RB criticized Haas for employing unsportsmanlike tactics during the Saudi Arabian GP, alleging that Kevin Magnussen was used as a roadblock to benefit teammate Nico Hulkenberg at the expense of Yuki Tsunoda. Magnussen, penalized twice during the race, deliberately slowed down to impede Tsunoda and allow Hulkenberg to gain a significant advantage. RB's team principal and racing director expressed anger over Magnussen's actions and planned to take the matter to the FIA, considering it unfair and unsportsmanlike behavior. In contrast, Haas defended their strategy as an "amazing team effort," emphasizing the necessity of perfect execution to secure a crucial point despite Magnussen's penalties.
Click here to read the full article by Michael Delaney (f1i.com)
Red Bull Formula 1 boss Christian Horner dismissed allegations of a plot within the team to oust motorsport advisor Helmut Marko following tensions arising from the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Marko faced speculation of suspension over purported involvement in leaks regarding Horner's conduct, but subsequent discussions affirmed his continued role. Marko refuted involvement in the leaks, suggesting orchestrated efforts against him, reminiscent of a "cunning" plan, as he told Austrian broadcaster ORF. Horner maintained the team's unawareness of Marko's situation, emphasizing their longstanding association and Marko's significance to Red Bull's success amidst Max Verstappen's staunch support for him.
Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix F1 stewards cleared Lando Norris of a jump start penalty despite onboard footage showing him moving forward before the race start, as the FIA transponder didn't indicate a jump start as required by Article 48.1 a) of the Formula One Sporting Regulations. Norris stated he wasn't aware of the details of the incident due to its quick occurrence. McLaren would likely have successfully appealed any penalty, as the grid sensor didn't detect Norris' movement, presenting a loophole in the regulation. This incident echoes previous cases like Valtteri Bottas in the 2020 Hungarian Grand Prix and Sebastian Vettel in Japan a year earlier, where drivers escaped penalties for jump starts.
Click here to read the full article by Lewis Larkam (crash.net)
Carlos Sainz's performance didn't warrant losing his seat, yet it's noteworthy that this change wasn't brokered by team principal Fred Vasseur, who played a pivotal role in Hamilton's move to Maranello, nor by Ferrari's CEO Benedetto Vigna. Instead, the decision came from Ferrari's owner, John Elkann. But what lies ahead for Sainz?
In episode two of Team Torque, hosted by Williams duo Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant, Williams academy driver Lia Block joins the boys ahead of her F1 Academy debut as the trio look ahead to the Saudi Arabia GP. Mia talks about her first race in Jeddah, and the boys give her a heads up that the Jeddah track is one of the hardest ever.
