EXCLUSIVE: Aston Martin acknowledges shortcomings in performance, agrees with critics

In a conversation with Crash.net, Mike Krack from Aston Martin conceded that the team needs to closely examine their performance due to not meeting their objectives.

Aston Martin's team leader, Mike Krack, acknowledged that the team did not achieve their goals for the 2024 F1 season.

In 2024, Aston Martin secured the fifth spot in the constructors' championship for the second year running, yet the team accumulated less than half the points they had achieved in the prior season.

The team located in Silverstone kicked off the 2023 season with impressive performance, coming out of the winter as the primary competitors to Red Bull. Fernando Alonso secured podium finishes in six of the first eight races.

Aston Martin fell behind as the season progressed, with their competitors in the midfield making advancements. This mirrored a pattern from the previous year when they failed to secure any podium finishes and managed to earn only 94 points, a significant drop from the 280 points they accumulated in 2023.

Lawrence Stroll, the highly ambitious owner of Aston Martin, has openly declared his goal for the team to vie for the Formula 1 world championship in the near future.

The wealthy Canadian entrepreneur has poured a significant sum of money into a new manufacturing facility that includes a cutting-edge wind tunnel. Additionally, he has secured a factory engine collaboration with Honda starting in 2026. The entrepreneur has also made notable hires, with the most prominent being the iconic designer Adrian Newey.

To date, Aston Martin's results on the track have fallen short of their high expectations.

In response to inquiries about addressing criticism regarding Aston Martin's lackluster performance, Krack mentioned to Crash.net, "I believe the critics have a valid point. We have not met our goals or lived up to our expectations."

"From an outsider's perspective, you might observe that since the inception of this project, we've achieved seventh place twice and fifth place twice. Taking a broader view, one could conclude that this represents steady advancement."

"When you take a closer look at the individual seasons, it becomes clear that we didn't hit all our goals. Our aim was to close the gap with our competitors, and had we succeeded, to be frank, we likely would have ended up near fifth place. However, this would have significantly altered our view of the entire season."

"We mustn't focus solely on the outcome. Finishing fifth overall is respectable. It may not be outstanding, but it's far from disastrous. While this isn't our most successful season, it falls short of our goals and expectations."

Aston Martin is evaluating their performance closely. Krack stated, "We need to meet certain standards and be truthful with ourselves. In Formula 1, performance is key."

Several aspects of our team have seen significant advancements. We have accelerated the pace at which we implement upgrades, enhanced the quality of the components we use, and improved our pit stops and garage operations. Additionally, our race strategy has also seen considerable progress.

"However, the most critical aspect is how the car performs, and addressing this issue is essential for us."

One of the major challenges Aston Martin has encountered over the last two seasons is their inability to effectively improve their car.

Dan Fallows, who became the technical director of the team in 2022, stepped down from his position in November following a decline in Aston Martin's performance.

Aston Martin is optimistic that the inclusion of Newey and ex-Ferrari chassis technical director Enrico Cardile, starting in 2025, will assist in improving this aspect.

Krack mentioned that this is a time for reflection. He noted that these issues have been present for about 18 months, beginning around mid-2023, and cannot be dismissed as a singular occurrence.

"We have observed time and again that our performance development has fallen short. This requires careful examination. We are addressing it by thoroughly analyzing the situation, especially since the team has expanded rapidly."

"You possess a traditional framework. How are we organized? What are our methods? Who communicates with whom during performance development? We must acknowledge that our current approach is not achieving the desired results. Therefore, we need to challenge and reassess it."

"Currently, we are engaged in these activities and need to talk about whether any adjustments are necessary, or if we need to modify certain procedures."

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Why Red Bull Chose Not to Pair a 'Quicker' Racer with Max Verstappen Over Liam Lawson

Helmut Marko explains why Red Bull passed over Yuki Tsunoda and decided to advance Liam Lawson.

Helmut Marko, an advisor for Red Bull, has clarified the reasons behind the team's decision not to advance Yuki Tsunoda, even though he is reportedly quicker than Liam Lawson.

Lawson has been chosen over Tsunoda to take the place of Sergio Perez, who was let go, for the 2025 season. The 22-year-old from New Zealand will be Max Verstappen’s fifth partner since Verstappen became part of Red Bull in 2016.

Perez became the most recent victim of Red Bull's stringent policies, as the team decided to let go of the Mexican driver following his poor performances last season, concluding that he did not meet the necessary standards to occupy the seat of the second car.

Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon experienced comparable situations at Red Bull prior to Perez, and the team has now chosen Lawson, who has competed in only 11 grand prix events across two seasons.

Despite not clearly surpassing his Racing Bulls teammate Tsunoda, who outpaced him in all six regular qualifying rounds they participated in at the end of 2024, Lawson has still been promoted.

'Tsunoda Faces Major Emotional Hurdles'

Marko has explained the reasons behind Red Bull's decision to choose Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

According to Marko's comments to Sport, Tsunoda currently has the edge in speed compared to his counterpart, but he struggles with maintaining consistency and still makes errors.

Marko mentioned that Tsunoda's emotional reactions during team radio communications influenced Red Bull's choice not to advance the Japanese driver to a higher position.

The 81-year-old Austrian mentioned that while his angry outbursts have gotten much better, they are still a problem. He tends to lose his temper.

Marko mentioned that competing with Verstappen would present Tsunoda with "considerable emotional difficulties."

He stated that they think Tsunoda might face considerable emotional difficulties if he were to compete alongside Max and found himself unable to defeat him or even come close, realizing that things weren't unfolding as he had envisioned.

Marko referred to Lawson as the "most mentally resilient among our junior members," even though he doesn't have much experience.

Marko concluded by saying that he possesses the mental strength to compete with Verstappen while coming to terms with the fact that he won't be able to rival the Dutch driver.

Tsunoda is set to remain with Red Bull's junior team for a fifth year.

The head of the Red Bull team, Christian Horner, has suggested that there might be a chance of Tsunoda leaving once his contract concludes at the close of 2025.

Horner openly acknowledged that if Red Bull cannot offer Yuki an opportunity this year, it raises the question of whether it makes sense to keep him.

"A driver shouldn't remain in a supporting role for five years. It's not ideal to always be second in line. At that stage, you either need to release them or consider a new approach."

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Lewis Hamilton's Wealth: How Much is the F1 Star Worth?

The Formula 1 icon, Lewis Hamilton, has a net worth of £350 million.

This information comes from the Sunday Times Rich List for 2024.

According to a well-regarded list of the wealthiest individuals in the UK, Hamilton holds the 350th

Hamilton was the sole athlete currently competing to be featured on the list.

He was ranked ninth on their list of the "40 Wealthiest Individuals Under 40."

Hamilton is valued at £10 million more than Ed Sheeran.

The Formula 1 champion, who has won the world title seven times, was the wealthiest athlete still competing to ever appear in The Sunday Times Rich List.

Yet, his move to Ferrari in 2025 is expected to positively impact his finances.

According to Forbes, he is set to receive a raise on top of the significant $55 million salary he earned from Mercedes in 2024.

Two years ago, his wealth was valued at £300 million, marking a rise of £40 million since 2021. However, this amount is significantly overshadowed by Toto Wolff's financial standing.

Hamilton is poised to reclaim the top spot on the list of F1 driver earnings, surpassing Max Verstappen, due to his new association with Ferrari.

Verstappen became the highest-paid driver in Formula 1 thanks to generous bonuses tied to his race victories and championship titles.

However, Hamilton's move to Ferrari in 2025 is set to make him the highest-paid driver in Formula 1 once again.

He holds profitable agreements with companies such as Monster energy drinks, Tommy Hilfiger, Sony, and Bose.

He resides in the United States and London, while primarily living in Monaco.

In 2020, Hamilton surpassed David Beckham, who ended his career in 2013, to become the wealthiest British athlete ever recorded on The Sunday Times Rich List.

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Kevin Magnussen mentioned that there was interest from Ferrari and declined an offer from Red Bull. He shared that he had chances to join Ferrari and Red Bull, but those opportunities slipped away.

Kevin Magnussen has stated that there was a possibility he might have driven for either Ferrari or Red Bull at some point in his Formula 1 career.

The Danish driver, aged 32, who found himself without a Formula 1 position for 2025 after Esteban Ocon replaced him at Haas, has shared insights on how his career path might have taken a different direction.

In his initial stint with Haas, Magnussen disclosed that he was considered as a potential replacement for Kimi Raikkonen at Ferrari. However, Ferrari decided to elevate their young talent, Charles Leclerc, to the team in 2019 following his remarkable debut season with Sauber.

Kevin Magnussen, speaking to Autosport, recalled his third season in Formula 1 when he was around 23 or 24 years old. At that time, he felt optimistic, believing that everything was still achievable. There were instances when he sensed that things were moving in a promising direction.

Back in 2018, our car performed exceptionally well during the first half of the year. Charles Leclerc had just made his debut in Formula 1 with Sauber. Initially, his season didn't start off on the right foot, while mine was going remarkably well. Then, out of the blue, Ferrari began to express interest.

Unexpectedly, I found myself using their simulator, not for Haas, but for Ferrari, as they were showing interest. I began to feel enthusiastic about the potential direction this might take. However, Charles began performing exceptionally well, and I didn't hear anything further.

"I'm not sure how close it came to happening. However, I believe that if Charles hadn't started showing good results and had a poor season throughout, I might have been one of the drivers they considered."

"There are moments when it seems like you're nearing your goal, yet it still feels out of reach. That's just how things are."

Rejecting an Offer from Red Bull

Magnussen had a chance to be part of the Red Bull team and thinks he might have eventually secured a spot racing next to Max Verstappen on the main squad.

After Daniel Ricciardo left Red Bull at the conclusion of the 2018 season, Kevin Magnussen's representatives contacted team leader Christian Horner, who then presented an opportunity for a possible position with Toro Rosso.

Magnussen declined the opportunity to race for Red Bull's affiliated team, as he wasn't interested at that moment. In retrospect, he acknowledges that refusing the offer might have been an error.

"Following that season, Daniel Ricciardo departed from Red Bull. I recall my management team having discussions with Christian Horner since there was a lot of buzz surrounding the available seat at Red Bull," he stated.

Christian mentioned that there were no opportunities at Red Bull, but he suggested discussing possibilities at Toro Rosso. I declined, saying, 'No, no, let's not go there,' a decision I might regret now.

Gasly was the one who secured the Red Bull position. Albon, who moved up from F2, initially joined Toro Rosso. However, when Gasly underperformed, Albon stepped in to take his place. As a result, the driver who initially landed the Toro Rosso spot eventually found himself at Red Bull.

Denmark's most accomplished Formula 1 driver admits his career could have taken a different path, but he remains content with how his journey in the sport unfolded without any regrets.

"I definitely had the potential to do more," he admitted. "Honestly, I don't think anyone can claim they gave it their all with no room for improvement. There are always areas where more effort could have been applied… There were moments when I didn't put in enough effort."

"There were moments when I put in a lot of hard work. I have no regrets about my choices. I believe there was nothing more I could have done to alter my career path."

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Toto Wolff was eager to prevent a situation similar to Max Verstappen's from happening again after Lewis Hamilton's unexpected move. Wolff details the challenge of choosing a successor for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes.

Toto Wolff mentioned that he aimed to ensure Mercedes did not lose Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a promising young talent, as they had previously missed the opportunity with Max Verstappen.

Lewis Hamilton's surprising choice to depart from Mercedes after 12 years and switch to Ferrari starting in 2025 has left the Silver Arrows in a rush to find a new teammate for George Russell.

Last year, amidst the chaos at Red Bull, Wolff made a public attempt to recruit Verstappen. However, when it became evident that the Dutch driver would not be leaving, Mercedes decided to elevate their young talent, Antonelli, to a higher position after only one season in Formula 2.

During an appearance on the Armchair Experts podcast hosted by Dax Shepard, Wolff discussed his desire to prevent Antonelli from considering other opportunities if Mercedes failed to provide him with a permanent position.

Wolff experienced a setback earlier when Mercedes' attempt to recruit Verstappen during his Formula 3 days fell through. Instead, Verstappen signed with Red Bull, where he was quickly given a spot to race with Toro Rosso in 2015. He was then elevated to the main Red Bull team just four races into the next season.

Hamilton's departure eventually cleared the path for Antonelli to secure a Mercedes seat ahead of schedule.

Wolff described Hamilton's move from Mercedes to Ferrari as an unexpected twist, admitting it is still strange to imagine him in Ferrari gear and behind the wheel of their iconic red car.

"It's somewhat unbelievable. However, we had this young talent, 17-year-old Kimi Antonelli, lined up. I didn't want to lose the opportunity with him like I did with Max Verstappen years ago, when I didn't have a vehicle available for him. Now, everything is coming together."

"I understand his perspective, as our performance wasn't up to par. Our vehicle lacked speed, and without a doubt, he received an incredible offer. It's a dream for every Formula 1 driver to race for Ferrari."

Wolff Unable to Decide on Dropping Hamilton

In the summer of 2023, Hamilton agreed to a fresh two-year contract with Mercedes. However, he opted to invoke a break clause in his agreement, allowing him to transfer to Ferrari.

By deciding his own future, the seven-time world champion prevented Mercedes from facing a potentially tough decision at the close of 2025.

Wolff confessed that he felt a significant sense of relief at not having to tackle the tough decision of determining when Hamilton would leave Mercedes.

The Austrian expressed that, from a personal perspective, they couldn't make the decision because they are greatly indebted to him.

"I was reluctant to make the decision, as Mercedes, to part ways with the greatest champion of all time."

"Perhaps he sensed it too, as it played a role, and he was aware that Antonelli was on his way. I had a feeling that this might occur, lingering in my thoughts."

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Rumors about Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull have been dismissed, with Christian Horner stating that Verstappen is fully committed to the team.

Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull, asserts that Max Verstappen is not interested in departing from the Formula 1 team.

There has been ongoing discussion and conjecture about the future of Verstappen, a four-time world champion, even though he is signed with Red Bull through the conclusion of the 2028 season.

Throughout last year, Red Bull faced various controversies away from the racetrack, leading to doubts about Verstappen's dedication to the team. During this period, the Dutch driver was frequently associated with Mercedes, as Toto Wolff openly expressed interest in Verstappen as a possible successor to Lewis Hamilton.

Despite the circulating rumors, Verstappen has consistently stated that he has no plans to depart from Red Bull. He expressed satisfaction with the team, where he has secured all four of his world championships since 2021.

In an interview with Motorsport, Red Bull's team leader, Horner, emphasized that Verstappen's future was always secure.

Horner stated that Max has consistently been transparent with the team. His dedication has never wavered. He takes pleasure in working with trusted colleagues and relishes being a member of this team.

Given his exceptional skills, it's certain that every team leader would love to have him on their roster. It's only natural.

"However, as long as we are able to offer him a car that can compete well and a racing environment he finds enjoyable, I don't think he has any wish to be elsewhere."

During the previous Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Verstappen indicated he might leave Red Bull if advisor Helmut Marko were to be dismissed following the controversy involving Horner at the beginning of the season.

When questioned about Verstappen's remarks in Saudi Arabia, Horner replied: "Helmut hasn’t departed and isn’t planning to, so I believe that Max understands the importance of the team, which is something he has developed during this time."

"When the vehicle isn't performing as expected, it's crucial that pitstops are efficient, the strategy is effective, reliability is maintained, and the decisions made are timely and correct."

Horner is continuing with his usual business activities despite accusations regarding his conduct with a female staff member. These allegations have led to rumors about his position and have sparked internal political conflicts and unrest at Red Bull.

After an internal review led by an independent attorney, Horner, who consistently refuted the claims, was found not guilty of any misconduct. The appeal filed by the woman who had accused Horner was rejected.

Horner maintains that the dispute has not influenced his management of the team.

According to him, crossing the red line into the garage means leaving all the paddock's distractions behind. Once you cross that line, it's back to business as usual.

My responsibilities have not shifted. I have numerous duties, including being present at the racetrack, serving as the leader of a successful sports team, and managing three tech companies related to chassis, engines, and cutting-edge technology from Monday through Friday.

"Therefore, everything remains the same, and operations continue as usual."

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Mercedes reveals a 'revolutionary' partnership with Adidas following a major brand shift. Adidas will replace competitor Puma as the new apparel supplier for the Mercedes Formula 1 team.

The Mercedes Formula 1 team has revealed a long-term collaboration with Adidas, naming them as their new apparel partner.

The German company known for its sportswear is set to join Formula 1 in collaboration with Mercedes starting in the 2025 season, marking the conclusion of the Silver Arrows' earlier sponsorship agreement with competing brand Puma.

Adidas plans to develop and produce a full collection that merges functionality with fashion, catering to the whole team, which includes the drivers, mechanics, and engineers.

Mercedes claims that the collaboration will pioneer new advancements in a sport where every millisecond counts.

Mercedes has announced that fans will also have the opportunity to purchase the uniquely designed team apparel.

The collaboration will also feature clothing, shoes, and accessories that are "developed and tailored especially for fans of the team and its drivers."

The agreement offers Adidas a significant new partnership following the loss of its well-known sponsorship of Germany's national soccer team. The American company Nike is set to assume the contract starting in 2027, a decision that has sparked debate.

An agreement described as pioneering

Adidas CEO Bjorn Gulden expressed enthusiasm, stating: "We are thrilled to re-enter the motorsport arena. There has been a significant rise in interest in motorsport overall, with Formula 1 gaining particular attention. It is engaging new audiences and greatly impacts both sports and street fashion cultures."

"We are thrilled to announce that we have become the Official Team Partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, bringing the iconic Three Stripes into the world of Formula 1 with one of the most accomplished teams in history."

As a united entity, we are driven by a mutual enthusiasm for speed, innovation, and excellence. Our commitment lies in backing the drivers and the team to challenge boundaries on the racecourse. Beyond the racetrack, we aim to invigorate the sport with innovative lifestyle offerings and broaden its appeal to engage a younger audience of enthusiasts.

"We are eager to collaborate with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 and achieve victory together."

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff called the move to Adidas a "definitive declaration of our purpose as we embark on a new phase for our team."

"Adidas is a legendary brand that not only matches our commitment to top-notch performance but also to elegance and style," he stated.

This declaration signifies an innovative partnership poised to transform the concept of team and fan apparel within our sport.

"We are thrilled to embark on this new journey in collaboration with adidas, as we unite in our pursuit of winning world championships."

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Lewis Hamilton celebrates his 40th birthday today: Is it possible for him to join the ranks of these nine F1 champions who won races in their 40s?

Could Lewis Hamilton become the next F1 grand prix victor in his forties, making him the tenth to achieve this

Lewis Hamilton marks his 40th birthday today, January 7th.

The seven-time world champion will celebrate his 40th birthday just before the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season, marking his debut year with Ferrari.

After 12 remarkable years with Mercedes, Hamilton has departed the team where he secured 84 grand prix wins and six of his seven world championships. He is now set to join the most renowned team in F1 to conclude his iconic racing career.

By 2025, Lewis Hamilton will be among the pair of F1 drivers who continue competing into their 40s. The other is Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso, who will celebrate his 44th birthday in July.

Only nine drivers have managed to secure Formula 1 victories after reaching the age of 40. Is it possible for Hamilton to become the tenth in

Graham Hill, aged 40, claimed his last victory by crossing the finish line first at the 1969 Monaco Grand Prix. This marked Hill's 14th career win in a grand prix and his fifth triumph at the Monaco circuit, a record that remained unbeaten for 24 years.

Maurice Trintignant, aged 40, made an impressive comeback after a life-threatening accident in a supporting event at the 1948 Swiss Grand Prix. He achieved two wins in Formula 1, with the final one being at the 1958 Monaco Grand Prix, earning him a place in a select group of winners.

Nigel Mansell, aged 41, holds the distinction of being the most recent driver to secure a race win after turning 40. The 1992 world champion achieved his 31st and last Formula 1 victory at the 1994 Australian Grand Prix, where he successfully turned his pole position into a win for the Williams team.

Sam Hanks, aged 42, achieved his only victory in a grand prix event at the 1957 Indianapolis 500, which was notably the third race in that year's F1 world championship. Throughout his career, he found greater triumphs racing in the Champ Car series.

Jack Brabham, aged 43, ranks as the fifth-oldest driver to secure a Formula 1 win. His final triumph out of 14 grand prix victories occurred at the 1970 South African Grand Prix. If Fernando Alonso clinches a race victory this season, he might surpass Brabham on this list.

Piero Taruffi, at the age of 45, achieved a singular victory in Formula 1 during his six-season career. He raced for teams including Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Mercedes, Maserati, and Vanwall. His lone triumph occurred at the 1952 Swiss Grand Prix when he was 45 years and 219 days old.

Juan Manuel Fangio, a legendary figure in Formula 1, was 46 years and 41 days old when he achieved his last victory at the German Grand Prix in 1957. This win at the Nurburgring marked his 24th career triumph and is celebrated as one of the most remarkable achievements in the sport's history. Known as 'El Maestro,' Fangio secured his fifth world championship title with two races still remaining in the season.

Giuseppe Farina, aged 46, was the first-ever world champion in Formula 1, securing the title in the sport's debut season of 1950. He achieved his fifth and last grand prix victory at the German Grand Prix in 1953 while driving for Ferrari. At that point, he was 46 years and 276 days old. Farina kept competing in Formula 1 races until the year 1956.

Luigi Fagioli, aged 53, achieved a significant milestone by winning the 1951 French Grand Prix while driving for Alfa Romeo. At 53 years and 22 days old, he holds the record as the oldest Formula 1 driver to secure a grand prix victory—a record that seems likely to endure. Additionally, Fagioli is the sole grand prix victor who was born in the 1800s.

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Stunning news emerges as Carlos Sainz's potential move to Red Bull is reportedly still a possibility. Is there a chance that Carlos Sainz might eventually become part of the Red Bull team?

Red Bull has possibilities that "stay open" for potentially bringing Carlos Sainz on board in the future, as stated by team principal Christian Horner.

Carlos Sainz was not considered by Red Bull for a spot in their Formula 1 team for the 2025 season. Instead, he signed a multi-year contract with Williams. This move came after he left his position at Ferrari, making way for the seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, to make a high-profile move from Mercedes.

Red Bull has decided to replace Sergio Perez with Liam Lawson for the next season. This decision comes after Perez was dismissed due to his inability to improve his poor performance throughout the 2024 season.

Rumors suggest that a provision in Sainz's contract might allow him to depart from Williams ahead of schedule if Red Bull or Mercedes expresses interest in him.

Red Bull's team leader, Horner, seems to have suggested this with his recent remarks about the 30-year-old Spanish driver who has won four grand prix races.

"Carlos is an excellent driver, and there are still possibilities for him moving forward," Horner mentioned to RacingNews365.

He was certainly a strong candidate, and in various ways, Carlos seemed like a logical choice. However, we opted to focus on our internal talent and have confidence in our junior program.

This approach draws in more young drivers as they perceive a clear route to Formula 1. Opting for someone outside the program would convey the wrong signal, especially given the intense rivalry among teams for securing talent as young as 13 or 14.

This approach is beneficial as it focuses on nurturing young talent. By becoming part of the Red Bull program, individuals can clearly see that performing well almost ensures a path to Formula 1.

"Our preference is to prioritize the advancement of the junior program."

Worries arise over the dynamic between Sainz and Verstappen. Red Bull opted not to pursue Sainz, amid speculation that there is tension between the camps of Max Verstappen and Sainz, stemming from their time as teammates at Toro Rosso back in 2015.

In the previous year, Helmut Marko, who serves as an advisor for Red Bull's motorsport division, stated that the relationship between the two individuals was extremely negative.

In an interview with Marca, Marko stated, "There's no question that Sainz is an excellent driver. During his time at Toro Rosso, he was nearly as good as Max. Unfortunately for him, having Verstappen as a teammate was a stroke of bad luck."

"The environment at Toro Rosso was very unhealthy due to the dynamics between the two. Given the circumstances we had at the time, I couldn't find a solution to retain him on our team. As a result, Carlos moved on to Renault, then McLaren, and eventually found his way to Ferrari."

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Is it a cautionary tale involving Lando Norris or Lewis Hamilton? Max Verstappen shares his strategy for the 2025 Formula 1 season, highlighting his steadfast mindset in the sport.

Max Verstappen has stood by his assertive approach on the track, stating that he is committed to doing whatever it takes to secure victory in Formula 1.

Last year, the Red Bull racer overcame a period during the middle of the season where he didn't win any races for 10 events, allowing him to secure his fourth world championship in a row, even though he occasionally had only the third or fourth most competitive car.

Verstappen found himself in a sometimes intense battle with Lando Norris, as McLaren became the leading team in the latter part of the season, leading to multiple moments of tension between the two drivers.

A week after his driving came under scrutiny due to a close call in Austin, the Dutch driver received two 10-second penalties for his actions involving Norris in Mexico City.

This year, he is set to face McLaren's Norris once more, along with Lewis Hamilton, who has made the move to Ferrari

However, Verstappen maintains that he has complete command over his sometimes debated actions.

"There have been challenging races, debatable decisions, and instances, but I am confident in my actions and am completely in control," Verstappen stated on the official F1 website.

"Occasionally, there's a deliberate reason behind my actions. I maintain full control over my performance on the track. At times, it's essential. I'll do whatever it takes to achieve victory."

"I really dislike losing. While I can admit when someone performs better, losing is never pleasant. This motivates us to improve."

"Despite achieving success in 2023, we aimed to enhance our performance further. This pursuit provided us with significant insights in 2024."

Verstappen is considered flawless

A key factor in Verstappen's strength is his strong confidence in himself.

In 2024, Verstappen proved to be remarkably consistent, showcasing his ability to extract the maximum performance from his car, even when it wasn't operating at its peak.

Even though Verstappen has faith in his skills, he thinks there's always space for enhancement.

Verstappen stated that he doesn't perceive himself as having any weaknesses, and even if he did, he would never acknowledge them.

"I'm quite receptive to new ideas because I understand there's always room for improvement. However, I'm also aware of the challenges involved… While it's possible for someone to deliver an outstanding performance over just one weekend, the real test is maintaining that high level of performance throughout the entire year."

"This involves many factors. I don't want to reveal too much, as it would disclose information. As a driver, it's crucial to consistently perform at your best. It's important to discover what suits you personally since each driver has their own unique method, but you must identify what is effective for you."

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Formula 1 announces a new official timekeeping partner to take the place of Rolex

Max Verstappen sported high-end watches from the new Formula 1 timekeeping sponsor during the last season

Formula 1 has revealed that TAG Heuer, a high-end watchmaker, will once again serve as the official timekeeper for the world championship starting in 2025.

This development is a result of a decade-long agreement between Formula 1 and LVMH, which aims to introduce several of LVMH's high-end brands into the racing world. The collaboration with Liberty Media, the organization behind F1, is believed to have a value reaching up to $1 billion.

Beginning next season, TAG Heuer will once more serve as the official timekeeper for Formula 1, a role it previously fulfilled from 1992 to 2003. The prestigious Swiss watch brand Rolex had been associated with F1 as a partner since 2013.

Formula 1 is set to commemorate its 75th anniversary in 2025 by hosting its inaugural combined season launch event at the O2 Arena in London on February 18.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his pleasure at announcing TAG Heuer as the Official Timekeeper for Formula 1, marking a new chapter in their enduring relationship with the sport.

"Emphasizing innovation, precision, and excellence, they are an ideal collaborator. I am eager to see how our shared history can create new narratives for the future as we mark our 75th anniversary."

TAG Heuer made its debut as a sponsor in Formula 1 56 years ago and currently has collaborations with both Red Bull and the Monaco Grand Prix.

TAG Heuer CEO Antoine Pin stated that in a field characterized by mental toughness, physical power, strategic planning, creativity, and execution, it makes perfect sense for TAG Heuer to play a central role in Formula 1 as the Official Timekeeper.

"For many years, we've been linked to the top drivers and teams in Formula 1 history. It is a great honor and privilege for us to be associated with the element that determines victory: time."

The luxury wine producer Moet and the fashion label Louis Vuitton are anticipated to be announced as Formula 1 partners under the LVMH agreement.

Which Formula 1 drivers are seen with TAG Heuer watches? As expected, due to Red Bull's collaboration with the luxury watchmaker, both Max Verstappen and the departing Sergio Perez have been spotted wearing TAG Heuer timepieces.

Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, owns a unique TAG Heuer Monaco Titanium Special Edition watch. Meanwhile, Sergio Perez, who will not be continuing with Red Bull in 2025, was spotted sporting his personalized version of the TAG Heuer Carrera Tourbillon.

Last season, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell from Mercedes were seen wearing IWC watches, whereas the drivers from Ferrari and McLaren displayed Richard Mille timepieces.

Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll from Aston Martin sported Girard-Perregaux watches, as Alpine secured a deal with H. Moser & Cie for the 2024 season, and Racing Bulls teamed up with Tudor.

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Five Formula 1 drivers are striving to escape the threat of losing their positions in 2025. The pressure on these drivers to maintain their spots on the team is expected to increase significantly.

The 2025 Formula 1 season is drawing near, which means that the focus on certain drivers will intensify.

F1 drivers are under immense pressure as they are anticipated to start strong and maintain their teams in competitive standings within the constructors' championship.

Here are five drivers who might be worried about their positions if they have a rough start…

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old prodigy for Mercedes, has been chosen to take over Lewis Hamilton's seat for the 2025 season. Suggesting that his spot for the upcoming year is in jeopardy wouldn't be accurate, as he hasn't yet participated in an F1 grand prix.

Different factors in the driver market might jeopardize the positions of either Antonelli or his teammate George Russell. Over the past year, Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has openly expressed his interest in bringing Max Verstappen on board.

Although Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, the team's performance on the track might lead to him leaving earlier than planned. In 2024, Verstappen became more dissatisfied with how his RB20 was performing, despite securing his fourth consecutive championship.

Max Verstappen has a deep affinity for Red Bull, and departing from the team would be his final option. However, if such a move occurs, it might mean that Antonelli, or potentially Russell, would have to step aside. Entering Formula 1 with a leading team is a rare opportunity for Antonelli.

In 2007, Hamilton joined McLaren alongside Fernando Alonso and performed exceptionally well, just missing out on winning the drivers' championship. In contrast, more recently, standout talents such as Verstappen, Russell, and Charles Leclerc have spent time honing their skills in teams that are not at the top of the field.

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc each spent almost a year with Toro Rosso and Sauber, respectively. Meanwhile, George Russell had a three-year stint with Williams prior to securing a position with Mercedes. Should Antonelli face significant difficulties during his first season, and Verstappen becomes an option, Toto Wolff might be compelled to make a surprising decision for the 2026 season.

Since rejoining Formula 1 with Williams at the beginning of 2022, Alex Albon has consistently improved his standing in the sport. The Thai driver's performance in F1 was so remarkable that he was considered a potential option for a seat at Ferrari, and there was also speculation about him possibly returning to Red Bull.

Franco Colapinto stepping in for Logan Sargeant midway through the season shifted attention back to Albon. The Argentine driver quickly matched Albon's performance, creating significant pressure for him.

Naturally, Albon held the upper hand, and as the season went on, he consistently kept a lead over Colapinto, who was using outdated equipment. Nevertheless, it indicated that Albon has not yet reached his full potential as a driver with Carlos Sainz set to join the team.

Following his most successful season with Ferrari so far, Sainz is set to move to Williams. This transition will serve as an important evaluation of Albon's genuine skills when pitted against a familiar and established competitor.

As Colapinto stands ready for his opportunity, Albon must deliver an impressive performance this season.

Liam Lawson

Being in the same team as Verstappen means your position is always under threat. In 2025, Liam Lawson faces the challenging job of competing against the four-time world champion.

In a testament to Lawson's abilities, he has quickly adjusted and demonstrated his skills during his brief 11-race experience in Formula 1. Lawson will face significant pressure competing alongside Verstappen, as Red Bull aims to reclaim the top spot in the Constructors' Championship.

Jack Doohan's Position

Among the 20 drivers competing in the 2025 Formula 1 season, Jack Doohan faces the greatest uncertainty regarding his position. There have been consistent speculations concerning Doohan's future with the Alpine team, which started circulating even before he raced in the 2024 season's final event at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Alpine's executive advisor Flavio Briatore has expressed an interest in Colapinto, yet he has stopped short of providing firm guarantees about Doohan completing the season. Considering the rumors surrounding his career and his teammate Pierre Gasly's impressive end to the 2024 season, Doohan will be lucky if he continues into the next year.

Isack Hadjar is set to be among the five newcomers to the Formula 1 lineup in 2025. The driver from France secured second place in the Formula 2 championship, narrowly losing the title to Gabriel Bortoleto, who drives for Sauber.

Despite worries regarding his demeanor and results in different assessments for Red Bull, Hadjar has been selected to join Tsunoda for the next season.

Tsunoda has consistently surpassed his last three teammates, including Nyck de Vries, Daniel Ricciardo, and Lawson, and he anticipates a similar outcome with Hadjar. In 2025, Hadjar will need to deliver strong performances, especially since Red Bull is showcasing 17-year-old talent Arvid Lindblad in F2 this season.

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