Today’s F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
McLaren's technical department saw changes as former Ferrari chief designer David Sanchez left the team after just three months, citing a mismatch between his envisioned role and reality. Rob Marshall remains as chief designer, while Neil Houldey steps in as technical director - of engineering, and Peter Prodromou continues as technical director - of aerodynamics. Andrea Stella assumes the role of interim technical director - performance as they search for a permanent replacement. McLaren expressed gratitude for Sanchez's contributions and emphasized their commitment to enhancing technical capabilities and workflows.
Click here to read the full article by Balazs Szabo (f1technical.com)
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix set records with the largest global TV audience in the city's history and generated a staggering $884 million in economic impact, including $77 million in taxes, according to a 113-page report. Despite its success, the event faced challenges such as reduced customer traffic for some casinos due to the race, disruptions to locals during circuit development, and issues with manhole covers, although efforts are underway to address these concerns ahead of the 2024 event. Las Vegas Grand Prix's COO highlighted ongoing efforts to improve coordination and communication to ensure smoother operations for future races.
Click here to read the full article by Nick Golding (racingnews365.com)
The comparison between Mercedes' current struggles in Formula 1 and Williams' decline in the late 1990s raises questions about whether Mercedes is facing a crisis or terminal decline. While there are similarities in losing dominance, Mercedes remains a manufacturer team with enduring resources, unlike Williams. Comparisons are drawn to McLaren's decline in the 2010s, with a gradual loss of competitiveness and internal challenges. Mercedes' repeated failures to improve raise concerns about a potential long-term decline despite assurances of their capabilities.
Click here to read the full article at the-race.com
Sky F1 consultant Damon Hill believes the upcoming Japanese GP will be a crucial test for Red Bull's rivals, particularly Ferrari after their recent victory in Australia raised hopes of a more competitive season. Hill expects Suzuka's high-speed layout to challenge Ferrari's aerodynamic efficiency and tire wear, potentially tipping the balance against Red Bull. While Verstappen may still dominate qualifying, Hill anticipates a closer race, hoping Ferrari can challenge Red Bull's supremacy. He sees Ferrari's performance at Suzuka as a litmus test, suggesting that a victory there could shake up the championship standings and demonstrate Red Bull's vulnerability.
Click here to read the full article by Phillip van Osten (f1i.com)
On this episode of Actually Me, seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton goes undercover online, replying to real fan comments from Twitter, Instagram, Quora, Reddit, and TikTok. He talks about the biggest obstacle he's had to overcome in his career, his weakness, and where he likes to travel in his off-season.