A downcast Lewis Hamilton eagerly awaits the conclusion of the 2024 F1 season following a disastrous weekend in Brazil.

Lewis Hamilton is eagerly anticipating the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season, marking his last race series with Mercedes, expressing that it "cannot arrive quickly enough."

The seven-time world champion faced a challenging weekend at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, ultimately finishing in 10th place after a surprising elimination in Q1 and a strenuous sprint race. His Mercedes teammate, George Russell, managed to qualify in second place and secured a fourth-place finish.

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Hamilton, who described his W15 as "impossible to drive" amid the tumultuous and rain-affected Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday, has just three races remaining with Mercedes before he makes a high-profile move to Ferrari.

Reflecting on his experience at Interlagos, Hamilton remarked, "The weekend was dreadful, both yesterday and today. From the qualifying rounds to the sprint race, everything felt off. The performance of the car has been disappointing throughout."

Regarding his recent slump, Hamilton, victor at both the British and Belgian Grand Prix, commented, "It's crushing to experience these disappointing performances in the latter part of the season."

"All I can express is that we are making an effort. It's certainly not satisfactory, and it falls short of expectations. We need to own up to our responsibilities, and that includes myself. However, I'm working as hard as I can with the resources available to me. This weekend, the car's performance was at its lowest. I'm not sure of the cause, but we'll need to investigate and determine the issue."

In response to a query about the erratic performance of his vehicle, Hamilton responded, "You tell me. It's the question worth a million dollars. If you're able to figure it out, I'll hand you a million dollars."

The 39-year-old British athlete acknowledged his modest hopes for the season's remainder, noting his anticipation for the Christmas holiday.

"He shared that he shifted his attention elsewhere. Since he's not in contention for the championship, the final standings in the championship don't hold much significance for him."

"It doesn't matter to me whether I end up in front of George [Russell] or behind him; it's not a significant concern."

"My goal is to avoid crashing the car and aim to earn points for the team if possible. If I manage to secure a good finish and they provide me with a car that remains stable on the track in the upcoming races, then with some luck, we should see improved outcomes."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix globally for Crash.net. He provides on-site reports, sharing the narratives of key figures within the sport.

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Red Bull plans to "examine the details" following another challenging race for Sergio Perez at the F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, according to Christian Horner's assessment of Perez's performance.

Christian Horner has stated that Red Bull plans to "examine the evidence" while evaluating Sergio Perez's results after a challenging Sao Paulo Grand Prix in F1.

Perez experienced yet another disappointing weekend in Brazil, failing to finish in the points.

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The driver from Mexico concluded the race 51 seconds after Max Verstappen, who secured a victory in Sao Paulo, having started from the 17th position on the grid.

Evaluating Perez's showing, Horner informed the press in Brazil: "Checo had a challenging race, with an early spin causing him to fall back."

"Today presented a chance in the Constructors to significantly reduce the gap with both Ferrari and McLaren."

"Regrettably, we haven't managed to take advantage of the situation, which is clearly disappointing."

“We plan to take some time to assess the situation, then return with the aim of putting up a strong fight in Vegas.”

Horner couldn't pinpoint the reason Perez had difficulties advancing his position following a spin in the first lap that relegated him to the end of the grid.

Horner mentioned, "I wasn't part of the debriefing, nor have I listened to his remarks. From what I saw during the race, nothing was obvious to me."

"In my opinion, life is a matter of perspective, and it's important to consider the facts."

"We're putting in a lot of effort alongside Checo; he underwent a chassis swap this weekend. I believe he performed well in yesterday's race, but unfortunately, today didn't go in his favor."

Discussions about Perez's career prospects remain ongoing.

During the Brazil weekend, Liam Lawson stood out, especially in dry conditions, while there have been rumors connecting Franco Colapinto with Red Bull.

"Horner also mentioned, "Sergio Perez is currently driving for us." He continued, praising Liam Lawson for his excellent performance today, along with Yuki Tsunoda. Horner gave special recognition to Lawson, especially given his level of experience.

"Franco represents another skilled individual. Naturally, you continue to monitor market trends and developments closely."

Connor, with his keen insight into F1's disputes and narratives, is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Sauber confirms departure of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu after 2024 F1 Season

Sauber has officially confirmed that both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will part ways with the team following the conclusion of the 2024 F1 season.

Sauber has declared that Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu are set to depart from the team after the 2024 F1 season concludes.

On Wednesday morning, Sauber announced that their current drivers would be leaving the team before the start of the 2025 season.

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Sauber has secured Nico Hulkenberg for the 2025 season, in anticipation of Audi's acquisition in 2026, with plans for Gabriel Bortoleto, the current Formula 3 titleholder and frontrunner in the Formula 2 standings, to occupy the open position.

"Facing a scenario like this is always challenging. However, following our extensive and meaningful conversations over the recent weeks, it became clear to us that the prerequisites for jointly expanding this project were lacking," said Bottas, as he departs from Sauber after a three-year stint in Hinwil.

My time with the team has been an extraordinary adventure, marked by personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. I appreciate the shared moments, along with the confidence and backing I've received throughout. While the time has come for me to take a new path, I will forever hold a part of this team in my heart, and I'm eager to discover what lies ahead for both of us.

Mattia Binotto, the new leader of Sauber/Audi, expressed his profound thanks to Valtteri for their three-year collaboration. He praised Valtteri's impeccable professionalism and his significant contribution to the team's development with his extensive expertise.

Valtteri's commitment and strategy have played a crucial role during a crucial period in our history, leaving us with lasting memories from these years. When looking at our options for drivers in the upcoming seasons, Valtteri was undeniably a top contender. His competitive nature often led him to exceed the expected capabilities of the car.

"Nevertheless, a resolution was necessary. Following candid and productive conversations, we jointly determined that the required terms were unattainable, leading us to the consensus that separation is the best course of action. Valtteri will forever be welcome back in Hinwil.”

Zhou, who first joined Formula 1 with the squad in 2022, is also leaving.

"The Chinese driver announced plans to depart from the team when the season concludes, emphasizing a strong dedication to ending the season with flair."

I deeply appreciate the opportunity the team has provided me to compete in Formula One. It's a challenging sport for newcomers, yet the team has supported my development immensely throughout these past three years. The race in China earlier this year stands out as a significant highlight, yet there are countless experiences, both in the spotlight and away from it, that I will cherish from these past three years.

"I'm now turning my attention to the next phase of my professional journey: I still have a lot of drive and determination, and I'm eager to keep moving forward."

Lewis consistently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. By being on-site, he brings to light the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising star from McLaren's junior team, clinches the last available spot at Sauber for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Leading the Formula 2 series, Gabriel Bortoleto has landed the final seat with Sauber for the 2025 F

Gabriel Bortoleto, a young driver from McLaren's ranks, has clinched the final available spot at Sauber, rounding out their Formula 1 roster for the 2025 season.

Bortoleto, who currently holds the Formula 3 championship title and leads in Formula 2 points, has been selected to fill the positions left by Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, whose departures were officially announced on Wednesday morning.

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The young Brazilian, aged 20, will join forces with Nico Hulkenberg at the Hinwil-based team for the upcoming season, before Audi's acquisition of the team in 2026.

"Bortoleto expressed immense excitement over this project, labeling it as perhaps the most thrilling endeavor in motorsport, and possibly across all sporting arenas. He considers it a genuine privilege to be part of a team that merges Sauber's storied motorsport legacy with Audi's excellence."

My goal is not just to be a part of this team but to evolve alongside this bold initiative and ascend to the top of auto racing. I deeply appreciate the chance the team has offered me, as well as the opportunity to collaborate with a seasoned driver such as Nico.

"Each initiative has consistently demonstrated its ability to foster emerging talent, and I am certain that united, we will craft our unique narrative of success."

The new team leader, Mattia Binotto, has chosen to prioritize young talent over seasoned veterans for the secondary position at the upcoming Audi factory Formula 1 team.

"Gabriel has proven his potential as a victorious driver in the junior leagues. We're delighted to welcome him into the Sauber and Audi team," stated Binotto.

"Gabriel and I are embarking on a path to achievement, transforming into a cohesive unit that will forge a fresh chapter for Audi in the realm of motorsport. Nico and Gabriel epitomize the perfect blend of seasoned expertise and youthful vigor, setting us up for a promising future."

Bortoleto, set to depart from McLaren to team up with Sauber, currently tops the Formula 2 leaderboard, holding a 4.5-point advantage over Red Bull's young driver Isack Hadjar, as the championship heads into its final two stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

He is set to become the inaugural Brazilian driver to participate in F1 since the ex-Ferrari and Williams racer Felipe Massa last competed in 2017.

This indicates that only a single slot remains open at Red Bull's affiliate team, RB, to finalize the Formula 1 lineup for the 2025 season.

Lewis frequently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. He primarily reports directly from the venues, sharing narratives about the key figures in the sport.

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Mick Schumacher Faces Rejection, Likely to Spend Another Season Away from F1

A Further Setback for Mick Schumacher's Hopes of Returning to F1

Mick Schumacher's slim possibility of making a comeback to Formula 1 in 2025 has been ruled out.

It was rumored that he was a candidate for the open seat at Sauber, which has since been claimed by F2 standout Gabriel Bortoleto.

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Sauber has announced the departure of its present drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, after this season concludes, and has secured the signing of McLaren junior, Bortoleto.

Nico Hulkenberg, from Haas, has been recruited by Sauber, ensuring a German contribution to the squad that will transform into Audi by 2026.

Audi, a leading German car maker, might have chosen Schumacher, the offspring of a national legend.

However, Schumacher has encountered yet another setback in his efforts to make a comeback to the F1 circuit.

This season, he competed for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship, yet this did not elevate him to their open Formula 1 seat. Instead, newcomer Jack Doohan was chosen for the 2025 position.

Williams chose not to consider Schumacher as a quick substitute for the struggling Logan Sargeant, even though Toto Wolff had recommended him.

Williams opted for Franco Colapinto, who has made a sensational impact in F1.

Schumacher is poised to spend a third straight year outside of F1 in 2025.

At the close of 2022, he was let go by Haas, with the team's leader at the time, Guenther Steiner, expressing disapproval over the number of accidents he was involved in.

Haas quickly shifted from novice racers to a duo of seasoned veterans in Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen, experiencing a turnaround in their performance this season under the guidance of Ayao Komatsu.

For the previous two years, Schumacher has served as a backup driver for Mercedes, maintaining a strong rapport with the company where his famous father concluded his Formula 1 career.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, focusing on a variety of sports including American games, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Primary factor revealed for Franco Colapinto not securing Sauber F1 position

Significant explanation disclosed for Sauber's decision to choose Gabriel Bortoleto instead of the emerging talent Franco Colapinto for the 2025 F1 season.

A primary factor behind Sauber's decision to choose Gabriel Bortoleto instead of Franco Colapinto from Williams for the 2025 F1 season has come to light.

After delivering impressive performances for Williams, stepping in mid-season for the struggling Logan Sargeant, Colapinto emerged as a potential contender for a spot with the upcoming Audi factory F1 team.

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On Wednesday, Sauber revealed their decision to select the Formula 3 champion and current leader in the Formula 2 standings, Bortoleto, to join Nico Hulkenberg for the next season's team roster.

Based on information from Lawrence Barretto on F1.com, Colapinto's aspirations to be part of Sauber were "limited" due to Williams' willingness to only approve a temporary loan agreement.

Barretto reported that Sauber/Audi engaged in conversations with Williams regarding Colapinto, with leader James Vowles making efforts to secure his position. They also initiated dialogue with Bortoleto's squad (who is under Fernando Alonso's A14 driver management firm) and McLaren.

They also paid attention to the enthusiasm shown by Mercedes junior Mick Schumacher and thought about advancing their backup driver, Theo Pourchaire.

Sauber/Audi set a clear boundary: they were only open to direct signings. Borrowing drivers on loan was completely off the table.

"This swiftly dashed Colapinto's aspirations, as Williams' head James Vowles was eager to retain him, having secured the Argentine on a long-term contract."

The choice faced by the new team leader, Mattia Binotto, was between Bortoleto and the incumbent driver, Valtteri Bottas. It's understood that verbal agreements were in place with both candidates, yet Sauber ultimately favored the promise of youth over the value of experience.

"Prior to the Mexican Grand Prix, discussions focused primarily on two racers – Bottas and Bortoleto," the report stated.

In a swift manner, the Sauber/Audi team and Bottas' representatives came to a consensus on the agreement, only awaiting the official signing. Meanwhile, Sauber/Audi simultaneously engaged in discussions with Bortoleto and his representatives regarding a possible deal.

During the Brazilian weekend, while Bortoleto's team was present in the paddock at Interlagos, a deal was finalized which Sauber/Audi chose to pursue.

"Early this week, the specifics were elaborated upon, culminating in a photo session for Bortoleto on Tuesday, before the revelation of a long-term agreement on Wednesday."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix globally for Crash.net. Usually providing updates directly from the venue, Lewis narrates the tales of significant figures within the sport.

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Johnny Herbert believes that if Red Bull is truly committed, they should consider finding a replacement for Sergio Perez for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Johnny Herbert is of the opinion that if Red Bull truly aims to contend for the constructors' championship, they will need to find a replacement for Sergio Perez by the 2025 F1 season.

Perez is currently facing a challenging streak, failing to secure a finish above sixth place in the last 15 races. This has resulted in him being placed eighth in the global championship standings. In contrast, his Red Bull colleague, Max Verstappen, has claimed eight wins and is nearing a championship victory.

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The Mexican driver, acknowledging his "dreadful season," continues to face challenges in securing his spot for the upcoming year. His lackluster performance has contributed to Red Bull's decline from the top spot to third in the constructors' standings.

Ex-F1 racer Herbert believes it's time for Red Bull to consider a driver change before the upcoming season.

"Herbert mentioned to SafestBettingSites.co.uk that Checo is often praised for the sponsorship money he attracts. He expressed skepticism about Red Bull's actual need for this financial support."

"The team requires a player capable of competing in the car alongside Max. Given Liam's impressive entrance and performance, it seems likely he could be considered a strong contender."

Yuki has delivered impressive performances and arguably deserved a spot on the podium this past Sunday. He's definitely a strong contender. His progress has truly caught my attention.

Observing Checo's situation is profoundly distressing. His campaign has deteriorated into a state where he struggles to find ease in the vehicle, highlighting the physical aspect. Additionally, there's the psychological aspect; being consistently overshadowed by Max, who is significantly outperforming him. Managing this reality is undoubtedly challenging.

"He hasn't secured his spot for the upcoming year. Should Red Bull truly aim for the constructors' championship, they need a second driver capable of contributing significantly. Either Liam or Yuki deserves the opportunity."

In response to whether it was becoming time to consider a change of driver, Christian Horner, the team principal for Red Bull, stated in Brazil, “I believe that everything is a matter of perspective and one must consider the actual data.

"We're putting in a lot of effort alongside Checo; he underwent a chassis swap this weekend. I believed he performed well in yesterday's race, but unfortunately, today just wasn't meant for him."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net, providing on-site reports. He shares the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Brembo reveals its latest brake system designed for the 2025 MotoGP season. Riders will have the option to select different front calipers.

Brembo, the company that provides brakes to all eleven teams in MotoGP, has introduced a new front caliper that will be utilized in the 2025 world championship.

As aerodynamics and ride-height mechanisms increasingly strain the brakes, Brembo presents an option: teams can either stick with the 'GP4' caliper, in use since 2020, or switch to the updated model.

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Brembo asserts that the 2025 caliper signifies significant advancements in braking technology. However, the company notes that the choice to adopt this new design will depend on the unique requirements and preferences of individual riders.

Brembo's 2025 MotoGP front brake caliper is on the left, while the 2024 version is on the right.

A key advancement for the all-aluminum GP4 in 2020 involved the introduction of cooling fins, which greatly enhanced the thermal efficiency of the whole braking system.

Furthermore, the enhanced hydraulics, along with the amplification, ensure a more accurate and steady reaction to the brake lever, removing any mushy sensation.

The 2025 edition will feature enhancements such as an increased 'fixing distance,' expanded piston area, improved thermal resistance, and 'optimized contact pressure.'

According to a statement from Brembo, a large pad designed to endure very high temperatures provides consistent and strong braking performance, even under the most challenging conditions.

The larger braking surface, along with improved contact pressure, enhances braking effectiveness, enabling riders to control the bike with exceptional accuracy.

On the flip side, the expanded surface area enhances the quick release of heat, which helps reduce pad wear and maintains reliable performance over time.

The wheelbase, where the caliper and foot are attached, has been strengthened to enhance rigidity and withstand braking forces better, leading to improved stability and accuracy.

The placement of the bleeder has been carefully examined to simplify the processes of brake bleeding and maintenance, enabling mechanics to perform their tasks swiftly and effectively.

In MotoGP, the use of carbon brake discs with diameters of 320mm, 340mm, and 355mm is currently allowed.

Due to safety concerns, it is required to use either 340mm or 355mm brake discs during dry races held at the hard-braking circuits of Motegi, Spielberg, and Buriram.

For two decades, Peter has been a presence in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently closely following the developments surrounding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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Pramac MotoGP team manager feels he aged a decade during the thrilling Bagnaia versus Martin showdown in Sepang. "This is a moment I will cherish forever."

Gino Borsoi, the head of the Pramac MotoGP team, remarked that the intense showdown between Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia during the Malaysian Grand Prix was so nerve-wracking that it felt like it could take a decade off your life.

As the championship hung in the balance, Martin and Bagnaia delivered 2024's most exciting battle for the top spot, exchanging the lead 13 times during the initial three laps.

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In the end, Bagnaia emerged victorious, taking control of the Sepang Grand Prix and narrowing Martin's lead in the championship to 24 points with just one race remaining.

In their 2024 fight for the championship, this was the inaugural instance where the two main competitors went head-to-head in earnest, sparking significant enthusiasm within Ducati's leadership.

Borsoi mentioned to motogp.com that the race was truly remarkable and very enjoyable right from the start.

"However, for us, it was emotionally challenging. They began the race in an outstanding manner."

"It was enjoyable to watch these individuals battling continuously around every corner and straightaway."

"I'm thrilled to be here. It's a joy to spend time with Jorge in the Pramac garage, as it gives me a wonderful memory to reflect on when I think about my career in the future."

"In a race like this, it's possible to lose a decade, but they are certainly worth watching."

Ducati's General Manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, confessed that he was unable to watch the television as Bagnaia and Martin were fiercely competing.

"It's hard to put the feeling into words," he mentioned.

"In particular, during the initial three laps, the team performed exceptionally well, delivering an outstanding race, and it was so remarkable that I couldn't even watch it on TV."

"They pedaled the bicycle with the intensity and excitement akin to kicking off the racing season. Truly remarkable."

"Jorge definitely holds a significant lead when it comes to points, making things tough for Pecco. However, Pecco must continue to battle fiercely until the very end, just as he did today and consistently does."

Davide Tardozzi, the manager of the Ducati factory team, believes that the competition has effectively responded to those who criticize the current state of MotoGP racing. He also emphasized that the race clearly demonstrated that whichever competitor secures the championship will have truly earned it.

He commented, "This is the correct response for those who currently believe overtaking in MotoGP is not possible."

"I believe Pecco and Jorge did an outstanding job representing our sport, and their performance in the first three laps was truly impressive."

"It demonstrates that they have the qualities of champions. The team that secures the championship will have earned it, and the runner-up is still a champion in their own right."

"I was at the emotional peak, and the engine was revving intensely. I believe we should applaud Jorge, as not everyone in his situation would have managed to complete laps in that manner."

"In my opinion, Jorge is a determined competitor who has earned his place at the top of the championship, and he is an exceptional racer."

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How Pedro Acosta has changed the outlook for MotoGP newcomers

"I believed that achieving it this year was no longer an option…"

Wilco Zeelenberg, the manager of Trackhouse Racing, confessed that he initially believed it was "impossible" for a first-year MotoGP racer to secure a podium finish this year. However, Pedro Acosta managed to change his mind.

The entry of last year's Moto2 world champion, Pedro Acosta, into MotoGP was highly anticipated to make a significant impact. At just 20 years old, Acosta has made a remarkable impression in the racing community since he first appeared in Moto3 in 2021.

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In only his second Grand Prix race of the 2024 season with Tech3 GASGAS, Acosta secured a podium finish. Up to now, he has achieved five podiums on Sundays, placing him slightly ahead of his KTM teammate, Brad Binder, in fifth place in the rankings.

In the upcoming year, MotoGP will introduce three new riders to its roster: Ai Ogura, who is the current Moto2 champion; Somkiat Chantra, a two-time grand prix victor in the Moto2 category; and Fermin Aldeguer, who has achieved eight wins in Moto2.

Ogura's unexpected transition to MotoGP with Trackhouse Aprilia, a deal made during the summer, has proven to be quite successful, with high hopes placed on the Japanese racer.

Zeelenberg, set to depart from his Trackhouse role by the close of 2024, argues that it isn’t realistic to anticipate victory from newcomers. However, Acosta has altered the perception of what can be achieved by a newcomer.

He mentioned to TNT Sport that it's not their responsibility to win the initial race as a newcomer.

"They must remain on the bike and progress gradually. As demonstrated by Pedro, achieving a podium finish in the first season can happen swiftly, but it is very challenging."

"I believed it was no longer feasible this year due to the way the championship unfolded in terms of performance and speed, and Pedro was capable of achieving it."

"It's still feasible for a newcomer to finish on the podium during their debut year."

"It's evident that this year it occurred. I enjoy working with beginners because it allows me to share my knowledge and experience to prevent them from making errors. Additionally, I can guide them in progressing gradually with these large motorcycles."

Zeelenberg commented, "I believe Ai is unique. To begin with, he has been competing for the championship, which means he's been aware of his bike. However, he insisted on prioritizing his championship battle."

"In my view, that's quite crucial, and he accomplished it. He now holds the title securely. As they approach these new rockets, everyone is filled with anxiety and tension, visibly trembling."

"They require about half a season to reach their optimal form and deliver their best performance. After that period, they will certainly continue to improve, but it takes that initial half-season to fully utilize their capabilities."

According to Zeelenberg, the most significant adjustment for today's newcomers to MotoGP is adapting to the use of electronics, which is not a common practice in their racing experience up until that stage.

Initially, he expressed his enthusiasm for that particular route, but acknowledged that it's challenging for newcomers to secure spots in MotoGP.

"Naturally, when these young riders transition from being rookies to entering a new level, particularly in MotoGP, they need to adapt to the electronic systems. Throughout their careers, they've relied solely on their skills and talents without the aid of electronics—like traction control and anti-wheelie systems—which are crucial for a MotoGP bike."

Essentially, they must have confidence in the electronic systems, which can be quite challenging.

"The skill and quickness are present, but the primary challenge is to accelerate without losing control of the bike. This is the key area they need to focus on improving."

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Mercedes ignites speculation regarding Valtteri Bottas's potential comeback to Formula 1 following Sauber's recent announcement.

Mercedes has sparked speculation about Valtteri Bottas potentially rejoining the team as a reserve driver through a recent post on their social media platforms.

On Wednesday morning, Sauber officially stated that Bottas will not be included in their roster of F1 drivers for the 2025 season.

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As a result, Bottas does not have a spot on the 2025 Formula 1 lineup.

Regarding his alternative opportunities, Bottas has been heavily associated with a potential comeback to Mercedes in the role of a reserve and simulator driver.

Between 2017 and 2021, the Finnish driver was with Mercedes for five years, securing victory in 10 races and achieving 58 podium finishes.

With Lewis Hamilton on their team, Mercedes continued their dominance in the F1 constructors' championship. They successfully fended off challenges from Ferrari during the 2017 and 2018 seasons, and later from Red Bull in 2021.

Valtteri Bottas might make a comeback in Brackley to serve as a reserve driver alongside George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

On Wednesday afternoon, the team excited fans with a post on social media.

They shared an image of Bottas taken during the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix alongside a tweet that reads, "I miss him," referring to a sports figure.

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Bottas has been with Sauber for three years, helping the team achieve their highest position in the constructors' standings in ten years, securing sixth place in 2022.

Since that time, the team based in Switzerland has faced difficulties in maintaining consistent performance.

Although he outperformed his teammate Zhou Guanyu in qualifying 20 times out of 21 in 2024, he remains at the bottom of the drivers' championship standings, having yet to score a single point.

Connor, known for his keen awareness of F1's controversies and narratives, is the driving force behind our objective reporting.

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Luca Marini reflects on challenging first season with Honda: “I ended in eighth place last year, yet I wasn't satisfied”

The Italian rider finds silver linings in a difficult debut year in MotoGP with Honda.

Luca Marini expressed that he would be "more content" finishing in 20th place in the 2024 MotoGP rankings with Honda, compared to his eighth-place finish in 2023 with VR46 Ducati.

An Italian rider has been selected to take over from Marc Marquez, who is moving to Gresini, as the new member of the factory Honda team in 2024. However, this year on the RC213V has been challenging for him.

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Marini has accumulated only 14 points across 19 races, achieving his highest placement of 12th at both the San Marino and Thai Grands Prix. This performance places him at the bottom of the Honda team rankings, sitting in 22nd place in the overall championship standings.

It's a significant change from his 2023 performance with the VR46 Ducati, where he finished eighth in the standings with 201 points and made it to the podium twice in grand prix races.

Even with the challenges presented by the evolving Honda motorcycle, Marini expresses that he feels more content now compared to 2023. He attributes this to his involvement in a project he believes holds significant potential for the future.

He mentioned on the official MotoGP podcast last month that he is confident that if he makes all the right decisions and improvements, both personally and with the project and the bike, the results will follow.

"Currently, whether I score two, zero, or ten points doesn't really matter to me. Last year, I ended up in eighth place, but I wasn't satisfied."

"This year, I might end up in 20th place, but I'm more content because I'm involved in a project that has the potential to be successful in the future and could compete for the championship in the coming years."

"My outlook on the future here is very positive and promising. I aim to continue working diligently and enhancing my skills each day as I spend more time on the bike, as this allows us to achieve outstanding results."

Honda's motorcycle racers have faced a challenging year, not just during the official races but also with many private testing sessions. The Japanese manufacturer is striving to improve its standing in the rankings.

Marini mentions that he has been riding his Honda nearly every week throughout 2024, and he has been doing it "happily."

He mentioned that he joined during the latter part of the season feeling stressed, though not exhausted, as he had spent nearly the entire year cycling, if not every single week.

"It's challenging, but I always tackle it with a smile and give it my all, because ultimately, I'm extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to ride a MotoGP bike regularly. I truly enjoy each moment on the bike."

"It's an amazing sensation, and I'm focusing on savoring the moment."

"Certainly, completing races is crucial as it allows engineers to gather more information. This data is essential for their analysis. During practice sessions, they only have the chance to examine two or three laps, which limits their ability to gather extensive insights."

"If you complete an entire race, you gather 27. This provides a different set of information."

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