Title: Toto Wolff Reveals Lewis Hamilton's Secret Superbike Test and Brief Disappearance

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton went off the radar for two days after secretly trying out a Superbike.

Lewis Hamilton participated in a Superbike test without public knowledge, and during this event, he experienced a crash, as recounted by Toto Wolff.

In 2018, Hamilton, who has won the Formula 1 championship seven times, caused concern for his F1 team leader by not communicating for two days. This happened when he joined the Crescent Racing team at Jerez.

His passion for motorcycle racing is widely recognized. In addition to having his own custom MV Agusta bike, Hamilton participated in a bike swap with MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi in 2019. Over the past year, there have been reports connecting him to potential investments in two MotoGP teams.

Six years back, shortly after clinching his fifth Formula 1 title, Hamilton participated in a two-day testing session at Jerez, riding a YZF-R1 Superbike. This event was organized and supervised by the Crescent Racing team from the World Superbike Championship.

Incredible few days spent in Jerez 🏍💨🔥 @alexlowes22 @mickeyvdmark @PataYamahaWSBK @MonsterEnergy pic.twitter.com/1uIwgmKx7r— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 2, 2018

Amazing couple of days in Jerez 🏍💨🔥 @alexlowes22 @mickeyvdmark @PataYamahaWSBK @MonsterEnergy pic.twitter.com/1uIwgmKx7r

Michael van der Mark, who was a Yamaha rider in the World Superbike Championship, mentioned to motorsport.com that Hamilton had to be advised to ease off on speed since "he showed no fear whatsoever."

Wolff disclosed that he was unable to reach Hamilton for two days, as Hamilton had conducted the test in secret. During this time, Wolff was unaware that Hamilton had been involved in a crash.

When questioned about his presence at the 2019 ride swap event in Valencia featuring Rossi and Hamilton, Wolff explained on the Armchair Expert podcast, "I wasn't there, but I had to approve it. So, I did, and I believe they both had a great time."

Lewis is that student who always gets things done quickly and perfectly, often irritating his classmates.

Let me share a biking story with you. Without my knowledge, they went to test bikes in Jerez. One of my top strategy team members, who happens to be an engineer and a motorcycle enthusiast, became unreachable for a couple of days.

When Lewis's engineer answered the call, he reassured that everything was okay. He mentioned that they had just completed their biking session and assured that Lewis was in good condition, regardless of any rumors.

I asked, "What occurred?" He took a fall. However, he was just four seconds behind the professional MotoGP racers.

"Incredible. His awareness of his body is what defines him as a champion."

Hamilton emerged from his accident without any injuries.

Wolff's statement is difficult to confirm because no official times were published. However, it's important to approach it with some skepticism since van der Mark remarked, "I am aware he has the potential to be significantly quicker, but it's challenging to foresee his capabilities on a motorcycle."

"He has been riding for just four days and is about seven seconds slower than the Yamaha WSBK riders. Despite this, he is still quicker than the majority of other riders at track days."

In early 2018, Hamilton had the opportunity to ride a Superbike during a Monster Energy event alongside Cal Crutchlow, who is a three-time MotoGP race winner, in California.

In the past few weeks, Pit Beirer, the head of motorsport at KTM, disclosed in an interview with Speedweek that the Austrian company, which is facing challenges, engaged in "definite" talks with Hamilton's management regarding a possible investment.

Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

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Christian Horner has promised something significant for the 2025 Formula 1 season as Red Bull gears up for its last year partnered with Honda. 2025 will mark the final chapter of the Red Bull-Honda collaboration.

Christian Horner has committed to ensuring that Red Bull and Honda will explore every possible avenue to finish their F1 collaboration in 2025 with success.

Since the beginning of 2019, Honda has been providing engines to Red Bull, following Red Bull's daring choice to part ways with Renault.

Until now, Honda had not experienced any triumphs in Formula 1, with their image severely damaged after three disappointing years partnered with McLaren.

After spending a successful year with Toro Rosso, which is Red Bull's partner team, in 2018, Red Bull decided to take a risk by partnering with Honda.

The strategy proved successful when Max Verstappen achieved his highest placement in the championship in 2019, and went on to claim his first title in 2021.

Following that period, Verstappen and Red Bull have taken control of the sport, with the Dutch driver securing three additional championship titles.

In a video shared on Honda Racing Global's X account, Horner looked back on their "historic" collaboration.

He stated that the collaboration between Red Bull and Honda in Formula 1 will conclude in 2025.

"Seven years back, when we declared our transition from our previous supplier to using Honda power units, there were some who questioned our choice."

"Throughout the years, we've demonstrated through numerous historic achievements, like winning 21 out of 22 races in 2023, that our decision was spot on. As we head into the last season, both Red Bull and HRC are committed to exploring every possible avenue to secure victory."

"In the meantime, we are diligently collaborating to aim for victory in each race and to clinch additional championship titles."

Red Bull is set to embark on a new chapter in F1 in 2026, as they plan to end their partnership with Honda and introduce their own power unit for the first time.

Following Honda's decision to exit the sport at the conclusion of 2021, the team established Red Bull Powertrains.

In late 2020, they made a choice that they seemed to later wish they hadn't.

Max Verstappen secured the 2021 championship title, powered by a Honda engine.

Shortly thereafter, it was revealed that Honda would be making a comeback to Formula 1 by collaborating with Aston Martin starting in 2026.

In 2026, engine manufacturers will face significant changes with the introduction of new regulations for power units.

The Formula 1 engines for the 2026 season will feature increased electrification due to the elimination of the MGU-H component, and they will operate using eco-friendly fuels.

In 2026, Honda is among the five companies producing engines for the grid.

They are joined by Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull Powertrains, and Audi.

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Connor plays a crucial role in our objective coverage, keenly observing the controversies and narratives in Formula 1.

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Marc Marquez started the year 2025 by taking on laps with a brand-new Ducati, marking the beginning of a full day of riding.

As 2025 kicks off, it marks the start of new contract periods. For Marc Marquez, this signifies his official role as a factory Ducati rider, allowing him to enjoy the perks associated with this position beyond the MotoGP paddock.

At the start of the year, Marquez took to the racetrack riding the brand-new 2025 Ducati Panigale V2. Although this model has less power than its predecessor, it compensates with reduced weight due to its new twin-cylinder engine, which is the lightest V-twin engine Ducati has ever made.

Marquez was seen on the circuit at the Aspar Circuit in Valencia, which had its inauguration last year, alongside several other Grand Prix competitors.

Motorcycle racing star Marc Márquez took the new Ducati Panigale V2 for a spin at the Aspar Circuit. 🔴😮‍💨📸 Photo of Marc Márquez pic.twitter.com/fpaLLLqOuj— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) January 9, 2025

On this event, the eight-time World Champion was joined by several fellow riders. Among them was current Moto3 World Champion David Alonso, who was on an older version of the Yamaha R6. Additionally, Dani Holgado, Izan Guevara, Tony Arbolino, Alex Marquez, and Sergio Garcia were all riding 2017 model R6s. Meanwhile, Marquez's apprentice, Max Quiles, along with Angel Piqueras, were aboard Honda CBR600RRs.

Certainly, throughout the history of track days, there have been groups with less talent.

In addition to a full day of motorcycle training, Marc Marquez experienced his initial laps at the Aspar Circuit on a Ducati road bike for practice, after previously using unbranded Honda bikes last year. His teammate, Francesco Bagnaia, frequently uses the Panigale V4 R superbike for his training sessions. However, Marquez has yet to be spotted riding that particular model, except during the previous year's Race of Champions at World Ducati Week, where all participants competed on the new Panigale V4 model slated for release in 2025.

The Spanish rider continues to use Honda CRF motocross bikes, but there might be a shift soon. Ducati's Desmo450 MX dirt bike is expected to start production later this year.

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

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Is Jack Doohan's fate sealed already? The implications of Alpine's unexpected decision

Franco Colapinto's entry into Alpine casts doubt on Jack Doohan's Formula 1 prospects.

Franco Colapinto's unexpected move to Alpine has put Jack Doohan's Formula 1 career in a precarious position, even before it has truly begun.

This decision follows an impressive breakthrough for the 21-year-old Argentine driver. His debut season in Formula 2 was put on hold when he was called up by Williams to take over from Logan Sargeant, who was dismissed before the Italian Grand Prix.

Colapinto had an impressive debut in Formula 1, managing to make it to the third qualifying session and earn points in only his second race in Azerbaijan. Over the course of the nine grand prix events he participated in, he accumulated a total of five points. He rapidly proved to be an upgrade from Sargeant, who had been facing difficulties.

Colapinto's impressive performance as a substitute drew interest from multiple teams, such as Alpine and Red Bull. These teams recognized that Williams had no vacancies, having already secured Carlos Sainz to team up with Alex Albon starting in 2025.

A string of significant accidents near the season's conclusion somewhat diminished the shine of Colapinto's initial showings. Although Red Bull's enthusiasm waned, choosing instead to lean on their existing talent pool to address the Sergio Perez situation, Alpine continued to be captivated by the young driver who had surpassed their anticipations.

The potential for commercial success and backing from sponsors in his home country of Argentina increased the appeal of Colapinto. Towards the end of last year, Alpine engaged in discussions with his management regarding the possibility of transitioning to Enstone with the aim of securing a future driving position.

Flavio Briatore, who serves as an executive advisor for Alpine, was seen having a conversation with Colapinto in the Formula 1 paddock during the second-to-last race of the season in Qatar. It is believed that Briatore played a key role in advocating for the arrangement to take place.

Colapinto is now strongly considered for a permanent F1 position, possibly starting this season.

How This Affects Jack Doohan

The news on Thursday about Colapinto becoming part of Alpine’s expanding group of test and reserve drivers under a "multi-year" contract is likely unfavorable for Doohan.

The 21-year-old from Australia is facing significant pressure even before his career in the grand prix has officially started, and there are already doubts about his future in Formula 1.

Doohan, whose father Mick Doohan is a five-time MotoGP champion, participated in his first Formula 1 race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, stepping in for Esteban Ocon after the French driver left the team earlier than anticipated.

Doohan began at the back of the grid and ended up in 15th place in his debut grand prix. He lagged behind his teammate Pierre Gasly by half a second, with Gasly securing a seventh-place finish and earning points. Alpine aimed to give Doohan an early boost in getting ready for his Formula 1 career.

Briatore has affirmed that Doohan is set to compete for Alpine in 2025, beginning with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16th.

Before Doohan's move was officially announced, Briatore reportedly told Le Parisien, "The only certainty in life is death! I can assure you that we will begin the year with Pierre and Jack."

Briatore suggested that Doohan's tenure with Alpine will depend on his performance.

"Following that, we'll evaluate how things unfold as the season advances," he added. "It's my responsibility to ensure the team is in optimal shape to achieve success, and the driver is tasked with completing the efforts of nearly 1,000 individuals supporting him. All the work is ultimately for just two individuals."

"In Formula 1, if a driver fails to show improvement and deliver results, I replace them. There's no room for sentimentality in this sport."

Initial indications from Briatore align with the idea that Doohan has been brought on board with a temporary race contract. By bringing Colapinto into the fold, Alpine secures a reliable contingency plan if Doohan does not perform as anticipated.

Williams hinted at the possibility of Colapinto stepping in to replace Doohan this year, as they confirmed Doohan's departure from the team.

According to Williams team principal James Vowles, the combination of Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz gives Williams a very strong driver duo for the 2025 season and future years. Therefore, Vowles expressed that the partnership with Alpine offers Franco his best opportunity to land a racing position for either 2025 or 2026.

Doohan has been anticipating his opportunity in F1 for quite a while, and losing it after just a few races would be extremely unfair. However, as Briatore hinted, there is no space for emotions when performance is crucial.

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Lewis frequently travels internationally to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He often provides on-site reports, sharing the narratives of key figures within the sport.

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EXCLUSIVE: Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia poised to “contest every race win”

“Undoubtedly, the greatest motorcycle ever…”

Emerging victorious in 19 of the previous year's 20 MotoGP competitions, securing all three top podium positions 14 times, achieving an unprecedented top-eight finish in the Buriram Sprint, and claiming their fifth constructors' championship along with their third consecutive riders' title.

Here are a few highlights from Ducati's historic 2024 season, marked by shattered records.

"Definitely the greatest bicycle ever created. They did an outstanding job," Luca Marini, who rode a Ducati at VR46 for his first three seasons in MotoGP, shared with Crash.net.

Despite reducing their lineup from eight to six motorcycles in 2025 and the departure of current champion Jorge Martin to Aprilia, Marini cautioned that Ducati's revised factory team, featuring Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, might result in increased dominance by Ducati.

When questioned about whether he believed 2024 would represent the height of Ducati's dominance in MotoGP, Honda's team rider Marini responded:

"I believe not. Having Pecco and Marc as teammates will likely motivate them to enhance their own skills through mutual competition.

"Honda acknowledges that competing with [Ducati] in the upcoming year is beyond our reach. We must bide our time. Therefore, our aim is to outperform the remaining manufacturers."

"However, should Aprilia and KTM fail to match Ducati's performance, it might just boil down to a duel between Bagnaia and Marquez for the win in each race.

"Thus, it's possible that the climax is still to come…"

In 2024, Ducati outperformed Honda's 2003 record in the MotoGP, surpassing the year when Honda's RC211V secured victories in 15 out of 16 races, with nine of those wins credited to Valentino Rossi, Marini's sibling.

That year, the sole additional victor was Loris Capirossi, who secured Ducati's inaugural MotoGP win at Catalunya.

Honda achieves total victory in 1997

Delving into the history of the 500cc class, Honda achieved an unparalleled feat by winning every one of the 15 grand prix races in the year 1997.

Could racers such as Bagnaia, Marquez, and the supported Fabio di Giannantonio potentially equal that unmatched achievement in 2025?

At the COTA Grand Prix, the only race where the Desmosedicis didn't come out on top last season, Aprilia's Maverick Vinales emerged victorious in Texas, followed by KTM's Pedro Acosta.

Enea Bastianini secured a third-place finish for Ducati, while Marc Marquez experienced a fall shortly after moving into the lead, attributed to a problem with his brakes.

During the previous year's Sprint races, Aprilia surpassed Ducati on three occasions, securing two victories on Saturdays with Vinales and another win credited to Aleix Espargaro.

Vinales has transitioned to Tech3 KTM following Espargaro's departure from regular racing to take on a role as a test rider for HRC.

Former teammate of Marini at VR46 and a victor in three MotoGP races, Marco Bezzecchi, is set to team up with Martin at Aprilia's refreshed roster, while Acosta will advance to join Brad Binder in the official KTM squad.

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For two decades, Peter has been a constant presence in the racing paddock, witnessing the rise and retirement of Valentino Rossi. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the ongoing health challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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MotoGP in America – "I anticipated challenges, but we're progressing"

Dorna's Chief Commercial Officer Rossomondo discusses the expansion of MotoGP in the US

Dan Rossomondo, the chief commercial officer of Dorna Sports, stated that MotoGP is making significant progress in increasing its visibility in the United States.

In 2022, Rossomondo, who previously led global marketing and media for the NBA, became the Chief Commercial Officer at Dorna. This move was widely viewed as a strategic effort to expand MotoGP’s presence in the United States.

There was a time when MotoGP visited the United States twice annually, and in 2013, it increased those visits to three times a year.

During that period, Formula 1 had recently made a comeback in the United States following a break between 2008 and 2011. Since last year, the country has hosted three races.

Currently, MotoGP holds just one race each year in the United States at the Circuit of the Americas located in Texas. However, discussions are underway to potentially add a second race in the country.

Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1, is in the process of acquiring Dorna, but the deal is currently paused as the European Union investigates the transaction. This acquisition is expected to increase efforts to boost visibility in the United States.

In discussing MotoGP's attempts to expand its presence in the United States, Rossomondo shared with the Sports Business Journal: "I'm not sure if it's been more challenging than expected, but I anticipated it would be difficult."

"My team and I need to begin deciding which areas we want to focus on and which direction we should move towards."

"However, the reality is that we can't swiftly increase from one race to three due to the unique safety measures our tracks demand. We'll need to explore various other approaches to achieve that goal."

The speaker expressed strong confidence in their progress, stating they are certainly moving forward. They noted that many individuals who were unfamiliar with their sport just a year ago are now viewers. Additionally, they have discovered numerous people who were secretly fans of MotoGP, indicating significant advancement.

"I'm confident that the results of our efforts will be evident this year."

Last season, Trackhouse Racing, a team owned by Americans, joined the series. This came about when Justin Marks' organization assumed control from RNF after it went under at the close of 2023.

For the 2025 season, MotoGP has revamped its branding by unveiling a new logo late last year, aiming to enhance its brand recognition.

A season launch event is set to take place in Thailand on February 9. The 2025 campaign will then commence in the country at Buriram towards the end of the month.

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Vinales Urged Yamaha to Leave the Motorcycle Unchanged During Unsuccessful Championship Season

"Leave the motorcycle as it is, I instructed them."

Maverick Vinales implied that he could have clinched the MotoGP world title in 2017 riding for Yamaha, had they left the 2016 M1 model he first tested unchanged.

Having spent slightly more than a season at Suzuki, Vinales secured a two-year agreement to become part of the Yamaha factory team, marking his third season in the top tier of racing in 2017.

Vinales led the 2016 Valencia test with that year's M1 model and secured victories in the initial two races of 2017, followed by another win at the French Grand Prix, overcoming his teammate Valentino Rossi.

The Spanish racer was ahead in the rankings by 17 points following the event, yet Vinales wouldn't secure another victory until the 2018 Australian Grand Prix, eventually dropping to third place in the 2017 rankings.

Vinales continued as a Yamaha rider until the middle of 2021, at which point his bond with the manufacturer deteriorated beyond repair, leading to his prompt dismissal following an incident where he intentionally pushed his M1's engine to excessive revs during the Styrian GP.

In a DAZN documentary focusing on his career, Vinales expressed his conviction that he had the potential to clinch the championship with the M1 he tried out at the close of 2016, urging Yamaha to leave the bike unchanged during the offseason.

He remarked, "Upon starting my journey with Yamaha, I entered with explosive energy."

"I came with a definite concept and goal in mind, and there was only one thing I requested from Yamaha: 'I aim to become the world champion."

"I have no desire to become anything different; please don't force me into being something I'm not, as my only interest lies in being who I am right now."

Upon riding the Yamaha during the Valencia trial, I was immediately smitten by it. I urged them to leave it as is. My choice was this specific one, the motorcycle previously used by Jorge [Lorenzo].

"I informed Yamaha, 'Deliver this motorcycle to me in Qatar, because with it, I'm poised to secure the world championship title. However, upon arriving at Sepang for the pre-season test, I questioned, 'where is that motorcycle?'"

"I secured victory in the initial race, clinched the second, and triumphed at Le Mans, marking it as one of the greatest days of my existence. I emerged victorious in a duel with my hero, Valentino Rossi."

"In Barcelona, a series of transformations occurred. I was completely at a loss."

"I instructed them to leave the bicycle alone."

Vinales teamed up with Aprilia during the concluding races of 2021 and continued with them until the close of 2024, securing a single grand prix victory during this period.

He becomes part of the KTM team within the Tech3 group for the 2025 season, expressing his perspective on the transition by saying, "I've ultimately realized you're faced with a choice: to be the challenger or to choose what he refers to as the dark side."

"You have a choice between KTM and Ducati."

"Winning at Ducati presents a significant challenge. How do you plan on outperforming the factory team?"

"The situation is quite complex. Even though I had the same motorcycle, my equipment wasn't on par. Therefore, my only choice was to join KTM and take on the role of the contender."

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Maverick Vinales instructed Yamaha to leave the bike as is during unsuccessful championship season

"I advised them to leave the bike alone"

Maverick Vinales implied that he could have clinched the MotoGP world championship in 2017 riding for Yamaha, had they not altered the 2016 M1 model he initially tested.

Following a little more than a year at Suzuki, Vinales inked a two-year contract to become part of the official Yamaha team, marking his third season in the top tier of racing in 2017.

In 2016, Vinales led the Valencia test riding the M1 from that same year and secured victories in the initial two races of 2017. He then clinched another win at the French Grand Prix, following a competitive showdown with his teammate Valentino Rossi.

The Spanish rider was ahead in the rankings with a 17-point lead following the event, but it wasn't until the 2018 Australian Grand Prix that Vinales would secure another victory, dropping to third position in the standings for 2017.

Vinales continued his partnership with Yamaha until the middle of 2021, when tensions with the company became unfixable, leading to his abrupt departure. This decision came after it was discovered that he intentionally pushed his M1's engine beyond its limits during the Styrian GP.

In a DAZN documentary focusing on his career, Vinales expressed his conviction that he had the potential to clinch the title with the M1 he sampled in late 2016, imploring Yamaha to leave the bike as it was throughout the off-season.

"He mentioned, "Upon entering Yamaha, my arrival was explosive."

"I came with a distinct vision and a singular goal, which was the sole request I made to Yamaha: ‘I aim to become the world champion."

"I have no desire to become something different; please don't force me into anything else, as this is what I aspire to be, and nothing else holds my interest."

Upon riding the Yamaha during the Valencia trial, I instantly became enamored with it. I pleaded with them to leave it as is. I desired that specific one, the motorcycle Jorge [Lorenzo] had previously used.

"I informed Yamaha, 'deliver this motorcycle to Qatar, because with it, I'm poised to clinch the world championship. However, upon my arrival at Sepang for the pre-season testing, I questioned, ‘where is that motorcycle?’"

"I emerged victorious in the initial race, secured a win in the second, and triumphed at Le Mans. It was among the greatest days of my existence. I succeeded in a competition against my hero, Valentino Rossi."

"In Barcelona, however, there was a surge of transformations. It was all beyond my comprehension."

"I instructed them to leave the bicycle alone."

Vinales teamed up with Aprilia during the concluding segments of the 2021 season and stayed on board through the conclusion of 2024, securing a single grand prix victory during his tenure.

He will be teaming up with the Tech3 group under KTM in 2025, expressing his thoughts on the transition: "I've realized that it boils down to two options: you either embrace the role of the challenger, or you venture into the dark side.

"You have the option of choosing KTM or Ducati."

"Winning at Ducati presents a significant challenge. How do you plan to outperform the factory team?"

"It's quite complex; while we might have identical motorcycles, the arsenal at our disposal differs. Thus, my sole choice was to switch to KTM and take on the role of the contender."

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Aston Martin unveils significant reorganization before the 2025 F1 season, including a change in team leadership. Major developments are underway at Aston Martin as they prepare for the upcoming Formula 1 season.

Aston Martin has appointed a new team principal for the 2025 Formula 1 season, with Andy Cowell taking over from Mike Krack. This move is part of a "restructuring of its senior management."

Krack will continue to be part of the team, but in the position of chief trackside officer, allowing Cowell to step into the team principal role while also serving as CEO.

In 2024, Cowell took on the role of group CEO at Aston Martin, with Lawrence Stroll as his direct supervisor.

The ex-Mercedes engine expert is set to take on the role of team principal at Aston Martin in 2025, just before significant rule changes come into effect the following year.

Conversely, Krack's latest position will be dedicated to maximizing the car's performance during races.

Ex-Ferrari designer Enrico Cardile has taken on the role of chief technical officer, where he will lead the design and construction of Aston Martin's latest F1 vehicles.

Tom McCullough has experienced a shift in his position, moving on from his previous duties as the team's performance engineer.

Although Aston Martin has not officially disclosed his specific title, he will persist in holding a leadership role within the organization.

Although Adrian Newey was not included in the team's official announcement, he is anticipated to begin his role as the managing technical partner later this year.

Regarding the announcement, Cowell expressed: “Over the past three months, I have been evaluating our performance and I've been extremely impressed with the team's dedication, commitment, and effort."

"By finalizing the AMR Technology Campus and moving to become a complete works team in 2026, in collaboration with our key partners Honda and Aramco, we are on a path to achieving the status of a Championship-winning team."

"The adjustments within the organization represent a natural progression of the long-term strategies we have planned, and I am tremendously enthusiastic about what lies ahead."

Who is Andy Cowell?

Andy Cowell is often credited as the mastermind responsible for Mercedes' engine supremacy when the hybrid era began in 2014.

Starting in 2013, he led Mercedes High Performance Powertrains. Mercedes achieved dominance in the initial phase of the hybrid era, largely due to the exceptional quality of their engine.

The customer teams, especially Williams, experienced it directly.

Williams advanced from being a lower midfield team to consistently securing podium finishes, thanks in part to the strong engine provided by Mercedes.

In mid-2020, Cowell departed from Mercedes after contributing to six constructors' championship victories.

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Chico Lorenzo sheds light on the complex dynamics with his son, Jorge Lorenzo

Chico Lorenzo has openly discussed the current state of his relationship with his son.

Jorge Lorenzo has candidly shared the challenges he faces in his relationship with his dad.

The triple MotoGP champion acquired his skills at his dad's motorbike racing academy in Majorca.

However, even though the young man evolved into a victor, it negatively affected his personal connection with his father.

However, Chico has provided a glimmer of optimism for improved times ahead.

Moto.it inquired whether their relationship is currently 'excellent'.

"Indeed, it's not excellent, yet it's satisfactory," he replied.

During his visit to the EICMA fair in Milan, I accompanied him, and also in Lugano.

"He's spending the holiday season in Majorca."

Chico was questioned about the moment he recognized his son's talent for the first time.

During my childhood, I constructed my initial motorcycle at the time when Jorge had reached the age of three, showcasing impressive abilities even then.

"Indeed, his ambition was always to emerge victorious."

Throughout his career, he has consistently maintained a high level of professionalism at all times.

"From a young age, he was ready, demonstrating a level of expertise significantly above his peers."

Chico expresses his feelings towards his son's outstanding career success with the words, "it's satisfaction, satisfaction".

He identified his most cherished victory from his son's Grand Prix races.

"For me, the initial victory in Brazil back in 2003 was a significant milestone. Following that, my first win with Ducati at Mugello marked another important point in my career."

In 2003, Jorge Lorenzo secured his inaugural victory at the Rio de Janeiro grand prix in the 125cc category.

However, the championship moment his father cherished the most was the most infamous.

In 2015, Lorenzo triumphed over Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez, clinching the premier award.

"Throughout the entire year, I stood by his side, witnessing firsthand the immense effort he put into clinching that fiercely contested world championship," Chico stated.

"He experienced an incredible year."

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

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Motorsport Icons Michael Dunlop and Valentino Rossi Come Together on the Track in Italy

Michael Dunlop and Valentino Rossi, both icons in motorsport, competed on the same race track.

Isle of Man TT record-holder Dunlop is participating in Rossi's yearly 100km of Champions event in Tavullia this weekend.

Participants from different racing championships attend Rossi's annual event, but the presence of TT icon Dunlop, along with Davey Todd, brings an additional level of prestige.

Valentino Rossi and Michael Dunlop spotted together at the ranch 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ITlCET9wt3— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) January 9, 2025

Valentino Rossi and Michael Dunlop seen at the ranch 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ITlCET9wt3

On Thursday, Dunlop and Rossi participated in free practice on the track. Although their career journeys have been vastly different, this wasn't their initial encounter racing closely against each other.

During the previous summer, Monster Energy organized a unique track day at Silverstone, bringing together Dunlop and Rossi.

On that same day, John McGuinness achieved his record fastest lap at Silverstone. He remarked, "This small guy from Italy zoomed by me on the back straight…"

Someone named Valentino Rossi caught my attention, and I thought, "He's quite quick; I'll follow him closely."

He took me around Silverstone for the quickest lap I've ever completed.

"I clamped down on the screen, making every effort to hold on tightly!"

"I found it more intriguing to observe him. He is the finest globally."

In 2009, Rossi made a notable trip to the Isle of Man TT and completed several practice circuits.

Following the event, he remarked, "The track is amazing and left a strong impression on me, as I'm aware it's both risky and quick."

"I would never have imagined that a road like this could be used as a racetrack, and it's incredible to be riding a Superbike at full speed on it. You need to have a lot of courage!"

"It's not feasible to go all out on the first lap. I aim to complete five or six laps to gain a better understanding."

This weekend in Tavullia is much more relaxed, as the stars of the Isle of Man TT are returning the favor by visiting.

Dunlop and Todd are set to compete with Rossi and fellow MotoGP competitors such as Pecco Bagnaia, Luca Marini, and Marco Bezzecchi on both Friday and Saturday.

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

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KTM stands firm in its decision to initiate the construction of their 2025 MotoGP motorcycles next week, despite facing financial challenges.

KTM's head of technology, Wolfgang Felber, stated that preparations for the 2025 MotoGP season are proceeding as planned for KTM.

The future of the Austrian company in MotoGP hangs in the balance as it deals with a financial turmoil, prompting a reorganization of its operations.

According to information disclosed during the initial meeting with creditors, KTM has intentions to exit Formula 1 racing. However, it's expected that their operations will continue without change until 2025.

KTM's competition department is implementing a strategy that involves a 100-point plan aimed at reducing expenses due to the company's ongoing financial difficulties. This includes decreasing its participation in multiple racing categories.

In 2025, four factory KTMs will compete in MotoGP, distributed between its official team and Tech3, with riders Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, and Enea Bastianini.

In a discussion with the German magazine Speedweek, Felber shared encouraging updates regarding KTM's progress for 2025.

"He mentioned that the plans for the upcoming season are proceeding as usual at this point."

"Over the past few years, we've streamlined our operations to ensure that the construction of new machines commences during the third week of the year."

"In 2025, the scenario remains unchanged. Starting next Monday, the process of reconstructing every motorcycle will commence."

"All activities are scheduled in a way that by the conclusion of the third week, we prepare the boxes for the major trial in Sepang.

"From that point forward, the motorcycles spend an extended period on the road. They will not return to Munderfing until the European season begins with the opener in Jerez."

Speculation is rife that KTM may halt progress on its 2025 motorcycle model because of its current economic difficulties.

Felber refrains from outright acknowledgment but mentions that the 2025 prototype performed as anticipated during last year's trials and has been established as the foundational bike.

"He further elaborated that the discussion revolves around a model of evolution projected for the year 2025."

"Considering an entirely new strategy was not an option. Our real trial run occurred during the final evaluations in 2024."

The 2025 iteration functioned as anticipated and established a foundation. The current strategy involves constructing all devices using new components accordingly.

"Ergonomic features vary and are unique to each rider, as do the methods for controlling the rear brake."

"We are also capable of repurposing certain components that have minimal wear. It's illogical to discard a handlebar stub that has barely been used."

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