Mercedes alerts F1 competitors that Qatar is expected to be "more advantageous" than Las Vegas

Mercedes is anticipating a successful outing at the F1 Qatar Grand Prix.

Toto Wolff is of the opinion that the upcoming race at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar will be better suited to Mercedes' 2024 F1 car, offering a more advantageous setting.

In the previous Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Mercedes secured the top two spots, with George Russell leading the pack and taking the victory after starting in the pole position.

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Mercedes' speed superiority compared to other competitors was underscored by Lewis Hamilton's comeback from starting 10th to securing a second-place finish.

The W15 has frequently shown superior performance in colder environments, achieving significant successes in Canada and Britain.

The night race in Qatar might benefit Mercedes, but given its high-speed characteristics, all teams should find heating their tyres an easy task.

Looking ahead to the upcoming weekend, Wolff remarked, "The upcoming races in Las Vegas and Qatar are poles apart. The Losail International Circuit features numerous fast-paced segments and hardly any significant braking areas. Even though this year's race is scheduled later than the previous one, the temperatures are expected to remain high."

This differs from the cooler temperatures and numerous slow-paced segments found in Las Vegas. Despite this, our goal is to perform well again this weekend. The W15 seems to be better suited to tracks that feature a lot of fast corners, like those at Silverstone or Spa.

"The cooler evening temperatures in Las Vegas played to our advantage, yet the track configuration in Qatar is expected to better suit our car's capabilities. We're aware that our rivals will come back stronger compared to their performance last weekend, however, our goal is to optimize the car's setup once more and aim to be competitive at the leading edge."

Mercedes achieved their first top two finish since the 2022 Sao Paulo Grand Prix during the race in Las Vegas.

This solidifies their fourth-place standing in the constructors' championship, marking their lowest finish since 2012 when they ended up in fifth place.

"Wolff expressed enthusiasm for the season's second-to-last race in Qatar, following the team's top two finish in Las Vegas. He praised the team's performance over the three-day event in the United States, highlighting their consistent speed and successful strategy on Saturday night."

George dominated the race right from the starting line, exhibiting exceptional driving skills and maintaining a strong lead throughout. Meanwhile, Lewis made an impressive recovery from 10th place, skillfully navigating through the competition to finish in 2nd place, ensuring the team secured the first and second positions on the podium.

"Securing a standout outcome was precisely our aim for the season's close, and it's truly earned thanks to the relentless effort and resolve demonstrated by the entire team in the latter half of the year."

Keenly attuned to the dramas and narratives of Formula 1, Connor is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Max Verstappen must "prioritize his own interests" as his future with Red Bull F1 is scrutinized.

"While he is hesitant to depart from a team that has significantly contributed to his career, it's essential he considers his own needs."

2009 Formula One world champion Jenson Button thinks Max Verstappen faces a challenging situation concerning his future at Red Bull due to the team's decline in racing performance.

Verstappen secured his fourth F1 championship in the previous race at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

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The competitor from the Netherlands clinched victory in seven out of the first ten races, securing a significant lead in the championship standings.

Since the conclusion of June, Verstappen has only secured a single win due to the revival of McLaren and Ferrari, with Mercedes occasionally making appearances at the front.

With the rules staying consistent through the winter season, the competition among the leading four teams is anticipated to be extremely close.

Verstappen emphasizes that his main focus is on driving the quickest vehicle, yet the recent instability at Red Bull could raise some alarms.

On the Sky Sports F1 podcast, Button discussed Verstappen's career prospects and the possibility of him moving away from Red Bull.

"Currently, they stand as possibly the third or fourth top team," Button remarked. "The situation is complex. Max mentioned that since the seventh or eighth race, we haven't had the top car, yet they've been unable to catch up to me in the championship standings. Perhaps he's playing a bigger role in this. Despite the challenges, they consistently manage to extract the best performance from the car every weekend.

"Regardless of not securing a victory, they are fully utilizing their resources, a strategy that seems to outpace what other teams are managing to do on any given race weekend. The team remains strong, yet their car's performance hasn't met the high standards set by the past three and a half years of competition."

"Beginning as they currently are places significant stress on drivers to optimize each race weekend. There's a chance he might seek opportunities elsewhere. Over the past few years, they have significantly enhanced his performance. It's a difficult situation for any driver. While he may be reluctant to part ways with a team that has contributed greatly to his success, he must also consider his own interests."

Verstappen has consistently asserted that he does not plan to compete in Formula 1 into his 40s.

Button believes Verstappen will keep competing, albeit not within F1.

Button articulated his belief in the existence of two distinct categories of Formula 1 drivers. He described one group as being solely dedicated to F1, to the extent that once they retire from the sport, they are likely to cease racing altogether, preferring instead to relax on a beach or pursue a different career that captures their interest. In contrast, he mentioned Max and himself as examples of those who possess a genuine passion for motor racing, indicating that their involvement in the sport goes beyond mere professional commitment.

"Max's competitive spirit isn't limited to Formula 1 alone. If he decides to leave F1, it's not because he's lost the desire to win; rather, he'll be seeking victories in other forms of racing. He's mentioned before his interest in trying out endurance races like Le Mans or Daytona, or even engaging in sim racing. Regardless of the platform, Max's pursuit of triumphs is a constant."

"The surroundings will shift. Formula 1 stands at the apex of racing, without a doubt. However, it brings a significantly higher level of stress compared to other racing categories. The spotlight is much brighter. It's uncertain. This could potentially be his final agreement in Formula 1. He plans to fulfill his current contract before possibly stepping away. The future is unclear. Yet, it's likely he'll continue his racing career, albeit in a different role."

With keen insight into F1's dramas and narratives, Connor is at the core of our impartial coverage.

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Zhou Guanyu didn't hold back on his team radio during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, following a stealthy move past Franco Colapinto.

In the final stages of the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Zhou Guanyu executed a remarkable pass against Franco Colapinto.

As expected, being in P13, the fight didn't capture the attention of the television cameras when Max Verstappen secured his fourth F1 drivers' title.

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The Sauber racer expressed exhilaration after the maneuver, exclaiming through the team radio, “See you fucking later Colapinto”.

It's uncertain if Zhou's excitement stemmed from his impressive final lap overtake or if Colapinto's remarks in the press had grabbed the Chinese driver's attention.

During a discussion hosted by his backer Quilmes, Colapinto hinted that Zhou might be considered the least skilled racer currently competing.

Colapinto stated, "It doesn't matter to me who my teammate is, be it Verstappen or Zhou, my goal is to outperform them and stay ahead."

Neither driver has secured a spot for the upcoming season.

Sauber has decided not to retain Zhou, as Mattia Binotto has chosen to go with a completely different set of drivers for the upcoming season.

Colapinto is on standby to find out if a spot becomes available at either Red Bull or VCARB, with reports suggesting Christian Horner is keen.

Zhou experienced his most successful weekend of the season in Las Vegas, surpassing his teammate Valtteri Bottas in the qualifying rounds.

Zhou competed for positions during the race but ultimately ended in 13th place.

Discussing his recent performance, Zhou remarked, "This race went well for me. It’s been some time since we've been competitive in the middle of the pack, close to the top ten, and today, it seemed we truly had an opportunity."

"I'm confident that we achieved the best possible outcome given our speed, particularly since there weren't many dramatic events unfolding in front. Nevertheless, it's reassuring to return to our previous position this weekend. It marks progress and boosts our morale: the outlook seems brighter as we move on to Qatar for the upcoming race."

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

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Jenson Button anticipates witnessing a transformed Lando Norris following his battle with Max Verstappen.

"He has probably gained a wealth of knowledge, and I am truly eager to observe a somewhat changed Lando in the upcoming season."

2009 Formula 1 champion Jenson Button anticipates witnessing a somewhat altered version of Lando Norris in 2025, following Norris' experience in a closely contested battle with Max Verstappen.

Throughout much of the season, Verstappen found his closest competitor in Norris, who, driving for McLaren, was a strong contender for his inaugural F1 world drivers' title.

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In a pivotal turn of events in Brazil, Verstappen clinched victory after starting the race in 17th position, while Norris, who began from pole position, ended up in sixth place.

Since the summer, McLaren has held a performance advantage over Red Bull, yet Norris has found it challenging to close the distance to Verstappen in the overall rankings.

In his evaluation of Norris' performance, Button spoke on the Sky Sports F1 podcast, stating, "He has demonstrated his talent and quickness. He should take pride in his accomplishments. Although the odds were narrow, he contended for a world championship in F1. It's a remarkable situation to be in.

"Much of it can be attributed to his skill, but it also highlights the team's excellence and their progression in recent years. I distinctly recall the state of McLaren in 2016, when I exited the sport, and it's quite a contrast to their current standing. I'm truly proud of the team as well."

Button believes Norris will gain significant insights from his numerous racing confrontations with Verstappen, especially during the events in the United States and Mexico.

Button commented, “Facing Max is a unique challenge, as he stands apart from anyone else on the grid. He has a clear focus on his objectives during a race, whether it's securing a win or specifically outperforming his championship adversary – which means you. He becomes singularly focused on surpassing you, oblivious to the rest of the race dynamics. This was particularly evident in instances like Austin and Mexico, where his determination was on full display.”

"When an individual is solely focused on outperforming you, it's quite challenging. He surely gained a lot of insight, and I'm genuinely looking forward to witnessing a somewhat changed Lando in the coming year."

"He is committed to thoroughly analyzing all the video material available from this season's races with Max. Next year, he's expected to return significantly improved, and I believe we'll witness a transformed Lando. It's a process of learning. You can't truly predict your response until you've faced Max."

Norris aims to assist McLaren in securing their inaugural F1 constructors' title since 1998 during the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix this weekend.

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Helmut Marko expresses doubts about the perfect unity between Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025

"Looking at the lineup, Ferrari seems poised for a stronger performance in the coming year. However, I'm interested to observe whether there will be excellent cohesion among team members."

Helmut Marko, a consultant for Red Bull's Formula 1 team, is eager to find out whether Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will work well together after they join forces at Ferrari in the 2025 season.

Hamilton is set to transition from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season, a decision that was revealed in February.

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The transition marks the conclusion of Hamilton's extended partnership with Mercedes, as he has exclusively competed in F1 with engines supplied by the German manufacturer.

In theory, Ferrari is set to boast the most formidable pair of drivers in Formula 1, yet this doesn't guarantee triumph.

In an interview with Austrian media outlet OE24, Marko stated that George Russell has been "more dominant" than Hamilton this season, and also shared his thoughts on Ferrari's choice of drivers.

"He mentioned that Russell had outperformed Hamilton this year."

"Regarding the team's lineup, Ferrari is expected to present a more formidable force in the coming season. However, it remains to be seen whether they will achieve a good level of cohesion among team members."

Throughout the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, noticeable tension arose among the present Ferrari drivers.

Following the race in Vegas, Leclerc expressed his displeasure towards Sainz through a series of strong swear words on the team's radio communication.

The source of the Monegasque's frustration was due to Sainz surpassing him following the second series of pit stops, contrary to Ferrari's instructions to avoid such a maneuver.

Anticipations were high for Ferrari to lead in Las Vegas; however, it was Mercedes that secured the top two positions.

Marko believes Mercedes must achieve greater consistency to pose a real challenge in the upcoming year.

"Marko noted that unique circumstances arose in Las Vegas due to the chilly weather."

"Let's hold off judgment until the final two races unfold, though I'm not holding my breath. With any luck, we'll manage to secure at least one more victory."

Connor is at the core of our impartial coverage, keenly observing the disputes and narratives within F1.

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Ferrari refutes claims that unsuccessful F1 mid-year enhancement will jeopardize their championship chances in 2024.

"An aspect of this industry involves not just possessing the top vehicle, but also accumulating the highest possible points tally throughout the season."

Ferrari's team leader, Frederic Vasseur, has rejected the notion that their failed update during the F1 Spanish Grand Prix will be the deciding factor in losing the constructors’ championship.

As we approach the last two rounds, Ferrari trails McLaren by only 24 points in the battle for the constructors' championship.

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Nonetheless, McLaren continues to be the top contender, thanks to their superior speed compared to Ferrari.

This weekend, the Losail International Circuit consists solely of medium and high-speed turns.

Following an impressive beginning to the season, Ferrari experienced a downturn in performance during the mid-season after introducing an upgrade in Spain that turned out to be catastrophic.

This shortened their season due to the resurgence of the porpoising issue.

Following the summer hiatus, Ferrari returned to the forefront, their performance positioning them as contenders for the championship.

In response to inquiries about whether the improvements made in Spain will be the decisive factor in their loss of the F1 championship, Vasseur stated, "This is a straightforward answer. It's always simple to look back at the end of the season and claim that without the accident in Singapore, or without this or that, we could have been champions."

"I believe this applies to McLaren as well; they've encountered some problems, just like every team in the competition. We've all let chances slip by."

A fundamental aspect of the business entails not just possessing the top-performing vehicle but also aiming to accumulate the highest possible points throughout the season.

"Indeed, Baku and Singapore didn't present our strongest performances, and we faced challenges with our outright speed in Spain, the UK, and Austria. However, the team responded positively, managing to regain our competitive speed by the time we reached Spa after three races. Nonetheless, it's clear that our performance levels during these times were not at their best."

Regarding the competition for the drivers' championship, Charles Leclerc is closely contesting with Lando Norris for the second position, trailing behind Max Verstappen.

Approaching the Qatar race, a mere 21-point gap divides the duo competing for the runner-up position in the rankings.

Connor is at the core of our impartial coverage, keenly observing the disputes and narratives within F1.

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Lewis Hamilton might experience a blend of feelings should he depart Mercedes on a high note with an additional win.

2009 Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button thinks that Lewis Hamilton might experience conflicting feelings should he secure another win in Qatar or Abu Dhabi before potentially departing from Mercedes.

Hamilton is set for his last two races with Mercedes, ahead of his transition to Ferrari the following year.

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At the age of 39, he has secured six out of his seven championships while racing for Mercedes, achieving all of his Formula 1 victories under the banner of the German automaker.

Having secured victories in two races this season, Hamilton aims to conclude his tenure with Mercedes on a triumphant note by clinching wins in either Qatar or Abu Dhabi.

In the previous race in Las Vegas, Mercedes secured the top two spots, with George Russell emerging victorious. Team principal Toto Wolff believes the upcoming race at the Losail International Circuit will be favorable for the W15.

During a recent episode of the Sky F1 podcast, Button, who shared his McLaren team with Hamilton from 2010 to 2012, discussed the potential for mixed feelings should Mercedes emerge victorious once more.

"Button expressed that there's ample justification for them to contend for victories in the final two [races], noting it would be an excellent farewell for Lewis."

"It has been over a decade since he secured his initial world championship title with Mercedes, and it would be wonderful if he could conclude with a victory."

"There's certainly a blend of feelings involved in making such a move. It's wonderful to conclude a decade-long journey with the team, but at the same time, as you depart, you find yourself questioning, 'wait a moment, did I make the correct choice?' Only time will tell."

Looking ahead to 2024, Hamilton's choice is justified when considering its impact on performance.

Mercedes finds itself isolated in the constructors' standings – significantly trailing behind Red Bull while maintaining a lead over Aston Martin.

Conversely, Ferrari is contending for the constructors' championship alongside McLaren.

Heading into the final two rounds, a mere 24 points distinguish the leading two squads.

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EXCLUSIVE: Unveiling Pedro Acosta's "supernatural" performance

Crash.net's Lewis Duncan engages in an in-depth conversation with Pedro Acosta’s chief technician, Paul Trevathan, to uncover the secrets behind the exceptional performance of MotoGP's standout newcomer…

On this Thursday, at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Paul Trevathan finds himself sipping coffee in an empty Tech3 hospitality area, just before the concluding race of the 2024 MotoGP season.

Throughout the year, attention has largely focused on the 20-year-old competitor seated beside him. However, the straightforward New Zealand crew chief has emerged as Pedro Acosta's key supporter.

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Since the announcement of his elevation to the MotoGP category with the support of KTM through the Tech3 team last year, there has been a significant amount of anticipation surrounding the 2021 Moto3 and 2023 Moto2 world champion. Some predicted he would secure victories in his first year in MotoGP, while there were those who believed he could contend for the championship.

The excitement reached its peak on November 28, 2023, as he took the RC16 out for its first spin during the Valencia test, which followed the end of the season.

"Trevathan, reflecting on the remarkable year of 2024, mentioned to Crash.net that there was significant media attention and similar matters at that time, when inquired about his first thoughts on Acosta following their initial test."

"However, what truly astonished us was his capacity for absorbing a vast amount of information quickly and efficiently applying it. Comparable to the numerous controls on a bicycle, or the buttons on a Playstation, he meticulously went through all the instructions and feedback we provided. He had an incredible ability to process and execute these in a remarkably short span of time, impressively turning theory into action almost immediately."

At that moment, we started calling him "the sponge" due to his remarkable ability. Considering his youth and limited experience, having only spent three years in the paddock before joining us, it was truly astonishing how quickly he grasped everything. His time with us wasn't extensive, yet his understanding was profound.

"The readiness to embrace fearlessness, questioning 'what is the purpose of these things, will they enhance my speed? Alright, let’s dive right in.' This aspect was notably remarkable."

'An extraordinary motorcycle experience'

Acosta's learning pace was so rapid that during the Sepang test in February, he managed to hit the lap time goal Trevathan deemed achievable after three days, all within the very first day.

Starting from the eighth position in his debut race in Qatar, Acosta managed to score in the sprint race and aggressively made his way into contention for a podium position during the grand prix. However, he dropped to ninth place by the end of the race. Despite this, the experience was seen as a valuable part of his development, and it did little to diminish the high hopes that the international community has for the Spanish racer.

Acosta climbed to the podium for the first time during the subsequent grand prix in Portugal, securing third place after Maverick Vinales' Aprilia encountered a problem towards the end and then he crashed out.

He followed it with another victory in the United States in his next appearance, then secured a second-place finish in the Jerez sprint race. At this point, his momentum appeared unstoppable.

However, while the outcomes documented were outstanding, Trevathan uncovers the aspects that genuinely set them apart.

"Trevathan, who also mentioned that he hadn't discussed performance goals with Acosta throughout the year, stated, 'These aero bikes are hardly impressive pieces of equipment.'"

Riding them is unlike riding a typical motorcycle. Observing individuals who haven't ridden them in some time, you notice the change in both effort and comprehension. The complexity of the current situation stems from factors like the aerodynamic setup, issues with the tires, and temperature management, making it an unnatural experience.

"Hence, it's necessary to understand it, and this aspect truly astonishes me about him."

"Securing a spot in the top five would have already exceeded my expectations. It was quite extraordinary for him to position himself in a way that a podium finish became achievable, considering that requires being within the first two rows."

"Accomplishing that feat currently, given the format we're working with, where you must secure that exceptional single-lap performance early in every circuit we've visited, is truly outstanding."

"Seeing the number of instances we didn't make it to Q2 underscores the magnitude of our accomplishment. In fact, this might be a greater feat than securing a few podium finishes, given that laying the groundwork for a podium position starts as early as Friday."

"He is essentially focused on deciphering what truly matters to have the bike in optimal condition before the practice session begins."

"After that, tackling the race conditions comes next. It's incredibly complex and challenging, but he's managed to handle it quite effectively."

In recent times, MotoGP has witnessed several impressive newcomers ascend through its levels. Marco Bezzecchi made waves by achieving podium finishes with VR46 in 2022, whereas Jorge Martin captured a grand prix victory during his initial year in 2021. Back in 2019, Fabio Quartararo emerged as the successor to Valentino Rossi at Yamaha and positioned himself as a strong contender to challenge Marc Marquez directly for the championship title.

Trevathan highlights that the current competitors are unique in facing the present schedule, where their weekend's outcome depends on their performance on Friday afternoon, followed by the need to qualify and then participate in two races each round.

In the span of 20 races, Acosta started from a position outside the top 10 on just three occasions. He secured a pole position during the Japanese Grand Prix, and his average starting position over the 20 races was seventh. His teammate from KTM, Brad Binder, who ended the season just two points ahead of Acosta, had an average qualifying position of 10th throughout the year.

'Challenging the laws of science'

Despite a less than stellar performance in qualifying, Acosta's knack for passing other racers in a time when it's notably difficult, allowed him to consistently make his way up from the back. This is a phenomenon that even KTM has yet to fully grasp.

"Trevathan mentions that they continue to explore the query due to his unique approach to riding. He emphasizes how the rider’s ability to carve out unconventional paths and execute them appears to almost challenge the laws of physics, yet he remains swift."

"He's executing maneuvers that seem erroneous and unlikely to be beneficial. Yet, he succeeds. I believe it's an element inherent to the KTM team, which probably explains why it's challenging for our peers to grasp. It's about his physical control, his ability to halt the motorcycle, and his adjustments.

In every scenario, he produces a solution that's completely unconventional. It's akin to managing an extraordinary basketball player who goes off-script, leaving you wondering, 'what on earth is enabling you to do that?'

"Right now, he's essentially operating solo out there. It's quite pleasant for me because I can observe it without stressing over the methodology. However, if you're competing against him and you catch a glimpse of his performance metrics, you're left wondering 'how on earth?'"

"Following that, you need to devise a solution, which is not a simple task. Data alone won't provide the solution. It merely presents an account of what occurred, essentially a recapitulation through lines."

"However, the method he used remains a significant mystery surrounding numerous aspects that we must acknowledge."

Trevathan notes that Acosta's riding technique is so proficient that the motorcycle only has to be at "90%" efficiency because he is capable of extracting the remaining "10%" through his skills. This means the team must avoid errors, and Acosta will handle the rest. However, this could potentially become a challenge for KTM's motorcycle development in the future, similar to the difficulties Honda encountered during Marc Marquez's prime years, but that concern is for another time.

"If I require your assistance, I'll reach out"

Check out this Instagram post from Pedro Acosta (@37pedroacosta)

See this Instagram share by Pedro Acosta (@37pedroacosta)

From this viewpoint, it's clear that Acosta, remarkably young as he may be, demonstrates a composure uncommon even among seasoned riders when faced with issues with his bike.

"Trevathan notes his composure in the saddle, highlighting that he has never shown excessive excitement, when discussing how he stacks up against other riders on KTM's team."

"I'm confident that during his in-laps, there's been a fair share of expletives and strong language, given his forthright personality. However, when it comes to his professional demeanor in the pit, he's exceptional. He also never places blame elsewhere."

"There's a narrative that we hardly ever modify the bike significantly, and it's accurate. However, the reality is that on numerous occasions, I've stated 'listen, buddy, I'm present'."

"He mentioned, 'sure, but I'll reach out when I need your help. Just let me try to handle it on my own first'."

"This represents the educational journey we're on as an organization, and personally for me as a mechanic, to grasp that if I make an adjustment between sessions and subsequently there's a half-second improvement, is it due to the motorcycle or my own actions?"

Ultimately, you're just neutralizing each other's efforts. Therefore, it's more effective to say, 'Alright, go ahead with your plan, and if you run into trouble, come and tell me.' We've adopted this approach, and it's working out wonderfully for us.

'Adverse Living Habits'

Trevathan describes Acosta as having the wisdom of an aged individual despite his youth, attributing this perspective to his background. Raised by a fisherman father, Acosta learned early on the importance of dedicating himself to cycling or else facing the reality of seeking traditional employment similar to his father's. It's not just his rapid pace on the track, but also his modesty that has established a fresh standard for newcomers in MotoGP.

"Trevathan has disclosed that he openly admitted the lifestyle is quite detrimental to one's health."

"The environment of the MotoGP racing world, along with the immense pressure we subject ourselves to, is genuinely detrimental. It's not a situation anyone would desire for their child or wish to be a part of for an extended period."

"He declared his intentions and goals, stating, 'This is my purpose and what I aim to accomplish, so this is the path I'm taking.' Hearing such determined words from someone who's only 20 years old is astonishing."

"For a newcomer making his debut, he's really raised the standards significantly. The performance of Augusto [Fernandez] was remarkable, truly embodying what one anticipates in the current era of acclimating to the motorcycles and the division. However, this young guy [Pedro] has truly surpassed that, reaching an entirely new height."

Those events turned out to be crucial midway through the season. After scoring podium finishes in the sprints at the Spanish, Catalan, and Italian Grands Prix, the pace began to decline starting with the Dutch GP. The situation reached a critical point during the Austrian GP, where he only managed to qualify in 14th place on KTM's own turf, ended up without any points in 10th place in the sprint, and found it challenging to secure 13th place in the grand prix.

Trevathan acknowledges that his team believed they could enhance the motorcycle's braking capabilities through electronic adjustments. However, this approach inadvertently diminished a unique skill that Acosta had mastered, contributing to his difficulties.

To realign with success, all that was required was an extended road trip from Spielberg to Misano, participation in a WP Moto2 trial, and a mutual comprehension between Acosta and Trevathan. Ultimately, this journey served to fortify Acosta's skills as a motorcyclist.

"He emphasizes that the dip in performance midway through the season wasn't solely his responsibility. "It involved our collective effort to identify areas for enhancement. The focus wasn't really on the bike's physical configuration or its geometry. Instead, we delved into the electronic settings and similar aspects, aiming to advance our approach based on what we believed was necessary. We pursued this direction in our attempts to make improvements.

Reflecting on the past, enduring that experience arguably turned out to be the most beneficial decision we made. It allowed him to confront his vulnerabilities, admitting, 'I'm at a loss here, I'm confused, I'm unable to perform as I wish to on the ride'.

"Following that, we circled back to a few topics post-Spielberg, during a period that was an absolute low point for us, marked by a particularly dreadful weekend. It was then that we chose to conduct a WP test and take the Moto2 motorcycle for a spin in Misano."

"Thus, Pedro and I made our way by car from Spielberg to Misano. During the drive, we began conversing. Additionally, my strategy engineer had plans to join us in Misano, aiming to spend a few days alongside Pedro as well."

"The timing couldn't have been better. We had a 12-hour car ride where we chatted about everything under the sun. The following day, he got to ride the Moto2 bike, having a great time, before we paused and once again delved into discussing the matter at hand."

"At that juncture, we began to identify potential missteps, particularly concerning his preferred approach. It was then, I believe, we decided to recalibrate and revert to a methodology we felt was mutually beneficial, prompting us to revisit previous strategies."

"Thus, it wasn't solely his decision to veer off course. The entire group did. It wasn't out of preference, but rather a collective mistake in our direction."

Starting at the Aragon round, Acosta returned to peak form, securing two podium finishes from a second-place start, indicating the break had been beneficial. His momentum continued through the Misano events, although errors prevented him from capitalizing on his top five speed. In the Indonesian GP, Acosta pushed Jorge Martin to the limit, finishing in second place. He was in a prime position to claim his first victory after securing pole position in Japan, but unfortunately, he didn't finish either race due to crashes. He added another podium finish under challenging wet conditions at the Thai GP, bringing his total number of podium finishes for the season to five.

Throughout the racing season, starting from the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and concluding with the Thailand sprint, Acosta experienced five instances where he did not earn any points due to crashes. These incidents, in addition to earlier errors, prevented him from finishing the season as the highest-ranked KTM rider in the overall standings. By the midpoint of the season, Acosta had amassed 110 points, narrowly leading over Binder's 108 points. However, from the British Grand Prix to the season's conclusion, Acosta managed to accumulate only 105 points, while Binder slightly outperformed him, securing 109 points.

This significantly clarifies why, when questioned at the Barcelona finale, he gave his debut season a modest score of 6 out of 10. Although this evaluation might seem strict upon a comprehensive examination, Trevathan points out that this is simply characteristic of Acosta’s nature.

"He believes the most important aspect is honesty and clarity – avoiding any deception," he points out. "Residing in the Netherlands, he appreciates the Dutch for their forthrightness and candor. Similarly, Pedro is notably frank and straightforward."

"You're straightforward, focusing on the essentials without blaming others. You present your thoughts and justifications, then proceed to reevaluate and introspect, thinking, 'I'm not really fond of what I'm observing in myself.'"

The crucial aspect is understanding that we're not trying to undermine one another. We're collectively aiming for the same objectives, and the more effectively we can communicate—being direct and transparent—the easier it becomes to navigate those situations.

2025 marks Acosta's entry into the KTM factory team

In the upcoming season, Acosta is set to join the ranks of the factory KTM team. Despite the pressure that comes with the move, the 20-year-old has shown remarkable composure throughout 2024. His readiness to compete at the same level as Binder has been evident, and all KTM needs to do is ensure their motorcycle is competitive enough for Acosta to lead them to victory.

Trevathan remains committed to staying alongside him, as Acosta has left a lasting impact on the team's lead this season, ensuring that the entire team within the number 37 KTM garage is operating at full capacity.

"Trevathan sums it up by saying Acosta is 'even more determined' now compared to how he was during his initial test a year ago."

This is evident and even more concentrated. It's an improved set of tools for gaining the necessary knowledge to truly excel in the course. That, I believe, is likely the most accurate way to put it.

"Whenever he mounts a motorcycle, he astonishes me. The passion he injects into his own performance, and into the team, inspires us all to strive for excellence."

No matter how driven or competitive you are, if your counterpart isn't equally motivated towards the same goal, your performance will be limited to what that person can achieve on the track.

"When there's a person of this caliber… I've always maintained that if a rider commits fully, I'll go beyond, giving 120%. Conversely, if a rider puts in 90%, my input drops to 60%. But encountering someone eager to give 120%, it's astonishing!"

"Thus, it evolves into a lifelong passion to assist the child, as that is the direction in which he propels you…"

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Mercedes has issued a caution to their Formula 1 competitors, suggesting that the Qatar Grand Prix will likely present more advantages for them compared to the Las Vegas race. The team is anticipating a robust performance in the upcoming event in Qatar.

Toto Wolff anticipates that the Losail International Circuit in Qatar, hosting this weekend's race, will be more advantageous for Mercedes when it comes to matching their 2024 Formula 1 car.

Mercedes achieved a 1-2 finish in the recent F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, as George Russell secured victory starting from pole position.

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The speed superiority of the Mercedes team compared to other competitors was emphasized by Lewis Hamilton's comeback, moving from a 10th place start to secure a second-place finish.

The W15 has frequently delivered its top performances in cooler climates, achieving significant successes in Canada and the United Kingdom.

As Qatar hosts another nighttime race, it may benefit Mercedes. However, given the fast-paced characteristics of the track, all teams are unlikely to face issues with getting their tires up to temperature.

As he looked forward to the upcoming weekend, Wolff remarked that the races in Las Vegas and Qatar are vastly distinct. The Losail International Circuit is characterized by numerous high-speed stretches and lacks significant braking areas. Although this year's event occurs later in the season compared to last year, the temperatures are expected to remain high.

The situation in Las Vegas is quite different, featuring cooler temperatures and numerous slow-speed segments. Despite this, our goal remains to perform well this weekend. The W15 tends to excel on tracks with numerous high-speed turns, like those found at Silverstone or Spa.

"We definitely gained an advantage from the cool temperatures at night in Las Vegas, but the track design in Qatar is expected to better suit our car's strengths. We're aware that our rivals will pose a tougher challenge than they did last weekend, but our goal remains to optimize car performance and compete at the top."

Mercedes achieved their first one-two victory since the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in 2022 with their performance in Las Vegas.

This solidifies their standing in fourth place in the constructors' championship, marking their poorest result since 2012 when they ended up in fifth place.

"We're eagerly anticipating the second-to-last race of the season in Qatar following our top two finish in Las Vegas," Wolff stated. "The team performed excellently over the three days in the U.S. We maintained strong pace throughout and delivered an impressive performance on Saturday night."

Starting from pole position, George dominated the race with excellent driving and maintained a comfortable lead. On the other hand, Lewis delivered an impressive recovery performance, starting from 10th place and skillfully maneuvering through the competitors to finish in 2nd place, ensuring the team claimed the top two podium positions.

"A standout achievement is precisely what we aimed for as the season concluded, and it is rightly earned due to the effort and dedication demonstrated by everyone during the latter part of the year."

Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives of Formula 1, is central to our objective journalism.

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Mercedes cautions their Formula 1 competitors that the Qatar Grand Prix may be more advantageous for them compared to the Las Vegas event. The team anticipates a successful performance during the F1 race in Qatar.

Toto Wolff thinks that the Losail International Circuit in Qatar, where the race is set to happen this weekend, will be better suited to Mercedes and their 2024 Formula 1 car.

Mercedes secured both the first and second positions at the recent F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. George Russell emerged victorious, having started the race from pole position.

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Lewis Hamilton's climb from a starting position of 10th to secure a second-place finish underscored the speed advantage Mercedes had over the other competitors.

The W15 has frequently achieved its top performances in cooler climates, securing significant outcomes in both Canada and Britain.

Given that Qatar hosts another race under the lights, it might benefit Mercedes. However, the fast-paced characteristics of the track are likely to ensure that tire warm-up issues won't be a concern for any team.

Looking ahead to the upcoming weekend, Wolff commented: "The races in Las Vegas and Qatar offer quite a contrast. The Losail International Circuit is characterized by numerous high-speed areas and lacks major braking zones. Even though we're visiting later in the season compared to last year, the temperatures will remain quite high."

Unlike Las Vegas, which features cooler temperatures and numerous slow-speed segments, we are still targeting a robust performance this weekend. The W15 seems to perform better on tracks with numerous high-speed turns, like those at Silverstone or Spa.

"We definitely took advantage of the chilly nights in Las Vegas, but the track design in Qatar is likely to suit our car's capabilities better. We anticipate that our rivals will put up a tougher challenge compared to last weekend, yet our goal remains to fine-tune our car and compete at the forefront."

Mercedes achieved their first one-two victory since the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in 2022 during the race in Las Vegas.

This secures their hold on fourth place in the constructors' championship, marking their lowest standing since 2012 when they ended in fifth place.

Wolff expressed anticipation for the second-to-last race of the season in Qatar, following their first and second place finish in Las Vegas. He praised the team's performance over the three days in the U.S., noting their consistent speed and successful execution during Saturday night's event.

George dominated the race from the start, showcasing excellent driving skills and maintaining a significant lead. On the other hand, Lewis delivered an impressive performance by recovering from a P10 start, skillfully moving through the pack to finish in second place, ensuring the team claimed the first and second spots on the podium.

"The standout achievement we aimed for at the season's conclusion was truly earned, thanks to the dedication and effort displayed by everyone during the latter part of the year."

With a keen awareness of the controversies and narratives in F1, Connor is central to our impartial journalism.

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Is the vintage Marc Marquez set to appear at the factory Ducati MotoGP squad?

This week's Crash MotoGP Podcast covers Marc Marquez's transition to the factory Ducati team.

In 2025, Marc Marquez will join the premier Ducati MotoGP team, partnering with two-time world champion Francesco Bagnaia.

Eight-time world champion Marquez had his first ride on the factory-spec Ducati during the post-season Barcelona test last week, finishing with the fourth fastest time, just behind his new teammate.

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Following a 2024 season competing with the Gresini satellite team using previous year's equipment, where he managed to secure three grand prix victories, Marquez is anticipated to contend for his ninth world championship in the upcoming year.

However, the Marquez who once excelled in MotoGP while riding for Honda has changed significantly as a rider following his struggles with injuries in 2020.

What strategy will Marquez adopt for his comeback to a factory team in 2024?

"Right from the start, it was evident that his objective was to return to a factory team, specifically to secure a spot with factory Ducati, even when he first mounted that bike last November," says Lewis Duncan, Senior Journalist at Crash.

"From what we observed earlier in the year regarding his approach to future plans, he exhibited a distinctly clear vision of his desired outcomes."

"I believe that the Marquez we're going to witness next year will differ from the version we saw with the factory Honda team, given that the factory Honda and factory Ducati teams are inherently distinct in many ways."

"However, we're going to witness a far more intense aspect of Marquez, since despite his comments on approaching it gradually, the anticipation will be for him to contend for the championship."

"If he manages to replicate his performance from the GP23, which by the end of the race in Barcelona seemed quite outdated, on the latest factory model that appears to have significantly advanced, especially based on Pecco Bagnaia's comments.

"I believe we'll see a more earnest version of Marc, yet one who adopts a more thoughtful strategy towards racing. He has mentioned in the past that during his winning streak before the injury, he didn't fully appreciate his victories."

"After experiencing what he has, each victory holds greater significance, and this feeling is expected to intensify with the transition to the new facility, where every major achievement will be celebrated as a significant occasion."

"I believe that maintaining that aspect and continuing to find joy in racing will only lift him higher."

Jordan Moreland, the Social Media Manager for Crash and podcast presenter, shares: “The collective ambiance of his passion for racing, coupled with the supportive nature of those in his circle, convinces me that he has what it takes to succeed at Ducati.

"The focus is also shifting towards the opposite end of the garage, where Bagnaia's loyalty lies with his team. For the past several years, Ducati has been his home, making it a unique situation to assess. In comparison, when Marquez joined Repsol Honda, he was the newcomer alongside Dani Pedrosa, yet it was Casey Stoner who seemed to dominate, frequently outperforming Pedrosa."

"Now that he's aged, it's somewhat altered; his feelings are more visible, and he can truly express his state of mind."

"Marquez, known for his reserved demeanor, never revealed much. How effective is this strategy when joining Bagnaia's team?"

"Although it was only observed during a day of testing, he might need to engage in the game a bit more and bide his time before establishing his dominance."

Peter McLaren, the MotoGP Editor for Crash, draws parallels between the current phase of Marquez's career and the final years of Valentino Rossi's tenure in MotoGP.

Reflecting on it, it's quite fascinating to realize just how many years Marc has spent competing in MotoGP.

"Times evolve, and so do riders. Marc has reached 31 years of age, making him a seasoned professional."

"He has transformed from the highly dynamic, swift competitor he was in his initial years, similar to the progression Valentino Rossi experienced.

"He sustained a severe injury, but frankly, if you're going to compete in MotoGP for an extended period, injuries are bound to happen at some point."

"Thus, it was inevitable from the start. This transformation signifies a shift from velocity to experience."

"Rossi's example shows that competing for championships remains possible, as evidenced by his near win in 2015. Similarly, Marc is at a point in his career where, as observed this season, he's focusing more on consistently finishing races rather than pushing to the limit."

"He experienced numerous mishaps, yet these occurred during training sessions, and he was significantly superior to his peers riding the same motorcycle."

"It appears we're witnessing the growth and development of Marc as a motorcycle racer."

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Max Verstappen needs to prioritize his own interests while considering his future with Red Bull in Formula 1. Although he is reluctant to part ways with a team that has contributed significantly to his success, he must focus on his personal goals.

Former F1 world champion from 2009, Jenson Button, thinks that Max Verstappen faces a "challenging" situation concerning his future with Red Bull, considering the team's recent decline in performance on the track.

During the recent Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen secured his fourth F1 championship title.

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The driver from the Netherlands secured victory in seven out of the first ten races, establishing a strong lead in the championship standings.

Since late June, Verstappen has managed to secure only one win, as McLaren and Ferrari have made a strong comeback, and Mercedes has rarely been at the forefront.

As the rules have not changed during the winter, there is an anticipation of a very close competition among the leading four teams.

Max Verstappen has emphasized that driving the quickest car is his main focus, yet Red Bull's recent struggles could be a reason to worry.

During an appearance on the Sky Sports F1 podcast, Button discussed the possibilities surrounding Verstappen's future and the likelihood of him possibly departing from Red Bull.

"They're likely the third or fourth strongest team right now," remarked Button. "It's a challenging situation. Max mentioned that we haven't had the top-performing car since around the seventh or eighth race, yet they haven't caught up to me in the championship standings. Perhaps he's contributing more significantly. They continue to extract the full potential from the car each weekend."

"Although they might not always come out on top, they're making the most of their resources, unlike some of the other teams who don't seem to do that consistently every weekend. The team remains impressive overall, but their car's performance isn't at the level we've become accustomed to over the past three and a half years."

"If they begin the season as they are currently performing, it increases the pressure on drivers to excel each weekend. Perhaps he will consider other opportunities. The team has provided him with significant performance advantages in recent years. It's always a difficult decision for a driver. He is reluctant to depart from a team that has offered him so much, but he must also consider his own future."

Verstappen has consistently expressed that he does not intend to continue racing in Formula 1 once he reaches his 40s.

Button believes that Verstappen will keep competing, although it may be in a different racing series than Formula 1.

"There are essentially two categories of Formula 1 drivers," Button clarified. "One group consists of those who are solely focused on being F1 drivers. For them, nothing else is important. Once they leave the sport, they won't continue racing. Instead, they'll either relax on a beach or pursue a different career that catches their interest. On the other hand, for people like Max and myself, our passion for motor racing goes beyond F1."

"It's not only Formula 1 that Max is focused on. When he decides to leave F1, it won't mean he's done with winning. Instead, he might pursue other racing opportunities, like participating in endurance events such as Le Mans or Daytona. Alternatively, he might delve into sim racing. Regardless of the path he chooses, his competitive drive to secure victories will remain unchanged."

"The surroundings will be different. Formula 1 is truly the top tier of racing. However, it comes with significantly more pressure and scrutiny compared to other racing categories. It's uncertain what the future holds. This might be his final contract in Formula 1. He could fulfill this contract and then retire from F1. It's anyone's guess. He will likely continue racing for many years, perhaps in a different role."

Connor, known for his keen insight into the controversies and narratives within Formula 1, serves as the core of our impartial journalism.

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