Toto Wolff calls for action from Mercedes as he acknowledges inconsistencies

Toto Wolff has acknowledged that Mercedes may still face issues with inconsistent performance.

Toto Wolff has admitted that Mercedes will find it challenging to eliminate their performance inconsistencies in the 2025 F1 season.

Mercedes managed to secure four victories last season, with wins shared between Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. However, their competitive performance varied significantly over the course of the year.

The Silver Arrows team was at a loss to account for their strong performance at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where Russell secured a commanding victory, leading a 1-2 finish. However, the team struggled with their speed during other weekends.

Mercedes team boss Wolff has acknowledged that it is improbable for his team to fully resolve the issue as they approach the upcoming season.

Wolff stated that Mercedes is aiming for their W16 car to function effectively across a broader range of conditions compared to the previous model, the W15.

Wolff mentioned to the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport that the key is to align yourself with the favorable side whenever feasible.

"You begin to notice patterns, such as the race tracks where your vehicle performs well, the practice sessions where you drove aggressively, the tire compounds that suit your car best, and the track temperatures that are optimal for your vehicle."

"I trust we will learn the appropriate lessons from this during the winter and modify our development strategy for the 2025 vehicle."

"We cannot entirely eliminate these variations. All teams will experience them again in the coming year."

Even though Mercedes encountered significant challenges, Wolff thinks that all the top teams in Formula 1 experienced comparable difficulties at various points in 2024.

Wolff mentioned that each of the four teams that claimed victories in 2024 has faced their own set of challenges and successes.

No one has ever created a car that performs well on every race track and in every type of weather.

"McLaren's car excelled in conditions requiring high downforce and warm temperatures. Ferrari's vehicle was similarly suited to those conditions."

"Our vehicle performed well in high-speed turns and in cooler conditions. Meanwhile, the Red Bull team occasionally excelled in one area and at other times in a different one."

This year, Russell will team up with 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has taken over from Hamilton after his unexpected move to Ferrari.

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Theory about machinery suggested as reason for Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari accident

"Consider this: driving that car was quite challenging."

The particular vehicle Lewis Hamilton was operating during his test run for Ferrari, when he experienced a crash, has been recognized as a potential factor in the incident.

Hamilton created a buzz with a small mishap that led to the early conclusion of a Ferrari testing session, also resulting in the delay of teammate Charles Leclerc's schedule.

However, Hamilton was behind the wheel of the SF-23, the problematic Ferrari model from 2023, which might have played a role in his minor accident.

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Lewis Larkam mentioned on the Crash F1 podcast that some aspects of it are shrouded in mystery.

Ferrari has chosen not to speak on the matter, likely because they prefer to maintain confidentiality.

According to an insider, the event was not significant.

From their perspective, it was just a minor incident and a routine aspect of testing, especially given that Hamilton is accustomed to racing for Mercedes.

"It is anticipated during testing that a driver will explore the capabilities of a car, discovering its limits and identifying where the performance boundaries lie."

"If you continue testing for an extended period, you are likely to encounter a problem or find yourself in the gravel."

Uncertainties remain regarding the specifics, with differing accounts concerning the magnitude of the event and its location.

"Certain sources mentioned that the damage was minimal, while others claimed it was significant. The truth remains unclear as Ferrari has chosen not to disclose the details."

SF-23 recognized following Lewis Hamilton's accident

"Lewis Larkam pointed out that the incident involved Ferrari's most underperforming car of this era, the 2023 model."

Red Bull's strong performance played a significant role, making it quite challenging for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.

"That's an aspect to consider – the car was challenging to handle."

In a Pirelli tire testing session for Ferrari, Hamilton has taken the wheel of a 2024 model.

It has been stated that his accident will not lead to any lasting issues with confidence.

Connor McDonagh expressed that considering his resume, background, and achievements, it's difficult to believe that this would have had any impact on him.

"There might be instances where drivers with less experience have faced challenges—Pierre Gasly, for instance, experienced a significant crash during testing in 2019, which had an impact on him. Similarly, Logan Sargeant began his season well but then encountered a few crashes that negatively affected his performance at Williams."

"This was an integral aspect of the testing process, and it provides a learning opportunity for him."

The vehicle model from 2023 posed challenges for drivers when navigating corners at high speeds.

"It would be more concerning if he were behind the wheel of the 2025 car during practice sessions in Bahrain or Australia."

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Ferrari has been advised to present Max Verstappen with an unlimited financial offer to secure his services. "The sentiment remains unchanged; Ferrari is an iconic name…"

Ferrari has been advised that they ought to have proposed a lucrative contract to secure Max Verstappen.

In a significant move, the most successful team in Formula 1 history made a substantial investment to secure Lewis Hamilton, a decision that is already being hailed as one of the most impactful driver transfers in the sport's history.

However, did they choose the incorrect Formula 1 star to bring on board?

Dutch racer Tom Coronel suggests that Ferrari should have considered reaching out to Verstappen prior to finalizing a contract with Hamilton.

Coronel believes that Verstappen might be tempted by the charm of Ferrari.

"It's the same sensation; Ferrari is Ferrari," he mentioned to Racingnews365.

"That's why I mentioned last year, before Hamilton revealed his change: if I were in Fred Vasseur's position, I would have offered the entire Verstappen team a blank check."

Is there a possibility that Max Verstappen might leave Red Bull?

Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull that lasts until the end of 2028, and it offers such a high salary that only Hamilton's recent agreement with Ferrari can compare.

Nonetheless, significant tremors within the F1 community a year ago hinted that Verstappen might retire.

The internal turmoil surrounding Christian Horner led to uncertainties, prompting Toto Wolff to express Mercedes' interest.

There have been reports suggesting that Aston Martin might make an impressive attempt to recruit Verstappen.

The driver, who has consecutively secured four championship titles, has committed to staying with Red Bull, but that commitment may be challenged in 2025.

As the final year under the existing engine regulations approaches, it's expected that the competition will tighten even more than it did in 2024, the year Red Bull saw their lead with the quickest car in F1 diminish.

Ambitious initiatives from companies such as Mercedes and Aston Martin for the upcoming engine regulations set for 2026 and later might attract Verstappen's attention if Red Bull doesn't maintain its current level of performance.

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Ferrari urged to present Max Verstappen with an open-ended contract to sign

"The sentiment remains unchanged, Ferrari is iconic…"

Ferrari has received advice suggesting that they should have presented a lucrative contract to secure Max Verstappen's services.

In a significant move, the team with the most victories in Formula 1 history invested heavily to secure Lewis Hamilton, marking what is already being seen as one of the most impactful driver transfers in the sport's history.

However, did they choose the incorrect Formula 1 superstar to contract?

Dutch racer Tom Coronel suggests that Ferrari ought to have considered reaching out to Verstappen prior to finalizing any agreement with Hamilton.

Coronel believes that Verstappen might be tempted by the appeal of Ferrari.

"It's the same sensation; Ferrari remains Ferrari," he mentioned to Racingnews365.

"That's why I mentioned last year, prior to Hamilton revealing his move: if I were Fred Vasseur, I would have given the entire Verstappen team a blank check."

Is it possible that Max Verstappen might leave Red Bull?

Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull that lasts until the conclusion of 2028, with terms so financially rewarding that only Hamilton's recent agreement with Ferrari comes close to matching it.

Nevertheless, a year prior, significant tremors within the F1 community hinted that Verstappen might consider leaving.

The internal turmoil surrounding Christian Horner raised doubts and led to Toto Wolff expressing Mercedes' interest.

There have been reports suggesting that Aston Martin might make an impressive offer to acquire Verstappen.

Even though the driver, who has achieved four consecutive championship victories, has committed to staying with Red Bull, the year 2025 might challenge that commitment.

As we enter the last year of the existing engine rules, it is expected that the competition will become even tighter compared to 2024, a season that saw Red Bull no longer maintain its edge as the fastest team in Formula 1.

Ambitious initiatives from companies like Mercedes and Aston Martin for the upcoming engine regulations set for 2026 and onwards might attract Verstappen's interest unless Red Bull manages to keep up.

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Netflix announces the premiere date for the seventh season of F1 Drive to Survive. The streaming platform has officially set the release date for the upcoming installment of Drive to Survive.

Netflix has officially confirmed when the new season of the F1 documentary 'Drive to Survive' will be available.

The highly acclaimed documentary series, which offers a behind-the-scenes look, is set to make its comeback on March 7. This is just one week ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, which marks the start of the season on March

The series will cover the happenings of the 2024 Formula 1 season, focusing on Max Verstappen's pursuit of his fourth consecutive world championship.

The upcoming season is set to introduce new rivalries. Formula 1: Drive to Survive is coming back to Netflix on March 7, 2025. 🏁 #F1 pic.twitter.com/OCzBtliVsx— Formula 1 (@F1) February 7, 2025

The upcoming season is set to introduce new rivalries. Formula 1: Drive to Survive is coming back to Netflix on March 7, 2025. 🏁 #F1 pic.twitter.com/OCzBtliVsx

The account of McLaren’s victory in securing their first constructors' championship since 1998 will be shared as well.

A major narrative to be explored will involve the consequences of Lewis Hamilton's surprising move from Mercedes to Ferrari, which was revealed last February.

Additional fascinating behind-the-scenes clips and previously unheard discussions from the paddock are expected to be featured.

Netflix joins the competition for American television rights

The streaming giant is now seen as a possible new broadcaster for Formula 1 in the United States.

Netflix is reportedly considering a groundbreaking deal to obtain the rights to broadcast Formula 1 in the United States starting in 2026.

As reported by Sports Business Journal, the major streaming service is contemplating making an offer to secure the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United States.

Since 2018, ESPN has held the broadcasting rights for Formula 1, but they are now up against strong competition to keep those rights.

The agreement they have in place is valued at only $90 million, which is quite inexpensive when contrasted with other sports.

Netflix is eager to leverage the influence they have gained in Formula 1 through their documentary series, Drive to Survive.

The rapid expansion of Formula 1 has largely been attributed to the influence of Drive to Survive.

The influence it has had in the United States has resulted in three competitions taking place there.

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A new Magnussen enters the F1 scene: Kevin’s sibling advances to single-seater racing

In 2025, Kevin Magnussen's younger brother, who is currently 15, will begin competing in single-seater races.

The younger sibling of former Formula 1 racer Kevin Magnussen has begun competing in single-seater motorsport.

Luca Magnussen, who is just 15 years old, is set to move from karting to compete in the GB4 championship held in the UK. He will be racing as part of the Fortec Motorsport team.

GB4 serves as a beginner's competition for those aiming to become F1 drivers and offers a much more affordable option compared to the FIA British Formula 4 series.

A £50,000 prize is given to the series winner if they decide to participate in either the British F4 championship or GB3 in the next year.

Luca is the newest addition to Denmark's renowned racing family, continuing the legacy of his father, Jan Magnussen, and his brother, Kevin.

Jan and Kevin have both competed in Formula 1, and Luca aims to become the third Magnussen family member to participate in a grand prix someday.

Since 2021, Luca has been involved in kart racing, advancing through various competitions such as the Sydsvenskans Kart Champion Cup (SKCC), as well as participating in X30 and OK Junior kart categories. In 2023, Luca also took part in specific races within the FIA Karting World and European championships.

In 2024, he competed in the ROK Cup Italy and the Danish Karting League. Additionally, last October, he participated in the FIA Motorsport Games in Valencia as a representative for Denmark in karting.

Magnussen expressed immense joy about advancing in his career and felt honored to join forces with the well-respected and seasoned group at Fortec Motorsports.

"The group has greeted me warmly, and I’m eager to begin and demonstrate my abilities. I'm facing a year filled with significant challenges and increased competition. I’m immensely grateful to my sponsors and family for their unwavering support."

The head of Fortec Motorsport, Oliver Dutton, expressed excitement about Luca Magnussen joining their squad for the 2025 GB4 Championship.

Luca demonstrated remarkable talent throughout his time in karting, and he left a strong impression on us during his trial at Donington Park.

"His commitment and talent render him an asset to our team, and we firmly believe he will achieve great progress this season."

At the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Kevin was let go by Haas and is set to compete in sportscar racing with BMW this year.

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EXCLUSIVE: The Role Lewis Hamilton Played in Fulfilling an Artist's F1 Fantasy

Joel Clark, an artist with a passion for Formula 1, shares with Crash.net how Lewis Hamilton's commission made his dreams a reality.

"I almost tumbled out of my seat."

This was Joel Clark's reaction when he discovered that F1 icon Lewis Hamilton had requested him to design a unique piece of art.

Earlier in the week, it was revealed that Hamilton organized a farewell present for 3,000 of his ex-colleagues at Mercedes. He hired six artists to craft a unique artwork for his team members as a goodbye gift after leaving the Silver Arrows.

Lewis Hamilton, who secured six out of his seven world titles while racing for Mercedes, made a high-profile move to Ferrari, their Formula 1 competitors, during the off-season. Before departing, he expressed his gratitude to his previous team members by giving them special farewell gifts.

Mercedes maintained strict confidentiality around the project to prevent their employees from learning about it prior to receiving the custom-made artworks at the close of January.

Last October, Clark, an artist selected for the project, was astonished when a surprising email appeared in his inbox.

Clark shared with Crash.net that they received an unexpected email from an agency managing the project. The email inquired whether Clark would be interested in taking on a commission for a prominent athlete. Although limited details could be disclosed, Clark decided to accept the offer.

"I initially didn't know what sport was being referred to or any other details. Later, it was disclosed that it involved Lewis, which took me by surprise and almost made me fall out of my seat. Every artist received guidance on a theme chosen by Lewis, highlighting his most significant and emotional experiences with the team."

"The focus wasn't solely on Lewis; it encompassed both Lewis and the Mercedes team, which was crucial. Therefore, my piece, 'An Ode to Senna,' was meant to honor that remarkable team triumph."

An Ode to Senna is a work of art created with hand-cut vinyl on an A1 Perspex panel. This artwork was specially ordered by @LewisHamilton to be given as farewell gifts to his colleagues at @MercedesAMGF1. #lewishamilton #hamilton #mercedesf1 #f1 #formula1 #f1art pic.twitter.com/Kuc5ufmvI8— Joel Clark (@JClarkArtist) February 4, 2025

For Clark, a lifelong motorsport enthusiast and devoted Ayrton Senna admirer, the opportunity to craft an artwork capturing Hamilton's legendary comeback win at the 2021 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, held in Senna's native Brazil, was a dream come true.

At 50 years old, Clark hails from Brackley, the location of Mercedes' Formula 1 headquarters, and is situated near Silverstone. After finishing school at the age of 16, he began his career there, working as a creator of vinyl stickers.

"I had just managed to sit in the chair before I ended up back on the floor," he went on to say. "I'm a big fan of Ayrton Senna, so experiencing both together and being part of such a significant moment in motorsport history was overwhelming."

"I was raised in Brackley and began my career at Silverstone, where I gained experience working with vinyl for a signage company. During that time, in 1990, we frequently worked with several Touring Car teams. The entire experience was quite an undertaking for me."

Clark, who asserts that he is the sole artist in the automotive field using hand-cut vinyl, faced a challenging task with about a month to fulfill his assignment. This project was a departure from his typical focus on illustrating vintage racing cars. Ultimately, he presented four artworks, with his top pick aligning with Hamilton's selection.

He mentioned that his usual car art tends to have a vintage feel, rarely focusing on anything beyond the 1990s. Therefore, tackling a modern Formula 1 car, with its intricate details, was quite an intense experience for him.

"Creatively, that was the challenge we faced. It was my top choice, as well as Lewis's and the agency's, so we were all in agreement. I think it was about capturing a remarkable moment in Lewis's career with Mercedes."

A Moment of Coming Full Circle

Clark dedicated six years to studying at Central Saint Martins art college during the early to mid-1990s. Afterward, he pursued a 20-year career in advertising. Yet, his genuine passion for motorsport artwork remained strong, leading him to continue exploring it on the side.

The pivotal moment occurred in 2013 during the Kop Hill Climb, a regional event for classic car enthusiasts, where Clark managed to sell nearly all of his creations. This success inspired him to embark on what has become a decade-long endeavor.

Clark's distinctive preferred medium was influenced by the techniques he learned in his initial employment, which he now merges with his passion for motorsports.

In 1990, all the car logos had to be crafted by hand since there weren't any computers available to digitally scan or create them, according to Clark, who described his initial work experience.

After a race weekend, I would arrive on Monday morning, and the person who had a crash would request additional stickers—like four Dunlop or 20 Michelin ones—which I would then have to manually cut out.

Discussing his passion for vinyl as a medium, Clark stated: "In the realm of automotive art, it mirrors the actual car's finish, giving it a distinct characteristic."

The artwork interacts with its surroundings, reflecting elements of the environment in which it is displayed. This interaction merges with the highlights I have incorporated into the piece. This approach is also applied to my Formula 1 projects, where I emphasize both the bright and dark areas. The use of strong, vivid colors is something I find captivating, as it allows me to deconstruct everything into distinct, colored forms.

"In essence, I'm creating a puzzle while also crafting each individual piece. Afterward, it is sent to an auto body shop to receive a clear coating, resulting in a finish identical to the actual car I'm representing."

From a personal perspective, Hamilton's assignment and the attention that comes with it might be a critical moment for Clark, who admits that he is not widely recognized as an artist.

Currently, due to the cost of living crisis, there aren't many people purchasing art from lesser-known artists. He confessed that it's a critical time for him, where success or failure is on the line.

Currently, I'm in a situation where each month brings uncertainty about whether I can afford to pay my rent. This opportunity for exposure is crucial for me, and it truly is a matter of survival. It's incredibly significant.

For Clark, this is unquestionably the pinnacle of his professional journey.

He stated that he could never have imagined the project's importance, not only in the realm of motorsport history but also in cultural history.

"As someone who frequently creates motorsport-themed artwork, receiving a commission from a racing driver would be incredible. Being hired by a Formula 1 driver would be even more thrilling. However, being commissioned by the greatest driver of all time is truly unimaginable. It's more than just a dream becoming reality."

To view additional pieces by Clark, visit his official website.

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Sauber plans to sell the display car used for unveiling their 2025 Formula 1 livery at an auction.

Sauber plans to auction the car used to reveal their 2025 F1 design.

A fortunate collector will have the opportunity to purchase the vehicle showcased at Formula 1's season kickoff on Tuesday, February 18, through a special online auction organized by F1 Authentics.

The vehicle will be up for auction on F1 Authentics' enhanced platform, marking one of the initial listings available on this new system. The bidding process will commence on February 11, giving enthusiasts the opportunity to make offers ahead of the event.

A Sauber display vehicle will be featured. Each of the 10 Formula 1 teams is set to unveil their 2025 car designs at an unprecedented event marking the 75th anniversary of the world championship.

Barry Gough, the CEO and founder of Memento Exclusives, expressed pride in the ongoing enhancement of their collaboration with the Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber, a relationship that has been established over several years.

This car auction gives enthusiasts and collectors an opportunity to acquire a true historical artifact, which will be showcased at the first-ever event at the O2 Arena. For the first time, all ten teams are revealing their liveries together in one location, making it a privilege to have one of the cars included in the display.

Stefano Battiston, the Chief Commercial Officer of Sauber, expressed excitement about giving enthusiasts and collectors the chance to own a one-of-a-kind piece of Formula One history. He described the partnership with Memento Exclusives as a remarkable journey, highlighting their dedication to detail in crafting a car that captures the essence of precision and skill synonymous with Formula One.

"We are thrilled to introduce this unique auction via F1 Authentics, offering collectors a special opportunity to engage with the essence of our sport. We anticipate revealing this car and our new design at the O2 Arena, signaling the start of an exciting new season for the team."

What is the team's schedule for the launch? Williams has organized a launch event at Silverstone on February 14, where they will showcase their 2025 car featuring a unique, special-edition livery for the first time.

Haas is scheduled to perform a preliminary run of their 2025 car at the British Grand Prix track two days later.

After the official launch event for the F1 season in London, Ferrari is set to unveil their SF-25 and perform a shakedown at Fiorano on February 19.

Aston Martin will hold a virtual unveiling on February 23, which is one day ahead of Mercedes' similar event.

McLaren, Alpine, and Sauber have not yet announced their plans for their launch events.

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Netflix is rumored to be planning a major move to acquire the television rights for Formula 1. The streaming giant might start airing F1 races in the U.S. beginning in

Netflix is reportedly considering a groundbreaking deal to obtain the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United States starting in 2026.

As reported by Sports Business Journal, the major streaming service is contemplating obtaining the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United States.

Since 2018, ESPN has held the license to air Formula 1 races, but now they are up against tough rivals to keep these rights.

The value of their existing contract is only $90 million, which is quite inexpensive when contrasted with agreements in other sports.

The broadcasting rights for Premier League football in the UK from 2025 to 2029 were purchased by Sky and TNT Sports for an impressive sum of £6.7 billion.

Netflix is eager to leverage the influence they have gained in Formula 1 through their documentary series "Drive to Survive."

The surge in popularity of F1 has largely been attributed to the influence of Drive to Survive.

The effect it has had in the United States has resulted in three competitions taking place there.

Since 2012, the Circuit of the Americas has hosted the United States Grand Prix as part of the Formula 1 schedule.

Miami made its debut on the F1 schedule in 2022, whereas Las Vegas has been part of the lineup since 2023.

The expansion of Formula 1 in the United States has been so substantial that an American team is set to become the 11th team on the grid by 2026.

Cadillac, supported by General Motors, is preparing to enter the Formula 1 racing scene in the coming year.

The team has expressed their plan to include an American driver in their roster, and Colton Herta is strongly associated with this possibility.

Taking all these elements into account, it is understandable why Netflix is keen on obtaining the rights to air Formula 1.

In the past few years, Netflix has broadcasted certain live sports events.

In November 2024, a boxing bout between Mike Tyson and YouTube celebrity Jake Paul was broadcasted live on Netflix, marking it as the most-watched sporting event ever streamed.

Netflix holds the broadcasting rights for two NFL matches during the holiday season and will air the Women's World Cup tournaments in 2023 and 2027.

For now, this will not affect audiences in the UK.

Sky Sports has the sole broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United Kingdom through 2029.

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Kimi Antonelli dismisses the notion that he is "taking over" from Lewis Hamilton, stating, "He's achieved so much." He further clarifies, "Honestly, the idea that I'm stepping into Lewis Hamilton's shoes doesn't seem accurate to me."

Andrea Kimi Antonelli refutes the idea that he is "taking over" from Lewis Hamilton, stating that he sees himself simply as the "upcoming driver for Mercedes."

With Hamilton heading to Ferrari, Mercedes decided to bring Antonelli on board as his successor.

Antonelli, at only 18 years old, is the most junior driver on the 2025 Formula 1 circuit.

Due to his limited experience with single-seater vehicles, Mercedes has provided him with extensive opportunities to drive older Formula 1 cars to help him improve.

Antonelli has the potential to set a new record as the youngest race winner in Formula 1 history by clinching victory in one of the first three races, surpassing the record held by Max Verstappen.

During an interview with Sky Sports at the event marking the collaboration between Mercedes and Adidas, Antonelli promptly stated that Hamilton is irreplaceable.

Antonelli expressed that he sees himself as a fresh face behind the wheel of a Mercedes. He added that it's not quite accurate to say he is taking over for Lewis Hamilton.

"He's a huge presence in the world of racing and has accomplished a lot. I see myself as the next driver for Mercedes, eager to carve out my own path and strive for outstanding success."

Antonelli is gearing up for a "tough" experience in F1. All eyes will be on him as he competes for one of the top teams in the sport.

It is uncertain if Mercedes will compete for the championship since they have faced challenges with maintaining consistency over the last three years.

Antonelli has admitted that his first season as a newcomer will present challenges.

Antonelli remarked that his first year in Formula 1 will be challenging, as he will be competing against the 19 top drivers globally.

Certainly, the realm of motorsport, with Formula 1 in particular, can often be quite harsh. However, my plan is to concentrate on myself and remain focused.

"I am focusing on making progress daily and over the weekends, consistently striving to demonstrate my abilities. My attitude is centered on aiming for victory, and we'll see how things unfold. As mentioned earlier, I am surrounded by supportive individuals who are particularly helpful right now in guiding me to disregard outside distractions and concentrate solely on the present."

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Max Verstappen has been encouraged to delay any decision regarding Aston Martin's F1 proposal, as suggested by a former leader of a Formula 1 team.

Max Verstappen has been advised to hold off on accepting Aston Martin's alleged £1 billion proposal until the conclusion of the 2026 F1 season.

The Daily Mail has recently reported on a rumor suggesting that Aston Martin has been reaching out to sponsors with the goal of assembling a massive £1 billion offer to lure Verstappen away from Red Bull.

Aston Martin has dismissed the claims, yet both they and Mercedes are thought to be interested in acquiring Verstappen, who is under contract with Red Bull until the conclusion of 2028.

The team based in Silverstone has announced their ambitious goals to vie for the world championship in the near future. They plan to take advantage of the major regulation changes set for 2026 to advance towards leading positions on the Formula 1 grid.

Aston Martin has constructed a modern facility that includes a new wind tunnel, and the team has bolstered its technical staff by bringing on board Enrico Cardile and, crucially, Adrian Newey.

Adrian Newey, considered the best car designer in Formula 1 history, has been reportedly recruited from Red Bull, which is viewed as a significant move by Aston Martin. This strategic acquisition is believed to be part of Aston Martin's efforts to persuade four-time world champion Max Verstappen to join their team.

Ex-Haas team boss Guenther Steiner thinks that it would be in Verstappen's best interest to remain with Red Bull until the hierarchy under Formula 1's new regulations is clear.

"Steiner advised GPBlog to hold on for 26."

"I'm not familiar with the specifics of Max's contract or the conditions for his release, but I expect that it includes a performance clause related to the team's achievements."

"If the team doesn't perform well, he has the option to depart after 26. This is crucial because if the car performs well in 26, it should continue to perform well for the next three or four years."

"When you begin working on a new rule or concept for a car, it can take a significant amount of time to fully disengage from it."

£1 Billion Deal Called 'Fictional'

Although Steiner admitted that Aston Martin has the financial resources to attract Verstappen, he raised doubts about the truthfulness of the rumored £1 billion proposal.

He remarked, "Calling it a billion might be an exaggeration, as it would establish a record that could never be surpassed."

"That sounds somewhat fictional, yet I'm confident Aston Martin would be willing to offer a substantial sum for his services."

"It's possible it could happen by 2027, but there's no assurance for Max that Aston Martin will perform well."

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Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. He is often on-site, providing firsthand accounts and sharing the narratives of key figures in the racing world.

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—

Revised

George Russell hints at upcoming modifications for the Mercedes F1 W16: “In development for a significant period”

As George Russell anticipates the 2025 F1 season, he suggests that the Mercedes W16 is set to undergo substantial changes.

George Russell has suggested that Mercedes has introduced major modifications to their 2025 Formula 1 car, stating that “these developments have been planned for quite some time.”

Although Mercedes secured victories in four races during the 2024 season, they ended up in fourth place in the Formula 1 constructors' championship, quite behind the leaders.

Since the beginning of the ground-effect era, Mercedes has struggled with inconsistency.

As the regulations remain unchanged throughout the winter, the competition at the forefront is anticipated to be more intense than ever.

Mercedes is optimistic that, following three years of gaining experience, they are now ready to compete for the championship.

During the event unveiling the new collaboration between Mercedes and Adidas, Russell shared his positive outlook for the upcoming season.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Russell explained that although it may not seem like there have been significant changes from last year to this year, these developments have been in the works for quite some time. He mentioned that while some features couldn't be added to the 2024 car, they have been under development for a long period.

"We're hopeful that this will be a positive move forward. Of course, it's always uncertain what our competitors might have accomplished."

"This year, as we look ahead to 2026, it will be fascinating to see if people continue to evolve or not."

Russell set for F1 championship chase

In 2025, George Russell will assume the role of team leader after Lewis Hamilton's departure.

Consequently, Russell believes he can be a strong contender for the championship if Mercedes provides him with the necessary resources to compete.

In 2024, Russell had a standout year, especially in qualifying, where he outperformed Hamilton.

Russell demonstrated his willingness to engage in a verbal battle with Max Verstappen during the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Evaluating his preparedness for a title bid in 2025, Russell commented: "Definitely. I believe I'm prepared, and the entire team is highly driven."

"I believe these years have mostly been a process of experimentation, but whenever we've had the opportunity to succeed, we've seized it."

"That's why I'm hopeful that, with the right car, we can accomplish it."

"We're putting in maximum effort to make it happen this year, and with everyone fully committed, it's set to be an exciting season."

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