Carlos Sainz might justifiably feel disappointed about being passed over by two leading Formula 1 teams. Is it fair for Carlos Sainz to feel upset about not securing a coveted F1 position for 2025?

Karun Chandhok believes that Carlos Sainz has a legitimate reason to feel unfairly treated, as he has been passed over by both Red Bull and Mercedes for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Carlos Sainz, who has won four grand prix races, is leaving his position at Ferrari to allow Lewis Hamilton to join the team. The Spanish driver has agreed to a multi-year contract with Williams after losing his spot at Ferrari.

Although Carlos Sainz remained a free agent for several months before finally signing with Williams, both Red Bull and Mercedes decided not to sign him for the upcoming season.

When asked whether Sainz has a justified reason to feel aggrieved, former F1 driver and current Sky Sports analyst Chandhok responded to Betway with, "Absolutely."

It seems he doesn't feel unfairly treated about his departure from Ferrari. His replacement is Lewis Hamilton, who is considered the greatest driver statistically. Ferrari had a brief chance to bring Lewis on board, and realistically, any driver would recognize this decision as reasonable.

The individual might feel unfairly treated for not being considered by Mercedes and Red Bull. If I were in his position, I would share that sentiment. When I spoke with Carlos during an interview in Brazil, he expressed on camera that he remains puzzled and does not completely grasp why they chose not to select him.

Chandhok considers the addition of a driver like Sainz to be a significant advantage for Williams, though he cautioned that it will require time for the British team to become competitive.

Chandhok stated that the individual will bring a significant level of expertise to the table. He highlighted the person's impressive speed and recent experience with a leading team, which means they can provide valuable benchmarks and insights that the team might have been lacking for a while. Given that James Vowles has previously been with Mercedes, he is also quite knowledgeable in these areas.

In the end, Carlos is unable to increase the car's speed himself. While he can provide recommendations, insights, and direction on how he believes the car's performance could be enhanced, drivers are not responsible for designing the cars.

"The responsibility lies with the team to achieve this. He is aware that he has committed to a long-term plan that might require three to five years before they are in a position to compete for victories."

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Mercedes is expected to concentrate entirely on their 2026 plans, raising questions about their commitment to the upcoming year. "Will they scrap everything and design an entirely new vehicle for 2025 in preparation for the regulatory changes in 2026? I doubt it."

Ex-Formula 1 racer Karun Chandhok believes that Mercedes is expected to concentrate their efforts on the upcoming 2026 regulations instead of prioritizing the next season.

The regulations are staying mostly unchanged throughout the winter, implying that teams will probably develop their current cars further instead of designing completely new models.

The reason is that in 2026, there will be brand-new technical regulations, including fresh engine guidelines and radically changed car designs.

Starting from the beginning of next year, teams will be officially permitted to commence their work in 2026.

It's common for teams to abandon their current season early to concentrate on adapting to new regulations.

In 2021, Ferrari concentrated their efforts on preparing for the next year when new regulations came into play. This strategy proved successful as they secured first and second places in the opening race of the season at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

In an interview with Betway, Chandhok evaluated Mercedes' prospects for the upcoming year.

"It's quite challenging to interpret their circumstances, as over the past three years, there have been numerous times when they claimed to have grasped the problems and found a solution," he remarked.

"A prime instance was the front wing, which enhanced performance and resulted in temporary gains. This was evident in races like those in Canada, Spain, or Silverstone, where the car appeared strong and competitive."

Chandhok believes that with Mercedes frequently ranking as the fourth-fastest team in 2024, they are likely to focus on the 2026 season sooner rather than later.

"However, it soon disappeared, and they reverted to being the fourth-ranked team," he remarked.

"Since these regulations were introduced, this has consistently been the situation. Judging by their recent performance, they appear to be the fourth strongest team. Will they abandon everything and design an entirely new car for 2025 before the new regulations take effect in 2026? I doubt it."

"The vehicle set to debut in 2025 will build upon the developments made in 2024, suggesting that their primary focus might be on crafting an optimal model for the 2026 regulations."

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Max Verstappen faces penalty, receives official recognition as F1 champion

Max Verstappen and McLaren are formally recognized as F1 world champions during the FIA ceremony in Rwanda.

Max Verstappen has been formally recognized as the 2024 Formula 1 world champion during the FIA's award ceremony.

At the FIA awards ceremony held in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, the Red Bull racer received the world drivers’ trophy for the fourth time.

Max Verstappen attended an event in Rwanda where he was awarded a trophy by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the FIA.

The Dutch driver secured his fourth straight world championship title after triumphing in nine grand prix races during the 24-race 2024 season.

Max Verstappen secured the championship two races before the season's end at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, having established an unbeatable lead over Lando Norris of McLaren.

Norris played a key role in McLaren's first constructors’ championship win since 1998 and was awarded for his second-place finish. Meanwhile, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc received the trophy for coming in third.

McLaren's team boss, Andrea Stella, along with CEO Zak Brown, were present to receive the team's first constructors' championship in 26 years. This also marks their first Formula 1 title win since 2008.

In addition to going to the gala to collect the prestigious drivers’ championship trophy, Verstappen also finished his community service sentence, which he received for using inappropriate language at a press conference in Singapore.

As part of a program aimed at developing grassroots motorsport talent, 27-year-old Verstappen engaged in activities of public benefit by working with young racers through an initiative organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).

Verstappen expressed his desire for his championship success to continue. Upon accepting his award, he reflected, "This season had its highs and lows. We began the year on a strong note, and everything seemed promising, particularly from an outsider's perspective."

"As a team, we constantly assess our boundaries and identify areas for improvement. Our competitors have significantly enhanced their vehicles, which has posed greater challenges for us, particularly in the constructors' category."

"We faced some challenges, but even when things were difficult and we were feeling the pressure, I believe the team stayed united. We managed to keep our composure and not lose our cool, which is easy to do in such circumstances."

"I feel incredibly proud of each member of our team. Even though we didn't secure the constructors' championship title, I believe we were deserving of a bit more recognition in that competition."

"I put in my utmost effort, and we've identified several areas for improvement for the coming year. I'm really looking forward to it, as it seems like there will be a genuine competition among many teams."

Max Verstappen's recent victory has elevated him into an exclusive group of drivers with four or more world championships. The only others to achieve this feat are Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton with seven titles each, Juan Manuel Fangio with five, and Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel, both with four.

"When you're a child, you don't consider such achievements. You see the names and feel amazed, wishing that someday you might also stand on that podium."

"Occasionally, fortune smiles upon you, and you find yourself in the perfect situation at the perfect moment. Naturally, as a driver, it's essential to seize such opportunities, and fortunately, I've managed to capitalize on them when they arise."

"It's remarkable to have won four championships, and it truly feels unbelievable. Naturally, I wish this success continues and doesn't end here. This season has shown just how tight the competition is."

"In 2026, there will likely be significant changes, and perhaps other teams will become contenders once more. Right now, it's crucial to savor our current success, take pride in our team's accomplishments, and make another effort in the coming year."

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Max Verstappen completes punishment, recognized as F1 champion

At the FIA gala held in Rwanda, Max Verstappen and McLaren were formally acknowledged as the Formula 1 world champions.

During the FIA's prize-giving ceremony, Max Verstappen was formally recognized as the 2024 F1 world champion.

At the FIA awards ceremony held on Friday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, the Red Bull racer received the world drivers' championship trophy for the fourth time.

Max Verstappen attended an event in Rwanda where he was awarded a trophy by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the FIA.

The Dutch driver secured his fourth world championship title in a row after achieving victory in nine grand prix races during the 24-race 2024 season.

Max Verstappen secured the championship with two races still left in the season at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, after establishing a lead that McLaren's Lando Norris could no longer overcome.

Norris, instrumental in McLaren clinching their first constructors' title since 1998, received his accolade for securing second place. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari was awarded the trophy for finishing in third.

Andrea Stella, the team principal of McLaren, along with CEO Zak Brown, were present to receive the constructors’ championship for the Woking-based team, marking their first such title in 26 years and their first Formula 1 championship win since 2008.

In addition to being present at the gala to receive the prestigious drivers’ championship award, Verstappen also fulfilled his community service obligation, which he received for using inappropriate language at a press conference in Singapore.

Max Verstappen's initiative, described as a "public interest project," involved the 27-year-old engaging with young racers. He participated in activities associated with a grassroots development program led by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).

Verstappen expressed his desire for his championship success to continue. Upon accepting his award, he remarked, "This season has had its highs and lows. We began the year on a strong note, and things appeared very promising, particularly from an outsider's perspective."

As a team, it's important to recognize your own boundaries and identify areas for improvement. The competitors performed exceptionally well, significantly enhancing their vehicles, which posed a greater challenge for us, particularly in the constructors' championship.

"We faced some challenging moments, but despite the pressure and difficulties, our team remained unified. We avoided panicking, which would have been a natural reaction in such circumstances."

"I feel incredibly proud of each team member. Although we didn't secure the constructors' championship, I believe we truly deserved a bit more recognition in that competition."

"I gave it my all, and we've learned a lot about what we need to improve for next year. I'm really looking forward to it because it seems like there will be a real competition among many teams."

With his most recent victory, Verstappen has become part of an exclusive group of racers who have claimed four or more world championships. This prestigious list includes Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, each with seven titles, Juan Manuel Fangio with five, and both Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel with four.

When you're a child, you don't consider these possibilities. You see the names and feel amazed, wishing that maybe one day you could stand on that podium too.

"Occasionally, fortune smiles upon you, and you find yourself in the perfect situation at the perfect moment. Naturally, as a driver, it's crucial to seize these opportunities, and fortunately, I've been able to do just that simultaneously."

"It's remarkable. Winning four titles is truly extraordinary. Naturally, I wish this success continues. I aspire for us to maintain this level of achievement over the coming years. This season has shown just how tight the competition is."

"In 2026, we can expect significant changes, and it's possible that other teams will become competitive once more. Right now, it's crucial to appreciate our current success, take pride in our team's accomplishments, and make another effort next year."

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The FIA has revealed adjustments to the Formula 1 regulations for the 2025 season following a controversy surrounding a 'mini DRS'.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, has revealed updates to the rules for 2025.

The changes were revealed after the most recent gathering of the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council in Rwanda, just before the awards ceremony marking the end of the season on Friday.

Starting next season, there will be stricter regulations on rear wings to stop teams from imitating McLaren's 'mini DRS' maneuver that stirred controversy among competitors in 2024.

Competing teams expressed concerns about whether McLaren's rear wing complied with regulations, suggesting it might have given them an advantage in achieving faster top speeds, particularly after their victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September.

During the Baku weekend, television footage captured the wing bending at high speeds. Although it successfully passed all of the FIA's deformation assessments, McLaren decided to implement changes.

Starting in 2025, the FIA will implement a new rule mandating that the DRS flag adhere to identical limitations on bodywork flexibility when the system is inactive.

According to the revised regulation, aside from the driver-adjustable bodywork, all parts that affect the car's aerodynamics must be securely fixed and remain motionless relative to their designated reference frame as outlined in Article 3.3 when deployed.

Across the entire length of the rear wing, the gap between the wing profiles must be at least 9.4mm and no more than 13mm, according to Article 3.10.1. This measurement is relevant when the DRS is not activated, as specified in Article 3.10.10, and will be checked using a spherical gauge.

Introduction of 'Heat Hazard' Regulations

The FIA announced that new "heat hazard" rules will come into effect whenever temperatures rise above 30.5°C.

According to this regulation, teams must install new cooling systems in the vehicles for drivers, and the minimum weight of the cars will be increased by 5kg to account for the added weight.

This action is a reaction to the previous year's Qatar Grand Prix, where drivers expressed that the race conditions were "unbearable."

Numerous drivers needed medical care due to either dehydration or heat-related exhaustion. Esteban Ocon disclosed that he had vomited inside his helmet because of the intense heat and humidity.

According to the new rule, if the Official Weather Service forecasts that the Heat Index will exceed 30.5°C at any point during the sprint or race at a competition, or if the race director independently decides, a Heat Hazard can be announced 24 hours before the competition is set to begin.

When a Heat Hazard is announced, it will stay effective throughout the duration of the event. Participants will receive notifications through the official communication platform.

When a Heat Hazard is announced: (a) Extra equipment to help cool the driver must be installed, such as driver cooling systems outlined in Article 14.6 of the Technical Regulations. (b) The Heat Hazard Mass Increase will be enforced, as specified in Articles 4.1 and 4.7 of the Technical Regulations.

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Daniel Ricciardo Seen as Leading Candidate for F1's New Team

Could Cadillac Provide a Fresh Opportunity for Daniel Ricciardo in Formula 1?

Reports suggest that Daniel Ricciardo is a top contender to become a driver for the Cadillac F1 team as it makes its debut in the world championship in 2026.

A 35-year-old Australian driver was removed from the Red Bull team and replaced by Liam Lawson with six races remaining in the 2024 season. This decision was made because Red Bull's management was not satisfied with his performance.

The dismissal of Ricciardo seemed like it might mark the conclusion of his career in Formula 1. However, a recent report from Germany suggests that the eight-time grand prix champion might receive a career-saving opportunity from Cadillac and General Motors.

The American company has reached a preliminary deal with Formula 1 to become part of the championship in 2026 as the 11th team, which would add two more drivers to the lineup. Although their participation hasn't been officially confirmed yet, it's anticipated to be a straightforward process.

According to a report by the German publication Bild, "The Australian is considered the leading contender for a seat with the American racing team."

The report suggests that Ricciardo joining Cadillac would significantly boost the new team's popularity.

$10 million Toyota agreement highlighted

Ricciardo has not yet revealed his future plans after Formula 1, but he has been associated with other racing series.

According to a report from Race.news, a former executive from Toyota has revealed that the Japanese car company is interested in signing Ricciardo.

According to reports, Toyota is prepared to pay Ricciardo as much as $10 million to compete in NASCAR events in the United States and V8 Supercars races in Australia, where he was born.

Akio Toyoda, who serves as the chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, is reported to have led a private meeting to talk about the matter.

A source mentioned that Toyoda-san recognizes Ricciardo's worth, not only for his driving skills but also for his ability to attract a large fanbase due to his inherent charisma.

According to sources, Toyoda sees no drawbacks to appointing him as the representative of Gazoo Racing, a project Toyoda is particularly passionate about. I'm told that there are few financial limitations in their efforts to secure his agreement.

In an Instagram post after leaving F1, Ricciardo expressed, "I've had a lifelong passion for this sport. It's been an adventurous and amazing journey."

To all the teams and people who have contributed, I express my gratitude. To the fans who sometimes cherish the sport even more than I do, haha, thank you. Although there have been ups and downs, it's been enjoyable, and honestly, I wouldn't alter a thing.

"Looking forward to our next journey."

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Mercedes has disclosed that Lewis Hamilton penned a heartfelt message to Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Mercedes announced that Lewis Hamilton penned a personal handwritten message for Andrea Kimi Antonelli in anticipation of his Formula 1 debut set for 2025.

Lewis Hamilton, who has won the world championship seven times, is leaving Mercedes after spending 12 seasons with the team. Next year, he will be joining Ferrari, one of Mercedes' competitors. In his last race with Mercedes, held at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the 39-year-old British driver impressively moved up from 16th on the starting grid to finish in fourth place.

During a special edition of the F1 Beyond The Grid podcast, Stephen Lord, the race team coordinator for Mercedes, shared details about Hamilton's heartfelt farewell to his driver room after the final European race of the season in Monza.

Lord mentioned that it offers a fascinating glimpse into a side of Lewis that many might not usually notice. After the Monza race, which marked the final European event, Lewis was upstairs participating in the engineering debrief.

In Europe, there is a facility dedicated to racing that features an engineering area located on the upper level. Behind this engineering space, the drivers have personal rooms. These rooms are equipped with massage tables and have all their gear organized and ready for use. Additionally, each room includes a bathroom complete with a shower and toilet.

After completing his engineering tasks, Lewis found himself alone in the room, as the other engineers had already departed. I went upstairs briefly to collect a few items, then returned downstairs. Shortly after, Lewis also descended the stairs, prepared to leave and make his way home.

Upon reaching the base of the stairs, he paused momentarily. Then, he reversed his course and ascended the stairs once more. I assumed he had left something behind and didn't give it much thought. Roughly 10 minutes later, he returned and approached Carlos, a team member who handles Race Team Logistics for us.

Lewis appeared visibly moved as he approached Carlos, expressing, "It just hit me that I'll never step into that room again. It's making me really emotional. I can't bring myself to leave. There's a sadness in saying goodbye to that space because it's been a part of my life for so long, and now it's gone forever." He was clearly affected by the thought of leaving it for good.

Remarkable Message for Kimi Antonelli

Mercedes announced that 18-year-old rising star Kimi Antonelli will take over from Hamilton. Antonelli is set to join George Russell, forming the new driver duo for the Silver Arrows starting in 2025 and continuing in future seasons.

Lord disclosed that Hamilton wrote a heartfelt message to Antonelli in the space that will serve as the Italian's driver room starting next season.

He described entering the room and noticing a lengthy, handwritten message on the wall. The note was addressed to Kimi, welcoming him to his new space. It conveyed well-wishes, praising the team by stating that if he showed them care, they would reciprocate, as they are a fantastic group.

"I was impressed and thought it was such a thoughtful gesture. We've even had glass cut to preserve it in the room permanently. I initially intended to just head into the bathroom."

Upon entering the bathroom, I noticed a message next to the toilet, right above the holder for the toilet paper. It read, “Lewis was here,” accompanied by a large smiley face. I found it amusing and thought, “This is nice.” However, the message addressed to Kimi was particularly memorable.

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Rwanda is vying to bring a Formula 1 race to Africa, as revealed by the nation's leader, President Paul Kagame.

Paul Kagame, the president of Rwanda, has revealed that the nation is making efforts to secure the opportunity to host a Formula 1 race.

During the FIA's general assembly on Friday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, Kagame revealed the news before the F1 award ceremony scheduled for later in the day.

Formula 1 has not held a race on the African continent since the South African Grand Prix in 1993

Efforts to bring Formula 1 back to Kyalami have been ongoing in recent years, but negotiations did not succeed. Currently, Rwanda is considered the leading candidate for hosting a future F1 race.

Rwanda is officially entering the race to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, aiming to revive the excitement of motorsport on the African continent, according to Kagame.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Stefano Domenicali, the president of F1, and the whole Formula 1 team for the positive advancements in our ongoing talks.

"I guarantee that we are handling this opportunity with the dedication and seriousness it requires."

A permanent racetrack is set to be built close to Bugesera airport, located 40 kilometers south of Kigali. The airport, which is being developed at a cost of $2 billion, is projected to be finished by 2026.

The proposed circuit has been designed by Alex Wurz, who is a former Formula 1 driver and currently serves as the chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association.

In recent months, conversations have occurred between Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of F1, and officials from Rwanda.

The head of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, expressed that being present in Rwanda for this significant occasion on the FIA's schedule highlights the country's robust stature, especially its increasing impact in the world of motorsport.

"Our values and common objectives in crucial areas like innovation, sustainability, and road safety are in harmony, and I am eager to maintain our collaboration. The prospects for motorsport in Africa are promising."

Hamilton Emphasizes Importance of Africa in F1

Earlier this year, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, expressed his backing for the potential return of Formula 1 to the African continent.

With the exception of Antarctica, Africa is the sole continent lacking a Formula 1 race.

During the Formula 1 summer hiatus in August, Hamilton visited several African nations. At the Dutch Grand Prix, he remarked, "We shouldn't be expanding the race calendar to other places while persistently overlooking Africa, a continent the rest of the world only exploits without giving anything in return."

A significant amount of effort is required in that area. Many people around the world who haven't visited may not appreciate the beauty and expansiveness of the region. Furthermore, they might be unaware of the ongoing actions of some countries that continue to hinder progress in those places.

"In my opinion, hosting a grand prix at that location would effectively showcase its appeal and attract tourism and various other opportunities."

Hamilton mentioned that Rwanda is one of the most cherished destinations he has visited. He has been actively engaged in efforts concerning the country, having conversations with individuals both in Rwanda and in South Africa.

Rwanda is involved in a more extended initiative, and it's incredible how eager they are to participate.

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Guenther Steiner dismisses Toto Wolff’s statement about Lewis Hamilton as mere 'nonsense for the camera.' The head of Haas F1, Guenther Steiner, criticizes Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff regarding his comments about Lewis Hamilton.

Former Haas F1 team boss Guenther Steiner has dismissed Toto Wolff's remarks about hoping Lewis Hamilton can secure a victory without Mercedes, calling them "nonsense."

After 12 seasons with Mercedes, seven-time world champion Hamilton bid adieu to the team during the F1 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale. He is set to make a high-profile move to competitors Ferrari starting next year.

Following the race, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed that he would like to see Hamilton secure a victory with Ferrari if Mercedes is unable to challenge for the championship.

Wolff expressed to the media, including Crash.net, on Sunday in Abu Dhabi that if victory isn't possible for us, we will support him enthusiastically.

"He deserves to win an eighth championship, but the top priority is the success of the team, the drivers, and the brand, and we will do everything in our power to achieve that."

However, Steiner, who was the team principal for Haas from 2016 to 2023, expressed skepticism about Wolff's statements, suggesting that his comments were made “for the camera”.

Steiner explained to the Red Flags Podcast that the statement wasn't genuine and was just an act for the camera.

When questioned about whether he thinks Wolff would be displeased if Hamilton secures his eighth championship with Ferrari, Steiner responded, "No, because it wouldn't be his victory."

"Why would he feel happy? He mentioned, 'If it's not us, it should be you,' absolutely. However, I think that if he doesn't win, he's not too concerned about who does."

Steiner showed no emotion regarding Hamilton's departure from Mercedes. In his final race with the team, Hamilton delivered an impressive performance, starting from 16th place and clawing his way up to finish fourth in Abu Dhabi.

His upcoming transition to Ferrari will mark the end of an iconic career phase during which he secured six out of his seven F1 world championships and 84 of his grand prix wins.

However, Steiner maintained that he remained unaffected by the emotional atmosphere linked to Hamilton's last race with Mercedes.

"Steiner stated that it did not evoke any strong emotions."

"He made the choice to go, so there's no reason for you to be upset about it!"

He became very emotional over the situation, which wasn't necessary. He was fully aware of his actions when he agreed to the contract 10 months prior.

"Undoubtedly, the collaboration has been remarkable. While Lewis has greatly contributed to Mercedes, the company has equally supported him. It's a mutually beneficial relationship."

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FIA President Gains Increased Authority Following Contentious Ethics Amendments

Amendments to the responsibilities of the FIA's ethics and audit committees have been approved.

Disputed amendments that will restrict the mechanisms by which the leadership of the FIA, the governing body of Formula 1, can be held accountable have been approved.

The changes to the rules overseeing the audit and ethics committees received approval during a vote by the FIA general assembly, which took place on Friday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Senate President Carmelo Sanz De Barros will now handle all ethics complaints. The ethics committee's role will be limited to determining if a case needs a detailed investigation.

The modifications essentially grant increased authority to Ben Sulayem, who has been at the center of various controversies since assuming his position in December 2021.

The ethics and audit committees looked into several claims regarding Ben Sulayem's behavior. This included inquiries into the financial dealings of his private office and two charges that he meddled in the execution of grand prix events in 2023. Both of these accusations were found to be unfounded.

The way Ben Sulayem is managing has become a source of worry for Formula 1 teams and drivers. This unease has been amplified by a significant departure of important personnel from the FIA and a series of abrupt dismissals, with F1 race director Niels Wittich being the most high-profile case.

A 63-year-old man from the UAE recently dismissed complaints from drivers, stating that the way he manages matters is "not their concern."

Earlier this week, Oliver Schmerold, who leads Austria's motorsport federation, expressed his disappointment regarding the proposed changes at that time.

According to Schmerold, the appeal of ethics and audit committees might diminish, leading to a future where these committees consist solely of individuals whose roles are largely influenced by the current leadership.

"Who would be willing to accept a role on a committee that is entirely dominated by two people, especially if they have a history of promoting effective governance and a solid professional background?"

David Richards, who serves as the chairman of Motorsport UK, also voiced his "worry".

The FIA outlined the rationale behind the modifications to the ethics committee in a statement to Crash.net. It mentioned that the primary goal is to maintain and strengthen the committee's independence by lessening the FIA administration's role in its functioning.

The ethics committee used to report solely to the president, but now it reports to both the president and the senate president.

The committee now possesses the authority to independently decide if an investigation should be initiated.

"Secondly, due to ongoing unauthorized disclosures of confidential documents to the press, such as those from the ethics committee, it is now suggested to restrict the circulation of any ethics committee reports."

This does not stop the president or the senate president from including senate members or other FIA members or staff in talks or actions related to the ethics committee's suggestions.

"Ethics committee reports frequently include information that is confidential, such as matters related to criminal activities or protective concerns."

As a result, it became essential to restrict the automatic distribution of this information to various members and FIA personnel.

"Restricting who can access the report will help safeguard both the person who filed the complaint and the person being investigated."

The announcement regarding the audit committee mentioned that the purpose of these modifications is to make it clear that the committee serves as an advisory group to the senate and must function in accordance with the FIA's established rules.

The suggested changes aim to make it clear that the audit committee serves as an auxiliary group for the senate and that, moving forward, the senate will be responsible for approving the internal rules of the audit committee.

The audit committee has the authority to provide assistance and conduct investigations if the president of the senate requests it.

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FIA President Gains Increased Authority Following Contentious Ethics Amendments

Adjustments to the functions of the FIA's ethics and audit committees have been approved.

New regulations, which are contentious and will restrict the methods by which the leadership of the FIA, the governing body of F1, can be held accountable, have been approved.

The changes to the rules overseeing the audit and ethics committees received approval during a vote by the FIA general assembly on Friday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

From now on, any complaints related to ethics will be managed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Carmelo Sanz De Barros, who is the president of the FIA's senate. The role of the ethics committee will be limited to determining if a situation warrants a thorough investigation.

The modifications essentially grant Ben Sulayem increased authority, whose tenure has been marked by controversy since he assumed the role in December 2021.

The ethics and audit committees conducted an inquiry into several claims concerning Ben Sulayem's behavior. This investigation included examining the financial dealings of his private office and addressing two allegations that he meddled in the management of grand prix events in 2023. Both of these allegations were found to be without merit and were subsequently dismissed.

Concerns have been voiced by Formula 1 teams and drivers regarding Ben Sulayem's leadership, particularly in the wake of a significant departure of essential FIA personnel and a number of abrupt dismissals, with the firing of F1 race director Niels Wittich being a prominent example.

A 63-year-old Emirati man has dismissed criticism from drivers, stating that his management decisions are "not their concern."

Earlier this week, Oliver Schmerold, who leads Austria's motorsport federation, expressed his disappointment regarding the proposed changes at that time.

According to Schmerold, if the ethics and audit committees become less appealing, it could result in these committees being comprised solely of individuals whose involvement is influenced by the current leadership.

"Who would be willing to join a committee that is entirely dominated by two people, especially if they have a history of supporting effective governance and possess a strong professional reputation?"

David Richards, who serves as the chairman of Motorsport UK, also voiced his "concern."

The FIA issued a statement to Crash.net regarding the modifications to the ethics committee, stating that the primary goal is to maintain and strengthen the committee's independence by minimizing the FIA administration's role in its operations.

The ethics committee used to report solely to the president, but it now reports to both the president and the president of the senate.

The committee is now authorized to independently decide if it should initiate an investigation.

"Secondly, due to ongoing leaks of confidential information to the media, including reports from the ethics committee, it has been suggested that the dissemination of any ethics committee report should be restricted."

This doesn't stop the president or the senate president from engaging with senate members, FIA members, or its staff in order to talk about or carry out any suggestions made by the ethics committee.

Ethics committee reports frequently include confidential information, which may cover topics related to criminal activities or safeguarding concerns.

Sharing this information automatically with numerous members and FIA personnel had to be restricted.

"Restricting who can access the report will help safeguard both the person who filed the complaint and the person being investigated."

The announcement regarding the audit committee explained that the purpose of the modifications is to make it clear that the committee serves as an advisory group to the senate and must function according to the FIA's regulations.

The suggested changes aim to make it clear that the audit committee serves as an advisory group for the senate. Additionally, any internal rules for the audit committee will need to receive approval from the senate going forward.

The audit committee has the authority to provide assistance and conduct investigations if requested by the president of the senate.

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Enhanced visuals of the F1 2026 car design have been unveiled by the FIA.

The FIA has released new images showing the design concept for the 2026 Formula 1 car.

The FIA revealed a revised model of the car design that will debut with the start of F1's new regulation period in 2026. This announcement came after the last gathering of the World Motor Sport Council this year.

The gathering occurred during the week of general assemblies organized by F1's governing body in Rwanda. This Friday, Max Verstappen, along with McLaren, is set to receive the drivers' and constructors' championship awards at the FIA's season-ending gala in Kigali.

The most significant alterations highlighted in the new images from the FIA, compared to the earlier version, are the adjustments made to the front and rear wings.

What modifications are set for 2026? The rules governing Formula 1 will see significant revisions in two years, introducing major updates to both the aerodynamics and power units.

The fresh rules focus on enhancing the agility of the new cars and improving their performance during close racing situations.

The most significant update regarding the engine is a threefold surge in the electricity generated solely by the battery. In 2026, the power units will be streamlined by eliminating the MGU-H component.

The engines are set to operate entirely on sustainable fuels.

Five companies specializing in engine production are set to supply power units for Formula 1 during its upcoming regulatory period, spanning from 2026 to 2030.

As Renault exits, Audi and a Ford initiative supported by Red Bull are set to become power unit manufacturers for Formula 1, joining Ferrari, Mercedes, and Honda starting in 2026.

General Motors' Cadillac division intends to develop and operate its own power unit eventually. However, at the outset, they will receive engine supplies from Ferrari.

Cars in 2026 will boast a chassis design that is more lightweight and will be equipped with active aerodynamic systems, along with adjustable front and rear wings.

Formula 1 will eliminate the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and introduce a new feature called 'Manual Override Mode'. This update will give drivers an extra electrical power boost.

You can check out the complete list of updates scheduled for 2026 by clicking here.

Racing teams are prohibited from commencing any aerodynamic development on their 2026 model vehicles until January 1, 2025.

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