
McLaren’s Bittersweet F1 Season: Triumph, Trials, and the Quest for Redemption
McLaren Criticized for Missing Opportunities in Unsuccessful F1 Championship Effort
"McLaren is still somewhat in the process of getting their bearings"
An ex-mechanic has pointed out the blunders made by McLaren that affected Lando Norris negatively last season.
Norris was unable to surpass Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in the race for the F1 drivers’ title in 2024.
He was propelled to victory in the swiftest vehicle in Formula 1, with McLaren remarkably surpassing Red Bull in the competition for innovation to clinch the constructors' award.
Marc Priestley, an ex-mechanic for McLaren, maintains that the unsuccessful effort to unseat Verstappen should be seen as a crucial phase towards securing their first drivers' championship since 1998.
"Speaking from my own journey, it's not always an instinctive process," Priestley shared on the Fuelling Around podcast, discussing McLaren's progress.
Observers from the outside see the achievements of Max and Red Bull, similar to what Mercedes accomplished previously.
One might wonder, "Now that McLaren has an impressive vehicle, why can't they consistently perform at the same level?"
"However, you must work your way towards it."
Red Bull and Max possess a recent track record characterized by immense confidence and trust in their abilities. Their capability to make swift and intuitive choices during races, especially regarding strategy on the pit wall, is usually accurate.
"McLaren is currently in the process of rediscovering their winning formula."
"It might sound odd, but it's accurate – developing the assurance needed to quickly make decisions is essential."
Reflecting on this season, there have been several instances where, upon introspection, McClaren might acknowledge they've missed opportunities to secure more points due to moments of hesitation in decision-making.
McLaren's strategy of not designating a primary driver was questioned last season due to mistakes that impacted Lando Norris.
The decision to give Norris and his team member, Oscar Piastri, equal treatment faced backlash once it was evident that their veteran driver had a chance at winning the F1 championship.
The team's internally established Papaya Guidelines outlined the expected conduct between Grand Prix victors Norris and Piastri when competing with one another.
In the second part of the season, the strategy was adjusted to focus on boosting Norris' chances of outperforming Verstappen.
However, their tactics were closely scrutinized, as errors were committed in various stages.
Remarkably at Silverstone, Norris was in the lead until the last pit stops when Lewis Hamilton managed to overtake him with a strategic undercut, securing the victory.
Following a 1-2 result in the sprint race in Brazil, Norris, who started from pole position, ended up in sixth place after Verstappen passed him during a pit stop, amidst criticism of McLaren's team communication.
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Haas Sets Ground Rules to Prevent On-Track Drama with New 2025 F1 Line-Up of Ocon and Bearman

How Haas Intends to Prevent Tensions with Updated 2025 F1 Team
Haas is set to implement 'rules of engagement' for its new Formula 1 drivers, Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman.
Haas plans to clarify the "rules of engagement" for their drivers, Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman, ahead of the start of the 2025 F1 season.
The American team is entering the new season with an entirely new set of drivers after Nico Hulkenberg left for Sauber and Kevin Magnussen stepped away from Formula 1.
Esteban Ocon has transitioned from competing with Alpine, a team in the midfield, and as a newcomer to Formula 1, while Ferrari's junior driver, Oliver Bearman, has secured a permanent position, finalizing Haas's revamped driver roster for the 2025 season.
The principal of the Haas team, Ayao Komatsu, plans to establish clear guidelines before the season starts. This move aims to reduce the chances of any on-track conflicts between teammates.
The roster is thrilling, and there is a possibility of conflicts, as Ocon is known for being aggressive with his teammates, while Bearman will be eager to make a strong impression during his debut F1 season.
"It is essential to have a crystal clear understanding of the engagement rules right from the start," Komatsu emphasized.
"Before the first race, everything will be made clear. I don't anticipate any collisions between teammates or any resulting DNFs because of this."
"You must compete aggressively. Consider last year as an example—Kevin is known for racing intensely, and the nearest we got to a problem, which ultimately didn't turn into one, was in Austria with Kevin and Nico."
"One reason is that our timing for pitstops wasn't executed perfectly, which didn't work in our favor."
"As a group, we should avoid causing such problems. Additionally, with mutual understanding among us as colleagues, the guidelines for working together would be completely transparent."
Haas has previously dealt with conflicts between teammates, notably when Kevin Magnussen and Romain Grosjean had disagreements during their time with the team. In 2021, tensions also arose between Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin.
However, Komatsu believes that Haas can steer clear of any disputes involving Ocon and Bearman.
He stated, "If I'm forced to refer to the pairing of Nikita and Mick as an example, then I'm essentially in a difficult situation."
Analyzing our performance from the previous year, we examine ways to enhance the team, recognizing our strengths and areas for improvement from last year. Applying these insights to the current year reveals an entirely new phase characterized by different dynamics and drivers.
"Frankly speaking, Esteban and Ollie are both exceptional drivers. They still have much to demonstrate. I believe we have an excellent pairing, and I'm eager to see how it unfolds."
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From Dream Debut to Dismissal: Nyck De Vries Reflects on F1 Rollercoaster and Sudden Exit

"Nowhere to Run" – Former F1 Driver Discusses Harsh Dismissal
Ex-Formula 1 racer Nyck De Vries shares his experience of being abruptly let go after only competing in 10 races.
Nyck De Vries has spoken candidly about his short time in Formula 1 before being abruptly removed from the team.
After making an impressive last-minute debut for Williams at the 2022 Italian Grand Prix, where he scored points due to Alex Albon being sidelined with appendicitis, De Vries secured a full-time position with AlphaTauri, Red Bull's associated team, for the 2023 season after Pierre Gasly chose to move to Alpine.
The Dutch driver faced challenges at the beginning of his time with AlphaTauri and was eventually replaced by Daniel Ricciardo, who serves as a reserve driver for Red Bull, after only 10 races in the season.
During an interview on the Cool Room podcast, De Vries admitted, "I suppose I didn't manage to get up to speed as quickly as needed. There were certain moments where things could have easily turned in my favor, but unfortunately, they didn't."
In the end, my superiors concluded that my performance didn't meet their expectations during my tenure, leading them to choose a replacement. This period was difficult, as there was significant public discussion about the situation, yet I was largely kept out of the loop. There wasn't much direct communication with me about the matter.
"You gather all the information from the media. On F1 weekends, there is a lot of interaction with journalists, so nearly every weekend starting from my second one, I found myself having to address inquiries about my future. It seemed a bit strange, but that's just the way it is sometimes."
De Vries, who won the Formula 2 championship in 2019, confessed that he found it challenging to handle the pressure due to constant media attention.
He described how teams face not only external pressure from the media but also pressure from within. Each team manages these pressures in its own way, but when both are present, it essentially doubles the challenge.
No matter where you go, it seems like the media is constantly observing you. Although I wouldn’t call it an attack, it's undeniable that they discuss and report on it non-stop. As you navigate through the paddock and interact within that environment, it becomes evident that everyone is aware of the situation, and there's no escaping it.
"Although you might want to, there's no escaping the situation. My approach was to avoid it by not engaging with any news – I simply stopped reading altogether. Yet, you're still aware it's happening."
The Formula E champion, aged 30, expressed feeling "hurt" yet also "somewhat relieved" after leaving Formula 1.
He expressed that missing out on a long-held dream so swiftly and unexpectedly was quite painful. Despite feeling hurt, he also experienced a slight sense of relief.
Helmut Marko referred to De Vries as the most significant error he made during his time as Red Bull's motorsport advisor.
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Revving Up for the Final Showdown: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025 MotoGP Buriram Test

2025 MotoGP Buriram Test: Tracking Guide
Details on the schedule, timings, and ways to keep up with the MotoGP's two-day testing event in Buriram.
Here's your guide to keeping up with the MotoGP Buriram test on February 12th and 13th, 2025. Below, you'll find the schedule for when the testing begins.
The last chance for MotoGP teams and riders to fine-tune their bikes before the season's opening race has arrived.
Ducati faces a significant challenge in deciding whether to enter the season with their 2025 or 2024 engine model.
Yamaha, on the other hand, surprisingly grabbed attention in Sepang and might solidify their emerging status as underdogs.
Jorge Martin from Aprilia and Fabio di Giannantonio of VR46 will miss the test due to injuries.
The inaugural race of the season, known as the Thailand MotoGP, is scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 2.
GUIDE ON KEEPING UP WITH THE 2025 MOTOGP BURIRAM TRIAL FROM ANY LOCATION
Unfortunately, a live stream for viewing each lap of the MotoGP 2025 Buriram trial is not available.
The last half-hour will be available on MotoGP Video Pass.
Stay updated with Crash.net for real-time race data, along with the latest updates from the circuit. We'll deliver insights directly from the competitors and essential technology news.
Keep an eye out for amazing pictures on Crash.net's MotoGP X and on Instagram at CrashMotoGP.
MotoGP.com plans to stream 'After The Flag' daily, providing summaries of the track events.
Starting times for the 2025 MotoGP Buriram trials
Wednesday, February 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, which corresponds to 3 a.m. to
On Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, which corresponds to 3 a.m. to
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Valtteri Bottas Embraces Mentor Role for Kimi Antonelli Amid Hopes for 2026 F1 Comeback

Valtteri Bottas discusses his position as a "mentor" to Kimi Antonelli following his comeback to Mercedes. Bottas stated, "My responsibility is to assist the team in any way possible. Since Kimi is new, he will likely seek guidance more frequently than George."
Valtteri Bottas has promised to support Andrea Kimi Antonelli throughout his first season in Formula 1, following Bottas' comeback to Mercedes in the role of reserve driver.
Following being passed over by Sauber for this season, Bottas went back to Mercedes to take on the role of reserve and test driver.
The Finnish driver will take over for Antonelli or George Russell if either of them is unable to compete in a Formula 1 race weekend this season.
Bottas is eager to make a strong impression as he aims for a return to the racing grid in 2026, possibly with Cadillac.
At the beginning of this year, Mercedes leader Toto Wolff outlined his strategy for Bottas to "guide" Antonelli during his first year.
At just 18 years old, Antonelli is the F1 grid's youngest competitor, having only a modest amount of experience in single-seater racing.
During the event marking the beginning of Mercedes' collaboration with Adidas, Bottas discussed his responsibilities with the team for the year 2025.
Bottas mentioned to Sky Sports that he believes the term "mentor" is quite fitting. He explained that when someone is new to the sport, there are numerous unfamiliar aspects they need to understand.
"I am certainly able to assist with that. My role is to support the team in any way I can. Since Kimi is new, he might have more inquiries compared to George."
The team will benefit from additional assistance throughout the race weekend, focusing on analyzing data, examining driving trajectories, and similar tasks.
"I plan to participate in all the technical meetings and contribute significantly in the simulator. It’s going to be a hectic year, but I’m excited about this new experience."
Is Bottas set to make a comeback to Formula 1 in 2026?
Bottas is optimistic about his chances of rejoining the grid in 2026.
The Finnish driver engaged in discussions with Sauber, Williams, and Haas, yet was unsuccessful in obtaining a position with any of those teams.
Williams made the decision to go with Carlos Sainz, whereas Haas chose a younger alternative by selecting Esteban Ocon.
The Sauber team opted to have a newcomer join Nico Hulkenberg, bringing F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto on board.
As an 11th team is expected to enter the racing circuit in 2026, Bottas may see an opportunity to make a comeback with Cadillac.
Nonetheless, the driver who has claimed victory in 10 F1 grand prix races will encounter tough rivalry in his quest to obtain a position with the U.S.-based team.
It is probable that an American driver will occupy one of the seats.
Sergio Perez, Zhou Guanyu, and Kevin Magnussen are all available as free agents.
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Ecclestone Doubts Hamilton’s Ferrari Future: Predicts Challenges and Rivalries in New Chapter

Bernie Ecclestone Foresees Lewis Hamilton's Struggle at Ferrari
Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has expressed significant skepticism regarding Lewis Hamilton's transition to Ferrari.
Ex-F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has forecasted that Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari will be short-lived after his high-profile move from Mercedes.
In a move that captivated global audiences, seven-time world champion Hamilton revealed his decision to join Ferrari in 2025, marking the end of his remarkable 12-year journey with the Silver Arrows last February.
Hamilton recently finalized his sensational transfer and has been intensifying his preparations for his inaugural season with Ferrari, conducting tests with their 2023 and 2024 vehicles in the past few weeks.
The British individual, aged 40, has signed a contract with Ferrari that spans several years, reportedly encompassing the 2025 and 2026 seasons at a minimum.
In his most recent criticism of Formula 1's top achiever, Ecclestone predicts that Hamilton's stint with Ferrari is destined to be unsuccessful.
"Ecclestone expressed to The Telegraph his belief that he won't remain for much longer."
"Piero Ferrari, the one responsible for bringing him there, remains convinced that their decision was the correct one. I wish for their sake that it is."
"I hope their decision to dive in doesn't lead to regret."
Ecclestone's disapproval seems to be based on his assertion that Hamilton no longer possesses the drive to secure more F1 championships.
"Ecclestone shared his viewpoint, stating, 'In my opinion, it's not necessarily about the driver's age, but rather the duration they've been performing the same task.'"
I share Lewis's opinion that he is becoming weary and has experienced a decline in motivation.
"Had he not secured a world championship title, the circumstances might vary, as there would be a motivation to claim one. However, he has achieved this feat seven times."
The former Formula 1 boss believes that Hamilton might end up creating "enemies" at Ferrari because of how beloved his teammate Charles Leclerc is among the team.
"Ecclestone mentioned that the team is pleased with Charles Leclerc and his partnership. Leclerc communicates in the same language as them, which means they will take good care of him," Ecclestone stated.
"Regardless of Lewis's success, he will continue to face numerous adversaries due to his abrupt arrival."
Ecclestone aligns with Alpine consultant Flavio Briatore, former Ferrari leader Mattia Binotto, and ex-F1 team manager Eddie Jordan in questioning Hamilton's decision to switch to Ferrari.
Their remarks come after a lackluster 2024, which was Hamilton's last season with Mercedes, during which he was significantly bested by his erstwhile teammate George Russell.
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Alain Prost Slams ‘Senna’ Series: ‘A Lack of Sensitivity’ in Portrayal of F1 Rivalry

Alain Prost has expressed his disapproval of a Netflix mini-series focused on Ayrton Senna's life and tragic passing. The former racing driver has openly criticized the creators of the show, stating, "I don't accept it."
Alain Prost has criticized the biographical mini-series that focuses on F1 icon Ayrton Senna.
The series, comprised of six episodes and titled "Senna," is a biographical sports drama focusing on the life of a three-time world champion who secured the world titles in 1988, 1990, and 1991 while racing for McLaren.
In a heartbreaking incident, Senna lost his life during a race for Williams following a crash at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.
Prost and Senna had an intense competition that became legendary in the history of Formula 1 as one of the most remarkable rivalries.
After Prost retired, the two put aside their intense competition on the track and developed a friendship.
Alain Prost, a four-time world champion who is now 69 years old, has expressed disapproval of the creators of the Netflix series. The series has received varied feedback from audiences since it debuted last November.
"I believe Ayrton would be displeased, particularly as it demonstrates insensitivity," Prost mentioned to RMC Motori.
"It's a fantastic tale, and it’s important not to fabricate details without basis."
"If there's a need to engage in something for profit, using Senna's name isn't appropriate. I'm not fond of it and I won't approve it."
The film about Senna was created with the involvement of his family. In 2020, Ayrton's sister, Viviane, expressed that it was particularly meaningful to reveal the lesser-known aspects of his life story.
The Senna family is dedicated to ensuring this project is entirely distinctive and unlike anything seen before.
Prost expressed criticism towards the 2010 documentary film about Senna, which was widely praised by both fans and critics.
Prost expressed his dissatisfaction with the movie, saying, "I am unhappy with how the film turned out. There was an opportunity to craft an incredible narrative, given the events that occurred during our racing days and what followed after I retired."
The movie alleges that his final message, "I miss you Alain," wasn't genuine. In my opinion, the movie itself was not authentic.
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FIA President Clarifies Johnny Herbert’s Steward Dismissal Amid Conflict of Interest Concerns

Mohammed Ben Sulayem voices his opinion on Johnny Herbert being dismissed for "conflict of interest"
"What happens when the driver you favor is trailing behind another in first or second position? How then do you decide?"
FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem has explained why Johnny Herbert was removed from his position as an F1 steward, pointing to a "conflict of interest" as the main reason.
In late January, the FIA declared that Herbert would not serve as an F1 steward for the forthcoming 2025 season.
The FIA pointed to Herbert's role in the media, stating that his dual roles as a pundit and a steward were conflicting.
Since exiting Sky Sports at the close of 2022, the ex-British F1 racer, Herbert, has frequently voiced his opinions to online news platforms.
Herbert openly criticized Max Verstappen's assertive driving style last year, especially during the race in Mexico.
Herbert criticized Verstappen for using "bullying" strategies, a stance that did not sit well with Jos Verstappen.
In a conversation with Marca, Ben Sulayem shared his thoughts on Herbert being dismissed.
"He acknowledged that Johnny had been an excellent commissioner, however, a conflict of interest arose, making things complicated," he stated.
Working as a journalist within a large organization doesn't allow you the freedom to share your personal opinions and then assume the role of an impartial adjudicator. You might think, 'Ideally, I'd like this particular outcome to occur.'
"What happens if the driver you favor is behind another driver in the first or second position? How do you decide then? He got the point and expressed his gratitude to the FIA, and in return, we showed our appreciation for his actions."
Ben Sulayem hints at fresh faces
After Herbert was let go, Ben Sulayem has indicated that going forward, there will be new officials joining the team.
The FIA utilizes a rotating group of officials who serve at various times throughout the year.
Former Formula 1 drivers, including Vitantonio Liuzzi and Derek Warwick, are brought in to share their insights throughout race weekends.
"Ben Sulayem emphasized that limitations should not hold us back, revealing that fresh perspectives will be introduced in the meeting with the stewards tomorrow."
"This will introduce a fresh range that will support the motorsport industry's longevity."
The president of the FIA has verified that there will be a number of different race directors over the course of
The name of the alternate race director remains undisclosed, as Rui Marques steps into the position for the last three races of 2024, succeeding Niels Wittich's unexpected departure.
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Raul Fernandez Defies Odds: Returns to Buriram Test After Major Crash and Surgery

Raul Fernandez described the incident as one of the most significant accidents he has ever experienced, expressing his relief by stating, "I was fortunate."
Raul Fernandez plans to participate in the MotoGP test in Buriram tomorrow, despite having suffered fractures to his left hand and foot only a week ago during the first day of testing in Sepang.
The Trackhouse Aprilia racer quickly went back to Barcelona to undergo surgery on a fractured metacarpal bone, then promptly traveled to Asia to participate in the last pre-season testing session.
During a press conference in Buriram on Tuesday, Fernandez expressed his gratitude, saying, "I feel fortunate to be present." He recounted his swift return to Spain following the accident and praised Dr. Xavier Mir for his prompt assistance. Upon Fernandez's arrival in Barcelona, Dr. Mir had already prepared everything for the necessary surgery, which Fernandez credits as the reason he is able to be here today. Dr. Mir's support was invaluable to him.
"The accident occurred only a week ago, necessitating swift action. I had to make a trip to Europe for surgery and then return. It was challenging, but we've managed to get through it."
Titleholder Jorge Martin, who recently joined Aprilia, suffered an injury on the first day at Sepang. As a result, he will be sidelined until the inaugural race weekend. Meanwhile, Fernandez and Aprilia must work to compensate for the time missed on the RS-GP25.
Fernandez expressed the significance of the test, stating that it holds great importance for himself, the team, and Aprilia.
"I require additional details since my initial experience with the bike was quite positive. I am pleased with the efforts Aprilia put in over the winter. However, having completed only 25-30 laps, we lack sufficient data to establish a foundational setup."
"That's why I'm present. I won't be concerned with the lap time or anything else; my sole focus will be on myself, understanding the bike, enhancing it, and getting ready for a good race."
Fernandez was reluctant to discuss his unusual crash at Turn 9, where he lost control just after applying the brakes.
"I’m not able to share many details about what occurred. I’d rather not dwell on the accident," he expressed. "It was among the most severe accidents I’ve experienced, and I can only say that I was fortunate."
"I was riding the bike, and moments later, I found myself lying on the ground. That's all I recall."
It is uncertain how many laps he will be able to finish during the test due to his injuries. Fernandez mentioned that his foot, which didn't need surgery, is causing him more discomfort than his hand.
"The hand is in relatively decent condition, but the foot is causing issues," he mentioned. "Additionally, I am experiencing significant pain in the leg muscles and in my back."
"I was upright and went down instantly. There was no leaning involved, so the crash was quite severe."
With Martin and Fernandez unable to participate, Marco Bezzecchi, who recently joined the factory team, emerged as the quickest Aprilia competitor at Sepang, securing ninth place.
The testing event in Buriram is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.
Statements sourced from Crash.net's correspondent Derry Munikartono, reporting from Buriram.
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Ferrari’s Dual Development Drive: Splitting Focus for 2025 and 2026 F1 Seasons

Unveiled: Ferrari's Strategy to Divide F1 Development Efforts for 2025 and 2026
Ferrari plans to tackle their Formula 1 development strategy from two different angles, according to the latest plan revealed.
Information has surfaced regarding Ferrari's strategy for distributing their development efforts across the 2025 and 2026 Formula 1 campaigns.
According to the Italian magazine AutoRacer, Ferrari is dividing their attention between preparing for the 2025 season and gearing up for Formula 1's major rule changes set to take effect in 2026.
AutoRacer has announced that Loic Serra, the newly appointed technical director for Ferrari, has developed a meticulous strategy for allocating resources across the team.
This strategy entails choosing a team of engineers dedicated solely to working on Ferrari's project for 2026.
The remainder of Ferrari's technical team will dedicate their efforts towards developing the SF-25 for the 2025 season, engaging in wind tunnel experiments for the initial four months of the year. According to AutoRacer, the main focus in Maranello continues to be on the advancements for 2025.
AutoRacer's coverage expands, indicating that Ferrari plans to allocate approximately 600 out of their 900 wind tunnel hours specifically to the SF-25.
Following the initial months of 2025, Ferrari is anticipated to completely direct its attention towards 2026.
As a result of securing second place in the 2024 constructors' championship, Ferrari has been allocated an additional 60 hours of wind tunnel testing compared to the champions McLaren, but 60 hours fewer than Red Bull.
According to Ferrari's announced strategy, the vision shared by team leader Fred Vasseur indicates that the 2025 vehicle will have "less than one percent" of its components in common with the earlier SF-24 model.
"Vasseur shared with the press during Ferrari's yearly December luncheon before Christmas, 'We'll discover if it's going to be competitive when we're in Bahrain.'"
"Occasionally, it's only after the fact that you recognize you've been engaging in risky behavior."
"The vehicle is going to be entirely redesigned; I believe that fewer than 1% of the components will be shared with the 2024 model."
"The project may vary, yet the same rules apply to all involved."
Vasseur remarked, "It's too soon to determine if 2025 will be our breakthrough year, but I have confidence in the project underway."
"The upcoming task will remain a formidable hurdle, similar to the recent one we finished."
"I am extremely pleased with how we faced challenges this year, however, we need to progress further in achieving stability."
Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc are anticipated to pilot the SF-25 for their initial run at Fiorano on February 19.
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Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. Typically delivering reports directly from the event locations, he shares the narratives of key figures within the sport.
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Brad Pitt Takes the Wheel in Electrifying ‘F1’ Teaser Trailer Unveiled on Super Bowl Sunday

F1 unveils fresh preview clip for Brad Pitt movie on Super Bowl Sunday
A fresh preview for 'F1' has been released.
F1 has unveiled a sneak peek trailer for their eagerly awaited movie featuring renowned Hollywood star Brad Pitt.
The film, produced and directed by the team behind Top Gun: Maverick, Jerry Bruckheimer and Joseph Kosinski, is anticipated to be a summer blockbuster when it premieres worldwide in theaters in June 2025.
On Super Bowl Sunday, a fresh teaser trailer for 'F1,' produced with the assistance of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, was unveiled.
The brief video snippet offers a glimpse into numerous thrilling, fast-paced scenes featuring Pitt's role as Sonny Hayes, and also showcases his fellow actors Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, and Kerry Condon.
The trailer doesn't include any spoken lines, however, the voice of F1 commentator David Croft is audible at one point, remarking “Hayes attacks round the outside” near the trailer's conclusion.
Check out the preview video below.
Understanding 'F1'
The movie includes special appearances by actual F1 racers and entails shooting at multiple Grand Prix events throughout 2023 and 2024.
The story revolves around Hayes, a veteran race car driver whose early Formula 1 aspirations were derailed by a devastating accident. He's called back into action by a past teammate, now a team owner (Bardem), to assist his struggling APXGP team alongside a novice teammate (Idris).
"In a 2023 discussion with Martin Brundle, Pitt described his role as a man who was a racer in the '90s," Pitt said. "He experiences a terrible accident, fades away from the scene, and later finds himself competing in different racing categories."
In a conversation with Brundle during last year's British Grand Prix, Pitt expressed, "I must admit, I'm feeling quite excited at the moment."
"This is the greatest period in my life… The atmosphere is incredible, and having the opportunity to be involved in this manner, as well as share our narrative, is truly special."
"Every team has welcomed us with open arms."
The initial preview clip debuted over the weekend of the 2024 British Grand Prix.
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Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. He provides on-the-spot reporting, sharing the narratives of key individuals in the sport.
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Aprilia Faces Setbacks as Jorge Martin Misses Crucial Buriram Test Following Sepang Crash

Jorge Martin's absence from the Buriram test impacts all at Aprilia
The current world champion will not return for the testing in Thailand.
Marco Bezzecchi has expressed that Jorge Martin's absence from the Thailand MotoGP pre-season test has an impact on the entire Aprilia team.
The current MotoGP world champion endured several fractures after a severe accident on the first day of last week’s test in Sepang. This incident occurred during only his second day riding the Aprilia.
He was brought to a hospital for examinations prior to traveling back to Spain for an operation scheduled on Friday, resulting in Martin's absence from this week's test in Buriram.
This implies that Martin will participate in his first race with Aprilia after having ridden only 90 laps on the RS-GP since November of last year.
The accident has led to tensions between Aprilia and Michelin. Michelin maintains that their data indicates the tire used by Martin had no problems, as claimed. However, the team still disputes this assertion.
As he prepares for the upcoming two-day testing session in Buriram this week, Bezzecchi acknowledges that Martin's absence poses a challenge, although it's beyond his control.
The Italian remarked, "I need to make another attempt with the electronics aspect."
"We need to make improvements in various areas, including adjusting my riding technique to better suit the motorcycle."
"Without a doubt, Jorge's absence impacts the entire team, including myself. However, this is the situation we're in, so I need to focus on my responsibilities and refrain from complaining."
Bezzecchi mentioned, "There are still a few things we haven't tested in Sepang yet. It was part of our agenda."
"Thankfully, in Sepang, we managed to stick to the plan, leaving a few things reserved for this location, particularly for tomorrow."
"Naturally, we will need to spend some time getting ready for the race weekend."
"Tomorrow holds significance as it's our initial opportunity to test everything we need to, followed by concentrating on the adjustments and the riding technique."
Bezzecchi is set to kick off the season in Thailand after spending six days on the RS-GP bike since November.
Although he wishes for "a few extra days," he acknowledges that excessive testing isn't always beneficial because it might lead to "problems" when trying to determine the best path for development.
When questioned about whether five days of testing during the 2025 pre-season would suffice to familiarize himself with a new motorcycle, he replied, "It must be sufficient because that's all the time I have: three days in Sepang and two days here, making it five in total."
"This is what I have to work with, so naturally, I need to be at my peak performance for the opening race. I wish I had a few more days, but that's not an option."
"Testing is crucial, but overdoing it can often lead to complications."
"When you reach the final stage and locate a foundation, ensuring that you have tested all necessary components, it becomes sufficient."
"In that case, participating in the races is preferable. Ideally, I would enjoy having three days in Sepang followed by another three days here. That would be ideal for me. However, since it’s set as three days in one location and two days in the other, it’s still fine."
Savadori describes his role assisting Martin
Aprilia is set to bring in their test rider, Lorenzo Savadori, to step in for Martin. The Italian rider has explained how he will support the reigning world champion during the event in Thailand.
He mentioned that his goal is to support Jorge by collaborating with the team to establish a solid foundation for him before he arrives for the race.
"I am still working on improving the bike. We have some new components to evaluate, including aerodynamic features and electronic elements."
"Our aim is to establish a strong foundation for Jorge to begin his work."
Savadori mentioned that his role doesn't focus on set-up aspects but will instead address significant elements that are crucial and beneficial for Jorge as well.
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George Russell Braces for Rookie Challenge as Mercedes Welcomes Kimi Antonelli in 2025 Season

George Russell cautions against underestimating Kimi Antonelli's impact at Mercedes
George Russell evaluates the potential threat Kimi Antonelli could present in 2025.
George Russell plans to show Andrea Kimi Antonelli considerable respect, even though 2025 marks Antonelli's debut season in Formula 1.
Antonelli is set to embark on his first Formula 1 race at the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, following Mercedes' decision to bring him on board as the successor to Lewis Hamilton.
Antonelli has participated in a comprehensive Formula 1 testing schedule before his first race, but he has minimal experience in single-seater competitions.
The 18-year-old swiftly moved up the ranks, skipping Formula 3 to participate in Formula 2.
Mercedes regards Antonelli as a prodigy similar to Max Verstappen, who secured his first race victory with Red Bull at the age of 18 in 2016.
In an interview with sport.de, Russell stated that he is approaching the competition with Antonelli with a serious attitude.
"Russell expressed confidence that he will undoubtedly be kept alert, stating, 'Reflecting on my time as an 18-year-old, I don't perceive myself as any quicker now.'"
"I've gained more expertise. I've learned how to handle the stress of F1 and all that entails collaborating with a team of 2,000 individuals.
"When it comes to quickness, it's something you possess or you don't. In his case, I believe he's got it, which is why I'm showing him considerable respect.
"I'm optimistic about our collaboration and eager to witness his accomplishments."
"However, it's important not to underestimate, particularly with the new generation stepping in. I recall being their age, filled with an intense passion."
Mercedes achieves significant milestone ahead of 2025 F1 season
In the run-up to the 2025 Formula 1 season, Mercedes has reached an important milestone.
During the weekend, Mercedes shared a video across their social media platforms showcasing the ignition of the W16, their contender for 2025.
It marks a significant milestone for any team when their latest device is activated before the start of a new season.
Mercedes is set to unveil their latest vehicle on February 24, just two days ahead of the pre-season trials in Bahrain.
The entire group is optimistic that the W16 will perform more reliably than the model before it.
Last year, Mercedes secured four victories but finished in a far-off fourth place in the F1 constructors' standings.
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