Should Andretti Get an 11th F1 Team?
Apples $2bn F1 play | Should Williams get Lawson on loan? | McLaren's new wind tunnel | Danny grateful for McLaren firing
Hey guys, this week we head to Qatar. Let’s dive in!
Here’s what we got this week:
🌎 Around Formula 1: Should Andretti get a team? | Apples’ $2bn F1 play | 2026 regulations driving team choices
🛞 Drivers: Loaning Lawson? | Leclerc staying at Ferrari unless… | Danny grateful for McLaren firing
🏎 Teams: McLaren’s new wind tunnel | Is Mercedes back in 2024? | Guenther is hopeful
🇶🇦 Qatar GP Preview: Tire strategy is going to be key here
📊 Standings: 20 points separate Mercedes and Ferrari
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🌎 Around Formula 1
🤷♂️ Should Andretti Get a Team? - Papa Stroll, voiced strong reservations about Andretti's bid to join F1 as an 11th team, emphasizing the sport's current success and growth, especially in the U.S. While the FIA has greenlit Andretti's discussions with F1 Management, internal F1 opposition and concerns from existing teams looms. Alonso and Perez express support for Andretti, though many remain quiet on the matter. Link
🍎 Apple's $2bn F1 Play - Eyes exclusive Formula 1 broadcasting rights with a hefty $2bn annual offer, doubling the current global TV rights fee. While the potential 7-year deal could start in 2025, Apple's recent success with the MLS Season Pass hints at their expanding sports streaming ambitions. Link
🏎 2026 Engines Drive F1 Team Choices - The introduction of a new power unit formula in 2026 is reshaping the F1 landscape. As Piastri extends his McLaren contract, the significance of these power units becomes clear: they play a pivotal role in drivers' decisions about team affiliations. With performance and competitiveness hinging on these engines, drivers and teams are strategizing for the future. Link
Should Andretti Get an F1 Team? |
🛞 Drivers
🏦 Loaning Lawson? - Shining in AlphaTauri, Liam faces a potential loan to Williams. However, Red Bull's determination to retrieve him by 2025 raises concerns for Williams. The short-term deal's implications could disrupt Williams' 2025 plans, making the proposition less enticing. Link
🐎 Leclerc’s a Ferrari Lifer Unless… - His devotion to Ferrari is legendary. Despite team challenges, his allegiance stands strong. Yet, he concedes that a dwindling belief in Ferrari's vision could be the sole reason for a potential exit. Link
👀 Danny is Grateful for Being Fired - The 2022 departure from McLaren raised eyebrows. Yet, Ricciardo saw it as a chance to reignite his racing passion. Surprisingly, he's now expressing gratitude to McLaren for the unforeseen hiatus, showcasing his resilience and positive outlook on the twist in his F1 career. Link
🏎 Teams
💨 McLaren's Aero Revolution - Unveils its cutting-edge wind tunnel, marking a pivotal advancement in their F1 journey. Replacing the old facility discarded in 2010, this state-of-the-art addition underscores McLaren's dedication to advanced aerodynamic research, set to sharpen its competitive edge on the racetrack. Link
🤫 Is Mercedes Back in 2024? - Hamilton, after a recent visit to Mercedes' F1 factory, exudes excitement but remains secretive about the specifics of Mercedes’ 2024 developments. Having promised to inspect changes for next year's car, Hamilton's visit underscores Mercedes' commitment to revamping their W14 challenger. Link
🤞 Guenther is Hopeful - Haas’ Team Principal acknowledges the team's recent struggles but remains optimistic. With points in only one of the last 11 races, Haas plans upgrades for the upcoming US GP. Steiner praises the team's spirit and sees these challenges as a stepping stone to future successes. Link
🇶🇦 Qatar GP Preview
Key Highlights
Main Attraction:
Max Verstappen is poised to secure his third drivers' title, elevating his status among the F1 elite.
Track Traits:
The Lusail International Circuit, introduced in 2021, boasts medium-speed corners and fluid sections. The nighttime setting introduces unique challenges, especially with the track's punishing curbs.
Strategy Insights:
Pirelli's C1, C2, and C3 tire choices are expected to degrade quickly. Last year's race saw a blend of one and two-stop strategies, with aggressive curb usage causing tire dilemmas for some racers.
Team Dynamics:
While Verstappen's supremacy is evident, McLaren's Norris and Piastri are podium-spot contenders. Their ascent has them nearing Aston Martin in the constructors' race, while Ferrari and Mercedes are locked in a duel for second.
Final Take:
With Verstappen chasing his third title, the Qatar GP is set to deliver intense racing across the grid. Verstappen's potential crowning moment and team and driver skirmishes guarantee a race to watch. Link
📊 Standings
