McLaren Racing has secured an opportunity to join the FIA Formula E championship starting in the 2022-23 season, marking the beginning of the Gen3 era.

In its continuous review of possible new racing platforms, McLaren will dedicate the remainder of 2021 to contemplating participation before making a decision on whether to enter Formula E for its ninth season.

Currently, McLaren faces restrictions on participating as a team in Formula E due to McLaren Applied serving as the official supplier of batteries for the series. However, this limitation will be removed once their contract concludes at the end of the eighth season, paving the way for a possible entry into the competition.

Following the departure of Audi and BMW from Formula E after the 2021 season concludes, two openings have become available for the 2022-23 season. This upcoming season will also mark the debut of the Gen3 vehicle and the implementation of a budget limitation.

By entering into an option agreement with Formula E, McLaren secures a spot on the starting line should it choose to move forward.

"McLaren Racing's CEO, Zak Brown, mentioned that they have been carefully watching Formula E for a while now, keeping an eye on the series' development and what lies ahead."

"Having the chance to reserve a spot, coupled with the finalization of the contract between McLaren Applied and the FIA at the conclusion of Gen 2, provides us with ample time to determine whether Formula E aligns with McLaren's vision for a prospective competitive arena."

In addition to its Formula 1 activities, McLaren expanded its motorsports presence by participating in IndyCar starting in 2020 and has explored the possibility of competing in both the World Endurance Championship and IMSA.

"McLaren Racing's decision to acquire an option for participation in the Formula E grid starting with Gen3 underscores the persistent influence of our sport," Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag stated.

"We're excited to announce that McLaren Racing is considering joining Formula E, a competition that already features some of the most renowned figures in motorsport."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. He typically reports directly from the event, sharing the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Marc Marquez shares his genuine feelings with Valentino Rossi about maintaining their ongoing rivalry

Marc Marquez reacts to Valentino Rossi's frustration

Marc Marquez has shared his thoughts on their ongoing conflict following Valentino Rossi's recent outburst.

Rossi has revived the wounds from their 2015 clash, criticizing Marquez for behaving in an unsportsmanlike manner and holding him responsible for Rossi's inability to clinch the MotoGP championship during that infamous season.

Rossi delivered harsh remarks just as Marquez was getting ready to join Ducati, where he would work with VR46 protégé Pecco Bagnaia.

Marquez has since issued a reply.

According to Marca, Marquez stated that a conflict cannot occur if one party is unwilling.

Trying to dampen the flames ignited by Rossi could be the perfect strategy as 2025 approaches.

Marquez needs to get used to the latest factory Ducati model after spending the previous season on an older version.

Marquez now has the same equipment as Bagnaia, and with Jorge Martin, the champion, getting used to the Aprilia, he can clearly see another MotoGP title on the horizon.

Marc Marquez stated, "I didn't question the decision; I simply asked where to sign." Looking back on a successful 2024, Marquez discussed his significant return to form following the accidents and injuries that plagued his last period with Honda.

He managed to remain a strong contender for the title until the final stages of the championships. His choice to move from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati helped him get back to winning races.

"When you suddenly encounter the negative aspects of sports, it transforms you unexpectedly," he explained.

"Sustaining an injury can lead you into a downward spiral, and you understand the potential consequences that might follow."

"After returning from an injury and feeling some discomfort, you realize that winning isn't the usual outcome. It's more common to finish in second or third place, or even lower, since for every victory, there are 20 losses."

This is why I appreciate winning now more than I did in the past.

"This year's team has provided an ideal setting for me to rejuvenate, allowing me to be present without any stress and to enjoy myself. Gresini, a team full of enthusiasm, was originally founded by Fausto and is currently managed by his wife along with dedicated long-term members. It is a satellite team that blends enthusiasm with expertise."

In sports, your current performance defines your value, based on your most recent competitions. I was beginning to excel, adjusting to the Ducati, and continuously improving.

"When I was informed that I had been selected, I didn't question the reasoning; I simply replied, 'Alright, where do I put my signature?' and that was the end of it."

Gigi Dall’Igna informed me, and I responded with appreciation, intending to ensure it's the appropriate choice.

Marquez likened teaming up with Bagnaia in the garage to a football analogy.

"He referred to Vinicius as the key player and the main figure for Real Madrid."

"After that, Mbappé will need to adjust."

Pecco has set the standard in the Ducati team, securing victory in 11 races this season. He contended for the World Championship right up to the final race and has twice claimed the world champion title with this team.

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Valencia is set to welcome its inaugural E-Prix in April, as the Formula E world championship unveils its upcoming series of races for the 2021 season.

Due to the swift proliferation of a new COVID-19 strain, FE had to modify its season seven schedule, as the dual-event in Santiago scheduled for December was delayed.

The fully electric racing series has confirmed that its two nighttime races in Saudi Arabia will proceed as scheduled at the end of next month. The opening races of the season are set for the 26th and 27th of February.

On Thursday, Formula E unveiled the upcoming series of seven races, which includes the inaugural competitive event in Valencia and the rearranged back-to-back races in Chile.

After a pause in the racing schedule during March, the 2021 season is set to resume with the Rome E-Prix on April 10, marking Italy's comeback to the series for the first time since 2019. Subsequently, Valencia will host its inaugural E-Prix on April 24.

The Ricardo Tormo Circuit has been the venue for pre-season trials over the last three years, yet the inaugural competitive event in Spain will occur on a newly designed track layout specifically for Formula E. This marks the first occasion in the series' history that it will compete on a fixed circuit.

Despite apprehensions about the feasibility of conducting the Monaco E-Prix during the ongoing health crisis, the fourth iteration of the biennial event in the Principality has received approval to proceed on May 8. This decision revitalizes the prospect of hosting the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix later in the month.

FE is set to travel to Morocco for its fifth Marrakesh E-Prix event scheduled for May 22, followed by the seventh and eighth rounds in Santiago on June 5-6.

The Sanya and the first-ever Seoul E-Prix races have been delayed, with a conclusive verdict on both races expected to be made upon the release of the rest of the season's schedule in early spring.

"FE CEO Jamie Reigle expressed the organization's dedication to presenting a global calendar that aligns with their inaugural season as a World Championship."

We are collaborating extensively with our partners, including teams, manufacturers, sponsors, broadcasters, and host cities, to adjust to changing external conditions and guarantee the well-being and safety of all participants.

"We are committed to preserving the essence of what makes Formula E beloved by its fans: the thrill of unpredictable races, the charm of racing in iconic cities, and the seamless integration of real and digital experiences, all driven by our commitment to a brighter future."

The possibility of hosting a race in Paris has been ruled out because of prevailing health and safety concerns, leading to a shift in focus towards reintegrating a French event into the Formula E schedule for the eighth season.

FE announced that it will keep a close eye on the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and maintain steady dialogue with its network of teams, manufacturers, partners, broadcasters, and host cities.

Any changes to the calendar are contingent upon travel limitations, guidelines set by local authorities, and must receive the green light from the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

Alberto Longo, co-founder of FE, stated, "Creating the championship schedule under 'normal' conditions is a considerable endeavor that involves months of planning and preparation, working alongside a variety of cities and stakeholders."

"The upcoming series of races highlights Formula E's ability to adapt to various circumstances while still putting together an exciting and challenging schedule for both teams and drivers."

"We persist in our efforts on the final series of competitions, striving to ensure that our inaugural season as an FIA World Championship meets both our standards and the anticipations of our supporters."

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix globally for Crash.net. Typically delivering reports directly from the location, Lewis shares the narratives of the significant figures in the sport.

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Max Verstappen criticizes McLaren's 'papaya regulations': 'I'd instruct my engineer to be quiet'

"'You have permission to compete.' All of that could have been addressed more simply and effectively by the team."

Max Verstappen has criticized McLaren's 'papaya rules', labeling them as "ridiculous".

McLaren has implemented 'papaya rules' to regulate the on-track competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

The term 'Papaya rules' originated during the Italian Grand Prix, when Piastri surpassed Norris in the initial lap of the Monza race.

Looking back at the season, Verstappen downplayed the significance of McLaren implementing team strategies.

"Verstappen dismissed the remark as absurd during his conversation with Viaplay, questioning its relevance. 'Papaya rules… That's completely irrelevant to me,' he expressed."

"When my engineer tells me that, my instant response is, 'Be quiet.' What exactly does that mean?"

"'You have permission to compete.' The team could have resolved everything more smoothly and effectively."

What does 'papaya rules' mean?

The term 'papaya rules' refers to McLaren's instruction to their drivers to engage in racing that is both fair and clean.

During the Italian Grand Prix, just before their second pit stops, Norris was rapidly gaining on Piastri for the top position, leading to the notorious 'papaya rules' radio communication.

The concept of engagement guidelines is not a novel idea in Formula 1, although the term ‘papaya rules’ is definitely out of the ordinary.

Addressing the audience in Monza during September, Stella elaborated on the 'papaya regulations'.

"He emphasized that our guideline is consistently aligned with the papaya regulations. This means that while you should always be cautious around any competitor, there's an added level of caution applied when dealing with a papaya-colored car," he clarified.

"It's crucial, given the car's competitive edge, to ensure we cross the finish line and to focus on coordinating our drivers' efforts during the race, instead of viewing the teammate as the primary rival."

"We make an effort to avoid this type of thinking, as it doesn't lead to productive outcomes."

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Departing KTM CEO identifies specific issues from this year

KTM leader evaluates underwhelming performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly explained precisely how KTM faltered this season.

At the beginning of the season, KTM was expected to be Ducati's primary competitors, but they failed to secure a single victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder secured fifth place, while Pedro Acosta took sixth, emerging as the highest-ranked riders not on Ducati bikes in the MotoGP standings. However, their manufacturer was unable to provide them with a bike capable of winning races.

In a different scenario, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales secured a grand prix win at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

Although Acosta showed exceptional talent from the beginning, the expectation that he would secure a victory did not materialize.

"We got off to a strong start with several riders making it to the podium. There were high hopes," stated Guidotti, the departing team leader.

"We set an ambitious goal and performed well up until the halfway point of the season."

"Starting around the middle of the season, we faced some difficulties. We followed a path that didn't work out well for us."

"The leading competitors showed slight progress, which widened the gap further."

"In the middle of the season, we experienced an unusual moment."

"That was the moment we missed the opportunity to remain among the leaders."

"The conduct of the riders was commendable; they remained persistent throughout. The technicians also maintained their determination. However, in reality, we were not competitive in the race."

Acosta showed significant potential by finishing in second place in Texas, but unfortunately, he endured eight challenging races without securing a spot on the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez were consistently trailing their respective teammates.

"We needed to go back to the beginning of the film and play it from the start," Guidotti mentioned.

At the tail end of the season, KTM clearly emerged as the leading team. There were a few accidents and various incidents.

"On the whole, it's acceptable, although it's not our ideal situation. However, it's what we're dealing with for now."

"In the beginning of the year, we failed to take advantage of multiple opportunities, which ultimately led to our defeat."

Guidotti is set to step down from his role, with Aki Ajo taking over as the head of KTM's team in 2025.

"There must be. Numerous alterations are taking place," stated Guidotti.

Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration.

"As these transformations occur, we also sacrifice both expertise and a sense of connection."

"I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The roster of riders appears to be noticeably more robust.

Acosta has been elevated to join the factory team with Binder.

The Tech3 KTM team has announced that its lineup will include Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

KTM's concerns might stem from their financial challenges outside of the MotoGP arena.

The company has initiated self-administration following its first €3 billion release.

They assert that their MotoGP plans for 2025 remain unchanged, and they have scheduled tests to jumpstart their development for a strong beginning next year.

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'Difficult to Witness' – Sergio Perez Nearing Loss of Former F1 Competitor’s Esteem

Ex-F1 driver David Coulthard has criticized Sergio Perez, stating his "stubbornness in accepting the truth" is "difficult to witness."

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has expressed that he is on the verge of losing respect for Sergio Perez due to the manner in which Perez's future with Red Bull is being managed.

It is anticipated that the 34-year-old driver from Mexico will be removed from Red Bull’s racing team for the 2025 season due to underperformance, with the official news likely to be released before the Christmas holiday.

Following the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Red Bull convened an urgent meeting with the team's investors to deliberate on Perez's continued involvement.

Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive world title with a total of 437 points, whereas Perez amassed just 152 points, ending up in a disappointing eighth place in the rankings.

Perez's poor performance and inability to improve significantly contributed to Red Bull's fall to third in the constructors' standings, trailing behind McLaren and Ferrari, casting doubt on his continued presence in the team.

Even so, Perez has continually affirmed his commitment to race for Red Bull in 2025, referring to the agreement he holds for the upcoming season.

On the Formula For Success podcast, ex-Red Bull racer Coulthard expressed dissatisfaction with how Perez and his manager, Julian Jakobi, are managing the situation.

"Coulthard described Checo as a genuinely nice person, yet expressed frustration over the apparent denial of reality, suggesting it might be a tactic employed by his management."

Julian Jakobi acts as his manager, a person whom we have known and esteemed for numerous years; he's a smart, competent manager. However, his primary responsibility is to ensure the financial aspects are handled properly.

"Therefore, it seems the objective is to secure the largest possible settlement to encourage his voluntary departure, instead of simply stating, ‘Alright, we will fulfill our financial obligations to you for the upcoming year, but you won't be provided with a race car.’ This scenario is conceivable, yet it would be truly regrettable."

"My regard for Julian and Checo would diminish slightly.

Ultimately, the facts speak for themselves. Should there be a contract in place, naturally, it ought to be upheld through discussion.

"Hopefully, they can handle it maturely instead of taking it personally and resorting to legal action."

Speculation on exorbitant exit clause 'utterly unfounded'

Speculation has been rife about Perez seeking a hefty separation payment, believed to be around $20 million, from Red Bull to leave his position prematurely.

However, Red Bull's motorsport consultant Helmut Marko has firmly stated that such rumors are "utterly baseless."

"In his Speedweek column, Marko mentioned, “Much has been speculated in this regard. This includes unfounded rumors about potential transfer fees, which are utterly baseless.”

Marko mentioned that Red Bull plans to reveal their driver lineup for the upcoming year in the coming days.

Liam Lawson is considered the top contender to take over Perez's spot at Red Bull in the coming year.

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Aleix Espargaro, who recently stepped away from MotoGP racing, has revealed that he is now part of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling squad.

After ending his full-time career in MotoGP, Aleix Espargaro has become a member of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling team.

Starting January 1, 2025, Espargaro will take on a role as an ambassador for the Lidl-Trek team.

According to a statement from the team, Espargaro will participate in the Lidl-Trek team at several of the most renowned events on the schedule.

Espargaro expressed excitement about becoming part of the Lidl-Trek team, which includes some of the top cyclists globally.

"I am eager to gain knowledge from top cyclists and experienced staff, challenge myself, and involve fans in this unique experience."

Espargar, who has been passionate about cycling for many years, shared that he decided to leave his MotoGP racing career sooner than he had intended in order to become part of the Lidl-Trek team.

He expressed that cycling has long been a personal passion, and he chose to leave MotoGP sooner than he initially intended to participate in a program that perfectly matches his interests.

"I am incredibly thankful to Lidl-Trek for accepting me into their team and backing me. I am committed to putting in my utmost effort."

Espargaro revealed that he would step down from competing full-time in MotoGP at the Catalunya Grand Prix, which is his home race, this year.

In addition to his responsibilities with Lidl-Trek, Espargaro has taken on a new testing role for HRC's MotoGP project. He started this position during the official test in Barcelona last month, which occurred after the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix.

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Davide Tardozzi criticizes Pecco Bagnaia: “Those competitors are defeating you”

“You can’t constantly act politely. It’s not always possible…”

A newly released three-part MotoGP series by Ducati showcases a rather intense exchange between Francesco Bagnaia and Davide Tardozzi.

The documentary series titled "Dream On: Ducati and Bagnaia’s Pursuit of Glory" aims to provide an insider's perspective on the concluding stages of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, specifically highlighting the Ducati Lenovo Team and their spotlight on Bagnaia.

A significant moment in the initial episode, released on Ducati's YouTube channel on December 15, occurs following the Sprint at the Thai Grand Prix.

Starting from pole position, Bagnaia found himself in third place after the initial corner as his championship competitor, Jorge Martin, overtook him on the inside approach to the first turn.

The Italian rider regained his place ahead of Martin as they exited the corner. However, later in the race, the Spaniard overtook him again during the transition from turn six to turn seven, pushing Bagnaia down to third place.

The scene takes place inside Bagnaia's truck following the Sprint event, featuring a conversation among Bagnaia, his wife, sister, press officer, and Davide Tardozzi, the manager of the Ducati Lenovo Team.

"Martin showed courage today," Tardozzi remarked to Bagnaia.

"The courage to take you down. […] He had already made up his mind to trouble you. He did what was necessary."

"That's your task for tomorrow. You can't constantly be the nice guy. It's not possible, especially when these guys are beating you."

According to the statement, Martin deliberately aimed for you at the initial turn, having premeditated his decision to collide with you. This is absolutely certain.

"You should stop being overly polite, as these individuals will take advantage of you."

Following a last-minute decision, which was highlighted in the initial episode of *Dream On*, Bagnaia's team altered his main bike to a wet setup. This strategic move allowed him to recover from the Sprint's setbacks and secure his first Grand Prix victory in the top category under rainy conditions.

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The adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to secure a significant place in MotoGP history

While maintaining a MotoGP world championship is challenging, Jorge Martin faces an additional hurdle as he will be defending it with a new manufacturer in 2025.

Spanish racer Jorge Martin's transition from the Pramac Ducati team to Aprilia offers him a unique chance to secure MotoGP championships with multiple manufacturers.

In order for him to achieve that, Aprilia, which secured third place in the constructors' standings this year, must enhance its MotoGP package.

"The situation is indeed a step down," stated Jordan Moreland, host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, explaining that Ducati's dominance is the reason. He noted that during Jorge Martin's initial test in Barcelona, although his personal thoughts weren't shared publicly, the team appeared to be quite satisfied with the results.

"The focus for Aprilia is on advancing further, as they've been working towards this goal for the past season and a half. The progress they've made, especially compared to Ducati, has been quite evident."

Peter McLaren, the editor at Crash.net for MotoGP, highlighted that a crucial factor for Martin's championship in 2025 is maintaining consistency. This was an area where the Mallorcan excelled in 2024, unlike Aprilia, which struggled with it.

McLaren commented, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who mentioned that they need to improve their overall average, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole factory to surpass Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they also fell behind KTM in the constructors' rankings.

"Aprilia's performance has been somewhat inconsistent, and they must improve their average results to remain competitive in the championship race."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third racer ever to claim consecutive premier class Grand Prix titles on different motorcycle brands, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

McLaren stated that achieving this would be incredibly significant for Martin.

"To my knowledge, only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have won consecutive championships with different manufacturers. This presents an opportunity for him to achieve a significant historical feat."

"He definitely faces a significant challenge, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's incredible performances at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), where he secured a victory that left even him puzzled as to why everything clicked so perfectly at that venue. However, he hasn't reached the podium since then, highlighting the importance of consistency."

"It's not the most exciting term, and it might seem dull, but consistency is crucial for winning championships, especially when the season includes over 40 races. This fact was evident this year when Martin managed to outperform Bagnaia, despite Bagnaia having claimed victory in more Grands Prix."

A crucial factor in improving consistency will be making more effective use of the 2024 Michelin rear tire. This was a variable in the past season that only Ducati managed to fully optimize.

Crash.net journalist Lewis Duncan stated that Aprilia's primary requirement from Martin is insight into how the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tire.

The crucial aspect for Aprilia is this: when you talk to riders from KTM or Aprilia, they’re uncertain but tend to believe that the issues they encountered this year differ from those they faced in the previous year. Consequently, the only thing that can be held responsible is the new rear tire.

"The issue isn't with the rear tire itself; the new rear tire offers such enhanced grip that only Ducati managed to fully take advantage of it."

"After they discovered its potential, no one else could achieve the same."

It has been observed that KTM experienced significant vibration issues, which were likely tied to the rear tire. Honda encountered similar problems, and Ducati faced them initially. While the Aprilia riders did not seem to voice many complaints about vibrations, they dealt with other challenges such as grip problems, traction difficulties, and notably high degradation during Grand Prix races.

The ability to deliver a powerful performance in a single lap was evident, and their speed was acceptable in shorter races; however, they faced difficulties maintaining this over extended distances.

In Malaysia, Aleix Espargaro seemed unaware of the situation. Aprilia is likely expecting that Martin can provide at least this level of insight. If Aprilia's hypothesis is correct—that the issue involves the 2024 rear tire—then Martin is someone who has experience with making that tire perform effectively on a bike.

Nonetheless, even though Aprilia's goals leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March are evident, reaching those objectives will be challenging due to staffing changes in Noale this winter.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin, along with Fabiano Sterlacchini, the new technical director stepping in for Romano Albesiano, have all now joined the factory.

Duncan stated that Aprilia is undergoing changes with a fresh set of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to succeed Romano Albesiano.

Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June. However, he struggled to fully optimize the performance of the KTM RC16's rear tire before his departure. The team faces a significant winter season, and the initial tests are expected to be intriguing.

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Mercedes leader Toto Wolff often disagrees with FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem, but they share common ground on a particular issue despite their usual conflicts.

Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff has disclosed an uncommon point of consensus he shares with FIA head Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Wolff has openly acknowledged his opposition to several policies introduced by Ben Sulayem during his contentious term as the head of F1's regulatory organization.

Formula 1 racers have voiced their disapproval of Ben Sulayem's recent actions against profanity, leading to Max Verstappen being assigned "public interest work" by the FIA as a consequence for swearing at a press event in Singapore.

However, this is an uncommon subject on which Wolff finds common ground with the FIA president.

Wolff, speaking to media outlets such as Crash.net during the final Grand Prix of the season in Abu Dhabi, shared an anecdote about his seven-year-old child who is into go-karting and closely follows the sport. He recounted how, for the first time a few months back, his child used the phrase "what the f**k", prompting Wolff to inquire where he had learned such language. According to Wolff, his child attributed it to the drivers.

"I do have my disagreements with Mohammed, but in that situation, all the drivers, without exception, serve as role models. They are broadcasted live, and they have both the right and the authority.

"I don't share the same opinion on numerous topics he [Ben Sulayem] has raised, but in this instance, I believe if you convert ‘f**k’ into your native language or mine, it's quite offensive. I would never utter that over the radio.

"George [Russell], Lewis [Hamilton], and I had a discussion, and they're aware of my dislike for it. Thus, I am completely content with our ability to minimize that.

"A few drivers, some local and others from different places, emerge with certain items, and personally, I would fully support increasing that. That's simply how I see it."

In response to a question about whether he believed the effort to curb swearing was a battle worth engaging in, Ben Sulayem told Motorsport that he indeed sees it as a worthwhile endeavor if it means purifying the sport.

"Am I the author of these swearing regulations? Did I establish and enforce them? I'm posing this question to you because it's actually the stewards' responsibility, not mine. It falls under their jurisdiction. So, I suggest you direct your inquiries to them, asking why this is the case."

"We're conveying a message to the young people of all ages through this. And, pardon me, but advertisements, films, they're classified however."

"Is it necessary to use offensive language? Truly. Did Michael Schumacher ever use such language? What about Mohammed Ali? He admitted to being outspoken. But did he actually utter any obscenities? And Pele, did he ever resort to it?

"In our distinct sport, it's crucial to shield it from negative remarks. Remarks that I will consistently oppose."

At the FIA's award ceremony in Rwanda, Ben Sulayem commended Verstappen for his method of fulfilling his community service obligations before he was awarded his world championship trophy.

"Max truly lived up to his word," Ben Sulayem stated. "This is the kind of community involvement we require from every driver, every champion, if we aim to expand.

"When discussing diversity, this embodies genuine diversity. The focus wasn't so much on the vehicle as it was on the individuals present."

"I think that eventually, it won't be necessary to enforce this as a punishment. It should be an act willingly undertaken by drivers, and perhaps I will include it in the agreement when they receive their license."

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Lewis frequently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. He consistently provides firsthand reports from the venues, sharing narratives about the key figures in the racing world.

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Giacomo Agostini shares his thoughts on the rivalry between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi, noting that "they were not contemporaries…"

Giacomo Agostini, who has won the World Championship 15 times, has shared his thoughts on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

Agostini holds the record for the most race victories in Grand Prix racing history, surpassing Rossi. However, after Marquez joined the premier class in 2013, he consistently outperformed the Italian in the riders' rankings, except for the 2015 and 2020 seasons. During his first seven seasons in the top class, the Spanish rider claimed six championship titles.

Giovanni Agostini expressed to the Spanish outlet Relevo that Marc Marquez is his soft spot, explaining that Marquez captivates audiences and racegoers with his performances. Agostini noted that Marquez is an entertainer who is adored by fans.

According to Agostini, Rossi is considered "a great."

"A rider with great strategic skills. To achieve nine world championships, one must possess excellent instincts."

The competition between the two was seldom evident in direct confrontations during races, particularly beyond the year 2015, which Agostini attributes to the timing and Marquez's personal mindset.

Nevertheless, it remains considered one of the fiercest rivalries in MotoGP over the last decade.

"They were not of the same age," he explained. "One of them had begun, while the other had not. This might have influenced the outcome in the end, you see?"

"While I acknowledge that Rossi has also sparked excitement, I believe that Marquez is actually more audacious, fearless, and adventurous."

“He is a warrior, and this could endear him to many. Marc is relentless and always puts on a great show.”

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

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Giacomo Agostini shares his thoughts on the rivalry between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi, noting that they were not contemporaries in terms of age.

Giacomo Agostini, who has won the World Championship 15 times, has shared his thoughts on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

Agostini holds the record for the most race victories in the history of Grand Prix racing, surpassing Rossi. However, after Marquez entered the premier class in 2013, he consistently outperformed the Italian in the riders' rankings, except in the 2015 and 2020 seasons. During his first seven seasons at the top level, the Spaniard clinched six championship titles.

In an interview with the Spanish outlet Relevo, Agostini expressed that Marc Marquez is his soft spot. He believes Marquez energizes the audience and captivates race-goers with his performances, making him a crowd favorite.

Agostini described Rossi as "a great."

"A racer with strategic skill. To secure nine world championships, one must possess natural talent."

The competition between the two rarely translated into direct confrontations on the track, notably after 2015. Agostini attributes this to the timing and Marquez’s personal mindset.

Despite everything, it continues to be seen as one of the fiercest rivalries in MotoGP over the last decade.

"They weren't the same age," he remarked. "One of them had begun, while the other hadn't. This might have influenced the end results, you know?"

While I acknowledge that Rossi also sparked excitement, I must admit that, upon reflection, Marquez strikes me as more audacious, fearless, and adventurous.

"He is a warrior, and this trait might appeal to people even more. Marc is relentless and always puts on a great show."

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

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