Honda team racers conclude 2024 with private testing in Jerez

HRC conducted tests in Jerez

The Honda MotoGP team concluded its season with a last private testing session at Jerez.

The 2024 season marked Honda's poorest performance in contemporary times, as it struggled to make it into the top five of any grand prix and recorded its third season without a victory in five years.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, special content, one-on-one conversations, and exclusive deals straight from the race track to your email.

For additional details, consult our Privacy Policy.

Honda secured the last position in the constructors' rankings, accumulating a total of 75 points. This left them 49 points behind their Japanese competitor Yamaha and a significant 647 points away from Ducati.

HRC achieved its highest performance of the year with Johann Zarco of LCR clinching an eighth-place finish at the Malaysian Grand Prix, representing its sole top-eight result of the year during a Sunday race. Additionally, the French rider secured an eighth-place position in the Indonesian GP sprint race.

Among the Honda competitors, Zarco led the pack by securing the 17th position, followed by Takaaki Nakagami in 19th, Joan Mir in 21st, and Luca Marini, who ended up at the bottom of the full-time roster in 22nd place.

Throughout 2024, Honda has taken advantage of its concession manufacturer privileges by engaging in several private tests during the season.

Advancements were sluggish, with a major breakthrough occurring following the San Marino GP, marked by the rollout of an enhanced aerodynamics package that bettered maneuverability.

After the last race of 2024, opinions were divided among Honda's team regarding their experience at the Barcelona trial.

Mir expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of novelty in the things he experimented with, a sentiment that was challenged by his colleague Marini.

Zarco mentioned that the 2025 chassis he tested did not mark an improvement, yet he didn't see a reason to be overly concerned about it.

Marini mentioned in Barcelona that during a private test at Jerez, Honda was set to experiment with new and more captivating updates.

On Tuesday, Marini and HRC's test rider Aleix Espargaro hit the Jerez track, with Mir and Zarco taking their turns on Wednesday.

Honda's testing session overlapped with the World Superbike trials happening at the same location.

Espargaro transitions to a test rider position with Honda upon concluding his active racing career after the 2024 season.

He will collaborate with Honda's ex-technical director Ken Kawauchi, who transitioned to the test team this year, as former Aprilia employee Romano Albesiano steps into the role within the factory race team.

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Current Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or reproducing any part of the text, images, or illustrations in any manner is strictly forbidden.

Site Index

CrashNet

Jos Verstappen urges Red Bull to improve despite Max Verstappen's Formula 1 championship victory

"Certainly, we wish for his success, but he doesn't have the quickest car; if he did, he'd be winning every race."

Jos Verstappen has urged Red Bull to "pull themselves together" even though Max Verstappen has clinched his fourth straight F1 championship.

The driver from Red Bull secured his fourth championship by finishing in fifth place at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest Formula 1 updates, special content, conversations, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Since his victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, Max has only managed to secure a single race win due to the improved performance of McLaren and Ferrari.

Red Bull faced challenges in advancing the RB20, resulting in a decline in their competitive ranking.

Although they've improved the drivability of this year's model, it has seldom outpaced McLaren or Ferrari in the latest races.

Jos insists that "significant improvements are necessary" for Max to secure a fifth consecutive championship.

Responding to his son's championship win, Jos spoke to Verstappen.com, expressing, "The race in Brazil was simply incredible. Watching him race from the rear to the front and consistently setting the quickest laps in the final ten laps, in my view, truly clinched the championship.

In response to inquiries about the upcoming year: "It's impossible to say for certain. We're optimistic about his chances, yet he's not driving the quickest vehicle; if that were the case, he'd be clinching victories in every race. For a competitive edge next year, enhancements are necessary.

"The group is aware of the necessary adjustments, thus the responsibility falls on them to unify and implement those changes."

The individual, aged 52, confessed to feeling "anxious" before the event, despite not being physically located in the Red Bull garage in Las Vegas.

"He admitted to feeling anxious, revealing he woke up at 4 a.m. and found himself unable to fall back asleep," he continued. "That sense of unease is always present, yet he succeeded. Perhaps not in the manner Max had envisioned, but the important fact is that he accomplished it.

"I was under the weather, struggling with a slight flu. Therefore, I preferred to keep my distance to avoid transmitting it to Max. Additionally, the difference in time zones and my own race preparations were factors."

"We were ahead, yet everything hinged on the car's progress. I wasn't consistently optimistic, but Max proved his mettle to all, particularly in Brazil. His performance there was astonishing and truly secured his championship."

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest F1 stories, behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive conversations, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash Formula 1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing any part or the entirety of the text, photos, or images is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

Crash.Net

George Russell's win at the Las Vegas Grand Prix shatters a 43-year-old Formula 1 record.

George Russell's win at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix has shattered a 43-year-old record.

Russell's victory in Las Vegas signifies that a total of seven drivers have achieved more than one race win in the 2024 F1 season.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest Formula 1 stories, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Max Verstappen, the 2024 Formula 1 champion, has secured victory in eight races, whereas both Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris have each claimed three wins.

Russell, Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz, and Oscar Piastri each have secured two victories each.

This year witnessed a new record with seven individuals achieving multiple victories, surpassing the previous high of six set in

In 1981, Formula 1 title holder Nelson Piquet secured victories in three races, matching the win count of his closest competitor, Alain Prost.

Alan Jones, Carlos Reutemann, Gilles Villeneuve, and Jacques Laffite each secured two victories.

John Watson also emerged victorious, securing a single win in 1981.

In 2024, among the leading four teams, Sergio Perez stands out as the sole driver who has not secured a win.

Should the Mexican racer clinch victories in the last two contests, it would result in the 2024 F1 season having eight different drivers with more than one win, underscoring the intense competition this year

The regulations staying consistent through the winter might lead to a closer competition among the leading four teams.

McLaren stands as the sole Formula 1 team to keep both of its drivers for the 202

Norris is set to continue partnering with Piastri for their third consecutive season.

Hamilton steps into Sainz's spot at Ferrari, teaming up with Leclerc, as Andrea Kimi Antonelli takes over the position formerly held by the seven-time world champion at Mercedes.

Despite Perez being signed for the upcoming season, his recent underwhelming performances might lead to him being substituted by Yuki Tsunoda, Liam Lawson, or Franco Colapinto.

With keen insight into F1's debates and narratives, Connor is the core of our impartial journalism.

Discover More

Sign Up for Our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the newest Formula 1 updates, unique content, one-on-one conversations, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For additional details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Keep up with Crash F1

Stay Updated on Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating any part of the text, photos, or images in full or in part is strictly prohibited.

Site Map

Collision.Net

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive up-to-date Formula 1 news, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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.

Discover More

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive all the newest updates, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers from the track straight to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Further Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP

Copying in whole or in part of any text, images, or graphics is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

CrashDotNet

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive up-to-date Formula 1 coverage, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our Formula 1 Mailing List

Receive the newest updates, behind-the-scenes content, one-on-one conversations, and special offers straight from the circuit to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Further Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

No part of this text, photos, or images may be copied or reproduced in any way.

Site Index

CrashNet

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent Formula 1 updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

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.

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest Formula 1 updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating any part of the text, images, or illustrations, whether wholly or in part, is strictly prohibited.

Website Index

Smash.Net

Helmut Marko expresses doubts about the perfect relationship between Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton in 2025

"Looking at the lineup, Ferrari seems poised for a stronger performance in the coming year. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be true unity among the team members."

Red Bull Formula 1 advisor Helmut Marko is eager to find out whether Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will work well together upon joining 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 last February.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest Formula 1 updates, unique stories, conversations from the track, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

The change marks the conclusion of Hamilton's extensive partnership with Mercedes, as he has exclusively competed in F1 with engines from 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 outlet OE24, Marko stated that George Russell has shown greater dominance than Hamilton this season, and also shared his thoughts on Ferrari’s selection of drivers.

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

"Ferrari is expected to have a stronger lineup of drivers in the coming year, but it remains to be seen whether the team dynamics will be cohesive."

Throughout the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, noticeable tension emerged among the Ferrari team's drivers.

Leclerc expressed frustration towards Sainz following the Las Vegas race, venting through a tirade filled with swear words over the team's radio.

The source of the Monegasque driver's frustration was Sainz surpassing him following the second series of pit stops, despite Ferrari's instructions to the contrary.

Ferrari was anticipated to lead the race in Las Vegas, however, Mercedes surprised everyone by securing the top two positions.

Marko believes that Mercedes must achieve greater reliability if they are to pose a significant challenge in the upcoming season.

"Marko noted that the cooler temperatures in Las Vegas created unique circumstances."

"We'll have to watch and see how they do in the final two races, though I'm not holding my breath. Fingers crossed, we manage to secure at least one more win."

Connor, with his keen insight into the dramas and narratives of Formula 1, stands at the core of our impartial journalism.

Explore Further

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, one-on-one conversations, and special offers from the racing circuit straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Recreating, in whole or in part, any written content, images, or illustrations is strictly prohibited.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive up-to-date Formula 1 updates, unique content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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.

Discover More

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers from the racing circuit straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Current Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating the content, images, or drawings in full or in part is strictly prohibited.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the racetrack straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our Formula 1 Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest Formula 1 insights, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying text, photographs, or illustrations in whole or in part is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

Crash.Net

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.

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers from the racetrack straight to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

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.

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers from the racetrack straight to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or reproducing any part of the text, photos, or images in any manner is strictly prohibited.

Site Index

Crash.Net

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.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter to receive up-to-date news, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers directly from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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…"

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the entirety or portions of the text, images, or illustrations in any manner is strictly prohibited.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

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.

Sign up for our F1 Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special features, interviews, and offers from the Formula 1 world straight to your email.

For detailed information, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Stories

Track Crash F1

Track Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce the text, images, or drawings, either entirely or in part, in any format.

Site Map

Crash.Net