a substantial amount of information to the technicians and engineers, and by tomorrow, we'll have a clear starting point."

Although hesitant to make a firm judgment about the GP25 when compared to the 2024 bike, Bagnaia nonetheless offered some insights into the distinct traits of the new motorcycle.

"The GP25 offers an improved experience with its power output, providing a smoother and more accurate performance, especially when compared to the slightly rougher transitions experienced with the GP24," he commented.

"However, the standout feature of the GP24 was its braking and entry capabilities, which currently, the GP25 hasn't matched yet. Therefore, we need to focus on improving it, though fortunately, there's ample time available for this task."

Bagnaia explained that the engine seems to be influencing his perception that the GP25's braking capabilities are not as good as the GP24's, but he mentioned it's not a matter of inertia.

"He believes it's primarily the engine's build rather than its inertia," he commented.

"Possibly, it's the arrangement."

The Italian mentioned that on Wednesday, he was utilizing the GP24 chassis to concentrate more on the advancements of the new engine.

"Today's setup was the GP24 frame, but with an updated engine," he explained. "Our priority is to get to grips with the engine first, before integrating the new frame."

"Diggia [Fabio Di Giannantonio], who was already utilizing the updated chassis, expressed satisfaction with the braking performance, indicating optimism for its effectiveness."

The postponement of the launch of the updated chassis can be attributed to the limited testing period available prior to the season's start. Additionally, the decision is influenced by the freeze on engine development set for 2026.

"Bagnaia explained that the primary reason for Ducati's decision to prioritize engine testing is the limited time available, unlike before, when inquired about the impact of the upcoming development freeze."

"After completing a five-day testing period, we'll head to Thailand for the initial race a week later."

"Essentially, the most critical aspect, the foremost priority, is to grasp the engine's mechanics, as history has shown us the need to occasionally take a step back, which we aim to avoid this time around. The GP24 was an outstanding motorcycle in several ways, and our goal is to enhance those qualities."

"In my perspective, the engine performs excellently when accelerating, particularly in power output. However, we need to enhance the braking system, and I believe we already have a solution in mind."

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net crew after spending two years reporting on motorcycle racing and consumer news at Visordown.

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2025 Sepang MotoGP Official Test: Franco Morbidelli Dominates Second Day as Marc Marquez Suffers Crash

Thursday sees VR46 Ducati's Franco Morbidelli take the lead in Malaysia.

On the second day of the 2025 MotoGP test in Sepang, Franco Morbidelli steered his VR46-managed Ducati GP24 to the leading position, while Marc Marquez, riding for the factory team, encountered a crash towards the end of the session.

Following an intense start to the event on Wednesday, which resulted in the reigning world champion Jorge Martin, Trackhouse Racing's Raul Fernandez, and VR46's Fabio Di Giannantonio being sidelined due to injuries, Thursday unfolded in a significantly more tranquil manner.

For a significant portion of the day, Morbidelli dominated the leaderboard, claiming first place during the second hour with a time of 1:57.210.

Despite Morbidelli's attempt to set a fast lap on new tires towards the end, his time remained unbeaten when the session concluded with the waving of the chequered flag at 6 p.m. local time.

Morbidelli, set to keep racing the GP24 from the previous year, led ahead of his former Yamaha teammate, Fabio Quartararo.

The 2021 world champion maintained a strong performance on the M1, as Quartararo surged into second position towards the end with a time of 1 minute and 57.324 seconds.

Alex Marquez and his rookie teammate, Fermin Aldeguer, both riding for Gresini Racing, secured the third and fourth positions on their GP24 motorcycles.

On Thursday, Aldeguer completed just 26 laps following his participation in the shakedown. His team, Gresini, opted to sideline him early to prevent him from pushing beyond his limits.

Francesco Bagnaia, a rider for the factory Ducati team, finished in fifth place.

On Thursday, Bagnaia completed 42 laps and recorded his fastest time at 1 minute and 57.652 seconds, despite experiencing a minor mishap earlier in the session.

On Thursday, both riders from the official Ducati team ended up in the gravel, as Pecco Bagnaia's teammate, Marc Marquez, had a fall during the last 15 minutes of the session.

The racer, who has won the grand prix world championship eight times, emerged uninjured from the crash. He secured the 14th position with a time of 1 minute and 58.447 seconds, as he couldn't finish the lap that could have potentially been his fastest when he took the fall.

Joan Mir secured the sixth position riding the factory Honda, while Pedro Acosta, despite a crash on Thursday, emerged as the top KTM rider, finishing in seventh place, just ahead of Pramac Yamaha's Miguel Oliveira.

Marco Bezzecchi excelled as the top Aprilia rider, securing ninth place with a lap time of 1 minute and 57.995 seconds. This was an improvement from his Thursday performance, where he recorded a 1 minute and 59.207 seconds on his new factory RS-GP

Jack Miller secured a spot in the top 10 while riding the other Pramac Yamaha. The Australian was observed testing a new Yamaha frame on the second day of the official testing session.

Michele Pirro has been called up to take over for Di Giannantonio and completed 46 laps, placing 21st. Meanwhile, in Martin's absence, Aprilia assigned Lorenzo Savadori to the track.

After completing 51 laps, the Italian racer found himself at the bottom of the timing charts.

Results from Thursday's MotoGP Test in Sepang

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Franco Colapinto faced off against Jack Doohan during an Alpine testing session. It marked Colapinto's debut test with Alpine at the Barcelona track.

On Wednesday, Franco Colapinto had his initial session with Alpine at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Flavio Briatore, who serves as an executive advisor for Alpine's F1 team, shared a video on his Instagram. The footage captures Colapinto stepping out of the A523 at the racetrack in Spain.

Alpine joined Ferrari and McLaren at the Barcelona circuit for Pirelli tire testing.

Alpine is maximizing their use of TPC (testing of previous cars) mileage, but the team has not released any information about how Colapinto or Jack Doohan performed during the tests, so specific details remain unknown.

Nonetheless, Briatore was eager to highlight Colapinto, noting that his lap times are expected to be measured against those of Doohan.

Since Colapinto serves as a reserve driver, there are no restrictions on how much distance he can cover driving a previous model of an F1 car.

Each of the 20 drivers in the competition is restricted to a total distance of 1000 kilometers throughout the year.

Could Colapinto make a mark?

Doohan is poised to begin the season as Alpine's regular driver, partnering with Gasly.

It is generally anticipated that if the Australian does not achieve the desired outcomes, Colapinto will assume his position.

Colapinto made a significant impact in his initial races with Williams, stepping in for Logan Sargeant midway through the 2024 season.

Despite a messy conclusion to the season filled with mistakes and a well-publicized large buyout clause, teams like Red Bull lost interest.

At the beginning of 2025, Alpine introduced Colapinto as their reserve and test driver. However, with speculation that Briatore might not be satisfied with Doohan, a mid-season change seems likely.

Briatore has no hesitation in making tough decisions when it comes to replacing drivers, especially concerning the team's second driver.

In Barcelona, Doohan and Colapinto had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the pace, whereas Alpine had earlier organized a test at Paul Ricard to evaluate both Doohan and Mick Schumacher.

Doohan caught the attention of Alpine and was selected for the 2025 spot instead of Schumacher.

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Marc Marquez Experiences Slight Improvement with GP25, Yet Faces Challenges at Sepang MotoGP Trials

Promising Beginnings in Pre-Season Trials for the Eight-Time World Champion

Marc Marquez has noted that the newest version of the Ducati, introduced at the Sepang MotoGP test, shows some improvement over the GP25 model he tested in November, although he mentions there are still "some problems" that need addressing.

Last year, Marquez had the experience of competing on the GP23 with Gresini. However, it was in the November post-season test that he first sampled the factory Ducati equipment, taking the GP24 and a prototype of the GP25 for a spin.

Ducati introduced an improved version of its GP25 motorcycle for the Sepang trials happening this week, an advancement from the model presented in Barcelona. During Wednesday's testing session in Malaysia, Marquez achieved the second quickest time.

Marquez mentions that the bike's fundamental "idea" remains consistent, yet in certain aspects, it seems "improved," although there are a few initial problems that need addressing.

"From the very first ride, I felt incredibly comfortable on the bike, as if I hadn't spent two months away from MotoGP," Marquez commented.

This simplifies the process significantly, as possessing that sense enhances the accuracy of your feedback, which is crucial at this juncture given our experimentation with numerous approaches.

"Today, for instance, our primary focus was on the engine, similar to every other manufacturer, because once the engine is homologated, it remains unchanged for the entire year."

"We made an effort to concentrate on our tasks. A significant plus was that Pecco and I shared the same feedback again."

Within the team, each cyclist began pursuing distinct strategies, yet both aimed to achieve the same objective.

"Okay, let's take it one step at a time. We're in the process of adjusting the balance of the bike. It's common to encounter a few issues when you introduce a new bike to the track, but thankfully, our team is addressing them effectively."

"In essence, the idea of the bicycle for the cyclist during the act of riding remains largely unchanged."

"There are a few variances compared to the bike model from November."

Indeed, efforts are being made to address the issues. The situation has somewhat improved compared to Barcelona. Regarding the 2024 bike, it's designed to be used for a year; you begin with it, and it functions as expected.

"However, when you acquire a new bicycle, it's essential to discover its equilibrium and explore various aspects."

"For this purpose, our approach differs – both myself and Pecco [Bagnaia], yet we exchange numerous observations.

"It seems like three days is a lengthy period, but in reality, it's quite brief and passes quickly."

Marc Marquez highlights characteristics of the GP25

Marquez notes significant differences with the GP25, mentioning the engine's enhanced "smoothness" and Ducati's apparent success in boosting its power.

"He mentioned that the engine appears to be operating more smoothly, which is a positive feature for the rider."

"Consistently, the goal is to enhance our power; this, too, we've managed to accomplish somewhat. However, this introduces various issues that, in my opinion, can be resolved through electronic solutions and their capabilities."

He also mentioned that he is "very confident in the braking stability" on the GP25.

Regarding his physical state, Marquez mentions he's in improved shape compared to the onset of the 2024 pre-season, but acknowledges that his advancing age and past injuries are impacting his training regimen.

"Today, I personally felt quite well," he mentioned.

"However, the real test comes tomorrow. I anticipate feeling more discomfort [physically] then. Indeed, it marks the onset of the initial winter… given that the previous winter season was favorable, but I underwent the arm pump surgery."

"This winter, I dedicated myself to rigorous training, focusing on motocross with a lot of caution, aiming to maintain optimal physical fitness."

Certainly, I have to put in extra effort beyond my normal routine, especially considering my age at 32, as that might be one of the factors.

"However, I believe it's largely due to the injuries I've sustained, requiring me to put in extra effort. I've come to terms with it and commit to the work. Out of the 24 hours in a day, half are dedicated to caring for my body."

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Joan Mir shares excitement over his Honda's peak performance

Joan Mir experienced his best day with a Honda on Wednesday

Joan Mir expressed that the initial day of MotoGP trials in Malaysia before the 2025 season commenced was his most successful with Honda, stating, “we are very confident about every advancement we've achieved.”

Since making the move to Honda in 2023, the champion of the world from 2020 has faced challenging times. Over the last two years, his performance saw a significant dip, culminating in a mere 21 points and a 21st place finish in the rankings last season.

During the winter season, Honda has significantly ramped up its efforts to change its trajectory, particularly by bringing on board Romano Albesiano from Aprilia to serve as its technical director.

During Wednesday's testing session at Sepang, the motorcycle Mir piloted on the circuit was not impacted by Albesiano's designs, yet there was evident improvement noted in the RC213V's performance.

Finishing the day in sixth place overall following 54 laps, Mir tested out two different models of the Honda.

When questioned about whether this was his most successful test day with Honda, Mir responded, "Indeed, today it was."

Joan Mir elaborates on Honda's progress

Mir, who noted his consistent improvement, shared, "Our performance improved throughout the day, showing speed both on worn tires and fresh ones."

"I feel pleased because, to a large extent, we grasped the direction we aim to pursue throughout this trial.

"We've discovered a configuration and design that enables my riding style, a style I couldn't achieve in the latter half of the previous season."

Honda has now introduced a package that enables me to accomplish this. With every departure, I found myself joyful, always smiling due to the pleasure I experienced while riding the bike.

"Our bicycle doesn't pick up speed on straight paths, in fact, it's the least speedy among the competition. However, we've definitely made progress in those straight sections, and I'm confident we're not falling behind by more than three or four tenths on the two straights [at Sepang].

"Therefore, this signifies that we can significantly reduce the distance between us due to advancements made in the braking zone."

"I managed to apply the brakes in the way I'm accustomed to. I could make the turns. Despite the persistent vibration, I found a way to handle it somehow. They put in a lot of effort, and truly, it was worthwhile."

"We still need to improve our grip and top speed. Over the next couple of days, those will be our primary focus areas."

"I wish for us to move past everything we attempted today, avoiding repetition, as we've had a successful day of experimentation."

"We are extremely confident in every move we've taken. It's truly excellent and brings me joy."

Joan Mir highlights a significant shortfall in Honda's performance, pointing out the rear grip deficiency in recent models.

Mir has stated that while there hasn't been an enhancement in "pure grip", the improved ability to turn the bike has contributed positively in this aspect.

"He mentioned that they primarily enhanced the steering."

"We enhanced the aerodynamics, along with various other aspects."

"We managed to enhance the ground effect slightly in the turning zone, which in turn boosted the grip. This is because higher speeds allow for more accurate throttle control, resulting in increased grip."

"We didn't start from scratch, which enhanced our hold. However, regarding absolute traction, we didn't make any progress today."

On Wednesday, the latest addition to the Honda captured interest, yet Mir was elusive about the specific goals of the Japanese brand, stating, "I'm not at liberty to discuss it much. The reality is, it's not the most attractive feature. Beyond that, I don't have much to say."

Comments shared by Crash MotoGP Editor Peter McLaren

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Jack Miller discusses his approach to addressing Yamaha's shortcomings

Jack Miller shares his initial impressions on his experience with Yamaha

Jack Miller is showing improvement in addressing Yamaha's shortcomings following the first day in Sepang.

Miller is transitioning from a KTM factory bike to a Yamaha, within the newly joined Pramac satellite squad.

He gained advantages by participating in the previous week's practice session ahead of the official MotoGP preseason test on Wednesday, where he secured the eighth-fastest time.

"Miller looked back on the first day, noting, 'It was a positive day for our team.'"

"Clearly, it was a huge relief to complete the initial trial and shake off the nerves. We focused on configuration."

"Today, I spent my day engaging with geometric designs. I'm pleased with how the bicycle is shaping up."

I'm beginning to feel at ease with it, gradually testing its boundaries to what I perceive as the maximum.

"The entire concept behind this testing procedure is to be at this stage right from the start, on the very first day."

"We've conducted tests on numerous components, such as during the preliminary runs – on both the bodywork and the frame."

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to evaluate components and to receive backing from Yamaha. In our current situation, this is incredibly important and greatly beneficial."

"At least we're not merely going in loops!"

Jack Miller comments on Yamaha's area for improvement

"Getting on the bike, one of the areas that needed work was the rear traction," Miller stated.

"However, the front part was truly exceptional…"

"We're playing a balancing act. Our goal is to maintain optimal equilibrium while enhancing the backend."

"We've taken positive strides. In doing so and integrating electronics, we've enhanced the bike's performance for competition."

Miller described the advantages of his Yamaha, emphasizing its responsiveness, agility in turns, and braking capability. He mentioned that he has never experienced a motorcycle with such an impressive front end.

"It's both a gift and a burden, as you're left wondering what the boundaries are!"

"You're exerting effort, constantly trying, yet it remains in place! It's incredible, though it requires significant effort to develop self-assurance.

"Getting two additional days for trial runs significantly aided us."

"Maintaining self-assurance and advancing the forefront is crucial."

Miller noted, "For me, another significant aspect was observing previous Yamaha competitors maintain alignment with both wheels.

"In direct stopping areas, my approach involves sliding the motorcycle's rear end as I decelerate, engaging the back brake."

"I've discovered a method to maintain Yamaha's advantage in speed and agility through corners, while also effectively braking at Turns 9 and 1."

"It feels good, executing passes, and bringing the motorcycle to a halt as necessary."

"It's an essential instrument for overtaking maneuvers in MotoGP."

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

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Aprilia: Jorge Martin's accident during testing not caused by mechanical failure or rider error

"An unfortunate accident occurred seemingly without cause…"

Aprilia's CEO, Massimo Rivola, has stated that neither the motorcycle nor Jorge Martin was at fault for the crash that may have prematurely concluded Martin's MotoGP pre-season preparations.

During the first day of trials at Sepang on Wednesday, the current world titleholder suffered two accidents, the latter at Turn 2 being a severe highside crash that resulted in numerous broken bones.

Martin is set to stay overnight in the hospital before he heads back to Europe for surgery, casting uncertainty on his ability to take part in the upcoming Buriram test scheduled for next week.

Rivola states that Aprilia's analysis indicated Martin's motorcycle was functioning normally and he wasn't accelerating during the incident, with his tires also being within the optimal operating range.

According to Rivola, the accident occurred while using the same set of tires, but he refrained from pointing fingers at Michelin.

In a troubling turn of events, @88jorgemartin experienced a severe highside crash shortly after debuting with the prestigious number 1 plate. He is currently in the hospital for evaluations related to pain in his left foot and right hand. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. Our thoughts are with the reigning World Champion during this difficult time 💪#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/2UQtHKOq1w

"Clearly, we're facing an issue here," Rivola remarked.

"A disastrous accident occurred seemingly without cause, with neither the motorcycle nor the rider at fault."

Inquired about the similarities between Martin's two accidents, he noted, "What's fascinating is that they occurred on the same set of tires.

The initial one was positioned to the right, while the subsequent one was found on the left.

"However, the medium tire has an uneven design. Thus, when it's suggested that the medium isn't the top choice for the right side, it implies that upon turning right, the medium tire should exhibit more softness on that side."

"I'll entrust you with gathering further details."

Rivola has announced that for the remaining duration of the test, test rider Lorenzo Savadori will be taking over the bike. He also acknowledges that Martin's initial significant day of testing on the RS-GP 2025 might not occur until the first free practice session at the Thailand Grand Prix.

"He explained that the procedure involves spending 24 hours in the hospital as a standard protocol."

"He will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow. Following his release, he plans to travel to Europe the next day for his surgical procedure."

"Afterward, we'll monitor the body's response and healing process. The truly encouraging update is that there's no concussion, which honestly is the most crucial aspect."

"Today, we feel fortunate to have witnessed the crash. Following this, we are assured of his participation in the first race."

"We witnessed Jorge, along with numerous other cyclists, performing wonders, so it's plausible to anticipate him in Thailand.

"I believe that when we're in Thailand, we'll also take Sava along as a precaution for additional testing, though it's expected to be challenging."

"It's possible that Martin's initial experience on the 25 bike might occur during FP1."

Martin wasn't the sole Aprilia racer sidelined by injury during the test, since Trackhouse's Raul Fernandez also experienced a crash that resulted in a fractured left hand.

Trackhouse team leader Davide Brivio described Fernandez's crash as "somewhat peculiar," noting that he wasn't exerting much effort at the time.

Comments offered by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Championship-winning Brawn GP Formula 1 vehicle to be auctioned

A further championship-winning F1 vehicle is on the market…

The renowned 2009 Brawn GP Formula 1 car, which carried Jenson Button to his championship victory, is set to be auctioned off during the Miami Grand Prix later in the year.

Button, who acquired the car as a gift following his unforgettable 2009 season, has kept it in his private collection.

Bonhams is set to oversee the auction taking place in Miami.

Button's victory in 2009 was like a storybook tale, coming from a team established by the iconic Formula 1 team leader Ross Brawn after Honda's unexpected exit from the competition at the close of 2008.

Operating with limited funds, Brawn GP arrived at the season opener with the quickest vehicle and secured the top two spots.

In their sole season in Formula 1, the squad secured the constructors' championship, after which Mercedes acquired them.

Button secured the championship title with a race left in the season, outpacing Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel in the overall rankings.

The particular chassis available for purchase is labeled 001/01, which was piloted by Rubens Barrichello during the initial races of the season.

Regarding the auction, Louis Frankel from Bonhams Cars remarked, "This vehicle embodies the quintessential Formula 1 dream – an innovative design that transformed the boundaries of possibility.

"Chassis 001/01 stands as a significant artifact in the realm of motorsport, and its appearance on the auction block is poised to draw the attention of collectors from around the globe.

"We are privileged to showcase this unparalleled chance during the Miami Grand Prix, an event that truly matches its iconic stature."

Top-priced Formula 1 vehicles auctioned

The Brawn GP vehicle probably won't approach the staggering auction record set earlier in the year.

The Mercedes W196R fetched £42.7 million at an auction organized by RM Sotheby’s, which took place at the Mercedes’ headquarters in Stuttgart.

Coming in at a far second place is another W196R, piloted by the legendary F1 racer, Juan Manuel Fangio.

In 2013, it fetched a price of £19.6 million.

In 2023, Lewis Hamilton's inaugural Mercedes Formula 1 vehicle, known as the W04, fetched a sale price of £15.1 million.

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Zhou Guanyu secures position at Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season

After being dropped, Zhou Guanyu secures a new position with Ferrari for the 2025 F1 campaign.

Zhou Guanyu has become a part of Ferrari's team, serving as one of the two backup drivers for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Sauber terminated Zhou's contract at the close of 2024, resulting in him losing his position on the starting lineup.

The driver from China faced challenges in his last season with the team, yet managed to earn Sauber's sole points through an impressive performance at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou has reaffirmed his commitment to staying involved in Formula 1, despite not securing the secondary position with Sauber, including the role of a backup driver.

He and Antonio Giovinazzi will alternate responsibilities throughout the season, sharing the workload.

If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc is absent during a grand prix weekend, Zhou or Giovinazzi will have the opportunity to step in as drivers.

Oliver Bearman filled in for Carlos Sainz during the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, following Sainz's emergency hospitalization due to appendicitis.

Ferrari has made an announcement stating that Zhou Guanyu will be joining as a reserve driver for the Scuderia Ferrari HP team, alongside Antonio Giovinazzi, who will maintain his position in the same role.

"For the driver from China, this return feels like coming back home, having devoted four years to training at the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy between 2015 and 2018."

Ferrari mentioned, "Zhou is splitting the backup driver duties with Antonio Giovinazzi, who has been part of Scuderia Ferrari HP since 2017.

The Italian driver is set to continue his participation in the World Endurance Championship, piloting the number 51 Ferrari 499P, the same vehicle he drove to victory at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours.

Is Zhou poised for a return to the grid in 2026?

Zhou will encounter tough rivals in his bid to return to the grid in 2026.

Ex-teammate Valtteri Bottas, along with Sergio Perez, are looking to make a comeback with Cadillac in 2026, and Kevin Magnussen is being considered as well.

Cadillac, poised to enter the F1 circuit in 2026 as the eleventh team, is said to be keen on having an American driver pilot one of their vehicles.

Consequently, Colton Herta is widely regarded as the top contender for securing one of those positions in 2026.

Cadillac's decision to use Ferrari engines in 2026 could potentially enhance Zhou's prospects for a comeback.

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F1 secures a fresh champagne partnership for the 2025 season, welcoming back a classic brand.

F1 is set to reunite with Moët & Chandon, who will return as the official champagne sponsor for the 2025 season.

Moët & Chandon's comeback is a component of F1's recent decade-long "landmark" alliance with LVMH.

Formula 1 has unveiled new collaborations with luxury brands Louis Vuitton and Rolex. Louis Vuitton will be the sponsor for the season's first race, the Australian Grand Prix, while Rolex replaces Tag Heuer as the official timekeeper for the series.

Moët & Chandon is set to take over from Ferrari Trento as the official sparkling wine sponsor of Formula 1, a position Ferrari Trento has held since 202

Before this period, from 1966 to 1999 and then again in 2020, Moët & Chandon served as the official champagne supplier for Formula 1.

In 2025, podium-standing racers will have the opportunity to celebrate with the renowned champagne from Moët & Chandon.

Additionally, they will serve as the main sponsor for the Belgian Grand Prix taking place in July.

Regarding recent announcements, Formula 1's CEO, Stefano Domenicali, expressed enthusiasm by stating, "The act of celebrating with champagne on the podium stands as a hallmark celebration in our sport, and we're excited to have Moët & Chandon back as the Official Champagne of Formula 1.

"This collaboration honors the shared legacy, passion, and distinction that unite Formula 1 and Moët & Chandon, showcasing a harmonious blend of high achievement and elegance during an exceptional year marked by our 75th anniversary celebration."

"The comeback of Moët & Chandon to the forefront reinforces our dynamic alliance with LVMH even more, and we're eagerly looking forward to celebrating this remarkable teamwork."

Sibylle Scherer, the Chief Executive Officer of Moët & Chandon, expressed her enthusiasm and honor in reinstating the brand's role as the Official Champagne of Formula 1. She highlighted the longstanding partnership and mutual values of collective success and commitment that have united the two since the 1950s. Scherer praised the remarkable collaboration, unparalleled accuracy, and continuous quest for superiority that characterize both the world of motorsport and their champagne-making tradition.

"This collaboration celebrates the collective success and camaraderie of motivational racers, their committed crews, and the worldwide supporters that cheer them on.

"Moët & Chandon ascends to the podium once more, and we are honored to keep creating celebratory moments for all who are dedicated to this remarkable journey with us."

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Lewis Hamilton bestows a farewell present upon 3,000 Mercedes employees

Lewis Hamilton has delivered a farewell present to each of the 3,000 members of his previous Mercedes F1 team.

Lewis Hamilton has dispatched a unique present to all 3,000 of his ex-Mercedes teammates in light of his departure from the F1 squad.

It was disclosed that the seven-time world champion arranged for a unique piece of art to be created for his former teammates upon his departure from the Silver Arrows.

Hamilton, securing six out of his seven global titles during a remarkable 12-year period with Mercedes, made a high-profile move to competitor Ferrari during the offseason.

The 40-year-old man from Britain desired to give every employee a unique present before his departure.

Hamilton commissioned celebrated motorsport illustrator Paul Oz to create a portrait capturing his poignant win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton devoted his third win on the Monte Carlo circuit to the recently deceased Niki Lauda, who passed away just before the race that year.

Every employee has been given a personal copy of the artwork, while the original piece is showcased at the team's headquarters in Brackley.

"Given that this information is out in the open and all 3000 staff members of Mercedes GP have gotten their copies, I'm free to discuss it," Oz shared in an Instagram post that has since been removed.

"Lewis personally arranged for this to be a farewell gift for everyone at Mercedes… truly a graceful gesture!

"My sole directive was to concentrate on the vehicle instead of Lewis. Therefore, I decided to depict a scene from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, shortly after Niki Lauda's death, when the team displayed a red halo in his memory. Lewis clinched the pole position and then led the race dominantly."

Hamilton is currently engaged in a thorough pre-season testing schedule, gearing up for his inaugural F1 season with Ferrari.

He is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, creating what many consider the most formidable driving duo for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Hamilton is striving to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship with Ferrari, an achievement that would place him ahead of the legendary Michael Schumacher in the annals of history.

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