Lewis Hamilton has been cautioned that he must quickly adapt and perform well as he begins his journey with Ferrari in Formula 1, as concerns about an early pecking order within the team have surfaced.

Lewis Hamilton is expected to face instant pressure to begin his career with Ferrari F1 on a strong note.

After spending 12 years with Mercedes, the seven-time world champion has made a major transition to Ferrari for the 2025 season. Hamilton's decision to join Ferrari has been a hot topic in the F1 community since it was revealed last year. With only a month remaining before he races for Ferrari, anticipation and excitement are on the rise.

As Lewis Hamilton settles into his new role at Ferrari, he is experiencing a favorable start. However, according to reports from Italy, there will be an expectation for him to deliver strong performances right from the beginning, especially with Charles Leclerc as his new teammate.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ferrari's team leader, Fred Vasseur, might be open to implementing team orders early in the season as the team aims to break their 16-year drought and secure a world championship title.

Following a narrow defeat in the constructors' championship last year, where they fell short by only 14 points to their competitors McLaren, Ferrari is resolute in their quest to secure their first world title since 2008 in the current season.

According to a recent article by La Gazzetta, the initial races of 2025 might play a crucial role in "determining a new pecking order within the team."

The report states that each driver has the capability to be the team's lead driver, and it will ultimately be their performance outcomes that determine which one will spearhead the pursuit of the drivers' world championship title.

The addition of Hamilton, known for his vast experience, charismatic presence, and seven championship titles, has shifted the dynamics from when Carlos Sainz was part of the team. Sainz was more aligned with Leclerc in terms of age, recognition, and standing.

Leclerc can no longer assume the position of Ferrari's leader; instead, he must demonstrate his worth through his performance on the track.

Getting a strong start will be vital for Hamilton and Leclerc, who are optimistic about the new Ferrari's capabilities to compete against McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes.

The report ends by indicating that Vasseur might have to decide early in the season which driver to support in the championship race.

Hamilton has no room for excuses

According to Martin Brundle, a pundit and co-commentator for Sky Sports F1, Hamilton should be performing at his best within two or three races.

"He needs to rely on his experience," Brundle commented on Sky Sports News.

At this level, no one has any excuses, not even the newcomers. However, you might allow the rookies a maximum of half a season to find their footing.

"They anticipate that Lewis will have mastered both his team and the vehicle in just a few races, to be frank."

Brundle emphasized that people should "never underestimate" Hamilton, expressing his belief that the 40-year-old British driver still possesses the ability to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship title with Ferrari.

Brundle expressed confidence that if Ferrari provides a car capable of winning races or a championship, Lewis has the ability to secure victories and potentially claim the championship title.

"I believe he still has the pace. However, in my opinion, Lewis Hamilton's peak performances are more likely in the past."

"As people age, they often lose some sharpness, and I believe this has happened to him. He occasionally finds himself in situations that he used to handle with ease but now struggles with, or he might make an error during qualifying. However, I believe that having 96-97 percent of Lewis Hamilton's capabilities in a competitive car is still more than sufficient."

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses KTM's Intense Shakedown: "A Lot of Innovations"

"We're truly pleased with the progress made in the production"

Aki Ajo, the newly appointed team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, mentioned that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during the intense Sepang Shakedown trials.

The future of the RC16's development is uncertain because of the financial instability currently affecting KTM.

However, test riders from the factory, Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro, spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, evaluating several new components (including the rear seat unit and exhaust system) as well as other enhancements not immediately apparent.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, responding affirmatively to inquiries about whether winter development proceeded normally notwithstanding KTM's ongoing financial struggles.

"We're truly pleased with the progress made at the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not surpassed."

"Our [Shakedown] test was exceptionally chaotic as we encountered numerous novelties and had a plethora of elements to comprehend, verify, and inspect."

"Examinations proceed for an additional three days [at the Official test], with numerous aspects requiring further verification."

"In my opinion, we currently find ourselves in a favorable position."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ultimately secured the fifth position in the Shakedown rankings, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder signals indicated that Espargaro had been utilizing a pair of motorcycles set to be transferred to Brad Binder for the next Official test, while Pedrosa took to the tracks on the motorcycles allocated to the new factory team member, Pedro Acosta.

When asked if he believes KTM is capable of stepping up to compete with the current MotoGP champions, Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive spirit and naturally, our ambition is to emerge victorious. As mentioned earlier, Ducati previously set the standard as the top contender. Naturally, our goal is to narrow the gap and ultimately secure the position as the leading team."

"Initially, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the latest entrant in the MotoGP, having made our debut in 2017, and over the past two years, we've emerged as the second leading manufacturer."

"Thus, it's essential to view it optimistically, yet naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Moreover, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories lack what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated Tech3 KTM's prowess as the brand's secondary factory team, securing nine podium finishes and barely missing the fifth spot in the previous year's world championship to Binder.

After completing his inaugural season, Acosta now looks to the future alongside seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, who are joining Tech3's team. Ajo believes this gives KTM an opportunity to approach strategies differently in 2025.

"Having riders such as Maverick and Enea join Tech3 influences our operations to some extent. It impacts our testing methods and how we optimize their use."

"Having newcomers on the team is always a positive addition. However, their presence might necessitate adjustments in the way we work, particularly in areas like testing. On the other hand, with veteran riders, we might find opportunities to explore and evaluate a broader range of options."

"One of our objectives is to enhance our collaboration with our second factory team, aiming to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He mentioned, "In essence, we have four riders representing our factory. I'm quite familiar with three of them, and with Enea, we're in the process of developing our connection.

"However, I've collaborated extensively in the past with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick, which is definitely a plus. We're familiar with one another, understand what to anticipate, and hold mutual respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement is not solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving team collaboration.

"He mentioned that their focus spans across various aspects, including the chassis, engine performance, and electronics. However, he personally believes it's not just about the technical details and innovations."

"My approach, along with that of our top tech experts, involves not just knowing our product but also enhancing it wherever possible."

"I'm referring to not just the bicycle and its technical aspects, but also the collaboration among individuals and particularly how we provide everything the cyclists need and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session in Sepang, which includes all riders for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

Peter has spent two decades in the racing world, witnessing the rise and retirement of Valentino Rossi. He's also leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure from the scene and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with injuries.

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses Busy Shakedown, Innovations at KTM

“There’s significant satisfaction with the progress in manufacturing”

Aki Ajo, the new team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, stated that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during a "busy" testing session in Sepang.

The future progress of the RC16 is under scrutiny because of the current economic instability at KTM.

However, factory test pilots Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, testing some notably new components (like the back seat area and the exhaust system) in addition to other elements concealed within the bike's framework.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, in response to whether winter development had progressed normally despite KTM's ongoing financial challenges.

"We're genuinely pleased with the progress made in the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not exceeded."

"Our Shakedown test was incredibly busy as we were faced with numerous new elements and several aspects to comprehend, verify, and examine."

"The Official test will now extend for an additional three days, during which multiple aspects will undergo further verification."

"In my view, we're currently in a favorable situation."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ended up in fifth place on the Shakedown leaderboard, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, lagging 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder data indicated that Espargaro was riding a pair of motorcycles set to be passed on to Brad Binder for the next official trial, while Pedrosa took the helm of the motorcycles assigned to the new team member, Pedro Acosta.

Asked about KTM's prospects of competing against the current MotoGP title-holder Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive nature and naturally, our aspiration is to come out on top. As you've mentioned, Ducati previously set the standard and was the top contender. Naturally, our aim is to narrow that gap and ultimately reach the pinnacle as the foremost team."

"Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the most recent addition to the MotoGP lineup, having joined in 2017. Over the past two years, we've secured our position as the runner-up manufacturer."

"Thus, we should view it optimistically, though naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Additionally, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories no longer maintain what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated the capability of KTM's secondary team, Tech3, by securing nine podium finishes and missing the fifth position in the previous season's world championship to Binder by a slim margin.

Following Acosta's debut season, and with seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini joining the Tech3 team, Ajo believes KTM has the opportunity to adopt a somewhat novel approach in 2025.

"When we get the opportunity to include racers such as Maverick and Enea in our team [Tech3], it influences our approach slightly. It affects our testing methods and how we maximize their use."

"Having newcomers in the team is always a positive aspect. However, the approach and techniques we employ might need to be adjusted, like in testing. With veteran riders, we might have the opportunity to explore [more] options and make comparisons."

"One of our goals is to strengthen our bond, aiming to be as unified as possible with our second factory team. In our efforts, we aspire to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He stated: "Essentially, we're working with four factory riders. I'm quite familiar with three of them already, and we're currently developing our connection with Enea.

"However, my previous collaborations with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick have been extensive, which naturally is advantageous. We're familiar with one another, understand our mutual expectations, and have already established a foundation of respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement isn't solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving the team's operational methods.

"He mentioned, "Our focus spans across multiple domains, including the chassis, engine efficiency, and electronics. However, for me, it's not just about the technological aspects and innovations.

"My approach, which I believe is shared by our top tech experts, involves not just comprehending our product but also enhancing it."

"I'm referring not just to the motorcycle and its specifications, but also to the collaboration among individuals and, importantly, how we provide everything necessary for the riders and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session at Sepang, involving all riders slated for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

Peter has spent two decades in the racing world, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and retirement. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's health concerns.

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Jack Miller is set to make an unexpected change to his MotoGP gear lineup for the 2025 season. The Pramac team rider will be showcasing gear from two different

Pramac Yamaha's MotoGP competitor, Jack Miller, is set to participate in the 2025 season while sporting gear from a variety of different brands.

In the past, Miller was sponsored by Alpinestars for his gloves, boots, leathers, and helmet.

For his transition to Pramac Yamaha, he will don Dainese gear, including leathers, gloves, and boots, while continuing to use his Alpinestars helmet.

Pramac has entered into a new agreement with Dainese, which will provide the team with its official apparel. The partnership is set to continue until the conclusion of 2027.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP, shared by their account @crashmotogp_.

Pramac team leader Gino Borsoi expressed great enthusiasm about beginning a new phase with Dainese, a brand well-known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in the motorsport industry.

This partnership signifies the joining of a legendary MotoGP brand with a team that has already made its mark in MotoGP history. Together, this union will enable both parties to elevate their reputation and standards.

As we face the challenge of competing against Yamaha in MotoGP and Moto2, having Dainese's support and protection will be essential for our performance on the track.

"This collaboration not only bolsters our team's dedication to excellence but also embodies our mutual values of quality and commitment to the sport."

With the risk of not having a spot on the grid for the 2025 season, Miller appeared to have little choice regarding equipment sponsorship when the chance to return to Pramac in 2025 arose.

Dani Pedrosa, a test rider for KTM, was recently seen wearing Dainese gear at the Sepang shakedown. He joins other notable figures changing to the Dainese brand for 2025.

In his debut MotoGP season back in 2006, Pedrosa raced for the Honda factory team and was last seen representing Dainese.

All riders from Pramac’s MotoGP and Moto2 teams will be outfitted in Dainese racing suits.

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2025 MotoGP Sepang Test Guide: Tracking the Event

Details on the schedule, timings, and ways to keep up with the three-day MotoGP test in Sepang.

Here's a guide on how to keep up with the 2025 MotoGP Sepang test happening from February 5 to 7. Below, we have also included the start times for the MotoGP Sepang test.

Motorcycle Grand Prix competitors are set to hit the circuit for three days of sanctioned preseason trials in Malaysia.

Initial riders and newcomers, along with Yamaha and Honda's competitors under the concession regulations, have been busy getting their motorcycles ready during the Shakedown test.

This week in Sepang, Marc Marquez is set to ride his official Ducati, while Jorge Martin will keep adjusting to the Aprilia.

The Sepang test plays a vital role for both teams and riders as they fine-tune their equipment in preparation for the upcoming season.

Ways to Track the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Test from Anywhere

Unfortunately, there is no live broadcast available to watch all the laps of the 2025 MotoGP Sepang test.

The last half-hour will be available for viewing through the MotoGP Video Pass.

Stay updated with live timings on Crash.net. Additionally, we will provide you with the latest news from the track, including technical updates and interviews.

Our social media profiles, Crash.net MotoGP X and Instagram/CrashMotoGP, will showcase top-notch photos and videos for you.

MotoGP.com is set to air a program titled 'After The Flag' towards the end of each day, providing a recap of the day's events.

Schedule for the 2025 MotoGP testing in Sepang

The tests are set to begin on Wednesday, February 5, running from 10 AM to 6 PM local time. In the

Thursday, February 6, from 10 AM to 6 PM local time, which corresponds to 2 AM to

On Friday, February 7, the event will take place from 10 AM to 6 PM local time, which corresponds to

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Top-Priced Formula 1 Vehicles Auctioned and Their Staggering Costs!

Mario Andretti’s Ferrari – $2,143,750 / £1,771,487

In 2019, Sotheby’s auctioned off the 1982 Ferrari 126 C2, making it the eighth highest-priced F1 vehicle to go under the hammer.

This version marked the final one out of a total of seven produced.

Patrick Tambay claimed victory at the 1982 German Grand Prix driving this Ferrari, whereas Mario Andretti secured the pole position and finished third at the Italian Grand Prix.

Tambay stepped in for Gilles Villeneuve following his death earlier in the season, while Andretti took over for Didier Pironi after he suffered injuries that ended his career.

Nigel Mansell's championship-winning Williams car fetched $3,297,968 (£2,703,000) when it was auctioned by Bonham's during the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The vehicle in question was the Williams-Renault FW14B from the 1992 season.

Nigel Mansell secured his only world championship title driving this car, during which Williams clinched the constructor’s championship.

The design features the power unit that propelled Mansell to victory in the season's opening race in South Africa in 1992.

Crafted by Adrian Newey, this vehicle was so cutting-edge in its technology that regulations were subsequently implemented to level the competitive landscape.

Ayrton Senna's McLaren fetched $4.36 million / £3.6 million

In 2018, Bonham's auction house in Monaco sold the 1993 McLaren MP4/8A.

The iconic Ayrton Senna achieved an unprecedented sixth victory at the Monaco Grand Prix driving this vehicle. It came equipped with a corresponding chassis, engine, and transmission.

In the 1993 season, he secured the runner-up position, trailing behind his competitor Alain Prost, while driving this car.

Lewis Hamilton's McLaren Sold for Over $6.6 Million

In a groundbreaking sale, the 2010 McLaren-Mercedes MP4-25, driven by Lewis Hamilton, became the first of his Formula 1 vehicles to be auctioned off. This historic transaction took place at Silverstone in 2021, facilitated by Sotheby’s, fetching a price of approximately $6,658,000 or £4,836,000.

Hamilton steered this vehicle to a win at the 2010 Turkish Grand Prix and competed against Michael Schumacher in China during their sole season of racing against each other.

In 2010, this vehicle was also piloted by Jenson Button, who was the current world champion and a team member alongside Hamilton at the time.

Michael Schumacher's Fully Victorious Ferrari – $6,220,000 / £5,272,818

The F300 fetched this price during a Sotheby's auction in the United States in August 2022.

Michael Schumacher drove this specific model in four races, achieving victory in each one. It stands as the sole Formula 1 vehicle to maintain a perfect winning streak after participating in three or more races.

The 2002 Ferrari F2002, often regarded as Michael Schumacher's most debated vehicle, fetched $6,643,750 or £5,490,062 when it was auctioned by Sotheby's in Abu Dhabi in 2019.

Schumacher was behind the wheel of this vehicle during the contentious Austrian Grand Prix, where his fellow team member, Rubens Barrichello, who had been in the lead throughout the race, let him overtake on the last lap to secure the win.

Schumacher secured his fifth world title driving this vehicle.

At the time, this Ferrari emerged as the most superior Formula 1 vehicle. Schumacher secured victories in 10 races aboard the F2002, with triumphs in three specific events (San Marino, Austria, France) achieved in this precise model.

Yet another Schumacher Ferrari fetches a staggering sum! Priced at $7.5 million / £6.2 million, the 2001 Ferrari F2001 was auctioned by Sotheby's in New York back in 2017.

Schumacher secured his fourth Formula 1 global title driving the F2001.

This specific version was piloted to triumph by Schumacher during the Monaco and Hungarian Grand Prix races.

Schumacher's Most Expensive Ferrari Sold for $15 Million / £13 Million

Michael Schumacher's latest classic Ferrari to hit the auction block, fetched a record price in November 2022.

In 2003, the F2003-GA vehicle was the driving force behind the iconic racer securing his sixth Formula 1 global title.

He piloted this vehicle to win in five major races.

Fangio's legendary championship vehicle – $29.65 million / £24.5 million

In 2013, the 1954 Mercedes W196R fetched this price at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, courtesy of Bonham's auction.

The iconic Juan Manuel Fangio secured the global championship driving this vehicle.

This particular model was piloted to triumph by Fangio in both Switzerland and Germany.

Displayed here is an image of David Coulthard from 2010, behind the wheel of the iconic 1954 Mercedes W196R.

F1 Iconic 1955 Mercedes Sells for $53 Million / £42.75 Million

The rare silver W196 R Stromlinienwagen, with only four intact models known worldwide, was auctioned by RM Sotheby’s at the Mercedes museum in Stuttgart, Germany, in February 2025.

In 1955, Juan Manuel Fangio, a champion of the world on five occasions, clinched victory at the Buenos Aires Grand Prix driving the W196 R. In the same year, during the Italian Grand Prix held at Monza, racing icon Stirling Moss achieved the quickest lap, clocking an average velocity of 134mph in the same vehicle. Following this achievement, Moss decided to retire from racing.

Originally valued at over €50 million, the item was auctioned off following a top bid of €46.5 million. The closing cost encompasses the auction house's commission from the winning bidder, whose identity was kept confidential.

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Unveiled: The Race Engineer for Liam Lawson's 2025 Debut with Red Bull F1

It has been announced who will serve as Liam Lawson's race engineer for his inaugural Formula 1 season with Red Bull.

The race engineer assigned to Liam Lawson for his first Formula 1 season with Red Bull has been announced.

In 2025, Richard Wood is set to be the advisor and strategist for Lawson as he embarks on his debut season with the senior Red Bull racing team.

Sergio Perez previously worked with Wood as his performance engineer. Wood has prior experience in this position, as he stepped in for Perez's usual race engineer, Hugh Bird, during Bird's paternity leave last year.

Lawson has advanced to Red Bull after participating in 11 grand prix events across two seasons with the affiliated team, Racing Bulls. He was chosen for the position instead of his former colleague, Yuki Tsunoda.

A 22-year-old from New Zealand has been chosen by Red Bull to take over from Perez after his disappointing performance in the 2024 season.

Red Bull has fallen to third in the constructors' championship standings, mainly because Perez did not perform as well as expected. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive drivers' championship.

Gianpiero Lambiase will continue to serve as Verstappen's race engineer while also stepping into an expanded position as the head of racing.

This change is a result of Red Bull reorganizing internally following Jonathan Wheatley's exit from his role as sporting director.

Wheatley has departed to take on the role of team principal at Sauber starting April 1, 2025, and Red Bull has decided not to fill his position directly.

Red Bull's team leader, Christian Horner, emphasized the necessity of easing the pressure on Lawson as he prepares for his debut season with the team.

Horner mentioned that Red Bull plans to introduce Lawson to the team gradually, as he prepares for the challenging experience of competing against Verstappen, a four-time world champion.

"We have made a significant effort to avoid placing any pressure on him up to this point, and he is gradually finding his footing," Horner mentioned during the Autosport Awards.

"He is currently in the United States. He is scheduled to return to the simulator next week. He is performing well, and we are gradually helping him adjust."

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Newcomer Enea Bastianini identifies major issue with KTM

Enea Bastianini highlights a flaw in KTM's characteristics

Enea Bastianini is aware of the main issue with his KTM that he aims to address in Sepang.

This season, Bastianini and his teammate, Maverick Vinales, are part of the revamped Tech3 KTM squad. They will be riding bikes with factory specifications and are poised to benefit from backing provided by the factory.

This week, at the Sepang preseason test, they will be back on their bikes for the first time since November in Barcelona, keen to get accustomed to their new motorcycle.

Former Ducati racer Bastianini is already aware of the issues with the KTM.

He mentioned that the KTM performs exceptionally well when entering corners.

"However, after a while, as the tires wear out, the rear begins to slide frequently. Once it starts, it doesn't recover."

"This is an issue, and we need to find a solution."

Enea Bastianini from KTM discussed the testing at Sepang, stating, "I have outlined a strategy for the three days. However, I have not yet communicated with test riders Dani Pedrosa or Pol Espargaro."

"If I encounter Dani, we should likely have a conversation."

"The bicycle I have now is akin to the one I evaluated during the test in Barcelona."

"I need to begin by building confidence and getting accustomed to the KTM. After that, on the following day, I can explore different approaches."

"In the beginning, Maverick and I will handle separate tasks."

Bastianini emphasized the importance of managing a rider's physical health during a three-day testing period, highlighting that the desire to work nonstop isn't always feasible.

He emphasized the significance of recognizing the energy we possess.

"Occasionally, you might complete numerous circuits on the first day, only to find yourself completely exhausted on the following day."

"While you may be in good shape, it may not be sufficient for MotoGP, as it requires a different level of fitness than other types of motorcycle racing."

He mentioned, "It's crucial to perform excellently with the same motorcycle on the first day. On the following day, KTM likely aims to test out different options."

"I am curious to observe these solutions."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, the Editor at Crash MotoGP

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1955 Mercedes vehicle sets new F1 auction record with £42.7 million sale

A sleek Mercedes driven by F1 icons has shattered the auction record with its staggering sale price.

A vintage Mercedes Formula 1 car, once driven by racing icons Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio, fetched £42.75 million (€51.155 million) at a recent auction.

This vehicle has set a new benchmark for the highest sale price of a Formula One car at auction, surpassing the previous record held by a different 1954 Mercedes W196, once driven by Fangio, that sold for £19.6 million at a Goodwood auction in 2013.

The metallic silver W196 R Stromlinienwagen, a rare vehicle with only four intact models known, was auctioned off by RM Sotheby's at the Mercedes museum located in Stuttgart, Germany, on a Saturday.

The legendary five-time world champion Fangio clinched victory at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix driving the W196 R, and in the same year, Moss achieved the fastest lap, clocking an average speed of 134mph, during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. Following this achievement, Moss decided to retire.

The estimated value exceeded €50 million, and it was auctioned following a last bid of €46.5 million. The concluding cost encompasses the auction house's fee from the top bidder, whose identity was not disclosed.

"The car is stunning and holds significant historical value, but unfortunately, it falls just beyond the range of our current focus," curator Jason Vansickle explained.

"For nearly six decades, we've had the privilege of overseeing this vehicle, which has been a remarkable addition to our museum. However, through this auction and the funds it generates, we will have the opportunity to enhance our offerings moving forward."

The highest auction price for a car was achieved by a 1955 Mercedes 300 SRL Uhlenhaut Coupé, fetching €135 million in May 2022.

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Johann Zarco calls for "respect" towards Honda's progress, asserting "they are clearly intelligent"

LCR Honda racer praises the company's advancements during the off-season.

Johann Zarco believes that Honda MotoGP racers should "honor" the company's winter upgrades, despite the fact that Romano Albesiano is stepping in as the new technical director.

Honda made a significant change to their team by bringing in Albesiano from Aprilia to lead their technical division. This move comes after the Japanese company ended up at the bottom of the constructors' rankings in 2024.

Albesiano started his position in January, which means he hasn't significantly impacted Honda's development efforts conducted during the winter leading up to the pre-season test in Sepang this week.

LCR's Zarco expresses confidence that Albesiano has been able to offer Honda's engineering team some insights regarding the bike. However, he emphasizes that the engineers are clearly intelligent and their efforts should not be underestimated.

"It's difficult to determine," he responded when questioned about whether Albesiano has had an impact on the development of the bike.

"I'm confident that he could have already contributed ideas, but given that he began his role in January, Honda had already laid the groundwork."

"They couldn't delay until Romano's concepts emerged in early January and then decide, 'Alright, we'll organize all preparations by the end of January.'"

"We need to honor that and proceed with it, as the concepts Honda aims to evaluate are definitely not foolish."

The individual who might be privy to certain confidential information is Gigi Dall'Igna, however, he is not the person who entered into an agreement with Honda.

"It seems that while Albesiano might offer suggestions, we need to stick to the plans we developed from November until now."

Johann Zarco shares insights into Honda's strategy in Sepang. Honda has already taken to the Sepang circuit for the initial testing phase. Zarco observed that the developments closely resembled those he experienced during tests late in the previous year.

He observed that, based on his current perspective, the bike appears to be largely the same, although they are experimenting with various different approaches.

"Tomorrow, we need to decide on the chassis. That's going to be our initial goal."

"They are working on some engine projects, although the top option might not be available immediately in Malaysia. Additionally, we will focus on aerodynamic components on the final day."

"Having gained experience, I no longer anticipate anything that instantly elevates performance or suggests that podium finishes are immediately achievable. I understand the effort involved and recognize the challenges in bringing everything together."

"The Japanese are implementing adjustments, yet often the sentiment remains unchanged, making it challenging to achieve significant progress."

"However, now that Romano is involved, I believe progress will be made."

He is really impressed with Honda's potential, and I appreciate this because I share the same sentiment now as I did a year ago.

"It's comforting to know that he shares the same feelings as I do."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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F1 2025 Race Schedule Announced: Start Times for Each Race

The start times for each race in the 2025 F1 season have been disclosed.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, has announced all the start times for the 2025 season.

The FIA has announced the schedule for all 24 rounds of the upcoming F1 season, just a little over a month ahead of the first race, the Australian Grand Prix, set for March 16.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix schedule has been adjusted, with the event now starting two hours earlier than previously planned due to worries about the timing.

The schedules for the majority of the other races stayed the same.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix started at 10 PM local time, which is 6 AM in the UK, during the initial two years of its agreement.

However, due to worries about the event's late timing and the effects of jet lag on Formula 1 staff, adjustments are scheduled for 2025.

The qualifying session and the race are now scheduled for 8 PM local time, which is 4 AM in the UK, on Friday and Saturday.

The Las Vegas organizers released a statement explaining that this change is informed by the feedback, insights, and experiences gathered from the initial two races. The aim is to broaden opportunities for fans to explore the location and to continue connecting with a larger audience throughout the United States.

For Formula 1 enthusiasts in the UK, the race at Silverstone, known as the British Grand Prix, is scheduled to commence at 3 PM

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Lewis Hamilton views 2025 as his prime opportunity to clinch an unprecedented eighth F1 championship.

Lewis Hamilton has received advice that the 2025 F1 season may present his optimal opportunity to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship.

The record-setting seven-time world champion has made a sensational transfer from Mercedes to their F1 adversaries, Ferrari. There, he will join forces with Charles Leclerc in pursuit of an unparalleled eighth world championship.

Achieving this milestone would not only mark the end of Ferrari's championship trophy dry spell but also allow Hamilton to surpass the iconic Michael Schumacher in the Formula 1 historical standings.

Sky Sports F1 analyst David Croft suggests that 2025 could present the optimal opportunity for Hamilton before the rules are overhauled in 2026.

"Croft mentioned at the Autosport Awards that, in his opinion, this could be Lewis' greatest opportunity to secure an eighth World Championship."

"Considering the time of year, teams are unlikely to introduce new changes continuously, as they have to focus on planning for 2026."

"I believe Ferrari is the most eager among the top four teams to maximize their performance in 2025, given their prolonged period without a victory."

"They aim to demonstrate that either Lewis or Charles [Leclerc] is the suitable choice."

Ferrari downplays Hamilton's issues

Following a disappointing last season at Mercedes and difficulties in qualifying, there are whispers that Hamilton, at 40, may no longer be at the top of his game in Formula 1.

However, Piero Ferrari, offspring of the iconic founder of Ferrari, Enzo, has brushed aside these rumors, emphasizing that Hamilton is in “excellent condition” as he approaches his eagerly awaited first season with the Scuderia.

"[Hamilton] is fit, he's in excellent physical and mental condition, I don't see his age as an issue whatsoever," he conveyed to Italian magazine Autosprint.

He embraced the task with great eagerness, showing confidence in his skills.

Ferrari's team leader, Frederic Vasseur, has emphasized that he is not concerned about the recent performance of Hamilton.

"He firmly believes, without pointing fingers at Lewis or Mercedes, that this scenario is challenging to navigate. He acknowledges that if things aren't progressing smoothly, it's understandable for there to be strain in this relationship," he stated as 2024 came to a close.

"He was mentally struggling, which was evident during his time in Brazil, yet he managed to excel in the final few events, so I have no concerns whatsoever."

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