![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/lawson-and-verstappen-strategize-on-race-1024x1024-1987803.png)
Rising Star Liam Lawson Tasked with Supporting Verstappen’s Bid for Glory in Red Bull’s Strategic Shift
"Liam Lawson Encouraged to Perform Strongly in Support of Max Verstappen
"Lawson has yet to demonstrate his speed, though he has shown he possesses the necessary determination."
Liam Lawson has been advised to fully accept his position as the secondary driver for Red Bull, even though he is known for his assertive demeanor.
Since taking over Daniel Ricciardo's spot in the RB lineup last season, Lawson has made a significant enough impact to secure a promotion to Red Bull for the 2025 season, where he will join Verstappen as his teammate and take over from Sergio Perez.
The youthful driver from New Zealand notably annoyed Fernando Alonso due to his manner of driving the previous year, however, he has been cautioned that it's unachievable to match the pace of his current team colleague.
"Connor McDonagh expressed on the Crash F1 podcast that he won't stand a chance as he's significantly slower than Verstappen in terms of outright speed."
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Lawson's aggressive racing skills could be advantageous for Verstappen. Should Lawson find himself a few positions back and is ready to take a bold approach, he could support Verstappen's efforts.
"Facing teams like Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren? Should Lawson opt for an assertive approach, one that Perez struggled to adopt due to frequent eliminations in Q1 and Q2, it might advantage Verstappen.
"However, it appears Verstappen shouldn't be concerned. There's likely to be a noticeable gap between them."
"Lawson has yet to demonstrate his speed. However, he has shown that he possesses the resilience on the circuit to compete directly with Alonso."
"Lawson possesses attributes that could make him extremely valuable. However, when it comes to speed, Verstappen likely won't have any concerns."
Liam Lawson was instructed to 'get the job done' at Red Bull
Due to Perez's subpar performance in 2024, Red Bull struggled to accumulate points, ultimately losing the constructors’ title to McLaren.
Lawson has been instructed to gather sufficient points to support Verstappen and Red Bull's totals.
"Lewis Larkam mentioned on the podcast that the issue will resolve swiftly. He believes Verstappen will easily get the better of Lawson, particularly at the beginning."
"It's likely there will be a significant difference between the two."
The optimal approach for him, in Lawson's case, is to enter this without the anticipation of outperforming Verstappen. Without attempting to do so.
Everyone understands that's not the reason he was placed in the vehicle.
Red Bull must intensify their competition in the championship and regain their position as title contenders. This is the reason Perez was let go.
"His sole involvement led to Red Bull falling to third place, a situation they cannot let happen once more."
Lawson is naturally inclined to excel in his endeavors. However, it would not be prudent for him to become overly obsessed with this aspiration.
"He needs to fulfill his employment responsibilities, which involve staying close to Verstappen instead of lagging 10 or 15 places behind and getting eliminated in Q1. His role is to accumulate points and potentially secure a second-place finish behind Verstappen, especially if Red Bull possesses a race-dominating car.
"This is fundamentally the reason for his recruitment."
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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.
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Marc Marquez Partners with Insta360 for Revolutionary On-Track Footage in 2025 MotoGP Season
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/marquez-races-insta360-camera-captures-s-1024x1024-61475605.png)
Marc Marquez reveals new partnership for exceptional visor footage
Marc Marquez unveils latest sponsorship deal
Marc Marquez has secured an interesting sponsorship deal for the 2025 MotoGP season.
The Ducati team's racer has disclosed an agreement with Insta360.
Insta360 is known for manufacturing cameras that capture 360-degree imagery, which is reflected in their company name.
Check out this Instagram post from Marc Márquez (@marcmarquez93)
In Marquez's recent social media update, he shares stunning perspectives of him maneuvering his Ducati, drawing his followers deeper into his world.
The business mentions, "Our network of Insta360 team members, encompassing both athletes and content creators, spans the globe. They utilize our cameras to capture their extraordinary adventures and inspire their creative pursuits."
Over the past year, Marquez has seen a transformation in his endorsements after transitioning from Honda to Ducati.
In 2023, upon becoming an official Ducati team member, Marquez concluded his lengthy partnership with Red Bull due to Ducati's collaboration with competing energy drink brand, Monster.
Marquez has managed to keep Estrella Galicia, a Spanish beer brand, as one of his individual sponsors.
Ducati has acknowledged that Marquez's presence in their team has expanded their reach to a broader audience, thanks to his reputation as the most famous MotoGP rider.
He is poised to compete for his ninth world championship this season, aiming to achieve an incredible comeback from his injury woes and match Valentino Rossi's record.
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Ducati’s Unexpected Rival: Yamaha Surges as MotoGP 2025 Challenger, Says Tardozzi
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/yamaha-motorcycle-shadowing-ducati-on-ra-1024x1024-92663583.png)
Davide Tardozzi unexpectedly names Ducati's rival for the 2025 MotoGP season
"I was aware they would advance – just not this rapidly!"
Ducati is poised to dominate the 2025 MotoGP World Championship, leading the predictions for sweeping all three championships due to their recent advancements in technology and their formidable team of riders.
It remains uncertain which competitor will emerge as the primary rival to the Bologna marque. In recent times, this position has fluctuated between KTM, Aprilia, or occasionally both. However, during the previous week's Sepang test, Yamaha distinguished itself as a noteworthy contender.
Team leader Davide Tardozzi of Ducati Lenovo was anticipating advancements from the Iwata brand after they brought on board ex-Ducati engineer Max Bartolini at the start of 2024. However, the rapid pace at which these improvements have occurred has caught him off guard.
"Tardozzi revealed to MotoGP.com after the Sepang test last week that he was aware Yamaha would improve, but he didn't anticipate it happening so swiftly. During the test, Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo not only secured the third-fastest time but also demonstrated consistent speed during extended laps."
"Regardless, I'm quite familiar with Massimo Bartolini. I had complete confidence in his ability to help them advance significantly."
"Now it's clear to me that they're paying close attention to what he says, and in my opinion, they have an incredible talent in Fabio [Quartararo]. Without a doubt, he's currently our rival."
During the recent trial, several impressive Sprint simulations caught attention, notably from Quartararo and also from Tardozzi's racer, Marc Marquez.
The Spanish rider managed to clock times in the upper 1 minute and 57 seconds range during the initial four laps of his run, eventually settling into the lower 1 minute and 58 seconds range by the conclusion of his session.
Just a single competitor outpaced him: Alex Marquez; and this two-time World Champion isn't the sole satellite Ducati competitor that Tardozzi is closely watching at this point.
"Tardozzi observed the elder Marquez's Sprint simulation with a grin," he recounted, "yet ultimately, we have another Marquez who excelled since Alex performed an outstanding simulation."
"Ultimately, it boils down to a challenge – come the day of the race, circumstances change, and I believe that Marc [Marquez] and Pecco [Francesco Bagnaia] will be in contention."
"I'm confident that our affiliate teams will also demonstrate strong competitiveness this year."
"The Ducati Lenovo team manager expressed confidence that Franco Morbidelli and Alex Marquez will be strong contenders right from the outset. He also conveyed his regret for Fabio Di Giannantonio's situation, assuring that the team eagerly anticipates his return, recognizing his potential to compete at the same level."
"We're anticipating the midpoint of the season, if not sooner, to witness the debut of the promising young racer, as I believe Fermin Aldeguer is set to astonish everyone."
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McLaren Secures Future with Aerodynamics Maestro Peter Prodromou in Landmark Contract Extension
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/prodromou-celebrates-mclaren-contract-am-1024x1024-94355664.png)
McLaren has secured a crucial member of their Formula 1 team, aerodynamic specialist Peter Prodromou, by offering him a substantial contract.
McLaren has revealed that they have extended their contract with famous Formula 1 aerodynamics expert Peter Prodromou for several more years.
Since coming back to McLaren from Red Bull in 2014, the 56-year-old has been vital to the team. In 2023, he took on the role of technical director for aerodynamics, significantly contributing to the improvement of McLaren's Formula 1 performance.
After revamping their technical team, McLaren, guided by Prodromou, progressed from being at the back of the F1 grid to leading the pack and claimed their first constructors' championship in 26 years in 2024.
Prodromou spent 15 years working at McLaren before joining Red Bull in 2006. At Red Bull, he led the aerodynamics department under the guidance of Adrian Newey, playing a crucial role in Newey's design team, which won multiple championships.
Just before the start of the 2025 season, McLaren experiences a morale lift with the renewal of his contract. This comes after the team secured long-term deals with Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and their team leader, Andrea Stella.
Prodromou expressed his pleasure at remaining in his position as the Technical Director for Aerodynamics with the McLaren F1 Team. He stated that it is a privilege to work with such a cooperative group and to play a role in the team's impressive progress. Reflecting on the achievements of the previous season, he is eager to continue working towards their collective goal of winning additional World Championships.
"I appreciate Zak and Andrea for consistently trusting me in my role as Technical Director of Aerodynamics. I'm also thankful to my teammates for offering exceptional support both personally and professionally."
Stella commended the influence Prodromou has exerted on McLaren after rejoining the team in Woking.
"The cultural, organizational, and technical guidance Peter provided has been crucial. He played a significant role in transforming the team's performance both on the racetrack and behind the scenes, ultimately leading the team to secure their ninth FIA Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship in 2024," he stated.
"Our path as a team wouldn't have been possible without Peter, and we eagerly anticipate continuing our pursuit of more World Championships together."
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Ducati’s Unexpected Rival for 2025 MotoGP Glory: Tardozzi Eyes Yamaha as Formidable Challenger
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ducati-and-yamaha-bikes-race-tension-mou-1024x1024-56136615.png)
Davide Tardozzi Surprisingly Names Ducati Challenger for 2025 MotoGP Season
"I was aware they would improve – just didn't foresee it happening this rapidly!"
Ducati is stepping into the 2025 MotoGP World Championship as the top contender for all three championships, attributed to their recent supremacy in technology and their formidable lineup of riders.
It remains uncertain which competitor will emerge as the primary rival to the Bologna-based team. In recent times, this position has alternated between KTM, Aprilia, or sometimes both. However, during the last week's testing session in Sepang, Yamaha distinguished itself as a noteworthy contender.
Ducati Lenovo's team leader, Davide Tardozzi, anticipated improvements from the Iwata brand following their hiring of ex-Ducati engineer Max Bartolini at the start of 2024. However, the rapid pace of these advancements caught him off guard.
"Tardozzi revealed to MotoGP.com after last week's Sepang test that he was aware Yamaha would improve, but he was surprised by the rapid advancement. During the test, Yamaha's Fabio Quartarazzo achieved the third fastest time and demonstrated consistent speed during extended laps."
"Regardless, I'm quite familiar with Massimo Bartolini. I had no doubt that he could help them advance significantly."
“Currently, it's clear to me that his words carry significant weight with them, and considering they have an exceptional talent in Fabio [Quartararo], he's undoubtedly our main competitor at this point.”
Satellite Competition
The recent trial featured several impressive Sprint trials, notably from Quartararo, as well as from Tardozzi's racer, Marc Marquez.
The Spanish rider managed to record lap times in the high-1:57 range during the initial four laps of his simulation, eventually finishing with times in the low-1:58 range by its conclusion.
Alex Marquez alone outpaced him; the two-time World Champion is also among the satellite Ducati riders Tardozzi is currently watching closely.
"Tardozzi observed the older Marquez's Sprint simulation with a grin," he remarked. "However, ultimately, there's another Marquez who performed excellently as Alex delivered an outstanding simulation."
"Ultimately, it's an evaluation – come the day of the race, the dynamics often shift, and I believe that Marc [Marquez] and Pecco [Francesco Bagnaia] will be in contention."
"I'm confident that our affiliated teams will also demonstrate strong competitiveness this year."
"The Ducati Lenovo team manager expressed confidence that Franco Morbidelli and Alex Marquez will be strong contenders right from the start of the season. He also conveyed his regret over Fabio Di Giannantonio's situation, reassuring that the team eagerly anticipates his return, acknowledging his potential to compete at the top level."
"We're anticipating the mid-season or possibly sooner to witness the emergence of the new young talent, as I believe Fermin Aldeguer is going to astonish everyone."
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Ducati at a Crossroads: Crunch Engine Decision Looms in Buriram as Marquez and Bagnaia Weigh In
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ducati-motorcycle-crossroads-sign-intens-1024x1024-77410378.png)
Ducati hints at pivotal engine choice in Buriram
Marc Marquez, Pecco Bagnaia, and Davide Tardozzi comment on engine selection decision
Ducati has alluded to a significant engine choice critical to their MotoGP campaign for the 2025 season.
During the upcoming two-day test in Buriram, they are faced with the decision of either moving forward with their new engine or sticking with the one from the previous season.
Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, who are the team's main riders, conducted tests in Sepang, understanding that their chances for the championship hinge on choosing wisely.
"According to Marquez, who spoke to MotoGP.com following the Sepang trial, the focus isn't just on the engine but also includes a compilation of minor details. He noted that with the upcoming period, both he and Francesco Bagnaia, referred to as Pecco, will have ample opportunity to dissect these elements, thanks to the extensive laps they've completed."
"I believe they'll make a wise choice, given that over the past three days in the garage, I've observed their courage and composure in making the right calls; […] at times, being cautious is necessary when you're already equipped with the top motorcycle.
"It's crucial that we have absolute certainty that the 2025 engine significantly outperforms its predecessors, which currently, we cannot confirm. Therefore, a period of waiting is necessary."
Marquez prefers a cautious strategy for the 2025 motorcycle, driven by his aim to minimize risk. This is because any errors would need to be dealt with over two seasons, which matches the duration of Marquez's inaugural contract with Ducati.
"We must avoid any unwarranted danger," he stated.
It's important to realize that, from the last set of enhancements, they secured victories in 19 out of 20 races.
"However, it's natural that engineers and producers are constantly aiming for enhancements."
"However, if certainty is lacking, it's wise to hold off. Yet, looking ahead to 2025, there are encouraging signs, suggesting we should continue to seek clarity."
Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP (@crashmotogp_)
Ducati acknowledges their latest engine lacks certain elements
Marc Marquez's partner, Francesco Bagnaia, highlighted that the engine for 2024 is not brand new, being a year old. He conceded as well that the engine set for 2025 is not yet up to par, indicating it lacks some aspects.
"Francesco Bagnaia mentioned to MotoGP.com, 'Honestly, the GP24 is an amazing device and it's performing incredibly well.'"
"However, we've been utilizing it for an entire season now. The GP25 engine appears remarkable, and its power output is impressive, yet there's still something lacking."
"Thus, making a decision isn't straightforward, and we require an additional two days in Thailand to gain clarity."
Bagnaia did not verify if his below-average time attack, during which he fell behind in two sectors, occurred while he was testing the 2025 engine.
Ducati Lenovo's team leader, Davide Tardozzi, shared Marquez's view, disclosing that post-Sepang evaluations are tilting towards favoring the 2024 engine.
"He mentioned that the 2025 engine holds significant promise. However, he believes that the regulations compel them to adopt a cautious approach, given the requirement for the engine to serve for a two-year duration."
"Currently, the scales are tipping slightly more in favor of 2024 than 2025. However, the final decision will be made in Thailand."
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Haas Sets Ground Rules to Prevent On-Track Drama with New 2025 F1 Line-Up of Ocon and Bearman
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/f1-cars-racing-under-dramatic-sunset-sky-1024x1024-10090567.png)
How Haas Intends to Prevent Tensions with Updated 2025 F1 Team
Haas is set to implement 'rules of engagement' for its new Formula 1 drivers, Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman.
Haas plans to clarify the "rules of engagement" for their drivers, Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman, ahead of the start of the 2025 F1 season.
The American team is entering the new season with an entirely new set of drivers after Nico Hulkenberg left for Sauber and Kevin Magnussen stepped away from Formula 1.
Esteban Ocon has transitioned from competing with Alpine, a team in the midfield, and as a newcomer to Formula 1, while Ferrari's junior driver, Oliver Bearman, has secured a permanent position, finalizing Haas's revamped driver roster for the 2025 season.
The principal of the Haas team, Ayao Komatsu, plans to establish clear guidelines before the season starts. This move aims to reduce the chances of any on-track conflicts between teammates.
The roster is thrilling, and there is a possibility of conflicts, as Ocon is known for being aggressive with his teammates, while Bearman will be eager to make a strong impression during his debut F1 season.
"It is essential to have a crystal clear understanding of the engagement rules right from the start," Komatsu emphasized.
"Before the first race, everything will be made clear. I don't anticipate any collisions between teammates or any resulting DNFs because of this."
"You must compete aggressively. Consider last year as an example—Kevin is known for racing intensely, and the nearest we got to a problem, which ultimately didn't turn into one, was in Austria with Kevin and Nico."
"One reason is that our timing for pitstops wasn't executed perfectly, which didn't work in our favor."
"As a group, we should avoid causing such problems. Additionally, with mutual understanding among us as colleagues, the guidelines for working together would be completely transparent."
Haas has previously dealt with conflicts between teammates, notably when Kevin Magnussen and Romain Grosjean had disagreements during their time with the team. In 2021, tensions also arose between Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin.
However, Komatsu believes that Haas can steer clear of any disputes involving Ocon and Bearman.
He stated, "If I'm forced to refer to the pairing of Nikita and Mick as an example, then I'm essentially in a difficult situation."
Analyzing our performance from the previous year, we examine ways to enhance the team, recognizing our strengths and areas for improvement from last year. Applying these insights to the current year reveals an entirely new phase characterized by different dynamics and drivers.
"Frankly speaking, Esteban and Ollie are both exceptional drivers. They still have much to demonstrate. I believe we have an excellent pairing, and I'm eager to see how it unfolds."
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From Dream Debut to Dismissal: Nyck De Vries Reflects on F1 Rollercoaster and Sudden Exit
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/nyck-de-vries-contemplative-amid-racing-1024x1024-7541010.png)
"Nowhere to Run" – Former F1 Driver Discusses Harsh Dismissal
Ex-Formula 1 racer Nyck De Vries shares his experience of being abruptly let go after only competing in 10 races.
Nyck De Vries has spoken candidly about his short time in Formula 1 before being abruptly removed from the team.
After making an impressive last-minute debut for Williams at the 2022 Italian Grand Prix, where he scored points due to Alex Albon being sidelined with appendicitis, De Vries secured a full-time position with AlphaTauri, Red Bull's associated team, for the 2023 season after Pierre Gasly chose to move to Alpine.
The Dutch driver faced challenges at the beginning of his time with AlphaTauri and was eventually replaced by Daniel Ricciardo, who serves as a reserve driver for Red Bull, after only 10 races in the season.
During an interview on the Cool Room podcast, De Vries admitted, "I suppose I didn't manage to get up to speed as quickly as needed. There were certain moments where things could have easily turned in my favor, but unfortunately, they didn't."
In the end, my superiors concluded that my performance didn't meet their expectations during my tenure, leading them to choose a replacement. This period was difficult, as there was significant public discussion about the situation, yet I was largely kept out of the loop. There wasn't much direct communication with me about the matter.
"You gather all the information from the media. On F1 weekends, there is a lot of interaction with journalists, so nearly every weekend starting from my second one, I found myself having to address inquiries about my future. It seemed a bit strange, but that's just the way it is sometimes."
De Vries, who won the Formula 2 championship in 2019, confessed that he found it challenging to handle the pressure due to constant media attention.
He described how teams face not only external pressure from the media but also pressure from within. Each team manages these pressures in its own way, but when both are present, it essentially doubles the challenge.
No matter where you go, it seems like the media is constantly observing you. Although I wouldn’t call it an attack, it's undeniable that they discuss and report on it non-stop. As you navigate through the paddock and interact within that environment, it becomes evident that everyone is aware of the situation, and there's no escaping it.
"Although you might want to, there's no escaping the situation. My approach was to avoid it by not engaging with any news – I simply stopped reading altogether. Yet, you're still aware it's happening."
The Formula E champion, aged 30, expressed feeling "hurt" yet also "somewhat relieved" after leaving Formula 1.
He expressed that missing out on a long-held dream so swiftly and unexpectedly was quite painful. Despite feeling hurt, he also experienced a slight sense of relief.
Helmut Marko referred to De Vries as the most significant error he made during his time as Red Bull's motorsport advisor.
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Revving Up for the Final Showdown: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025 MotoGP Buriram Test
![](https://automobilnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/motogp-bikes-lined-up-anticipation-high-1024x1024-69348638.png)
2025 MotoGP Buriram Test: Tracking Guide
Details on the schedule, timings, and ways to keep up with the MotoGP's two-day testing event in Buriram.
Here's your guide to keeping up with the MotoGP Buriram test on February 12th and 13th, 2025. Below, you'll find the schedule for when the testing begins.
The last chance for MotoGP teams and riders to fine-tune their bikes before the season's opening race has arrived.
Ducati faces a significant challenge in deciding whether to enter the season with their 2025 or 2024 engine model.
Yamaha, on the other hand, surprisingly grabbed attention in Sepang and might solidify their emerging status as underdogs.
Jorge Martin from Aprilia and Fabio di Giannantonio of VR46 will miss the test due to injuries.
The inaugural race of the season, known as the Thailand MotoGP, is scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 2.
GUIDE ON KEEPING UP WITH THE 2025 MOTOGP BURIRAM TRIAL FROM ANY LOCATION
Unfortunately, a live stream for viewing each lap of the MotoGP 2025 Buriram trial is not available.
The last half-hour will be available on MotoGP Video Pass.
Stay updated with Crash.net for real-time race data, along with the latest updates from the circuit. We'll deliver insights directly from the competitors and essential technology news.
Keep an eye out for amazing pictures on Crash.net's MotoGP X and on Instagram at CrashMotoGP.
MotoGP.com plans to stream 'After The Flag' daily, providing summaries of the track events.
Starting times for the 2025 MotoGP Buriram trials
Wednesday, February 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, which corresponds to 3 a.m. to
On Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, which corresponds to 3 a.m. to
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Valtteri Bottas Embraces Mentor Role for Kimi Antonelli Amid Hopes for 2026 F1 Comeback
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Valtteri Bottas discusses his position as a "mentor" to Kimi Antonelli following his comeback to Mercedes. Bottas stated, "My responsibility is to assist the team in any way possible. Since Kimi is new, he will likely seek guidance more frequently than George."
Valtteri Bottas has promised to support Andrea Kimi Antonelli throughout his first season in Formula 1, following Bottas' comeback to Mercedes in the role of reserve driver.
Following being passed over by Sauber for this season, Bottas went back to Mercedes to take on the role of reserve and test driver.
The Finnish driver will take over for Antonelli or George Russell if either of them is unable to compete in a Formula 1 race weekend this season.
Bottas is eager to make a strong impression as he aims for a return to the racing grid in 2026, possibly with Cadillac.
At the beginning of this year, Mercedes leader Toto Wolff outlined his strategy for Bottas to "guide" Antonelli during his first year.
At just 18 years old, Antonelli is the F1 grid's youngest competitor, having only a modest amount of experience in single-seater racing.
During the event marking the beginning of Mercedes' collaboration with Adidas, Bottas discussed his responsibilities with the team for the year 2025.
Bottas mentioned to Sky Sports that he believes the term "mentor" is quite fitting. He explained that when someone is new to the sport, there are numerous unfamiliar aspects they need to understand.
"I am certainly able to assist with that. My role is to support the team in any way I can. Since Kimi is new, he might have more inquiries compared to George."
The team will benefit from additional assistance throughout the race weekend, focusing on analyzing data, examining driving trajectories, and similar tasks.
"I plan to participate in all the technical meetings and contribute significantly in the simulator. It’s going to be a hectic year, but I’m excited about this new experience."
Is Bottas set to make a comeback to Formula 1 in 2026?
Bottas is optimistic about his chances of rejoining the grid in 2026.
The Finnish driver engaged in discussions with Sauber, Williams, and Haas, yet was unsuccessful in obtaining a position with any of those teams.
Williams made the decision to go with Carlos Sainz, whereas Haas chose a younger alternative by selecting Esteban Ocon.
The Sauber team opted to have a newcomer join Nico Hulkenberg, bringing F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto on board.
As an 11th team is expected to enter the racing circuit in 2026, Bottas may see an opportunity to make a comeback with Cadillac.
Nonetheless, the driver who has claimed victory in 10 F1 grand prix races will encounter tough rivalry in his quest to obtain a position with the U.S.-based team.
It is probable that an American driver will occupy one of the seats.
Sergio Perez, Zhou Guanyu, and Kevin Magnussen are all available as free agents.
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Ecclestone Doubts Hamilton’s Ferrari Future: Predicts Challenges and Rivalries in New Chapter
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Bernie Ecclestone Foresees Lewis Hamilton's Struggle at Ferrari
Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has expressed significant skepticism regarding Lewis Hamilton's transition to Ferrari.
Ex-F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has forecasted that Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari will be short-lived after his high-profile move from Mercedes.
In a move that captivated global audiences, seven-time world champion Hamilton revealed his decision to join Ferrari in 2025, marking the end of his remarkable 12-year journey with the Silver Arrows last February.
Hamilton recently finalized his sensational transfer and has been intensifying his preparations for his inaugural season with Ferrari, conducting tests with their 2023 and 2024 vehicles in the past few weeks.
The British individual, aged 40, has signed a contract with Ferrari that spans several years, reportedly encompassing the 2025 and 2026 seasons at a minimum.
In his most recent criticism of Formula 1's top achiever, Ecclestone predicts that Hamilton's stint with Ferrari is destined to be unsuccessful.
"Ecclestone expressed to The Telegraph his belief that he won't remain for much longer."
"Piero Ferrari, the one responsible for bringing him there, remains convinced that their decision was the correct one. I wish for their sake that it is."
"I hope their decision to dive in doesn't lead to regret."
Ecclestone's disapproval seems to be based on his assertion that Hamilton no longer possesses the drive to secure more F1 championships.
"Ecclestone shared his viewpoint, stating, 'In my opinion, it's not necessarily about the driver's age, but rather the duration they've been performing the same task.'"
I share Lewis's opinion that he is becoming weary and has experienced a decline in motivation.
"Had he not secured a world championship title, the circumstances might vary, as there would be a motivation to claim one. However, he has achieved this feat seven times."
The former Formula 1 boss believes that Hamilton might end up creating "enemies" at Ferrari because of how beloved his teammate Charles Leclerc is among the team.
"Ecclestone mentioned that the team is pleased with Charles Leclerc and his partnership. Leclerc communicates in the same language as them, which means they will take good care of him," Ecclestone stated.
"Regardless of Lewis's success, he will continue to face numerous adversaries due to his abrupt arrival."
Ecclestone aligns with Alpine consultant Flavio Briatore, former Ferrari leader Mattia Binotto, and ex-F1 team manager Eddie Jordan in questioning Hamilton's decision to switch to Ferrari.
Their remarks come after a lackluster 2024, which was Hamilton's last season with Mercedes, during which he was significantly bested by his erstwhile teammate George Russell.
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Alain Prost Slams ‘Senna’ Series: ‘A Lack of Sensitivity’ in Portrayal of F1 Rivalry
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Alain Prost has expressed his disapproval of a Netflix mini-series focused on Ayrton Senna's life and tragic passing. The former racing driver has openly criticized the creators of the show, stating, "I don't accept it."
Alain Prost has criticized the biographical mini-series that focuses on F1 icon Ayrton Senna.
The series, comprised of six episodes and titled "Senna," is a biographical sports drama focusing on the life of a three-time world champion who secured the world titles in 1988, 1990, and 1991 while racing for McLaren.
In a heartbreaking incident, Senna lost his life during a race for Williams following a crash at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.
Prost and Senna had an intense competition that became legendary in the history of Formula 1 as one of the most remarkable rivalries.
After Prost retired, the two put aside their intense competition on the track and developed a friendship.
Alain Prost, a four-time world champion who is now 69 years old, has expressed disapproval of the creators of the Netflix series. The series has received varied feedback from audiences since it debuted last November.
"I believe Ayrton would be displeased, particularly as it demonstrates insensitivity," Prost mentioned to RMC Motori.
"It's a fantastic tale, and it’s important not to fabricate details without basis."
"If there's a need to engage in something for profit, using Senna's name isn't appropriate. I'm not fond of it and I won't approve it."
The film about Senna was created with the involvement of his family. In 2020, Ayrton's sister, Viviane, expressed that it was particularly meaningful to reveal the lesser-known aspects of his life story.
The Senna family is dedicated to ensuring this project is entirely distinctive and unlike anything seen before.
Prost expressed criticism towards the 2010 documentary film about Senna, which was widely praised by both fans and critics.
Prost expressed his dissatisfaction with the movie, saying, "I am unhappy with how the film turned out. There was an opportunity to craft an incredible narrative, given the events that occurred during our racing days and what followed after I retired."
The movie alleges that his final message, "I miss you Alain," wasn't genuine. In my opinion, the movie itself was not authentic.
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FIA President Clarifies Johnny Herbert’s Steward Dismissal Amid Conflict of Interest Concerns
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Mohammed Ben Sulayem voices his opinion on Johnny Herbert being dismissed for "conflict of interest"
"What happens when the driver you favor is trailing behind another in first or second position? How then do you decide?"
FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem has explained why Johnny Herbert was removed from his position as an F1 steward, pointing to a "conflict of interest" as the main reason.
In late January, the FIA declared that Herbert would not serve as an F1 steward for the forthcoming 2025 season.
The FIA pointed to Herbert's role in the media, stating that his dual roles as a pundit and a steward were conflicting.
Since exiting Sky Sports at the close of 2022, the ex-British F1 racer, Herbert, has frequently voiced his opinions to online news platforms.
Herbert openly criticized Max Verstappen's assertive driving style last year, especially during the race in Mexico.
Herbert criticized Verstappen for using "bullying" strategies, a stance that did not sit well with Jos Verstappen.
In a conversation with Marca, Ben Sulayem shared his thoughts on Herbert being dismissed.
"He acknowledged that Johnny had been an excellent commissioner, however, a conflict of interest arose, making things complicated," he stated.
Working as a journalist within a large organization doesn't allow you the freedom to share your personal opinions and then assume the role of an impartial adjudicator. You might think, 'Ideally, I'd like this particular outcome to occur.'
"What happens if the driver you favor is behind another driver in the first or second position? How do you decide then? He got the point and expressed his gratitude to the FIA, and in return, we showed our appreciation for his actions."
Ben Sulayem hints at fresh faces
After Herbert was let go, Ben Sulayem has indicated that going forward, there will be new officials joining the team.
The FIA utilizes a rotating group of officials who serve at various times throughout the year.
Former Formula 1 drivers, including Vitantonio Liuzzi and Derek Warwick, are brought in to share their insights throughout race weekends.
"Ben Sulayem emphasized that limitations should not hold us back, revealing that fresh perspectives will be introduced in the meeting with the stewards tomorrow."
"This will introduce a fresh range that will support the motorsport industry's longevity."
The president of the FIA has verified that there will be a number of different race directors over the course of
The name of the alternate race director remains undisclosed, as Rui Marques steps into the position for the last three races of 2024, succeeding Niels Wittich's unexpected departure.
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