Max Verstappen Criticizes F1 Officials for Bias with “Immediate Investigation” Remark

“And I’m aware that, had I not slowed down, it would have immediately prompted an investigation.”

Max Verstappen has stated that had he been in Lando Norris's position and committed the same infraction during the F1 Qatar Grand Prix, he believes an investigation would have been initiated against him immediately.

Midway through the Qatar Grand Prix, Verstappen observed that Norris had markedly reduced his time along the start-finish straight, despite the presence of double-waved yellow flags.

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Verstappen communicated via the team radio, stating: "Verify whether he slowed down for the yellow flag. There was a yellow flag mid-way through the straight."

Norris's race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, swiftly verified that Norris had not slowed down.

The F1 officials quickly looked into the matter, resulting in Norris receiving a significant 10-second stop-go penalty.

The sanction pushed Norris to the rear of the pack, ultimately securing a 10th place finish.

During the FIA press briefing following Sunday's race, Verstappen expressed his belief that had he been caught speeding under yellow flags, similar to what Norris did, it would have been scrutinized without needing another driver to point it out.

"Clearly, I was aware that I had to slow down because I noticed the two yellow flags," he explained. "I understood that not slowing down would have led to an immediate investigation. So, you stay alert. Indeed, I inquired if he also reduced his speed since he seemed to receive DRS, possibly from a lapped car, at that moment too."

And naturally, upon exiting Turn 1, I noticed he had significantly closed the gap.

"I simply requested the team to verify it. It was merely a routine inquiry. And obviously, given the strictness around double yellows, I understood the implications."

Verstappen experiences disappointment in Qatar

Despite securing his ninth F1 win of the year – and his initial victory in dry conditions since the Spanish Grand Prix – Verstappen was notably irritated by Mercedes' George Russell.

Verstappen received a one-spot demotion on the starting grid following qualifying, as the officials determined he had been moving too slowly during the third qualifying session (Q3), thereby obstructing Russell.

The sanction imposed on Verstappen was unusual, considering that being too slow in qualifying seldom results in penalties. Furthermore, Russell, the driver he supposedly obstructed, wasn't attempting a fast lap at the time.

Verstappen was equally annoyed by Russell's conduct in the room where the officials convened.

The quadruple world champion expressed that he had completely lost regard for Russell following the British driver's advocacy for a penalty against Verstappen.

Keenly attuned to the disputes and narratives within Formula 1, Connor is the core of our impartial coverage.

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Marc Marquez acknowledges "challenging times" in his "connection with Italian supporters."

"The connection with Italian supporters has faced challenging times, but it continues to improve with each encounter."

After improving his previously tense relationship with Italian fans by leading Gresini to three MotoGP wins last season, Marc Marquez is optimistic about having a positive connection as an official Ducati rider in 2025.

Once considered a fierce competitor of Italian icon Valentino Rossi, Marquez has frequently encountered unfriendly receptions, including boos, during the Mugello and Misano events.

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In 2024, the local supporters found themselves in a dilemma when Marquez departed from Repsol Honda to join the Italian company, Ducati, and compete with the Gresini team.

Boos could still be heard from the podium as Marquez secured a dream home win for Gresini at Misano this season.

However, future Ducati teammate Francesco Bagnaia emphasized that no MotoGP rider should be subjected to such booing, while Marquez anticipates that his rapport with the Italian fans will get even better in 2025.

According to Motorsport.com, Marquez stated during the 'Campioni in Festa' event on Tuesday night in Bologna that nothing is different for him this year.

"I consistently put in a lot of effort, and I recently secured a victory at Misano while racing with the Gresini team. I'm hoping to achieve a strong performance at Mugello this year, especially with the support of the Italian fans."

Ultimately, the connection with the Italian supporters has experienced challenging periods, yet it continues to improve over time.

"I have consistently aimed to maintain professionalism and fulfill my responsibilities. Competing for the Italian team, Gresini, helped restore my self-assurance."

"I compete for an Italian company and I'm confident that our relationship will be positive."

Considering the contrast in battling against competitors such as Rossi, Casey Stoner, Dani Pedrosa, and Jorge Lorenzo earlier in his career compared to facing the current generation of MotoGP riders, Marquez responded:

The racers I'm currently competing with are much more amiable! It feels like just the other day that I showed up here as a 20-year-old rookie, and now I've become one of the veterans.

"I find this quite appealing. Each individual has their unique career path and personal journey, but all the young riders enter MotoGP with immense drive. We strive to be prepared to compete against them, as they are very formidable."

Marquez is set to turn 32 on February 17, just a few weeks ahead of the start of pre-season testing at Sepang.

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Isack Hadjar's aspirations for Formula 1 may receive a significant uplift as Red Bull’s enthusiasm for Franco Colapinto appears to wane, potentially paving the way for Hadjar to make his debut on the 2025 F1 circuit.

Isack Hadjar might be poised for his first Formula 1 appearance with VCARB, as Red Bull's enthusiasm for Franco Colapinto appears to have diminished.

According to reports from The Race and AMuS, interest from Red Bull and Alpine in the Argentine racer Colapinto has waned in the past few weeks.

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Colapinto's remarkable initial outings for Williams, stepping in for Logan Sargeant at Monza, garnered attention from Red Bull and Alpine.

If Red Bull ultimately chooses to part ways with Sergio Perez, or if Perez himself concludes that it's time to move on, they will be in need of a new driver to take up a spot in either their primary or junior squad.

Red Bull had reservations about Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, leading them to consider Colapinto as a compelling choice.

It was also proposed that the financial gap created by a potential driver change could have been covered by Perez's supporters from Mexico – Carlos Slim's Telmex – had they decided to partner with Colapinto as the new driver.

Should Red Bull choose to substitute Perez with Tsunoda or Lawson, Colapinto might have become a member of VCARB.

Nonetheless, their enthusiasm for Colapinto has waned following several challenging races for him with Williams.

Mistakes made without pressure and slower speeds compared to Alex Albon, along with a rumored buyout cost of approximately £20 million, have deterred Red Bull from pursuing Colapinto.

Consequently, should a spot become available at VCARB for the upcoming season, Hadjar ought to be the one to take it.

Hadjar is involved with the Red Bull team and is competing for the championship in Formula 2.

Although Red Bull isn't fully persuaded that he will become a future world champion, he is the next contender and merits a chance.

Alpine's enthusiasm wanes too

Alpine, alongside Flavio Briatore, considered the possibility of recruiting Colapinto to Enstone.

Despite securing Jack Doohan for the upcoming season, who is poised to replace Esteban Ocon for his first Formula 1 race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend, Colapinto's performance has captured Briatore's attention.

As it stands, Doohan appears to be in a secure position as we approach 2025.

Overall, this implies that Colapinto will be out of action for the initial months of the upcoming year.

Should a slot become available on the grid, he's likely to be highly ranked on any team's list of preferred drivers for a mid-season recruitment.

Connor's keen insight into F1's debates and narratives is central to our objective journalism.

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"Didn't envision this conclusion" – Esteban Ocon voices his thoughts on leaving Alpine

Esteban Ocon delivers a dignified statement after his early departure from Alpine F1.

Esteban Ocon has voiced his thoughts after his unexpected departure from the Alpine Formula 1 team.

Following the Qatar Grand Prix on Monday, Alpine declared that Jack Doohan, a newcomer in 2025, will take Ocon's place for the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend.

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News about a surprising exchange for the season's last race surfaced following Sunday's race in Qatar, with Alpine verifying the rumors on Monday.

On Tuesday, Ocon expressed his gratitude towards his Alpine team and emphasized that leaving early was not his desired outcome.

"Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to all the mechanics and engineers, whether they're at the track, in Enstone, or in Viry-Châtillon, who have been part of this journey with me for the past five years," Ocon shared.

We've experienced a great deal as a group, and it fills me with pride to consider many of you as my friends. I understand the significance of those shared times for all involved and cherishing that feeling of accomplishment and happiness with the team is what I will carry forward.

"The team has faced a challenging year in terms of their performance, with the latter half of the season proving particularly tough due to a range of factors."

"I have no regrets because I know I put in my all during each session, just as I always do.

"I regret to inform the dedicated team at Enstone and Viry, both men and women, that I won't be able to visit you all in person to say a proper goodbye."

"The intention had always been to compete one final time this weekend and then directly bid farewell to everyone next week. I was eagerly anticipating doing both."

"I didn't envision my journey concluding this way. However, given the tight-knit nature of the Formula 1 community, I'm confident our paths will cross again before long."

"I also want to extend my best wishes to my buddy Jack as he embarks on this significant new chapter of his career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix happening this week."

Alpine offered a concise reply to Ocon's remarks, stating: "Indelibly marked in the Team's legacy. We appreciate you, Esteban. Wishing you all the best."

The 28-year-old French driver is set to move to Haas for the upcoming season, and reports indicate that ending his current contract early will allow him to participate in the American team's post-season test scheduled for next week.

Alpine believes separation is mutually beneficial

Before the official announcement on Sunday, Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes indicated that parting ways would serve the interests of both sides.

Nonetheless, Ocon expressed a contrasting sentiment in his farewell note.

"Oakes suggested that the situation is multifaceted. He believes that bringing Jack on board sooner rather than later is beneficial, and from Esteban's perspective, it's advantageous to proceed forward without delay."

"I believe it's a good fit for everyone involved, so naturally, the conversation flowed quite easily. Esteban has also played a significant role in the team, making it a mutually beneficial arrangement for both parties."

"I believe it's more about a natural progression of him moving forward, and whether it benefits both parties to make that transition a bit sooner for the final stretch or not."

"Alternatively, one could view it as beneficial to have Jack integrate with the team and overcome his initial nerves now, rather than during next year's event in Australia."

Lewis frequently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net, providing on-site reports. He shares the narratives of significant figures within the sport.

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EXCLUSIVE: My Experience Racing in Abu Dhabi's Inaugural Grand Prix and Celebrating with Michael Schumacher

A recounting of Formula 1's debut in Abu Dhabi, a decade and a half ago

The inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi took place in 2009, and since then, numerous changes have occurred.

Jenson Button reached the pinnacle of Formula 1 success by securing victory in Brazil, making him the latest world champion.

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The final race of the season, now a fixture in the schedule, concludes the 2024 F1 season in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

"Button described it as something out of the future," he revealed only to Crash.net.

"Participating in the night race was an incredible adventure, especially since it took place in a nation I had never visited before. I thoroughly relished the experience, and it marked my return to the podium after several races that season."

"I came into Abu Dhabi holding the title of World Champion, having secured victory in Brazil, making it an outstanding race."

"Enjoyed an unforgettable Sunday evening at Amber Lounge alongside Michael Schumacher and Ross Brawn, filled with joy and laughter."

Significant alterations have been made to the Yas Marina circuit to enhance the racing experience.

"Button expressed his pleasure in navigating the track in his unique style, but he also mentioned he's actually scheduled to drive on the track in January."

"We're conducting trials for WEC there, so I'll get to experience the high-speed section firsthand, but I'm fond of it.

"The schedule positions it well. Unlike the high-speed circuits like Suzuka, Silverstone, or Spa, it may not be as rapid, but I still find pleasure in racing there and believe the competition is strong."

Button's recollections of Abu Dhabi feature his official retirement and his second-to-last race, which took place in 2016.

He shares his top highlights: "Stepping onto the podium in our debut year, then experiencing the podium again the next year when we celebrated Sebastian [Vettel] becoming the World Champion."

"Lewis and I joined him on the podium, both representing McLaren, and as the last two World Champions, it was quite special to celebrate by spraying Seb with champagne!"

"Those two are prominent, but also, my final race there stands out as well."

"After experiencing a suspension malfunction, my race ended prematurely. Following that, I indulged in several drinks and conducted numerous interviews, during which I expressed indifference towards departing from Formula 1."

"The statements weren't completely accurate! It has consistently been an enjoyable time, and I'm eager to return and revisit those moments."

Fifteen years have passed since Button achieved his only Formula 1 title while driving for Brawn.

"It's astonishing to think it has been 15 years! I had the chance to drive the car again five years back, and it was a delightful experience," he remarked.

Looking back, it stands out as a historic year, not for my personal victory in the World Championship, but for the remarkable achievement of a privateer team, Brawn GP, clinching their first World Championship in their debut season.

"After 15 years, it's easy to lose track of numerous details, which is quite regrettable. That's why I feel fortunate that a documentary was created about it."

Last week, while in Paris, my spouse and I saw it on television and decided to tune in.

"It's truly remarkable to have a recorded account capturing the feelings of all those who were part of that period, making it incredibly precious to me. Keanu Reeves delivered an outstanding performance. That season is filled with wonderful moments, yet it simultaneously marks the most challenging year I've ever faced due to the immense pressure I placed on myself."

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'Esteban Ocon Comments on Unexpected Departure from Alpine'

Esteban Ocon shares a composed statement after his early departure from the Alpine F1 team.

Esteban Ocon has expressed his thoughts after leaving the Alpine F1 team earlier than expected.

On Monday, Alpine revealed that following the Qatar Grand Prix, Jack Doohan, a newcomer in 2025, will take Esteban Ocon's place for the final race of the season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, this coming weekend.

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Rumors about a surprising driver exchange for the season's final race surfaced following the Qatar race on Sunday. Alpine then validated these reports on Monday.

On Tuesday, Ocon issued a statement expressing gratitude to his team at Alpine and stating that he did not wish for things to conclude with an early departure.

"I want to primarily express my gratitude to the mechanics and engineers from every department at the track, as well as those in Enstone and Viry-Châtillon, who have been my teammates over the past five seasons," Ocon stated.

"We've experienced a lot together, and I'm honored to consider many of you as friends. I understand the significance of all those shared moments for everyone, and it's the collective sense of accomplishment and happiness with the team that I'll cherish as I move forward."

"The team has faced a challenging year on the track, with the latter half of the season proving particularly tough for several reasons."

"I have no regrets because I know I put in my full effort during every session, just as I always do."

"I want to express my apologies to the many dedicated individuals working at Enstone and Viry, as I will not be able to visit in person to say a proper goodbye."

As you're aware, the intention was to compete for the final time this weekend and then bid a personal farewell to everyone next week. I had been eagerly anticipating both events.

"I didn't intend for things to conclude this way. However, the Formula 1 community is tight-knit, and I'm confident I'll cross paths with many of you again in the near future."

"I also want to extend my best wishes to my friend Jack as he embarks on this significant new chapter in his career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix happening this week."

Alpine released a short reply to Ocon's remarks, stating: "You will always be a part of our Team's legacy. Thank you, Esteban. Wishing you all the best."

A 28-year-old driver from France is set to be part of the Haas team next season. Reports suggest that his contract has ended early, allowing him to participate with the American team in the test session scheduled for next week, after the current season concludes.

Alpine asserts that separation is mutually beneficial.

On Sunday, prior to the official announcement, Alpine's team leader, Oliver Oakes, indicated that parting ways would be advantageous for both sides.

Nevertheless, in his farewell statement, Ocon expressed that he holds a contrasting opinion.

“It seems to come from various directions. You could argue that bringing Jack in sooner is beneficial, while from Esteban’s perspective, transitioning earlier is advantageous,” stated Oakes.

"I believe it works well for everyone, making the conversation quite straightforward. Esteban has played a significant role in this team, and it benefits both parties involved."

In essence, it's more about the natural progression of him transitioning to a new phase. The question is whether it's mutually beneficial for both parties to make this change slightly ahead of the final stage.

"On the flip side, it can be seen as beneficial to have Jack join the team now, allowing him to collaborate with everyone and overcome any nervousness before next year in Australia."

Lewis frequently covers Formula 1 races globally for Crash.net. He is typically on-site to provide firsthand accounts and shares the narratives of key figures in the motorsport community.

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MotoGP 2024: A total of 865 crashes were documented across MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3, with Jerez seeing the most incidents and Phillip Island featuring the most dangerous corner.

Throughout the 2024 world championships, the MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 categories witnessed a total of 865 instances of riders falling, marking a decrease of 144 falls compared to the year before.

Excluding the brief 2020 Covid season, the number of crashes was at its lowest since 2013, with 863 incidents recorded across 18 races.

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In a side-by-side analysis, the 2024 MotoGP season was made up of 20 rounds, and according to official figures from MotoGP.com, the most significant decrease in the number of crashes per event was observed in the Moto2 category.

During its inaugural year with Pirelli tyres, the Moto2 series saw an average of 13.4 crashes per weekend, totaling 268, a reduction from the 17.2 average crashes in 2023 and significantly lower than the peak of 24.8 crashes per weekend in 2011.

The Moto3 category, transitioning from Dunlop tires to Pirelli, saw its average drop from 15.4 last year to 13.1, totaling 262.

In the meantime, MotoGP saw a marginal decrease in the number of crashes, dropping from 358 to 335, which equates to a reduction in the average falls per weekend from 17.9 to 16.8, throughout its second season featuring Sprint races

Friday afternoon sees highest number of MotoGP crashes

Out of 335 crashes in the MotoGP series, Friday afternoon practice sessions emerged as the most perilous, recording 91 accidents throughout the season.

Following this, the premier grand prix event took place, featuring 80, and was followed by the Sprint race, which

In the two sessions without time constraints, it was expectedly the case that they were the least hazardous, recording just eight mishaps in the Sunday pre-race preparations and eleven during the thirty-minute practice session on Saturday morning.

In contrast, the significance and pressure of the Qualifying rounds were highlighted by the occurrence of 37 accidents during the 15-minute Q2 sessions.

In the Moto2 and Moto3 categories, the competitions were notably the most prone to accidents, recording 102 and 91 crashes respectively.

The 2024 Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez, marked by wet conditions on Saturday, led the season with the highest number of crashes at 74, surpassing Mandalika's 67 and Phillip Island's 64 incidents.

The figures fell significantly short of the peak weekend tallies observed in the past few years, with Valencia 2018 witnessing a record 155 incidents and Le Mans 2021 following with 118.

This season's most secure event took place during the initial round in Qatar, recording 28 falls. Both Aragon, despite its freshly unclean surface, and Mugello experienced 29 falls. These events all occurred under completely dry conditions.

Analysis of each turn reveals that Turn 4 (also known as Miller Hairpin) at Phillip Island stands out as the most hazardous, with a total of 29 crashes across all categories occurring there during this year's Australian Grand Prix.

Weather conditions played a role, affecting the Moto2 and Moto3 classes with rain during portions of Friday and Saturday.

The second corner, known as the new chicane, at the Red Bull Ring, which experienced completely dry conditions, ranked next highest with a count of 19.

At Sachsenring's first turn and Mandalika's sixteenth turn, there were 15 instances of riders falling.

Injuries

What surpasses the count of mishaps in significance are the outcomes, as documented in the formal records.

Most injuries classified as 'rider unfit' affected the hands or feet.

Qatar:

Portimão:

I'm sorry,

Sherry:

Unfortunately, you haven

Red Bull Circuit:

Unfortunately, you haven

The Mandalika Region:

There seems to be a misunderstanding

Island of Phillip:

Buriram:

Sepang:

The reported injuries were only updated on the day of the race, meaning the full extent of the injuries might not be fully captured as riders often had additional medical examinations away from the race tracks.

For two decades, Peter has been a fixture in the motorcycle racing world, witnessing the rise and departure of legendary racer Valentino Rossi. Currently, he's leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal from the sport and the ongoing health challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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EXCLUSIVE: I competed in the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and celebrated with Michael Schumacher

A story about Formula 1's debut in Abu Dhabi, which took place 15 years ago

The inaugural F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took place in 2009, and since then, many things have evolved.

Jenson Button entered as the freshly crowned Formula 1 champion following his victory in Brazil.

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The final race of the season, now a staple event, is set to take place. Formula 1 will conclude its 2024 campaign in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

Button described it as having a futuristic quality during an exclusive conversation with Crash.net.

The experience was incredible, involving racing at night and traveling to a country I had never visited before. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it marked my first podium finish after several races that season.

"I came to Abu Dhabi as the reigning World Champion after securing a victory in Brazil, which was an excellent race."

"I spent Sunday evening at Amber Lounge with Michael Schumacher and Ross Brawn, and it was incredibly enjoyable."

The Yas Marina circuit has undergone major modifications to enhance the quality of the races.

Button expressed his enjoyment of the track while driving it and mentioned that he will have the opportunity to drive there again in January.

"We're conducting tests for the WEC at that location, so I'll get a sense of the high-speed section soon. Overall, I find it enjoyable."

"The event is well-timed in the schedule. Unlike the rapid circuits found at Suzuka, Silverstone, or Spa, this track offers a different experience. Nonetheless, I always have a great time driving there, and I believe the competition is exciting."

Button reminisces about Abu Dhabi, recalling his full-time retirement and his second-to-last race in 2016.

He describes his most cherished experiences: "Standing on the podium during the inaugural year and then again the next year when we celebrated Sebastian [Vettel] becoming the World Champion."

"Standing on the podium with Lewis and me, both representing McLaren, was a memorable moment as we were the last two World Champions. It was quite exciting to celebrate by spraying Seb with champagne!"

"Those two are memorable, but my last race there also stands out."

"I experienced a suspension issue and ended the race prematurely. Afterward, I had some drinks and participated in numerous interviews where I expressed indifference about my departure from Formula 1."

"The statements weren't completely accurate! I've always had a great time there, and I'm excited to return and experience those moments again."

It has been 15 years since Button won his only Formula 1 title while driving for Brawn.

"It's hard to believe that 15 years have passed! I had the chance to get behind the wheel of the car again five years ago, and it was a wonderful experience," he mentioned.

Looking back, it was a year destined to be remembered in the annals of history. This wasn't simply due to my victory in the World Championship, but more so because a private team, Brawn GP, clinched their inaugural World Championship in their very first year.

"After 15 years, it's easy to forget a lot of details, which is unfortunate. That's why I feel fortunate that a documentary was created about it."

"Last week, my wife and I were in Paris when it appeared on TV, so we decided to watch it."

Having the season captured on record, where I can witness the emotions of all those who participated, is truly remarkable. I feel incredibly fortunate to have this. Keanu Reeves did an outstanding job with it. Although there are many fond memories from that season, it was also the most challenging year I've ever faced due to the immense pressure I placed on myself.

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Cyclist Receives 17-Hour Penalty After FaceTiming His Mom

A unique tale of a concerned mother during a high-profile competition

The off-season for motorcycle racing has brought to light an unusual and little-known story.

A motocross competitor managed to finish a notoriously challenging race, all the while video chatting with his concerned mom.

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Ben Hunter expressed his strong desire to compete in the Baja 1000 race, but mentioned that his mother is preventing him from participating due to his Type 1 diabetes.

According to her, the sole condition for me to participate in the race was to broadcast it live for the entire duration.

That's precisely what he accomplished.

HEADLINE: At this year's Baja 1000, dirt bike competitor Ben Hunter completed the race with a @Starlink Mini affixed to his helmet. "I was determined to participate in the Baja 1000, but my mother was against it due to my Type 1 diabetes. She agreed to let me race only if I could be monitored live…" pic.twitter.com/VnLOptNP3c— ALEX (@ajtourville) November 18, 2024

HEADLINE: At this year's Baja 1000, dirt bike competitor Ben Hunter completed the race with a @Starlink Mini affixed to his helmet. "I was determined to participate in the Baja 1000, but my mother was against it due to my Type 1 diabetes. She agreed to let me race only if I could be monitored live…" pic.twitter.com/VnLOptNP3c

Hunter arrived wearing a helmet to which a Starlink Mini was taped, connected to a power source.

His mother was broadcasted live on FaceTime while being strapped to his body.

The Baja 1000 is a highly esteemed off-road racing event that takes place on the Baja California Peninsula.

Hunter's efforts to ease his mother's worries were commendable.

However, his performance in the sports arena was not very successful.

According to Motosprint, Hunter received a 17-hour time penalty for using a "prohibited route."

This resulted in the competitor being officially removed from the race.

And, most likely, a scolding from his mother who witnessed the entire situation.

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

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Suzuki unveils new position on MotoGP return

Suzuki's leader Toshihiro Suzuki talks about making a comeback in racing

Suzuki's chief, Toshihiro Suzuki, is open to the possibility of the Japanese brand making a comeback in racing circuits, including MotoGP, though there are currently no immediate plans to do so.

In a surprising move, the company exited MotoGP following the 2022 season, despite recently agreeing with Dorna Sports to stay in the competition for an additional five years.

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Suzuki pointed to economic challenges and shifts in market preferences as the reasons behind its choice, a move that dissolved the squad that clinched the world title with Joan Mir in 2020.

Suzuki's choice to exit MotoGP led to the company pulling out of all motorsport activities at the factory level.

In anticipation of significant regulatory changes in 2027, involving the introduction of 850cc four-stroke engines that run entirely on sustainable fuels, the prevailing belief is that these modifications could sufficiently attract a new manufacturer to enter the competition.

Over the past few years, Dorna has intentionally reserved the grid positions left open by Suzuki for a potential new manufacturer, amid widespread speculation about BMW's interest, though nothing has materialized as of yet.

Nonetheless, by August, Carlos Ezpeleta, Dorna's top sports executive, announced a change in policy, indicating that any new manufacturer wishing to enter the competition would need to integrate with a current team.

This arrangement would mirror Aprilia's comeback to MotoGP in 2015, where their official team operated from the Gresini garage up until the close of 2021.

During a conversation with Corriere dello Sport in Italy, Suzuki-san expressed openness to the idea of making a comeback in racing, but only once the brand offers a more “comprehensive and diverse” selection of motorcycles to its customers.

"He emphasized that the triumphs in MotoGP held significant importance for them."

"Yet, the absence of a comprehensive and varied selection of models for every motorcycle aficionado doesn't hold significant importance."

"Currently, I believe we're not facing such circumstances."

"It's crucial that we promptly present an extensive selection of products that meets the needs of current riders."

"If all proceeds smoothly, we'll make our comeback to the race circuit and secure another victory."

In April of the previous year, Jorge Viegas, the president of FIM, communicated to journalists during the Assen World Superbike event that he had engaged in conversations with Suzuki. According to him, they conveyed their plans to allocate all their financial resources towards the development of a new engine model, among other things.

"I believe they'll return. They won't be able to sell motorcycles without participating in contests."

Suzuki participated in this year's Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race with a GSX-R that used a partly sustainable fuel, securing an eighth-place finish.

The primary concern for Dorna in the event they are ready to pursue a MotoGP project would be their willingness to reaccept Suzuki.

This probably hinges on Suzuki demonstrating sustained success, especially after exiting MotoGP for the second time since the start of the contemporary period in 2002.

In its latest appearance at the MotoGP, during the 2022 Valencia GP, the brand celebrated a significant victory as Alex Rins clinched his second season win aboard the GSX-RR.

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"The downside" of being Marc Marquez's teammate in MotoGP is that "With Marc on the team, you find 20 journalists waiting for you as soon as you open the garage."

Alex Marquez has expressed that the most challenging part of his 2024 MotoGP season was the increased "pressure" from being on the same team as Marc Marquez.

Marc Marquez, who has won the world championship eight times, surprised many by choosing to end his factory Honda contract a year ahead of schedule. He will join Gresini Racing to ride a GP23 Ducati for the 2024 season.

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After enduring a challenging period following a severe arm injury in 2020, Marquez aimed to revive his career. He secured victories in three grand prix races, matching the number of wins by world champion Jorge Martin, while riding the 2023 Ducati model. Next season, Marquez is set to join the Italian manufacturer's factory team.

The addition of Marquez to the Gresini team attracted more attention than the satellite team had ever experienced before. This was initially challenging for Alex Marquez, who is the younger brother of Marc, to get used to.

"The downside is the scrutiny and the way those who closely observe you put you under intense pressure," Alex Marquez shared with Relevo.

In 2023, the atmosphere was particularly calm, with less media attention. However, having Marc around changed that dynamic. As soon as the box opened, there were about 20 journalists eagerly observing and taking note of every detail inside.

"He's not the only one feeling it; everyone in the room is under pressure. It's coming not just from the media but also from outsiders who are paying more attention, which is the downside."

"Additionally, there were times, particularly at the start, when the team appeared more anxious overall."

Ultimately, having an eight-time world champion in the area added to the tension.

"Indeed, following two, three, or four races, the circumstances have stabilized, leading to an incredibly calm environment."

In 2020, the Marquez siblings were both part of the Honda team. However, they managed to compete in the same race only once before Marc's arm injury at the Spanish Grand Prix ended his season.

Alex Marquez is set to stay with Gresini for the upcoming season and will be riding a GP24. Meanwhile, newcomer Fermin Aldeguer has filled the spot previously occupied by his brother.

In 2023, Alex Marquez experienced the thrill of standing on the grand prix podium and winning a sprint race with Gresini on the GP22. However, the 2024 season proved to be more challenging for him.

He only stood on the podium once during the GP23 season at the German Grand Prix, where he secured a third-place finish, trailing his brother Marc. By the end of the year, Alex was ranked eighth overall in the standings.

In Germany, two brothers stood on the top-tier podium together for the first time in 27 years, replicating the feat last achieved by Nobuatsu and Takuma Aoki at Imola in 1997.

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Tardozzi: Ducati's MotoGP Lineup Will Be Hard to Surpass Next Season

"We might let some leading riders go to competing brands, but in all honesty, I believe our team is exceptional."

Davide Tardozzi remains confident that despite the departure of the newly crowned MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin, along with Enea Bastianini and Marco Bezzecchi to competing manufacturers, Ducati's Desmosedici motorcycle and their stellar roster of riders will present a formidable challenge in the upcoming season.

Marc Marquez, a six-time winner in the premier class, will join two-time MotoGP champion Francesco Bagnaia, taking over from Bastianini.

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The term 'dream team' is familiar to the Spaniard, recalling when three-time MotoGP champion Jorge Lorenzo teamed up with him at Repsol Honda back in 2019.

To say the least, Lorenzo's 'dream team' was far from successful, which might shed some light on why Marquez appears to be yielding to Bagnaia, given that he's now the one teaming up with another champion.

"Currently, I find myself in an unfamiliar scenario where I've joined a pit box, and despite there being no official first or second designation, it's clear there's a pecking order, with Pecco being the one who ultimately makes the decisions," Marquez remarked recently.

"Why is Pecco in charge? Simply because he's the rider who has secured two world championships for Ducati, not to mention his impressive tally of eleven race victories last season. Consequently, it's only natural that he takes the lead in making decisions during this pre-season and the initial races."

The notable distinction in the scenario where Lorenzo moves to Honda lies in the fact that Marquez has completed a season riding a Ducati, securing three victories this year on the previous model of the satellite bike with the Gresini team.

"Tardozzi shared with MotoGP.com, “While we may pass up on some leading figures for other brands, ultimately, I believe we've assembled an exceptional team. Pecco and Marc are outstanding talents."

"I believe we can achieve a strong partnership among our two riders, and I'm confident that we'll be the leading team to challenge next year."

"I'm aware that other manufacturers are advancing in terms of technology and strengthening their teams of riders. However, ultimately, I believe that the Ducati motorcycle and the Ducati official team will present a significant challenge for competitors in the upcoming year."

Ducati emerged victorious in all but one of the 20 Sunday Grand Prix events held this year, securing 19 wins, 16 of which were achieved using the factory-spec GP24 motorcycle.

"Tardozzi emphasized the importance of dedicating time this winter to properly progress with the new GP25, as the 2024 model is highly competitive, making advancements challenging."

Conversely, it's anticipated that our rivals will present a formidable challenge in terms of their riders next year. Aprilia's duo, Bezzecchi and Jorge, are expected to pose a significant threat, while Vinales and Bastianini are likely to enhance the performance of the KTM team.

"Therefore, while there's joy on one hand, on the other, we remain highly vigilant!"

Next season, the Gresini team, featuring newcomer Fermin Aldeguer, Alex Marquez, and Franco Morbidelli from VR46, will compete with GP24s.

Fabio di Giannantonio, Morbidelli's teammate, will be provided with the second factory GP25.

For two decades, Peter has been a fixture in the racing paddock, witnessing the rise and departure of Valentino Rossi. He's currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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