KTM permitted to proceed as employment cut predictions decrease in pivotal court session

Austrian company facing difficulties receives significant support on Friday

Following a hearing on Friday, the Ried Regional Court has allowed KTM to proceed with its operations, and the initially anticipated number of staff reductions has been decreased.

The motorcycle maker from Austria is facing a severe financial downturn, as KTM is reported to owe upwards of €1.8 billion, based on information from associations that protect creditors.

In recent months, numerous employees have been dismissed, and it is anticipated that there will be additional layoffs. Moreover, wages for November and December remain unpaid to date.

Nonetheless, after a court session at the Ried Regional Court in Austria on Friday, KTM received permission to proceed.

As reported by the Austrian broadcaster ORF, KTM's reorganization efforts will continue as scheduled, with the company deemed to have "adequate financial reserves" until its forthcoming review session.

The anticipated figure for job cuts has been reduced from 500 to 300, and it is expected that workers will receive their wages for November and December by the end of January.

The compensation will be sourced from the fund set aside for insolvency wages.

According to ORF, KTM's chief Stefan Pierer was absent from the Regional Court proceedings, with Gottfried Neumeister, the Co-CEO, stepping in to represent the company.

KTM's revamp strategy might receive a financial uplift from three entities considering an investment via the Pierer Mobility Group, reportedly amounting to as much as €700 million.

The halt in production by the manufacturer, initiated last week, is set to continue through the end of February due to an excess inventory of 130,000 units that remain unsold in a warehouse.

KTM is scheduled for a creditors review on January 24, followed by a decision on its reorganization proposal on February 25, where creditors are presented with a two-year plan to receive 30% repayment.

As of now, there has been no formal announcement regarding the effect of this recent progress on KTM's MotoGP initiative.

Several leaders have maintained since November that plans for 2025 will proceed as scheduled.

Nonetheless, there are circulating reports suggesting that KTM plans to halt progress on its 2025 motorcycle model due to the firm's current financial difficulties.

KTM has yet to verify this information.

This week, it was revealed by the management that they will be divesting the 50.1% controlling interest in the Italian marque MV Agusta, previously held by KTM. Concurrently, Jeremy McWilliams, a veteran test rider for KTM, has been let go from his position.

Austria's financial sector is currently investigating KTM to determine if the Pierer Mobility Group adhered to this year's disclosure rules.

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Ducati's MotoGP leader highlights the main issue facing the team in 2025

Gigi Dall’Igna focuses on the hurdles Ducati will face in 2025

Ducati's chief executive, Gigi Dall’Igna, has disclosed that the primary challenge facing Ducati for the 2025 MotoGP season stems from competing manufacturers employing increasingly skilled riders.

The Italian brand led the charge in the 2024 season, as its competitors clinched victories in 19 out of the 20 major races, securing both the manufacturers’ and riders’ championships for Ducati.

For the 2025 racing season, Ducati will have fewer bikes competing, with the number dropping from eight to six. This change comes as Pramac decided to switch to Yamaha following Marc Marquez's move to the main team. Additionally, there will be only three of Ducati's GP25 factory models on the track, down from four.

Dall'Igna doesn't view the decrease in Ducati's motorcycle count as an issue, pointing out that other brands have expanded their presence on the grid without seeing significant improvements in their performance lately.

The concern for Ducati in 2025 lies in the departure of formidable competitors such as Jorge Martin, the 2024 world champion, and Enea Bastianini, who have both inked deals with competing teams.

"Frankly, no," Dall'Igna responded last month to inquiries about whether Ducati's diminished role in 2025 would pose an issue.

"However, the main issue appears to be that competing brands may have superior riders. Historically, when observing certain brands, like Aprilia, which expanded its lineup from two to four bikes, the outcomes remained largely unchanged."

"Hence, I believe that having merely six bikes, six riders on the grid, won't actually be the main issue for us."

"The core issue here is that Martin is transitioning to a different firm, and the same applies to Enea. It appears this is what distinguishes the years 2024 and 2025."

Initially, Ducati intended to elevate Martin to its official team by 2025, but Marquez's refusal to accept a factory bike at Pramac led to a change in plans.

Despite Martin's championship victory with Pramac, Dall’Igna insists that there are no second thoughts regarding Ducati's choices for 2025.

"Definitely, we gave it considerable thought before making this choice," he further stated.

Additionally, we believed that this year could be the one where Martin secures the championship title.

"After consideration, we made the decision."

"Thus, my opinion remains unchanged currently, and I am firmly of the belief that we're offering the Ducati riders the optimal solution available."

Regarding Ducati's choice to decrease its number of factory bikes from four to three, Dall'Igna commented, "This move is financially the most advantageous."

"By rotating three bicycles into the subsequent season, you enhance economic efficiency."

"From a technical perspective, having four factory bikes instead of three doesn't actually offer a significant benefit."

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KTM remains determined despite economic turmoil

KTM provides an update following the decision of the Regional Court last Friday

KTM affirms its commitment to maintaining momentum through 2025 despite facing a financial crunch, following the Regional Court's Friday decision which allows the company to proceed as is.

According to a Friday report by ORF, the Austrian producer has accumulated debts surpassing €1.8 billion, after opting for self-administration in the previous month to avoid insolvency.

Numerous employees have been dismissed, and an additional 300 job cuts are anticipated, which is less than the initially projected 500 by KTM.

Manufacturing is on pause until the end of February, and employees must wait until the end of January at the earliest to receive their wages for November and December.

On Friday, during a hearing at the Regional Court, KTM received approval to maintain its existing structure. Meanwhile, three entities have shown a willingness to inject as much as 700 million euros to support its ongoing restructuring efforts.

A meeting with creditors is scheduled for January 24, followed by a vote on its reorganization strategy at the end of February.

There hasn't been much formal communication regarding KTM's MotoGP initiative set for 2025, however, top officials from the company have previously stated that the project is expected to proceed without any changes.

Subsequently, there were media speculations about a halt in the development of the 2025 RC16.

KTM has issued a communication regarding the ongoing scenario, indicating its dedication to continue its involvement in racing activities by 2025, without explicitly referencing MotoGP.

The complete declaration reads as follows:

"'READY TO RACE' transcends a mere catchphrase for KTM; it encapsulates our very purpose. The competitive arena is a mix of triumphs and setbacks, courage and disillusionment, as well as wins and losses. The year 2024 has brought a series of triumphs alongside hurdles for the organization.

"As we move towards 2025 and beyond, numerous challenges and obstacles await us – yet, we remain undeterred and continue to push forward with full force."

2024 stands out as an exceptional year for KTM, characterized by daring advancements, exhilarating triumphs, and steadfast commitment to our customers. Although obstacles inevitably arise in any significant endeavor, we view them as chances to hasten our progress towards a more promising future.

There's no hiding the fact that KTM AG is dealing with changes in the economic environment. Yet, in line with our 'READY TO RACE' slogan, we're taking this opportunity to adjust, recharge, and rejuvenate.

"KTM is wholeheartedly dedicated to providing outstanding experiences for both existing and prospective customers. We are determined to excite and navigate our path back to the forefront of victory."

"Racing is the stage where we display our brand's identity, showcase our engineering prowess, and express our zeal for competition. Throughout the last year, our motorsport teams have consistently reached new heights of success. We kicked off the season holding an impressive tally of 341 FIM World Championship titles."

Throughout their extensive international schedules, they participated in over 1,480 races, securing 246 podium finishes and 150 victories in a range of competitions. Despite facing challenges and sustaining injuries—a common aspect of the sport—KTM remarkably clinched an additional 11 hard-earned championships to their tally.

Away from their usual competitive tracks, KTM has had a bustling year with numerous activities. The company introduced 59 fresh models, organized three global media events attended by 152 partners from the media, executed three events for customers that drew in 283 attendees, and made a significant comeback to EICMA, the biggest motorcycle expo globally, featuring a vast booth spanning 1,635 square meters and showcasing 17 new products from KTM.

KTM is actively promoting these latest motorcycles and is focused on keeping progress on track in key sectors. The company is also embracing a proactive strategy while going through this period of reorganization.

"In the coming three months, our aim is to secure the company's stability while laying the groundwork for continuous growth and prosperity."

During this time frame, KTM commits to maintaining the supply of motorcycles via our Certified KTM Dealer network. This commitment also extends to our spare parts, technical accessories, customer service support, and warranties, all of which will continue without alteration, providing consistent and steadfast assistance throughout this duration.

"The pursuit of cutting-edge, thrill-seeking motorcycles continues unabated. KTM is gearing up for the unveiling of several eagerly awaited new models, set to hit dealership floors in the early months of 2025. This move reaffirms our commitment to maintaining our status as a premier motorcycle brand in Europe for years to come."

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KTM confirms its participation in MotoGP until 2025 despite rumors of departure during organizational changes

KTM’s involvement in MotoGP remains in doubt due to financial challenges

Fresh details emerged from the creditors' gathering on Friday about KTM’s bankruptcy process, indicating that the company intends to cut its MotoGP project as a measure to decrease expenses.

On Friday morning, news surfaced that KTM would be permitted to maintain its existing operations after an initial meeting with creditors took place at the Regional Court in Austria.

Investors are showing enthusiasm for a €700 million financial injection aimed at supporting KTM during its self-led restructuring efforts, amidst facing debts exceeding €1.8 billion.

Predictions for job cuts have been lowered from 500 to 300, and wages for November and December are expected to be disbursed by the end of January, assuming things proceed smoothly.

Initial accounts failed to specify the status of KTM's MotoGP initiative during the current crisis.

On Friday afternoon, the company issued an ambiguous announcement asserting its commitment to maintaining momentum through 2025, without specifically addressing its Formula 1 initiatives.

The economic turmoil within the organization has affected the Moto2 and Moto3 categories, leading to the withdrawal of the GASGAS and Husqvarna teams from the 2025 line-up. Despite this, several prominent individuals have previously assured that the MotoGP initiative will proceed without changes.

According to details disclosed by the credit protection agency Alpenlandischer Kreditorenverband (AKV), the restructuring plans include "a proposed exit from MotoGP, Moto2/Moto3 as a strategy to lower expenses."

AKV has not specified any schedule for this.

KTM pledges allegiance to MotoGP until 2025

Crash.net contacted KTM for an official statement, to which the company replied:

Today signifies a pivotal moment for KTM as we announce the progression of our restructuring efforts. This significant step solidifies our strategy for the future, and we are delighted to affirm that motorsport continues to be a key component of our restructuring agenda.

KTM remains unwavering in its dedication to motorsport. We reiterate our declaration for 2025: our participation in MotoGP will persist!

Today's encouraging results have revitalized us, and we express our gratitude for your backing.

Next year, KTM plans to participate in MotoGP with two groups: the main team led by Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, along with Tech3. After spending two years operating as GASGAS, Tech3 will now compete under the KTM banner, featuring Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini as its competitors.

KTM provides 16 motorcycles for the Moto3 lineup.

At the beginning of this week, Albert Valera, who manages Acosta, conveyed to motorsport.com that KTM had confirmed their racing schedule would remain unchanged.

"Valera mentioned that he and Pedro were able to visit Austria to firsthand observe the actual state of the KTM project in MotoGP."

"Despite the challenging circumstances facing the company, the overall sentiment remains optimistic."

It has been consistently conveyed to us that the core of KTM's ethos lies in racing, with their unwavering dedication focused solely on securing the championship title.

"Pedro is dedicated to the project and feels more at ease and assured following the meeting."

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KTM pledges to remain in MotoGP until at least 2025, despite speculation of leaving during organizational changes

KTM's ongoing participation in MotoGP in jeopardy due to economic challenges

Details emerging from the creditors' meeting on Friday about KTM's bankruptcy process indicate that the company intends to cut its MotoGP project as a measure to decrease expenses.

On Friday morning, it was reported that KTM received permission to maintain its operations as they are after an initial meeting with creditors took place at the Regional Court in Austria.

Investors have shown enthusiasm for a €700 million financial injection aimed at supporting KTM during its self-administered restructuring process, amid facing a debt burden of at least €1.8 billion.

Predictions for the number of job cuts have been lowered from 500 to 300, and with any luck, wages for November and December are expected to be disbursed by January's end.

Initial accounts failed to address the status of KTM's MotoGP initiative during the current turmoil.

On Friday afternoon, the brand issued an ambiguous announcement, stating it would continue its aggressive approach through 2025, without making any references to its Formula 1 projects.

The economic turmoil within the corporation has had effects on Moto2 and Moto3, leading to the elimination of the GASGAS and Husqvarna names from the lineup for the year 2025. Despite this, several leaders have previously stated that the MotoGP initiative will proceed according to its original schedule.

Nevertheless, details shared by the debt protection group Alpenlandischer Kreditorenverband (AKV) indicate that part of the restructuring plan includes "cutting expenses through the planned exit from MotoGP, Moto2/Moto3 competitions."

AKV has not provided a specific schedule for this.

KTM pledges continued participation in MotoGP until 2025

Crash.net has contacted KTM seeking an official statement, to which the company has replied:

Today signifies a critical moment for KTM as we officially announce the advancement of our restructuring efforts. This significant step ensures the execution of our future strategy, and it brings us great pride to affirm that motorsport continues to be a key component of our reorganization plan.

"KTM remains unwavering in its dedication to motorsport. We reiterate our pledge for 2025: our participation in MotoGP races will persist!"

Today's favorable results have revitalized us, and we extend our gratitude for your backing.

Next year, KTM plans to enter MotoGP with two outfits: the primary team led by Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, and Tech3, now returning to the KTM banner after a two-year stint as GASGAS, featuring Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini as its competitors.

KTM provides 16 motorcycles for competitors in the Moto3 category.

Earlier this week, Albert Valera, the manager of Acosta, informed motorsport.com that KTM had given them assurances that the racing schedule would remain unchanged.

"Valera reported that he and Pedro were fortunate enough to visit Austria and witness firsthand the actual state of the KTM project in MotoGP."

"Even though the company is facing a challenging period, the outlook remains optimistic."

"It has been conveyed to us repeatedly that the core of KTM lies in racing, and they will persist in their efforts with the singular goal of securing the championship title."

"Pedro is dedicated to the project and feels more at ease and assured following the meeting."

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Isack Hadjar is set to make his Formula 1 entrance with Racing Bulls, stepping in for Liam Lawson

Now, the lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 season is fully confirmed

Isack Hadjar is set to progress from Formula 2 to Formula 1, joining Racing Bulls, the junior team of Red Bull, as he takes over the spot from Liam Lawson.

Red Bull has experienced a hectic few days, culminating on Wednesday with the announcement of Sergio Perez's exit from the squad.

On Thursday morning, it was revealed that Lawson would join Red Bull as Max Verstappen's teammate for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Hadjar is set to occupy the open position at Racing Bulls.

A 20-year-old from France has become the newest addition to Red Bull's roster of young drivers to make it to Formula 1, joining the ranks of notable names such as Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel, and Daniel Ricciardo.

Hadjar secured the runner-up position in the 2024 F2 championship, closely trailing behind Sauber newcomer Gabriel Bortoleto for the title.

He is set to compete together with Yuki Tsunoda, who did not receive a promotion consideration from Red Bull.

Commenting on the announcement, Hadjar expressed: "I'm thrilled to embark on my journey with VCARB. This represents a significant milestone for me, my family, and everyone who has supported me since the start."

"Progressing from kart racing, climbing up the ladder in single-seater categories, to finally reaching Formula One represents the culmination of my lifelong ambition; it's the ultimate dream. It feels as though I'm entering an entirely new realm, piloting a significantly speedier vehicle, and competing against the world's elite racers."

"I'm aware that there's a significant challenge ahead, yet I am prepared to give it my all and contribute my utmost to the team's success."

"I'm excited about the opportunity to collaborate with and gain insights from Yuki. He's been a role model for me, having navigated the Red Bull Junior Programme just as I did, and our journeys to F1 have paralleled each other. His wealth of experience is something I'm keen to tap into and learn from."

A newcomer joins the 2025 F1 lineup

Hadjar joins an extensive roster of newcomers in the 2025 F1 championship.

Mercedes opted to substitute Lewis Hamilton with the 18-year-old prodigy, Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Haas chose Ferrari's young talent, Oliver Bearman, and Jack Doohan will join Pierre Gasly in competing for Alpine.

Bortoleto was selected to succeed Valtteri Bottas at Sauber.

This indicates that several prominent racers are currently not participating.

Bottas, Perez, Ricciardo, Kevin Magnussen, and Zhou Guanyu are currently without a team for the 2025 season.

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F1 2025's grid sees numerous changes – where are drivers heading?

Outlined below is the contract status of each F1 driver for the upcoming 2025 season.

Here's the 2025 Formula 1 roster, detailing the contract status of each Formula 1 driver.

Max Verstappen has secured a lengthy contract with Red Bull, although it includes a provision allowing for departure should Helmut Marko also exit. Verstappen is adamant that such a departure is unlikely.

A week before the holiday season, it was revealed that Sergio Perez would be leaving after a disappointing 2024 season.

The following day, it was revealed that Liam Lawson would take over the position.

Lewis Hamilton's significant switch to Ferrari in 2025 is the key transaction that determined the direction of the driver market.

He is set to join forces with Charles Leclerc, who has also committed to a lengthy contract extension.

Carlos Sainz was displaced from his position due to Hamilton joining the team.

Mercedes has secured George Russell until the conclusion of 2025. Meanwhile, the young prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to step up from F2 following only one season, filling the spot left by Hamilton who is moving to Ferrari.

McLaren has secured its thrilling pair, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, on extended contracts.

Aston Martin has secured an agreement with Lance Stroll, whose father, Lawrence Stroll, is a billionaire proprietor of the team, to continue his partnership with them into the following year and further into the future

Fernando Alonso is under contract with Aston Martin for the 2025 and 2026 racing seasons.

Williams triumphantly secured the signing of Sainz, winning the competition.

Sainz was replaced at Ferrari by Hamilton and spent the initial six months of 2024 evaluating his choices, which encompassed teams like Mercedes, Red Bull, Sauber, and Alpine.

As his choices became limited, he put his trust in the team led by James Vowles.

Leading racer Alex Albon, who has caught the attention of premier teams, has reiterated his dedication to Williams.

In the latter half of 2024, Williams welcomed Franco Colapinto onboard, taking over from Logan Sargeant. Heading into 2025, Colapinto finds himself without a seat, and with no openings at Williams, he has caught the attention of competing teams.

Pierre Gasly has inked a fresh, extended deal with Alpine.

The group announced that Esteban Ocon will not be part of their driving lineup in 2025.

Jack Doohan was subsequently announced as the successor to Ocon. Doohan is set to embark on his inaugural season in 2025.

Continuing with Racing Bulls

Yuki Tsunoda, having not secured a spot with Red Bull, will stay on at RB for another term.

Second-place finisher in Formula 2, Isack Hadjar, is set to make his Formula 1 debut in 2025, stepping in for Lawson who is moving to Red Bull.

Nico Hulkenberg is set to switch from Haas to Sauber in 2025, signing a contract that extends over several years.

Gabriel Bortoleto, who is competing in Formula 2 this season, has been confirmed as Hulkenberg's new teammate. Bortoleto is set to embark on his debut F1 season next year.

Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou, previously with Sauber, have been let go as their contracts with the team came to an end.

Starting in 2026, Sauber will transition to Audi, with the German powerhouse setting ambitious goals.

Haas has announced that Hulkenberg is set to depart for Sauber, while Kevin Magnussen, whose contract is up, will also be leaving the team.

Oliver Bearman, a standout performer from Ferrari's junior team during his first Formula 1 outing as a fill-in for the unwell Sainz, has secured a permanent position at Haas, taking over from Hulkenberg.

Ocon has transitioned from Alpine to join forces with Bearman.

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Helmut Marko advises Isack Hadjar to "manage his emotions" before his first Formula 1 appearance

"Maintain steadiness, as the speed and all are present. The remainder will develop with practice."

Helmut Marko has advised Isack Hadjar to maintain emotional composure as he prepares for his Formula 1 debut with Racing Bulls the following year.

On Friday morning, it was revealed that Hadjar would be joining the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team, partnering with Yuki Tsunoda.

The young racer from France, aged 20, secured the runner-up position in the 2024 Formula 2 championship, just falling short of clinching the title, which went to Gabriel Bortoleto. Bortoleto is set to step into Formula 1, joining Sauber for the 202

Hadjar has become the newest addition from the Red Bull academy to ascend to Formula 1, joining the ranks of prominent drivers such as Max Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel, and Daniel Ricciardo.

Before Red Bull made its announcements this week, when questioned about Hadjar, Marko discussed the areas Hadjar must enhance to secure a spot in F1.

Evaluating Hadjar, Marko conveyed to the Inside Line F1 Podcast: “To start with, it's important to acknowledge that Isack was set back by more than 80 points due to technical problems.

Maintaining momentum and motivation is already a significant accomplishment. Isack is quick, yet he must manage his emotions and remain concentrated. A case in point occurred in Monte Carlo when a Safety Car unexpectedly appeared ahead of him. He began to grumble and express his frustration, questioning, "Why?" and so forth.

Instead, the individual was dealing with tyres that hadn't been warmed up properly. Rather than scattering his focus with constant communication over the radio, he should have focused on taking a more aggressive approach in his driving.

"Essentially, it's crucial to concentrate on what matters and reduce errors, similar to the incident where he lost control and spun during a test session in Abu Dhabi. I believe this happened during a practice run on Friday."

"Focus on maintaining consistency; the pace and all necessary elements are present. Everything else will fall into place with regular practice."

Hadjar's inclusion in Racing Bulls finalizes the 2025 F1 lineup.

Hadjar stands as the fifth newcomer in the lineup.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to embark on his Formula 1 journey with Mercedes, as Ollie Bearman gears up for his inaugural full season at Haas, teaming up with Esteban Ocon.

Jack Doohan is poised to team up with Pierre Gasly at Alpine for the upcoming races.

Bortoleto was selected to take over from Valtteri Bottas at Sauber.

Apart from the newcomers, Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari, marking his first race with the team, whereas Lawson will experience leading-edge equipment as he debuts with Red Bull in Australia.

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Helmut Marko advises Isack Hadjar to maintain emotional stability before his Formula 1 debut, emphasizing the need for consistency. He acknowledges Hadjar's speed and potential, suggesting that experience will enhance his performance further.

Helmut Marko has advised Isack Hadjar to maintain composure and control his emotions as he prepares for his Formula 1 debut with Racing Bulls the following year.

On Friday morning, it was revealed that Hadjar would join Racing Bulls as an F1 driver, partnering with Yuki Tsunoda.

The young racer from France, aged 20, secured the runner-up position in the 2024 Formula 2 championship, closely trailing behind Gabriel Bortoleto, who is set to start his Formula 1 career with Sauber in the 2025 season.

Hadjar has become the newest addition to Formula 1 from the Red Bull racing program, joining the ranks of notable drivers such as Max Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel, and Daniel Ricciardo.

Prior to Red Bull's recent disclosures, Marko was questioned regarding Hadjar – specifically on the areas he must enhance to secure a spot in F1.

Evaluating Hadjar, Marko conveyed to the Inside Line F1 Podcast: "To begin with, it's necessary to mention that Isack's tally was diminished by over 80 points due to technical problems."

Maintaining motivation and pace was in itself a significant accomplishment. Isack possesses speed, yet he must manage his emotions and remain concentrated. A case in point occurred in Monte Carlo when a Safety Car unexpectedly appeared ahead of him, leading him to voice his frustrations and question, ‘Why?’ among other complaints.

"Rather, the driver was dealing with cold tires. His strategy should have focused on aggressively pursuing his opponent instead of scattering his attention with excessive radio communication."

"Essentially, prioritize the significant aspects and aim to reduce errors, similar to his mishap during a practice session in Abu Dhabi. I believe there was an incident where he spun out during a trial run on Friday."

"Maintain greater consistency, as the pace and all other elements are in place. Everything else will follow with regular practice."

Hadjar's inclusion in Racing Bulls finalizes the 2025 F1 lineup

Hadjar ranks as the fifth newcomer in the lineup.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to embark on his Formula 1 journey with Mercedes, as Ollie Bearman gears up for his inaugural complete season at Haas, sharing the team with Esteban Ocon.

Jack Doohan is poised to join forces with Pierre Gasly at Alpine for the upcoming races.

Bortoleto was selected to fill in for Valtteri Bottas at Sauber.

Apart from the newcomers, Lewis Hamilton is set to make his debut with Ferrari, and Lawson will experience top-tier equipment as he joins Red Bull for the first time in Australia.

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Former Haas chief Guenther Steiner criticizes Mercedes for their lackluster performance in the F1 2024 season, suggesting they have no reason for pride.

Guenther Steiner, the ex-Haas team principal, critiqued Mercedes for their lackluster performance in the 2024 F1 season, suggesting they have no reason to take pride in their achievements that year.

The Silver Arrows faced yet another challenging season, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell finding it difficult to manage the erratic and unreliable W15 car from Mercedes.

Mercedes experienced several highlights throughout the season, securing four wins, but for the most part, they were the fourth quickest team and ended up finishing in fourth place in the constructors' championship, trailing behind McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull.

"Steiner mentioned on the Red Flags podcast that he believes Mercedes didn't perform up to par, especially when you consider that McLaren, using the same engine, achieved better results. He also suggested that Mercedes would likely acknowledge this shortfall."

"It had been ages since someone using a customer engine secured a World Championship victory, but they managed to pull it off impressively. The consistent regulations played a significant role, as they remained unchanged for an extended period. This stability meant teams could fully understand their engine setup year after year. Additionally, the freeze on engine development was a crucial factor, ensuring that the engine specifications remained the same."

"You always tailor the design of your car for the next year based on what you currently have, and having a clear understanding of what you have ahead of time is beneficial."

"I believe there were several factors that assisted them, yet it remains challenging without being a power unit manufacturer."

"McLaren has reason to be pleased, while Mercedes's actions leave little to be admired."

Wolff has no issue with losing to a client

McLaren's victory in the constructors' championship marked the first time a client team has clinched the title since Brawn GP's win in 2009, with the Woking-based team achieving this feat.

However, Toto Wolff, the team principal for Mercedes, emphasized that he had no problem with losing to a client and hailed McLaren's victory in the championship as "a triumph for Mercedes motorsport."

In a post-race interview in Abu Dhabi, when questioned about his feelings on being outperformed by a customer team, Wolff expressed to media outlets, including Crash.net, his preference for losing to a customer team if his works team couldn't secure a victory.

"I don't have any issue with it; it reveals to us what the standard is."

"Talk regarding the engine's performance or its ease of operation is completely off the table; such topics aren't up for debate."

“Our clientele includes world champions; we compete under equal conditions. If they possess superior strategies and more skilled drivers, we're perfectly okay with that.

"This marks a victory for Mercedes motorsport, setting our main goal as securing a win."

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Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix globally for Crash.net. Typically providing updates directly from the event, Lewis shares insights into the lives of the key figures in the sport.

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Oscar Piastri identified as the Formula 1 racer "having the most to demonstrate" in the 2025 season

"I had high hopes for him to elevate his performance this season and it's somewhat unexpected that he didn't. I truly believed he would outperform Lando this year"

F1 icon Juan Pablo Montoya has identified Oscar Piastri as the racer "who has the most to demonstrate" in 2025.

Piastri secured the fourth position in the 2024 Formula 1 drivers' standings, trailing his McLaren team member Lando Norris by 82 points.

Piastri secured impressive victories in both Hungary and Azerbaijan, however, his performance in qualifying rounds raised some eyebrows.

He managed to qualify ahead of Norris just four times, ultimately being outperformed in their direct matchups 20-4.

Piastri demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience in combatting stress during the race, yet his fundamental speed left something to be desired.

In a conversation with LuckyBlock, Montoya confessed that he had anticipated better performance from Piastri in 2024.

"Montoya stated that Oscar Piastri has the most to demonstrate in the upcoming season."

"I truly anticipated his elevation in performance this year and am somewhat taken aback by his lack of progress. I genuinely believed he would outperform Lando [Norris] this year.

"Lando made a significant leap ahead, while Oscar did not."

Piastri sets his sights on clinching the F1 championship by 2025

Nevertheless, he has acknowledged the necessity to improve his performance in qualifying rounds.

He stated as the year concluded: "I believe this season, I've managed to make significant progress."

"We have more progress to make. I believe the main issue has been not securing enough spots during the qualifying rounds."

"I believe I've consistently made things challenging for myself during competitions. Therefore, my main priority during the off-season is to work on gaining those final hundredths and tenths."

"I believe that in every other aspect, I've demonstrated my abilities and how I've progressed since my first season. Thus, it's about integrating all parts now, as I perceive the discrepancies to be minimal or completely absent."

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With a keen insight into the dramas and narratives of Formula 1, Connor is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Speculation hints at a potential move to Aston Martin for Max Verstappen due to worries about Red Bull's trajectory

Concerns regarding Red Bull's prospects have led to suggestions that Max Verstappen ought to be quite worried.

Speculation suggests that Max Verstappen could make a move to Aston Martin for the 2026 Formula 1 campaign.

According to ex-Formula 1 driver and seven-time Grand Prix victor Juan Pablo Montoya, he is certain that Verstappen's career will progress beyond Red Bull, irrespective of his achievements with the squad.

In 2024, Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive drivers' championship, overcoming political challenges within Red Bull and addressing problems with the car's performance on the track.

Montoya believes Verstappen ought to be quite worried about Red Bull's engine initiative for 2026. With Honda stepping away, Red Bull Powertrains has partnered with Ford to develop a proprietary engine in alignment with F1's upcoming regulatory changes.

Montoya is of the opinion that Verstappen might be persuaded to join Aston Martin, which is set to be Honda's official team in 2026, and will also welcome ex-Red Bull designer Adrian Newey at the beginning of next year.

"Montoya expressed to LuckyBlock that if he were in Max's position, the engine program scheduled for 2026 would be a significant worry for him."

Many believe he could join Mercedes, but in my opinion, Aston Martin seems like a more likely destination for him.

"Adrian Newey and Honda have been a key duo at Red Bull, and Lawrence is known for not accepting rejection."

"If Lawrence is determined to have you, he'll go to any lengths necessary. He possesses sufficient resources to make Max believe, 'That's incredible.'"

Verstappen recently acknowledged engaging in “productive” discussions with Mercedes, yet he emphasized his lack of incentive to switch Formula 1 teams prior to the conclusion of his existing contract with Red Bull, set to expire at the close of 2028.

Red Bull faces the 'biggest challenge ahead'

Following their commanding performance in the 2022 and 2023 Formula 1 seasons, Red Bull has fallen to third in the constructors' standings in 2024.

Montoya points out that Red Bull faces the biggest challenge during the upcoming winter break, as competitors such as McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes are quickly catching up to the Milton Keynes-based team.

In addition to Newey, Red Bull has also seen the departure of several important figures, among them sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, who is exiting to take up the role of team principal at the forthcoming Audi team.

"Montoya emphasized that Red Bull faces the biggest challenge during the off-season. Without caution, regardless of their drivers, they risk falling to fourth or even fifth place," he said.

As this season wrapped up, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes emerged with superior vehicles, and several under-the-radar teams have now developed highly competitive cars.

"Everyone is getting accustomed to the regulations. Red Bull excelled under these guidelines, but currently, they are the ones struggling to maintain their lead towards the end."

Verstappen has consistently emphasized his contentment with being part of Red Bull.

"Verstappen pointed out to Dutch broadcaster Viaplay that in Formula 1, it's quite rare for a driver to break their contract. He contrasted this with football, where it's more common for players to exit their contracts earlier than agreed, despite signing for lengthy periods. According to him, that's not typically what's aimed for."

It's impossible to predict the future, especially what might unfold in a year or two, and since it's out of our control, I tend not to dwell on it much. Honestly, I'm quite content with my current situation. We've secured another title, which is fantastic. Naturally, there are areas where our vehicle could be enhanced, but that's to be expected. Overall, I'm really comfortable with the team and feel free to be who I am.

"Everyone is putting in their utmost effort to consistently provide me with the highest quality material. From that standpoint, I have no grievances whatsoever."

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Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. Reporting directly from the events, Lewis shares the narratives of the individuals who play significant roles in the sport.

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