Concerns Arise About Red Bull's Long-Term Strategy for Max Verstappen

Discussions Emerge Regarding the Potential of Red Bull's Young Talent

Questions have been raised about Red Bull's strategy for rebuilding if Max Verstappen decides to depart.

Verstappen has pledged his allegiance to Red Bull through 2028, but discussions in the F1 community continue about whether he will fulfill his entire contract.

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Mercedes might present an attractive opportunity once the new rules are implemented in 2026.

Red Bull might choose to look for candidates within their highly praised group of young talents, which presently features Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad.

Rachel Brookes mentioned on the Sky F1 podcast that when comparing Ollie Bearman's performances and Kimi Antonelli's upcoming role with Mercedes next year, Hadjar is outperforming both of them.

"It's not necessarily as dire as it appears. Currently, we're unaware of the potential talent present."

"Understanding Formula 2 is challenging. Many teams have faced difficulties adapting to the recent rule changes."

"You cannot interpret it like you might have previously, such as when Charles Leclerc or George Russell were emerging."

"There is talent present in Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad. I believe the situation isn't as dire as it may appear."

"Who would be the standout star on the team if Max were to leave? Could George Russell, who has one more year on his contract, consider a move to Red Bull?"

"There are many individuals who can take on the second position, but the first position remains uncertain."

The second driver position at Red Bull often sparks discussions, and Sergio Perez might have to battle to retain it for the 2025 season, with Liam Lawson or potentially Yuki Tsunoda as contenders.

However, their top position could also come under examination, even with Verstappen’s extended contract, if the F1 champion is lured elsewhere.

Red Bull's young talent, Hadjar, is currently surpassing the performance of 2025 Formula 1 drivers Bearman and Antonelli in this year's Formula 2 competition, with Lindblad making a name for himself in Formula 3.

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

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Charles Leclerc aims for championship as Lewis Hamilton approaches Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton becomes a potential obstacle to Charles Leclerc's Formula 1 aspirations

Lewis Hamilton has been given a reminder that Charles Leclerc is also aiming to win the F1 championship.

In 2025, Hamilton is set to team up with Ferrari, creating a formidable partnership with Leclerc.

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This implies that for Hamilton to secure his unprecedented eighth championship title, he needs to outshine his eager and ambitious new teammate.

Leclerc told Gazzetta that his memories of his debut race with Ferrari are as vivid as if it happened just yesterday.

"However, I still have numerous objectives to accomplish, and among them is securing a world championship victory with Ferrari."

"The quicker I achieve victory, the more content I become."

"I've always maintained that there were two races I aimed to win during my career: Monaco and Monza. This year, due to our efforts, we achieved that goal."

"My sole objective at this point is to secure the world championship title; all my efforts are dedicated to achieving this."

Next season, Leclerc needs to surpass the most accomplished driver in Formula 1 to achieve his dream of winning the title.

Leclerc mentioned that he was aware of the discussions involving Lewis and believes that having him join would present an additional challenge, considering all of Lewis's achievements.

"I'm thrilled about Hamilton's arrival and eagerly anticipating it, as there's always an opportunity to learn from every teammate."

"I see this as a fantastic chance to demonstrate my abilities behind the wheel."

"However, I have consistently maintained a great rapport with Carlos Sainz."

"Definitely, I will address some uncertainties regarding what Lewis is capable of. However, I will maintain my appearance, and he will stick with his unique fashion choices."

This season, Leclerc reached an important personal achievement by securing his first victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, which is his hometown race.

"I'm committed to becoming the best driver possible and am aware of both my strengths and areas where I need improvement," he stated.

"I consistently strive to better myself from the very first lap."

Leclerc reflected on overcoming challenges in his career, stating that these obstacles were tough to handle. However, they helped him realize that Formula 1 isn't the be-all and end-all, which significantly reduced his stress levels.

"I decided to pull back. While nothing thrills me more than motorsport, my well-being, alongside family and friends, is my top priority."

"It appears clear now, but I hadn't understood it earlier. Recognizing this has, I believe, improved my driving skills."

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

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Guenther Steiner reflects on a significant regret from his tenure at Haas, saying, "Each day felt repetitive; we were merely performing our duties."

Guenther Steiner believes he should have departed from Haas significantly sooner than he actually did.

The ex-leader of the team stepped down from his position at the conclusion of last year, although he feels that the signs were evident a year and a half prior.

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Steiner played a crucial role in establishing the Haas F1 team from the very beginning.

"I hold no ill will towards the team," he mentioned during the Sky F1 podcast.

"When you're in the midst of it, your focus narrows and you think, 'I have to accomplish this.' It's only after you're no longer in that situation that you truly comprehend it."

"You never stop to question why you're doing this, even though it seems illogical."

"When reflecting on the past…"

"I ought to have departed by mid-2022. Things began to become challenging after that."

"I wasn't sure how we could move forward."

"We used to attend races and felt thrilled whenever we earned even a single point. However, there's a limit to how long you can continue doing that. While it's possible to do it for an extended period, it's not something I can sustain."

"I need a larger goal to strive for than just earning a single point. I've already achieved that and moved on."

"When founding a Formula 1 team, the aim is to first establish the team, then earn points, and eventually reach the podium. Setting a goal is essential."

"When the Covid pandemic began, everything came to a standstill. Each day felt monotonous, as we continued to go through the motions of our work."

At the beginning of 2022, Haas had Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin, both of whom lacked significant experience, as their drivers.

Mazepin was quickly dismissed, paving the way for Kevin Magnussen.

Kevin Magnussen secured 13th place in the drivers' standings, while Mick Schumacher ended in 16th. The Haas team achieved seventh position in the constructors' championship.

However, in 2023, the team regressed, marking what would ultimately be Steiner's last year as the head of the team.

Despite team principal Steiner's choice to replace inexperienced drivers with the more seasoned Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg, Haas ended up at the bottom of the constructors' championship standings.

With Ayao Komatsu at the helm this season, Haas seems to be heading towards a more promising future.

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

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Former Ferrari associate highlights key Michael Schumacher characteristic

Michael Schumacher's "remarkable resilience" outlined

A former Ferrari associate has lauded the unparalleled talent of Michael Schumacher.

Michael Schumacher's streak of winning five Formula 1 titles in a row with Ferrari is still a significant chapter in the history of the sport.

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Stefano Domenicali, who currently serves as the CEO of Formula 1, was employed at Ferrari during a portion of Schumacher's peak years.

Domenicali stated to Gazzetta that he has never blamed the team on any occasion.

He was known for his remarkable and exceptional strength.

"I've encountered numerous drivers, yet Michael stood out as exceptional in this regard."

Lewis Hamilton has equaled Schumacher's once unmatched achievement of securing seven Formula 1 championship titles.

If Hamilton secures an eighth championship after moving to Ferrari next year, he could set a new all-time record.

Stefano Domenicali mentioned that Ferrari is expected to acquire Lewis Hamilton shortly. He also expressed his fortune in having collaborated with Fernando Alonso, who proves that age does not impose a restriction.

Despite Kimi Raikkonen's seemingly aloof demeanor, he possessed remarkable sensitivity.

Domenicali revealed what it takes to become a champion driver.

"He stated that the initial step is for him to have faith in being the most powerful of everyone."

"He should be capable of pausing each moment of his performance to make the most of it, while also working seamlessly with the equipment and his team."

"After bringing down the visor, it's essential to act with determination and firmness."

"When you consider a difference of two-tenths, it's essentially insignificant."

"Attention to detail is crucial."

Comparison of Two Ferrari Legends

While at the Italian automaker, Domenicali was under the leadership of two renowned figures: Luca di Montezemolo and Jean Todt.

"Two individuals who appreciated me personally, and more importantly, contributed to Ferrari," Domenicali stated.

"Montezemolo revitalized a company that had been struggling. He brought clarity to its values, and the results are evident in the figures."

"I ended up spending more time with Todt than with my own spouse."

"I was taught to work with great attention to detail and accuracy, and he emphasized the importance of having faith in those around him as a guiding principle."

Reflecting on his departure from Ferrari ten years ago, Domenicali remarked, "Leaving was difficult because, after spending 23 years there, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing there are no other opportunities."

"However, I felt at ease because, although things didn't turn out as planned, it was appropriate to accept accountability and withdraw from the situation."

"It resembled a funnel, and then there's that moment that prompts you to steer in the correct path and tackle decisions with composure."

"I recall the warmth and kindness from everyone in the team on the day I announced my departure."

"I departed with the understanding that I had finished a significant journey, even though I was uncertain about what the following day would bring."

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

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Kimi Antonelli: My Driving Style Resembles Lewis Hamilton's

Kimi Antonelli Shares Insights on Joining the Mercedes Team

Kimi Antonelli states that the way he drives resembles that of Lewis Hamilton.

Mercedes has made a daring choice by deciding to switch out seven-time Formula 1 champion Hamilton for newcomer Antonelli in the upcoming season.

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Toto Wolff's confidence in the exceptionally talented young driver suggests that he will take on a racing position with significant expectations.

In an interview with Gazzetta, Antonelli mentioned that Hamilton is extremely polite and frequently engages in conversation with him.

"In terms of design, it resembles mine, as the vehicle tends to experience significant understeer."

While I was in Singapore, I gained a lot of knowledge by listening to him converse with the engineers.

"I'll need to adapt to listening to all the engineers through headphones, as I'm generally a person who doesn't talk a lot."

"However, when they do communicate, it's to provide valuable details, so I must thoroughly understand the processes."

Pressing the incorrect button can create chaos.

"A chair equipped with a steering wheel is expected to be delivered to my home shortly, where I'll familiarize myself with the take-off processes and different protocols."

"You also need to be familiar with the location of each button so that you can find them without looking."

Mercedes was deliberate in choosing Antonelli to succeed Hamilton, subjecting him to multiple evaluations in the process.

He identified the reason he was chosen: "It was due to my immediate and exceptional speed."

"I initially had difficulty keeping up with the race pace, but following a test session at Spa, they noticed significant improvement and became confident."

"Just two days after that, I received a call informing me that I had been selected for 2025."

"Nowadays in Formula 1, there is an abundance of data available, including real-time telemetry, which provides guidance on what actions to take. However, I am given considerable freedom to make my own decisions."

"During a test session at Spa, I successfully improved my ability to predict when the tyres would start to wear out."

Antonelli's initial attempts during a Formula 1 weekend didn't unfold as expected.

During the first practice session at Monza, he was driving, but an accident cut his time on the track short.

"The initial lap gave an extraordinary feeling with the crowd filling the bleachers," he remarked.

"I then misbehaved a bit. I'll now have two additional chances in Mexico and Abu Dhabi."

"Russell? He wasn't pleased, but I had picked up speed before heading into the Parabolica."

"I get along well with George, though he hasn’t offered me any significant advice. At the moment, things are going smoothly. However, my goal for next year is to surpass him."

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of subjects including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Carlos Sainz speaks out on being passed over by Mercedes and Red Bull: "It was painful and I can't grasp their decisions."

Carlos Sainz opens up about the "pain" of being overlooked by the leading teams in Formula 1.

Carlos Sainz expresses that he is "still baffled" by the decisions made that have resulted in his exclusion from leading teams this year.

Carlos Sainz became a sought-after driver in the Formula 1 market after learning that Lewis Hamilton would replace him at Ferrari in 2025.

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Opportunities with Red Bull, Mercedes, and Aston Martin did not come through, so he ended up joining Williams instead.

Sainz explained to Sky Sports regarding the refusals, saying, "I have certainly made peace with it."

"I firmly believe that if I don’t end up going there, it’s because life has other plans for me."

"Something positive is on the horizon that will make a difference."

"Back then, it was painful. We all possess pride. My pride is tied to being a driver."

"Back then, I just couldn't wrap my head around it. Even now, I'm baffled by some decisions people have made."

"However, it presents a greater challenge for me, which increases my enthusiasm for Williams."

"Williams supported me from the start, having approached me a year ago."

"I'm thrilled and eager to return the kindness and support they showed me."

"It empowers me. I'm eager to start creating something positive."

Sainz has secured victory in two Grand Prix races this year and has achieved a total of four wins in his career.

However, Red Bull decided to stick with Sergio Perez, Aston Martin reaffirmed their support for Fernando Alonso, and Mercedes opted for the young talent of Kimi Antonelli.

Sainz has opted for the Williams team over other opportunities, such as those with Audi or Alpine.

For Williams, acquiring a seasoned racer with his level of success is a significant achievement.

It is yet to be determined if leading teams will later wish they had included someone with his level of experience for the upcoming year.

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

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Eddie Jordan criticizes the FIA, accusing them of intentionally obstructing Max Verstappen during the Brazilian event. He questions whether the decision to bring out the red flag, which occurred six or seven cars after Verstappen's, was fair to the driver.

Former Formula 1 team principal Eddie Jordan has criticized former FIA race director Niels Wittich for his management of the red flag situation during the qualifying session at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen was eliminated during the second qualifying session at Interlagos as he failed to enhance his time on his last lap.

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This occurred due to Lance Stroll's disabled Aston Martin, leading to a red flag situation.

In contrast to other instances where qualifying was halted by red flags, this particular delay took about 40 seconds to implement, which left Verstappen frustrated with when it occurred.

Even though Verstappen ultimately triumphed in the race after beginning from 17th position on the grid, the outcome might have played a crucial role in the championship battle, especially since his competitor, Lando Norris, began from pole position.

During an appearance on the Formula for Success podcast, Jordan criticized the FIA in a conversation with his co-host, former F1 driver David Coulthard.

Coulthard initiated the conversation by stating: "I believe it has now settled into a natural position, where the timing of the Safety Car's appearance is left to the whims of racing fortune."

"It's necessary to believe that the race director doesn't consider factors such as the positioning of the cars when making decisions…"

Jordan promptly exclaimed, "Absolutely, he does! Absolutely, he does!"

"Are you seriously suggesting that Max received fair treatment? Was it fair when the red flag was issued after six or seven other cars? Let's be reasonable, David, don't be foolish."

"It's clear that Lando has the favor of the gods on his side; they want him to take the Championship. However, Max has outsmarted him, so Lando won't be victorious."

Coulthard responded by saying, “To be honest, I’m not certain about the accuracy of that. I believe that occasionally, the racing deities are just…” Jordan finished with, “The decision to issue the red flag was incorrect! It was an error!”

"He really messed up, didn't he?"

Next weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix presents an opportunity for Verstappen to secure his fourth straight Formula 1 championship.

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

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Romain Grosjean praises Ayao Komatsu for Haas's resurgence, saying, "The team has returned to a higher standard." He added, "It nearly makes me want to compete for them once more!"

Former Formula 1 racer Romain Grosjean has praised Ayao Komatsu for his performance as the head of the Haas team in 2024.

In a surprising decision by Haas, Komatsu took over from Guenther Steiner at the beginning of 2024.

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With Komatsu at the helm, Haas is set to achieve their highest championship ranking since 2018.

Before Alpine secured a double podium finish in Brazil, Haas was in sixth place in the overall standings.

Grosjean, who competed for the Haas team from 2016 to 2020, expressed high admiration for Komatsu.

In a statement to F1’s official site, he expressed his pride in Ayao’s efforts with Haas, noting how Ayao has elevated the team's performance significantly by maximizing their potential and maintaining his diligent work ethic.

"I was fortunate to learn ahead of the formal announcement regarding Komatsu's appointment as the team principal for Haas; Ayao sent me a message."

"I expressed to him my immense pride in his accomplishments and conveyed how delighted I am for him."

Grosjean jested that the advancements Haas has achieved with Komatsu's guidance make him almost consider returning to race for them.

"Naturally, I had no idea what the outcome would be, but it's amazing. It makes me almost want to compete for them once more!" he remarked.

"You can never be certain. It's a distinct position with a unique perspective, and it involves some political maneuvering as well as media interactions."

"I was unaware of that aspect. I was aware of his ability to organize everything for success, but that particular part was uncertain to me, and he has been performing exceptionally well."

Connor, with his keen insight into F1's controversies and narratives, is the driving force behind our objective reporting.

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Red Bull has advised against adding Franco Colapinto to their roster, citing Sergio Perez as a source of consistency. "Perez not only offers financial backing but also provides a steady presence for the team, which keeps Verstappen content."

Jacques Villeneuve, the Formula 1 world champion from 1997, has cautioned Red Bull about bringing Franco Colapinto on board, highlighting the "stability" that Sergio Perez offers to the team.

The ongoing issues faced by Perez have kept the second seat at Red Bull a subject of intense discussion.

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Red Bull is contemplating elevating either Liam Lawson or Yuki Tsunoda. Meanwhile, Colapinto's impressive performances with Williams during his brief stint in the sport have allegedly caught the eye of several teams.

Despite having a contract for the 2025 F1 season alongside Verstappen, Perez has consistently maintained that he will compete next year.

Perez responded humorously to speculation about his potential retirement at the season's conclusion, posting on his X account just before his hometown race in Mexico.

The racer, who has claimed victory in six grand prix events, shared a video from the movie ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’. In the clip, Leonardo DiCaprio's character declares, “I’m not leaving”.

In an interview with Grosvenor Sport, Villeneuve shared his perspective on the Red Bull scenario and discussed if Colapinto could be the answer.

"Colapinto should definitely have a spot on the racing team," he remarked. "However, there may not be an open position for him. It's quite straightforward. Everyone is speculating that he will replace Perez."

"Perez is currently part of the team and has an active contract. For the past 10 months, rumors have been circulating that he might be leaving after each race. It's time to put an end to these speculations. He is still under contract."

"He provides financial backing and consistency to the team. Verstappen is pleased with his presence. It's uncertain how much of the team's success is due to Perez currently struggling, which is not unusual, or simply because Verstappen is performing exceptionally well."

"Replacing the driver with someone else who doesn't perform any better doesn't accomplish much. The team is aware of this because they have other drivers in the Red Bull junior program."

"The Red Bull Junior team aims to develop drivers for higher-level vehicles, rather than specifically advancing Colapinto to larger cars."

Red Bull is facing the possibility of their lowest position in the F1 constructors' standings since 2019, currently holding third place with only three races remaining in the season.

Since the Chinese Grand Prix in April, Perez has not secured a top-three finish.

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

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Gabriel Bortoleto is set to experience significant pressure as he breaks the dry spell for Brazilian drivers in Formula 1. Veteran driver Rubens Barrichello shares his thoughts on his compatriot, Bortoleto, before his F1 debut scheduled for next year.

Former Formula 1 driver Rubens Barrichello thinks that Gabriel Bortoleto, who is set to drive for Sauber in 2025, will face significant pressure in his debut season.

Bortoleto has been confirmed as part of Sauber's Formula 1 driver roster for the 2025 season, joining Nico Hulkenberg.

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After a gap since 2017 when Felipe Massa raced, a 20-year-old Brazilian has now joined the F1 lineup.

Brazil has a deep-rooted and illustrious connection to the sport, boasting world champions like Nelson Piquet, Emerson Fittipaldi, and Ayrton Senna. Additionally, Rubens Barrichello and Felipe Massa have achieved numerous race victories. Given this legacy, Bortoleto will face significant expectations.

During an appearance on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Barrichello shared his thoughts on Bortoleto as he prepares for his Formula 1 debut next year.

Barrichello expressed his appreciation, stating, "I definitely hold him in high regard." He added that the current focus is not on his driving talent, but rather on assessing his readiness to perform effectively.

"At the moment, everything is going well. People perceive you in a new light, the paddock has its eyes on you, and the current atmosphere is simply enjoyable."

"However, he is an excellent driver. The key will be observing how he progresses in terms of mental management and handling various situations, as he will face significant pressure."

"He is the upcoming talent, and it's been quite a while since we've had a Brazilian driver, so there's a lot of anticipation from the fans. We'll have to wait and see."

Rubens Barrichello had an impressive career that lasted from 1993 to 2011.

He advised Bortoleto to understand himself better, saying that this was the most valuable guidance he could offer at the moment.

There's no need for us to become upset or feel negative about difficult periods. These challenging times are there to help us improve.

"It would have been dull without that challenge; you would have won every race without understanding the true worth of the effort it takes to actually win."

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

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Fresh perspective on Daniel Ricciardo's departure from F1: "It was evident his world had fallen apart."

"Listening to the radio, it was clear his world had come crashing down."

Red Bull's CEO, Peter Bayer, disclosed that Daniel Ricciardo requested that the announcement of his departure from Formula 1 be withheld from the public, despite being knocked out in the first qualifying session at the Singapore Grand Prix.

After the race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, Ricciardo exited the world of Formula 1.

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Ricciardo's departure was unexpected, as he was considered a potential candidate to take over Sergio Perez's spot at Red Bull following the summer hiatus.

It wasn't until the Friday following the Singapore event that Ricciardo's official exit from Red Bull was declared, even though it was already widely known.

In an interview with the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, Bayer discussed the circumstances surrounding Ricciardo's exit and the events that unfolded over the Singapore weekend.

He stated that he and Daniel had come to an agreement not to share the information.

"We understood that our team might appear somewhat old-fashioned. However, we made this choice to safeguard the driver, as it was his preference."

"He was confident up to the last moment that he would lead the pack in qualifying and prove himself to everyone. I've witnessed many athletes, but I've never encountered such strong mental determination. And I've been involved in numerous sports."

Ricciardo's plans for the weekend went awry when he was eliminated in the first qualifying session at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Bayer admitted that it was an extremely difficult time.

"It was a devastating instance when he was eliminated in Q1," Bayer remarked. "You could sense from the radio communication that everything had fallen apart for him."

On Saturday, we had another conversation with him. At 2 a.m., we gathered in our office to discuss our next steps.

He suggested that we allow him to handle the race on his own, emphasizing that he preferred to avoid any complications.

Bayer insists that the team would have provided Ricciardo with a proper farewell had he stayed with them through to the Abu Dhabi event.

Bayer explained the choice to switch Ricciardo for Liam Lawson, saying, "As a group, we positioned ourselves ahead of him."

"If Daniel had made the journey to Abu Dhabi, we would certainly have marked his departure with a fireworks display and a photo on the grid, similar to what we did for [Kimi] Räikkönen in the past."

"That's what people would have preferred."

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Carlos Sainz is set to participate in the post-season test for Williams in Abu Dhabi, marking his debut with the team.

Williams has announced that Carlos Sainz will participate in the team's post-season test in Abu Dhabi, marking his first appearance with them this December.

Carlos Sainz is set to depart from Ferrari to join Williams following Ferrari's decision to sign Lewis Hamilton for the upcoming year.

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In 2025, the Spanish driver aspired to secure a spot with either Red Bull or Mercedes, but neither team chose him.

He had to decide among Alpine, Sauber/Audi, or Williams.

In the end, Sainz decided to become part of the Williams team for the 2025 season,

He is set to make his debut with the team during the Abu Dhabi test that takes place after the season concludes.

In a piece published on their website, Williams expressed that this initial chance enables both Carlos and Williams to start forming their partnership before the upcoming season.

The testing event at Yas Marina Circuit offers the Spaniard an important opportunity to begin acclimating to his new team, as he will be driving the FW46 for the initial time.

In 2025, Carlos will join Alex Albon to race for Williams, creating one of the strongest driver pairings in the competition.

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