Jenson Button reignites discussion on Lewis Hamilton's age and reaction times

"Perhaps there's a slight decline…"

Jenson Button has speculated that Lewis Hamilton's age might be a factor contributing to his underwhelming qualifying performances this season.

This season, with three races remaining, Hamilton trails his teammate George Russell in F1 qualifying sessions, with a record of 16 losses to 5 wins.

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This indicates that during this season, for only the second time in his 12-year stint with Mercedes, he will be outperformed by a teammate in direct qualifying competition.

Former McLaren teammate Button emphasized that Hamilton traditionally excels in qualifying sessions.

However, Button mentioned to Sky Sports, "He's nearing 40. Perhaps you lose just a little bit as you age."

"You are competing with individuals who are in their twenties. Even if your reflexes are excellent, they won't match the sharpness of someone who is 20 years old."

"You might lose that minor advantage that doesn't affect a race, but it becomes more noticeable during qualifying."

"It can be painful to watch the younger drivers not only show speed during qualifying but also demonstrate remarkable consistency throughout the sessions."

The Mercedes team has reasons to feel hopeful as both drivers prepare for Saturday's F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Hamilton secured the fastest times in both practice sessions on Friday, while Russell came in second in one

Mercedes has faced challenges this season, experiencing a decline in competitiveness as race weekends progress.

During the previous race in Brazil, Hamilton was unable to advance past Q1 during a rain-affected qualifying session and ended up securing the 10th position in the grand prix.

He showed up again in Vegas, confessing that during the low point of his disappointing performance in Brazil, he considered quitting.

As Hamilton led the practice session on Friday in Las Vegas, Button expressed his delight by saying, "I'm truly glad he's participating, and I have no doubt we'll witness Lewis at his finest."

However, it is uncertain if he will manage to outqualify his teammate Russell for just the sixth time in 17 tries.

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

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Lewis Hamilton remains cautious about Mercedes' prospects in Las Vegas, despite a successful practice session.

Lewis Hamilton is maintaining a cautious outlook on Mercedes' prospects at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, following an unexpected sweep in the practice sessions.

After a disappointing performance in Brazil, seven-time world champion Hamilton made a strong recovery by leading both of Friday's practice sessions in Sin City, signaling a positive beginning for Mercedes as the weekend kicked off.

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Hamilton was ahead of his Mercedes colleague George Russell during the initial session and narrowly outpaced McLaren's Lando Norris in the subsequent session.

Mercedes has frequently kicked off the weekend with impressive performances on Fridays, only to see their performance decline as the race weekend unfolds this season, and Hamilton remains cautious about this pattern continuing.

"Quite satisfying. I believe it's the initial occasion this year I've experienced a day of that caliber," Hamilton remarked.

"In the first practice session, the car performed exceptionally well. However, in the second session, it didn't feel as great. This means we have to put in some effort to figure things out before tomorrow. It's challenging to pinpoint our exact position or the reasons behind it, but I truly had a great time navigating the circuit."

"Tomorrow, we'll find out if the car remains unchanged."

Despite topping the speed charts in both practice sessions, Hamilton cautioned that Mercedes needs to enhance their performance over longer distances.

"He clarified that while warmer conditions slightly exacerbate our situation, our speed during the race remains suboptimal."

"We need to put in effort through the night to determine our strategy for improving our race speed while maintaining our inherent lap time."

"It was a positive experience to maintain consistency across different sections without the vehicle causing any disruptions."

In response to whether he believes Mercedes has a shot at pole position and victory, Hamilton stated, "I'm in high spirits personally. Entering this weekend, I was aware that my driving isn't the issue."

"I need to put in a lot of effort tonight without making any major adjustments, and I'm hoping to get a decent night's sleep."

Lewis frequently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. Typically providing live updates, Lewis shares the narratives of key figures within the racing community.

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Lewis Hamilton has been described as expressing doubt in his tone. Meanwhile, Ferrari has shown remarkable speed during races this year.

Lewis Hamilton's optimistic demeanor couldn't completely hide the "doubt in his tone," according to observers.

The Mercedes driver was the fastest in both practice sessions on Friday during the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

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On a fruitful day for Toto Wolff's team, George Russell initially secured second place before moving to third.

Hamilton expressed satisfaction with his W15, noting, "We'll find out if the car remains consistent tomorrow."

Danica Patrick from Sky Sports commented, saying, "His tone definitely had a hint of doubt."

"They have never managed to fully understand or control this vehicle."

"I hope he concludes his time with Mercedes on a high note."

He discussed the speed they have during races. However, he can be optimistic because Ferrari's race pace this year has been remarkable.

"As someone who competes, it's impossible to stop at any time."

"He was thrilled even though it was just a practice session. For a driver, each practice is important."

"I hope they maintain that throughout the weekend. Both are experienced drivers who rarely err, which could work to their advantage this weekend."

Hamilton has only three races left before he leaves Mercedes to join Ferrari.

For the last three years, Hamilton has been unable to compete for an F1 title because his car has not been up to standard.

After securing a victory at Silverstone this year, he is set to join Ferrari in 2025 with the goal of achieving an unprecedented eighth championship title.

Currently, he has the opportunity to aim for the pole position at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, having recorded the quickest time during practice sessions.

Jenson Button commented that the team is just as astonished as everyone else, especially considering the performances in the last few races.

In Austin, they were extremely fast on Friday but completely off pace on Saturday.

"The conditions, surface, and climate in Las Vegas are distinct."

"I believe they will be strong contenders. The battle at the front will be intense, with no fewer than four or five cars vying for the top qualifying spot."

Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, and Carlos Sainz finished in the top five during practice, but the Red Bull drivers lagged behind at an unexpectedly slow pace.

On Friday, Max Verstappen secured the 17th spot, while Sergio Perez finished in 19th place.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he covered a wide range of topics, including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Red Bull Acknowledges Mistake with Rear Wing During Las Vegas Grand Prix

Error Committed by Red Bull in Las Vegas on Friday

Red Bull has acknowledged they brought an incorrect rear wing to the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, following a disappointing performance on Friday.

Max Verstappen finished in 17th position, while Sergio Perez was 19th following the initial day of practice sessions.

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Red Bull has acknowledged an error with a new component of the RB20, despite usually increasing their performance as race weekends unfold.

"Red Bull's Helmut Marko mentioned to Motorsport that they lack an alternative, smaller rear wing, unlike what is observed on their competitors' vehicles."

"Undoubtedly, it would be of greater assistance."

Marko asserted that it was impossible to have a new, more appropriate rear wing flown in overnight in time for Saturday's qualifying.

He mentioned, "In the brief period, we opted not to use a soft tire, and the extended run was somewhat satisfactory."

"During several rounds, there was strong competition, but subsequently, the back tires began to wear out."

"Moments of quickness were observed. The key is to bring regularity into play.

"We require greater equilibrium. There's room for enhancement on a single lap. However, during extended periods, tyre degradation currently poses an issue."

Nevertheless, Marko issued a caution to Mercedes and McLaren, who led the timesheet on Friday.

He mentioned, "Individuals might show their quickest speeds on Thursday or Friday, yet this doesn't necessarily indicate they'll perform well in the competition."

"Undoubtedly, we'll take a prudent action."

Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes clocked the quickest time on Friday, surpassing McLaren's Lando Norris.

Max Verstappen, racing for Red Bull, has the opportunity to clinch the Formula 1 title in Las Vegas.

For ten years, James served as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, providing coverage on a wide array of sports including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Valtteri Bottas shares insights on his future plans following his revealing new tattoo

"At this point in my life, one chapter is coming to an end."

Valtteri Bottas has showcased a fresh tattoo on his thigh that asks, "what's next?"

The slogan has become a part of Bottas's online presence as he contemplates the approaching conclusion of his time in Formula 1.

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Sauber has chosen to bring on board Formula 2 racer Gabriel Bortoleto, together with Nico Hulkenberg from Haas, for the 2025 season.

Bottas finds himself without options but is welcoming new opportunities.

This also encompasses his completion of an Iron Man triathlon, which involves a 3.8km swim, 180km cycling, and a 42.2km run, all carried out within the confines of his house, motivated by his desire to demonstrate his capability of achieving it.

The departing Formula 1 racer revealed his latest tattoo to Sky Sports while in Las Vegas, expressing, "What comes next? That's what I'm pondering. That's the reason I made this commitment.

"I didn't possess any ink on my body, yet I believed this would be a great choice."

"At this juncture in my existence, one chapter is nearing its end. A fresh beginning is on the horizon.

"What comes after? This is the question individuals must pose and seek the solution for."

"I'm not hurrying to dive into anything that comes next."

"I must explore all options to determine what's most beneficial for me, considering various routes from 2026 and beyond, whether in Formula 1 or in a different field."

Reflecting on it now, if that was the culmination, I can hold my head high with pride.

"I consistently put forth my best effort. That's the key point. No remorse.

"Existence isn't solely about endlessly circling in a racing vehicle. Other aspects are essential too."

"This doesn't imply that I'm not serious about this sport, as I truly am. It's my passion. I dedicate my all to it."

"However, when I'm not working, I take the opportunity to enjoy myself…"

Bottas is rumored to be considering a comeback to Mercedes in the capacity of a backup driver.

He has shown little interest in transitioning to a different racing series, such as IndyCar, for the 2025 season. Instead, he appears to be considering a return to Formula 1 in 2026, coinciding with the introduction of new regulations.

Sauber to Sport Fresh Appearance in 2025

Currently leading the Formula 2 rankings is Brazilian racer Bortoleto.

He has earned a spot as a rookie F1 driver for next season with the team that is set to become Audi in 2026.

Sauber entered into talks with McLaren, who had Bortoleto under contract.

Sky Sports' Karun Chandhok characterized Bortoleto as "An exceptionally gifted young racer.

"With Nico Hulkenberg, there's a harmonious blend of fresh talent and seasoned expertise."

Hulkenberg has demonstrated exceptional driving skills this season. He surely ranks among the top 10 drivers of the year.

Bortoleto has demonstrated strong competitiveness in Formula 2. McLaren holds him in high regard and graciously agreed to let him go.

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

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"Lando Norris confesses to facing challenges – Describes McLaren's difficulties in Las Vegas as 'shocking'"

Lando Norris candidly discusses the unexpected difficulties encountered by McLaren on Friday in Las Vegas.

Lando Norris described his McLaren's performance with a heavy fuel load as "shocking," despite finishing Friday's practice session at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix with the second quickest time.

Norris, who enters this weekend with the task of outscoring his championship contender Max Verstappen by at least three points to sustain his diminishing chances for the title, finished a mere 0.011 seconds behind Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton in the second free practice session (FP2).

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Norris felt optimistic about McLaren's single-lap speed in the qualifying trial sessions but is worried about his pace in the race due to issues with tyre wear.

"Norris commented, saying, 'It was mediocre. I believe the performance on low fuel was acceptable. However, on high fuel, it was appalling, leaving us with numerous aspects to examine.'"

Mixing various elements and dealing with the initial complexity is something I find challenging. I've always had a bit of difficulty with it.

"However, there's sufficient time to tackle it. Essentially, it's a mix of both worlds – manageable on low fuel and challenging on high fuel."

When questioned about whether overcoming graining issues is a matter of fine margins, Norris replied, "It might be. Honestly, if I had the answer, I'd likely implement it."

"Yet, despite being aware of it, it remains a challenging task for me to undertake, as it consistently presents a difficulty."

"I'll investigate the matter and determine what improvements I can make. For the time being, prioritizing high fuel over low fuel seems feasible, but securing a good qualifying position will undoubtedly benefit all aspects."

"There are numerous aspects to explore this evening."

The young British driver expressed that, in the challenging low grip conditions in Las Vegas, he believed he "could navigate a street car faster" than his Formula 1 vehicle.

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix globally for Crash.net, providing firsthand reports on the events. He focuses on sharing the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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MotoGP titleholder Jorge Martin embroiled in a contentious dispute on Spanish television

Martin entangled in controversy over TV interview contract negotiations

Newly crowned MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin found himself embroiled in a contract disagreement between two Spanish television networks regarding a scheduled interview.

Last weekend, Martin secured his first-ever MotoGP world championship title at the conclusion of the 2024 season.

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In the contemporary period, he is the first racer to secure a championship victory for an independent team, and he is also the third rider to win a MotoGP title for Ducati.

Martin was scheduled to feature on the Spanish television program La Revuelta, broadcast on Television Espanola. This show was launched this year to compete with the established El Hormiguero.

While sitting in the dressing room for La Revuelta, Martin had to call off his appearance because of contractual obligations imposed by El Hormiguero.

The contract dispute seems to revolve around Atresmedia, the network that includes El Hormiguero, having an agreement with Dorna Sports to broadcast certain races for free on La Sexta.

"David Broncano, the host of La Revuelta, mentioned that MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin was supposed to visit today and is currently in the dressing room downstairs."

"Just 30 minutes prior to our departure, he informed us that El Hormiguero had discovered he was on his way."

The organizers have used their influence to ensure that no guests show up here instead of elsewhere. They've applied their usual methods of persuasion, and as a result, Jorge informed us that he is unable to participate in the interview.

"He mentioned that he is unable to participate in the show, as it could lead to certain consequences."

El Hormiguero released a statement regarding the incident, explaining that it was a minor misunderstanding.

"Fourteen days prior to the last MotoGP event, we had made arrangements for Jorge Martin to be featured solely on our show."

"Earlier today, a representative from their team mistakenly altered the appointment that was originally arranged with a different cyclist."

Following the incident, Dorna, the company responsible for organizing the Motorcycle World Championship, reached out to the officials to address the issue.

As reported by Autosport, El Hormiguero identified the contractual dispute following a since-removed tweet from Martin concerning his appearances in La Revuelta.

La Revuelta released a short statement on social media supporting Martin and his team, asserting that they are not responsible for the current situation.

"To eliminate any uncertainty, Jorge Martin and his crew took all necessary steps yesterday to make sure the interview could be aired."

"Their conduct was flawless, and we look forward to having him return so we can celebrate his achievement as a world champion."

Martin posted on Twitter expressing gratitude to the La Revuelta team and the attendees, stating, "I had a fantastic evening! I look forward to returning soon to enjoy it with everyone."

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KTM refutes claims of Red Bull providing financial support amidst company difficulties

KTM's MotoGP initiative remains on course despite financial challenges

The Pierer Mobility Group has released a statement refuting claims that Mark Mateschitz, part-owner of Red Bull, might assist KTM in overcoming its financial difficulties.

KTM, which has a title sponsorship arrangement with Red Bull for its MotoGP racing team, has experienced a dramatic 90% drop in its stock prices since February 2022. These financial difficulties have forced the company to implement significant actions.

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An Austrian firm has reduced its board of directors from six members to just two, and is preparing to lay off up to 300 more employees, in addition to previous job reductions.

KTM plans to temporarily halt its manufacturing operations during the initial two months of 2025 as it seeks to secure approximately €100 million.

According to a recent report by the Austrian newspaper Salzburger Nachrichten, Mark Mateschitz, the son of the late Dietrich Mateschitz who co-founded Red Bull, might be in a position to financially rescue KTM. Discussions on this matter have reportedly already been held.

The Pierer Mobility Group issued a statement refuting the claims, stating: “Contrary to the newspaper reports, Pierer Mobility wishes to make it clear that there have been no talks regarding Mark Mateschitz becoming part of Pierer Mobility or KTM.”

KTM has made it clear that its MotoGP initiative is proceeding without any disruption, despite the financial difficulties the company is facing.

This development coincides with the removal of the Husqvarna brand from the Moto2 and Moto3 line-ups for the upcoming year. Additionally, Tech3 will cease operating KTMs under the GASGAS branding.

Tech3 will go back to using the name it had during 2021 and 2022, which was Tech3 KTM Factory Racing.

In a conversation with Salzburger Nachrichten, Pit Beirer mentioned, "We intend to continue participating in all the racing series we are currently involved in."

"No matter the task, we commit to it entirely."

"The attention has shifted completely to the orange brand, KTM. In certain racing series, we are currently putting in threefold the effort."

The junior program, starting with the Rookies Cup, remains secure. Our collaborators and financial backers are standing by us during this challenging time.

The achievements of the company in the past two decades are closely connected to its involvement in motorsport.

"We are the most effective promotional asset for the business. The organization has experienced steady growth for more than two decades."

"Our strategy for success involved winning races first, which then allowed us to sell motorcycles."

"We are prepared to compete and do not participate in motorsports simply for the sake of it."

"We are currently experiencing a challenging period, and as the motorsport division, we are committed to playing our role in bringing stability to the organization."

"We belong to a family and must support each other during this time. Our experience in sports has taught us resilience. We are committed to giving our all to the company, and we will overcome this challenge as a team."

Since entering the MotoGP class in 2017, KTM has secured seven grand prix victories. However, the eight-year period they initially planned to become serious title contenders has now passed.

In 2024, the brand secured the second position in the MotoGP constructors' rankings, but it has not achieved a grand prix victory since 2022.

In the upcoming year, the factory team will include Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder, while Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini will become part of the Tech3 team, which receives backing from the factory.

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Significant progress for an additional Formula 1 team by 2026

A new F1 team may soon join the lineup

The likelihood of a new Formula 1 team joining the grid has significantly risen, reports the Associated Press.

The report suggests that Andretti's ongoing effort to become the 11th team in F1 may receive approval in the near future.

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Dan Towriss, the primary stakeholder in the Andretti organization, is attending the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend amidst intensifying discussions.

Andretti's prospects for entering Formula 1 have been bolstered following an organizational overhaul that diminished the involvement of Michael Andretti, who is the offspring of former F1 champion Mario Andretti, as reported by the Associated Press.

Discussions have intensified following the reduction in his position, according to the report.

With Michael Andretti no longer at the helm, the team might now be recognized under the General Motors banner, the corporation currently supporting Andretti.

Cadillac might emerge as the powertrain collaborator by 2026.

Las Vegas stands out as a significant event on the F1 schedule, marking its return following a highly awaited revival last year, as the racing league continues its expansion across the United States.

However, Haas stands alone as the only team with backing from the United States.

Nonetheless, Andretti was unable to secure the necessary support from the current 10 Formula 1 teams during their effort to join the championship earlier this year.

This comes even though their participation received approval from the FIA.

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff was questioned on his seemingly altered position regarding the addition of an 11th team to Formula 1.

Wolff informed the Associated Press, stating, "As directors, we are legally bound to advocate for what is most beneficial for our company and our staff, and we have fulfilled that duty."

"I believe that a team's contribution to the championship becomes particularly noteworthy if a General Manager chooses to join as a team owner; that changes the narrative."

"As long as it's innovative, it signifies that we're increasing the sport's popularity and its earnings. Therefore, no team will ever oppose it. So, I'm placing my hopes on that."

No individual associated with Andretti, Andretti Global, or whatever they are called, has ever directly communicated to me even a single phrase detailing the creative aspect.

"However, there's no need for them to do so since the decision isn't in the teams' hands. The responsibility lies with the commercial rights holder, alongside the FIA, leaving us without a voice in the matter.

"If I'm aiming to get an invitation to a party and actually attend it, I'll take a seat at the table, introduce myself, and share why I'm a great person to have around, ensuring everyone will appreciate having me there."

"That didn't occur, however, it's important to note that this is merely my own perspective, not an expert one, since there's no action we can take or words we can offer.

"I'm not familiar with everyone involved. I've had conversations with Mario, of course, but I haven't had the chance to talk to his son or anyone else associated with the situation. Their identities are unknown to me. However, I am acquainted with GM, and I think highly of them."

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

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Max Verstappen admits Red Bull significantly lags behind in Las Vegas

Max Verstappen acknowledges that Red Bull is facing difficulties with their speed over a single lap in Las Vegas.

Max Verstappen has acknowledged that Red Bull is significantly behind in terms of speed for a single lap, following the Friday practice session at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The current world champion from Red Bull concluded the opening day of practice in 17th place, while his teammate Sergio Perez was slightly behind in 19th. They both faced a challenging day, grappling with a lack of grip throughout the two hours of practice sessions.

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Verstappen lagged behind Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton by two seconds, but uniquely among his competitors, he didn't perform any laps using the soft tyre in the qualifying simulation sessions.

"Verstappen mentioned that the track was quite slippery and they had significant challenges getting the tires to perform optimally, particularly over a single lap."

"The extended session began with a higher level of competitiveness, yet it seems we still have some adjustments to make. However, our speed over a single lap is significantly lacking."

"Certainly, the environment here is quite distinct, and the temperatures are extremely low. However, ultimately, everyone is facing the same situation, so we must figure out where we're going astray currently."

The individual from the Netherlands remarked, “It's not so much that the car's balance is off, in my opinion. The real issue is that we're lacking grip. Driving it currently feels akin to maneuvering on ice.”

Christian Horner, the team principal for Red Bull, mentioned that the performance of the tyres in cooler conditions is becoming a key factor in Las Vegas.

"Horner clarified that the key factors are the tyres and the temperatures."

"In the immediate term, we simply didn't fall within the optimal range for the tire, so it never truly functioned as intended."

"Over time, the car is performing adequately, and there are a few additional problems we need to address, which seem to be comparable to those encountered by others. However, in the short term, we struggled to get the tire to function properly."

Verstappen is on track to secure his fourth consecutive world championship this weekend, provided he crosses the finish line before Lando Norris, or if he manages to concede no more than two points to the McLaren competitor.

Lewis consistently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. Frequently providing live reports, Lewis shares the narratives of key individuals in the sport.

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MotoGP newcomer shares experience of nearly having a "heart attack" prior to initial test run

Somkiat Chantra discusses debut day with LCR Honda

Somkiat Chantra, a newcomer to the LCR Honda MotoGP team, expressed that he was extremely nervous, even joking that he "nearly had a heart attack," before participating in his initial test run on the motorcycle this past Tuesday in Barcelona.

In an unexpected move during the 2024 rider market changes, the two-time Moto2 race victor was chosen by Honda to replace Takaaki Nakagami at LCR.

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On Tuesday, Chantra participated in the post-season test in Barcelona, where he rode the bike for the first time, completing 61 laps and finishing near the bottom of the timing chart.

After completing his initial day riding the Honda, Chantra admitted that he felt quite anxious before starting his first session.

"Undoubtedly, before I hopped on the bike, I felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety, almost as if I was on the verge of a heart attack," he remarked.

"When I hopped onto the bike, I thought, 'Alright, let's figure out how the bike operates and what it's capable of.'"

Chantra aimed to familiarize himself with the Michelin tires and carbon brakes during his initial test, as he had been using Pirelli tires and steel brakes in Moto2 in 2024.

"According to him, today marked his initial experience with the MotoGP bike, as he focused on getting accustomed to the carbon brakes and familiarizing himself with the tires, which are unlike those used in MotoGP."

"My team often advises me to exercise caution on the left side since the tire tends to cool down quickly when driving straight."

"I was attempting to figure out how to handle the tire."

According to the Thai rider, he was taken aback the first time he accelerated the RC213V and then applied the brakes at the straight's end, which truly made him appreciate the speed of a MotoGP motorcycle.

"As I was on the exit lap, I attempted to apply the brakes and the gas more gently," he mentioned.

"When I got to the final corner, I attempted to push a bit harder. Once I was positioned behind the screen, everything seemed fine."

"When I applied the brakes and raised my head, everything happened quickly. With each lap, the situation improved."

In 2024, Chantra will be among the three newcomers advancing to MotoGP. He will join Moto2 world champion Ai Ogura, who will be with Trackhouse, and Fermin Aldeguer, who will compete for Gresini.

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Christian Horner has suggested that Red Bull might alter their driver roster by the 2025 F1 season.

Christian Horner has hinted at a potential shake-up in Red Bull's Formula 1 driver roster prior to the 2025 season.

Sergio Perez has secured his place for the upcoming season after agreeing to a contract extension earlier in the year, yet his prospects remain uncertain due to his ongoing struggles to match the performance of his teammate, Max Verstappen.

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Verstappen has the chance to clinch his fourth consecutive drivers' championship at the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, but Red Bull is up against a challenging battle to retain their constructors' championship title.

Perez has accumulated just 48 points in the last 15 races as Red Bull has fallen to third in the constructors' rankings, trailing McLaren, the front-runners, by 49 points with merely three races left.

Red Bull's team leader, Horner, has stood by Perez in the past but has acknowledged that the team urgently requires the Mexican driver to enhance his performance.

"Horner expressed to the official F1 channel that Sergio is their driver and they are fully committed to maximizing his potential. He acknowledged that Sergio has been facing a challenging period in terms of performance lately."

"Viewed from the perspective of the team's builders, it's critical for us to have both cars performing closely together, something that's been missing. We are certainly hopeful that Checo will deliver solid results in the upcoming three races."

"However, achieving victory in the constructors championship is impossible without it."

Red Bull may consider elevating either Yuki Tsunoda or Liam Lawson from its affiliate team, RB, as potential successors to Perez. Additionally, Franco Colapinto, who temporarily filled in at Williams, has been suggested as another replacement option.

Horner mentioned that Red Bull has the liberty to delay their final decision until the very start of the season at the Australian Grand Prix, if necessary.

"He mentioned that they have complete clarity on the contractual obligations of all the drivers they currently have agreements with."

"If desired, we have the option to delay our decision until next year's Melbourne event since our drivers are currently under contract."

"Undoubtedly, as the year draws to a close, we will gather and review all the data at our disposal."

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

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