NEW Madrid GP but Fans Aren’t Happy

🌎 Around Formula 1

🇪🇸 New Madrid Grand Prix - The Spanish GP is moving from Barcelona to Madrid in 2026, to be held at a new 3.4-mile hybrid circuit in Campo de las Naciones. This change is part of a long-term contract until 2035, with the track featuring both street and non-street sections. Madrid's last F1 race was in 1981 at the Jarama circuit. The shift to Madrid aligns with F1's sustainability goals and public accessibility, though it raises questions about Barcelona's future on the F1 calendar. Read more

Butttt fans aren’t happy… F1's decision to add another street circuit, despite a clear preference from fans and drivers like Verstappen for traditional tracks, has sparked controversy. A poll indicates over 90% of fans oppose more street circuits, yet F1, driven by financial incentives, continues to expand in urban areas. The move to Madrid, while financially lucrative, risks alienating fans who prefer racing on established circuits. The sport's increasing focus on street races, often in city centers for promotional benefits, may eventually lead to a disconnect with its core audience if traditional tracks are continually overlooked. Read more

🍿 Netflix has announced that the sixth season of 'Drive to Survive' will be released on February 23, coinciding with the final day of Bahrain pre-season testing.

🛞 How to Become an F1 Driver

Becoming an F1 driver is a multifaceted challenge, requiring a blend of exceptional talent, substantial financial backing, rigorous physical fitness, and deep dedication. Aspiring drivers typically start young in karting, progressing through single-seater categories like Formula Ford and Formula 4. However, the steep costs at each level mean financial support is crucial, often determining who advances.

Physical fitness is essential for handling intense G-forces and maintaining focus during races. Drivers undergo extensive training to strengthen their bodies and improve reaction times. Dedication involves sacrificing personal time for racing, training, and sponsor engagements.

A critical requirement is obtaining an FIA Racing Super Licence, which demands meeting specific criteria, including age, racing experience, and accumulating Super Licence Points. Many F1 drivers emerge from junior driver academies linked to F1 teams, offering expert coaching and a potential pathway to Formula 1. While not guaranteed, affiliation with an F1 team's junior program significantly enhances a driver's prospects of reaching the elite level of motorsport. Read more

🛞 Drivers

💰 Leclerc Signs New Contract - He has extended his contract with Ferrari for several more seasons, though the exact duration remains undisclosed. Joining Ferrari in 2019, Leclerc has achieved five wins and 23 pole positions, showcasing his talent despite the team's recent struggles. Team boss Fred Vasseur praises Leclerc's deep connection with Ferrari, dating back to his time in the Ferrari Driver Academy. Meanwhile, teammate Carlos Sainz also seeks a long-term deal. There are rumors Leclerc could be making €50m a year, but the problem with these contracts is that the full details are rarely known, I think for the good of the sport the fans need to know! Right? Read more

🚀 Albon's Market Surge - Despite early struggles at Red Bull, he never felt out of place in F1. His resilience during a year off in 2021 led to a strong return with Williams in 2022. In 2023, despite the car's limitations, Albon's performances significantly contributed to Williams' success, securing seventh in the Constructors' Championship. His growth in consistency and adaptability, rather than just raw speed, marked 2023 as his best year, showcasing his ability to excel in challenging circumstances. As his contract nears its 2024 expiry, Albon's improved performance positions him as a valuable player in the F1 drivers' market. Read more

🏎 Teams

🤢 AlphaTauri has officially rebranded as the Visa CashApp RB team, following a multi-year global partnership between Visa and Red Bull. Is this the worst name ever?

🏎 McLaren's Technical Team Boost - Recent technical team enhancements, with David Sanchez from Ferrari and Rob Marshall from Red Bull, are already yielding positive results. Team principal Andrea Stella notes that these new hires have seamlessly integrated into McLaren's existing structure, bringing valuable knowledge and fresh ideas. These changes are crucial as McLaren prepares for the immediate future with the 2024 car, the evolution into 2025, and the significant regulatory changes anticipated in 2026. Read more

🇬🇧 Williams F1's Renaissance - Led by James Vowles, marks a shift from survival to strategic growth. With Dorilton's investment, Vowles, alongside Pat Fry, is steering the team away from its "hand-to-mouth" existence towards a long-term vision. This new approach, inspired by Vowles' experience at Mercedes, focuses on building a winning mindset and sustainable development. The team, once a backmarker due to underinvestment, is now planning for the future with a clear direction, swift decision-making, and a culture of openness. While immediate results may not be drastic, the groundwork laid for the FW46 and beyond promises a competitive edge in the coming years. Read more

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