Alan Baldwin

Max Verstappen criticised Formula One’s decision to stage a parade lap in Lego-built cars at the British Grand Prix, arguing it makes drivers appear childish and unprofessional. The event, also used at previous races, is supported by Formula One’s commercial leadership, which says it enhances fan experience. The race weekend also features an intensifying title battle, with George Russell chasing points leader Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton targeting a strong home performance.

Formula One drivers will complete a parade lap at Silverstone in custom-built Lego mini-cars constructed from more than 28,000 bricks each, following several previous collaborations between the sport and the Danish toymaker. The vehicles display 2026 team liveries and required over 6,400 hours of work by specialists in the Czech Republic. The British Grand Prix holds significance for Lewis Hamilton and George Russell as they aim to reduce Kimi Antonelli’s lead in the standings, with Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc further behind. Upcoming races in Belgium and Hungary will follow before the summer break.

Formula One’s governing body has issued its first heat hazard designation of the season for the Austrian Grand Prix, requiring teams to fit optional driver‑cooling systems as temperatures are expected to exceed 31°C. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli holds a 41‑point advantage after winning five of seven races, while Lewis Hamilton closed the gap with his first Ferrari victory in Barcelona. George Russell remains close behind Hamilton as the series heads toward the British Grand Prix.

Formula One issued a heat hazard designation for the Austrian Grand Prix due to forecast temperatures above 31C, requiring teams to install driver cooling systems. The measure, added to regulations in 2025, has been applied twice before. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli enters the weekend with a 41‑point lead, though Lewis Hamilton has gained momentum after a win in Barcelona and aims to close the gap. George Russell remains close behind in the standings as the season continues toward upcoming races in the UK, Belgium and Hungary.

George Russell took pole position for the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, edging Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton by 0.064 seconds and securing Mercedes’ seventh consecutive pole of the 2026 season. Kimi Antonelli qualified third, with Lando Norris fourth and Max Verstappen fifth. Charles Leclerc crashed into the tyre barrier during qualifying and will start 10th unless Ferrari changes his engine or gearbox. Russell described the result as a morale boost after two scoreless races, while Hamilton said Ferrari was in a position to fight for victory.

Kimi Antonelli received a replacement winner’s towel from Mercedes after Kim Kardashian took his original towel at the Monaco Grand Prix. The embroidered replacement read “To Kimi from Kim,” resolving a viral social-media joke that had seen Antonelli repeatedly ask about the missing item. Antonelli is now competing at the Circuit de Catalunya while pursuing a sixth consecutive win.

Sergio Perez believes Monaco's slow, difficult-to-overtake street circuit could give Cadillac its best opportunity yet to score Formula One points. The General Motors-backed team has struggled in its debut season, with a best finish of 13th, but Perez sees potential if the car performs well in low-speed corners. After returning to F1 following a season away from Red Bull, Perez says the challenge has restored his confidence, while Cadillac continues improving its operations, strategy and aerodynamics. Despite having sufficient funding, the team acknowledges that building competitiveness will take time and that results are expected soon.

A newly identified wasp preserved in Burmese amber from the middle Cretaceous period has been named Gwesped Piastrii in honor of McLaren Formula One driver Oscar Piastri, partly because the amber’s color recalled McLaren orange. The story also reports that Piastri was attending the Isle of Man TT after competitor Daniel Ingham died in a qualifying crash, prompting organizers to suspend sidecar racing following several other serious incidents. Piastri is expected to compete in the Monaco Grand Prix but had not commented on the naming honor.

Sidecar racing at the Isle of Man TT was suspended after rider Daniel Ingham, 33, died in a qualifying crash at Doran’s Bend. Organisers halted all sidecar events due to safety concerns following multiple serious incidents. Ingham, the 2024 Senior Manx Grand Prix winner, was making his TT debut, and his death is the 271st in the event’s history, with officials emphasising competitor safety.

Isle of Man TT debut rider Daniel Ingham, 33, died after a crash during the first lap of a qualifying session, prompting heightened safety concerns at the event. His death followed multiple other serious incidents that had already led officials to suspend all sidecar racing for the remainder of the competition. Organisers emphasised that the safety of participants and attendees remained their priority, noting Ingham’s death as the 271st fatality since the event began in 1911.

British motorcycle racer Daniel Ingham died after a crash during Isle of Man TT qualifying, prompting intensified safety concerns following multiple recent incidents that also resulted in injuries to other competitors. Organisers suspended all sidecar racing, citing the need to prioritise the safety of participants and spectators. The TT races continue as planned, with Ingham’s death marking the 271st fatality since the event began in 1911.

Formula Two has canceled its Bahrain and Saudi Arabia rounds due to escalating regional tensions and will instead race alongside Formula One in Miami and Montreal, marking its first North American events. The rescheduling fills a long gap in the season and was welcomed by F2 CEO Bruno Michel and F1 chief Stefano Domenicali. Recent driver performances and the adjusted F1 calendar are also noted.

Thibaut Courtois has become a co-owner of Team Sierra in the Saudi-backed E1 electric powerboat championship, joining high-profile owners such as Will Smith, Tom Brady, Rafael Nadal and LeBron James. Currently sidelined with a quadriceps injury, he highlighted the team’s strong identity and technical ambitions as key attractions. The article also notes Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga and Champions League fixtures, including their quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.

FIA and Formula One manufacturers reached an agreement to resolve a dispute over engine compression ratios ahead of the 2026 season after concerns that Mercedes had gained an advantage through thermal expansion. Updated regulations will require compression ratios to be controlled in both hot and cold conditions from mid‑2026, narrowing to operating conditions only in 2027. Mercedes and other engine suppliers remain compliant under existing rules, while further technical evaluations on energy management continue.

Escalating conflict in the Middle East is expected to force the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Formula One Grands Prix, reducing the 2026 season to 22 races. Iranian missile and drone attacks on regional cities have closed major airports and disrupted logistics, also affecting MotoGP and the World Endurance Championship. High temperatures later in the year and a packed calendar limit the feasibility of rescheduling, while alternative circuits pose significant operational challenges. F1 leadership and team principals stress safety as they await a final decision, with related Formula Two events also likely to be cancelled.

The World Endurance Championship cancelled its season-opening race in Qatar due to regional instability following US and Israeli attacks on Iran, prompting airport closures and travel disruption. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the race would be rescheduled later in the season. The cancellation raises concerns for upcoming Formula One races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, though the FIA and local authorities say it is too early to make a decision. Travel advisories warn against non‑essential travel to Bahrain, and Formula One continues to monitor safety conditions while exploring contingency plans.

Tyquendo Tracey believes Lewis Hamilton’s driving skills could translate into success as an Olympic bobsleigh driver, citing his precision at high speeds. Hamilton has expressed interest in forming a Grenadian bobsleigh team, inspired by the legacy of Jamaica’s 1988 squad and the film ‘Cool Runnings’. Tracey views Hamilton as a role model both for his achievements in Formula One and his impact on representation in sport.

US skier Lindsey Vonn underwent a third successful surgery after breaking her leg during a crash at the Winter Olympics. She thanked medical staff and supporters, sharing optimism about her slow but steady progress. Despite competing with a ruptured ACL, specialists estimate she could return to action within eight to eleven months, though her future in the sport remains uncertain.

US skier Lindsey Vonn is recovering after undergoing a third successful surgery on a complex leg fracture sustained during an Olympic downhill crash. She shared updates and gratitude toward supporters while facing a lengthy recovery period that may take eight to eleven months. Her injury ended her bid to become the oldest Alpine skiing medallist, raising uncertainty about whether she will compete again.

Lindsey Vonn rejected claims from sports doctor Brian Sutterer that her ACL injury was chronic, insisting it was fully functional until a recent crash in Crans-Montana. Despite a completely ruptured ligament, she has resumed training and plans to compete in the Olympic downhill race while wearing a brace.

Lindsey Vonn rejects a sports doctor's suggestion that her knee injury may be less severe than reported, insisting her ACL is fully ruptured. Despite the crash in Switzerland, she continues training and plans to race with a knee brace. Videos show her performing strength exercises, and her coach believes she remains a medal contender. Vonn’s long history of knee injuries includes multiple surgeries and a previous ACL tear.

Puma will supply team kit to McLaren under a new multi‑year global agreement covering multiple racing series. The partnership replaces McLaren’s prior deal with Castore and comes as the team enters a new season following a championship‑winning year. Lando Norris begins his title defence in March when the 2026 Formula One season opens in Australia.

Max Verstappen will switch to racing number three next season after losing the Formula One world championship to Lando Norris. The number, previously used by Daniel Ricciardo, has been cleared for reassignment by the FIA after Ricciardo’s retirement. Verstappen, who had used 33 before adopting number one as champion, said three has always been his preferred choice. Norris will race with number one next season after narrowly securing his first world title by finishing third in Abu Dhabi, holding off Verstappen by two points.

Lando Norris ruled out asking teammate Oscar Piastri to give up a position to help him secure the Formula One title in Abu Dhabi, stating such a request would be unfair, though he said he would be willing to offer the same support if roles were reversed. Norris leads Max Verstappen by 12 points heading into the finale, with Piastri also in contention. Piastri said team orders had not been discussed, while George Russell argued it would be wrong for either McLaren driver to yield a place. McLaren principal Andrea Stella said the team will review strategy while aiming to secure both drivers’ and constructors’ titles.

Cadillac will join the 2026 Formula One season as the 11th team and plans to reveal its debut F1 car design in a Super Bowl television commercial. Team CEO Dan Towriss said the event’s wide reach aligns with the brand’s bold American identity. The season begins in March 2026 in Australia, with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez named as drivers.

Cadillac will reveal its first Formula One car design in a Super Bowl television advertisement as it prepares to join the 2025 F1 grid with drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. Team CEO Dan Towriss highlighted the significance of launching the brand on one of the largest U.S. broadcast stages. The article also outlines the drivers’ previous team affiliations and notes the massive viewership figures associated with recent Super Bowl broadcasts.

The FIA determined that Liam Lawson was not responsible for a near‑miss with marshals during the Mexico City Grand Prix, confirming he slowed sufficiently and reacted correctly to yellow flags. The ruling contradicts earlier impressions based on a statement from the Mexican Automobile Club. An ongoing FIA investigation aims to clarify the circumstances and improve procedures while acknowledging the work of volunteer marshals.

The FIA determined that Liam Lawson was not responsible for a near‑miss with two marshals during the Mexico City Grand Prix, confirming telemetry showed he slowed and reacted correctly to warning flags. The Mexican Automobile Club had earlier suggested he failed to alter his line, but the FIA clarified he braked early and passed well below racing speed. The governing body is conducting a broader investigation into how marshals came to be on track with oncoming cars and aims to improve procedures while noting no serious consequences occurred.

Lewis Hamilton said he has sold his entire car collection, explaining he is now more interested in art and would only consider owning a Ferrari F40 as a collectible piece. He noted his shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles aligns with his environmental views. Hamilton expressed optimism ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and has been working with Ferrari engineers as new regulations next season may alter the competitive order.

Lewis Hamilton says he has sold his luxury car collection, explaining that he is now more interested in art and views models like the Ferrari F40 as artistic pieces. Known for his environmental stance, he now drives only electric or hybrid vehicles such as the Mercedes EQC. Hamilton also expressed confidence ahead of the Baku Grand Prix and is contributing feedback to Ferrari engineers for next year’s car development.

Cadillac dismissed speculation that former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner could join its Formula One entry, with CEO Dan Towriss stating there had been no discussions and reaffirming full confidence in team principal Graeme Lowdon. The team, set to debut next season, recently announced drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas and continues to expand its operations with significant recruitment from other F1 teams, including Red Bull.

The FIA president indicated that Formula One may return to V8 or V10 engines by 2029, citing high costs and complexity of current hybrid power units and highlighting commercial and fan appeal benefits. He noted sustainable fuel and transmission costs as challenges and said the transition would take about three years. He also reiterated support for expanding the grid, emphasizing the need for any new entrant to add value, while General Motors’ Cadillac is set to join as the 11th team next season despite initial opposition.

Tim Mayer announced he will run against incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem in December’s FIA presidential election, criticizing current leadership and citing the need for restructuring. Mayer, a former Formula One steward, acknowledged challenges posed by recent statute changes but said he has support from Motorsport UK and has informed Formula One chief Stefano Domenicali of his intentions. Ben Sulayem is seeking a second term and previously had no declared challengers after Carlos Sainz Sr. opted not to run.

Max Verstappen supports the idea of Sebastian Vettel returning to Red Bull in a senior role amid discussions about a future successor to consultant Helmut Marko. Vettel, who won four world titles with the team and retired in 2022, confirmed ongoing but preliminary talks regarding a potential position. Marko acknowledged the conversations and indicated that succession planning remains an active topic.

Statute changes approved by the FIA drew criticism for potentially making challenges to president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s unopposed re-election more difficult. The Austrian Automobile Association warned the amendments could damage the organisation’s reputation and reduce transparency. Ben Sulayem defended the process and expressed confidence in member support despite recent internal controversies and staff departures.

The FIA approved statute changes that critics argue will make it harder to challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s bid for re-election as FIA president. Despite opposition led by Austria’s OAMTC warning of reputational damage and concerns over governance, a majority supported the changes during the General Assembly in Macau. Ben Sulayem, seeking a second term and currently unopposed, dismissed concerns and stated he maintains strong support among FIA members. Several figures, including former deputy president Robert Reid, have recently criticized governance practices and previous statute changes that reduced the power of oversight committees.

Lewis Hamilton voiced frustration with Ferrari’s race management during the Miami Grand Prix, criticising delays in team decisions regarding position swaps with Charles Leclerc. Sarcastic radio messages highlighted his concerns over lost time while stuck behind his teammate. After positions were exchanged twice, Hamilton ultimately finished eighth after holding off Carlos Sainz despite a last-lap collision. Leclerc and team principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the need for better race management, while Hamilton emphasised that his comments were sarcastic rather than angry and that discussions would continue internally.

Dmitry Mazepin’s appearance at Formula One testing in Bahrain drew attention due to his EU-sanctioned status and unclear access to the paddock. His representative described the trip as a personal visit, while figures in the sport, including Alpine’s Oliver Oakes, acknowledged speaking with him. The visit revived scrutiny of past ties involving Haas, Uralkali, and Mazepin following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Rangers secured direct passage to the Europa League last 16 with a 2-1 win over Union Saint-Gilloise, earning an automatic knockout-stage spot on goal difference. Nico Raskin and Vaclav Cerny scored before Kevin Mac Allister pulled one back, while a late Union equaliser was ruled offside. Rangers survived sustained second‑half pressure and benefited from other results to finish in the top eight, avoiding a playoff. Injuries and disallowed goals added to the drama as the Scottish side awaits a March opponent from several potential clubs.

Adidas will become Mercedes’ new Formula 1 kit supplier under a multi‑year agreement beginning with the upcoming season, replacing Puma and adding fan‑available apparel, footwear and accessories. The deal comes as Mercedes enters a new era without Lewis Hamilton, who has moved to Ferrari, with rookie Kimi Antonelli joining George Russell. The partnership follows earlier reports after leaked branded images, while Mercedes previously worked with Tommy Hilfiger. Adidas recently lost a bid to outfit Germany’s national football teams to Nike.

Israeli bowlers were barred from the upcoming World Indoor Bowls Championships in England following pressure from pro-Palestinian groups. The World Bowls Tour said the participation of Israeli athletes had escalated political concerns and withdrew the invitation to ensure the event proceeds smoothly. Pro-Palestinian organisations claimed credit for the campaign, while a Reform Party MP and the Board of Deputies of British Jews condemned the decision as discriminatory. World Bowls, the international federation, distanced itself from the move, noting Israel remains welcome in its events. The controversy unfolds amid the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, which has led to significant casualties and destruction in Gaza.

Abbi Pulling must secure the F1 Academy title again after organisers added a third race to the Abu Dhabi finale, increasing the available points and leaving her one point short despite being declared champion earlier. The added race expands the total to 84 points, keeping her rival Doriane Pin mathematically in contention. Pin retains two pole position points from an unheld Qatar race, while Pulling now faces a renewed title fight in the series designed to support female drivers progressing toward Formula One.

Max Verstappen says Formula One drivers should have voting rights to gain more influence in the sport, arguing that current decision-making by teams creates conflicts of interest. He remains frustrated with the FIA over sanctions for swearing and warns this could accelerate his exit from F1. Verstappen dismisses any ambition to surpass Lewis Hamilton’s title record, saying his goals are fulfilled and he does not want to race into his 40s. He emphasises prioritising family life and personal enjoyment over accumulating championships, noting that his dominant 2023 season is unlikely to be repeated and that he has accepted this.

Modern pentathlon will remove horse riding after Paris 2024, replacing it with obstacle racing to regain relevance and secure its Olympic future after controversy at Tokyo 2021. The UIPM’s decision has divided athletes, though supporters argue the change will modernize the sport and attract new audiences. Britain, Egypt and France are leading medal contenders in Paris, with Egypt’s men’s squad particularly strong and several past Olympic and world champions expected to compete.

Pierre Gasly has encouraged Carlos Sainz to join Alpine as Sainz weighs options after leaving Ferrari, with Alpine considering several drivers including Jack Doohan and Mick Schumacher. Sauber and Williams remain alternatives for Sainz, though Williams’ interest may be fading. Sainz said he is nearing a decision but does not expect it to affect other drivers' choices, noting that most teams have already set their priorities.

Carlos Sainz set the fastest time on the second day of Formula One testing in Bahrain after Ferrari repaired damage from a loose drain cover incident involving Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Sainz completed 84 laps and reported smooth progress, while Sergio Perez finished second despite earlier brake overheating issues. Lewis Hamilton placed third and said the Mercedes W15 feels improved. Testing continued with varied programs among teams ahead of the season opener on March 2, with Red Bull and Ferrari showing strong early pace.

Swiss bobsledder Sandro Michel underwent emergency hip and thigh surgery after being run over by his own sled during World Cup training in Altenberg, Germany. He was flown to Dresden’s University Hospital and is in stable condition. The crash occurred when he was thrown from the four‑man sled, which then slid back and struck him. Pilot Michael Vogt sustained a severe concussion, while teammates Dominik Hufschmid and Andreas Haas received minor injuries. Swiss Sliding said remaining Swiss teams may choose whether to continue training or compete over the weekend.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown set goals of podiums and potential race wins for the 2024 season as the new MCL38 made its debut at Silverstone. Brown expressed confidence in the team's winter development and suggested their performance trajectory should continue from the strong second half of 2023. He indicated that both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could contend for the team’s first win since 2021. Long-term driver contracts remain secure, with Norris’s recent signing unrelated to Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.

Aston Martin unveiled the AMR24 Formula One car with technical director Dan Fallows expressing confidence that Red Bull can be beaten despite their dominant 2023 season. Fernando Alonso welcomed the optimism while emphasizing the need for consistent points and podiums. The team introduced a significantly revised chassis, suspension and aerodynamic package, the first car produced in their new Silverstone facility, alongside new Vantage road and GT3 models. Team leadership highlighted strong driver integration as the season approaches its March start in Bahrain.

Fernando Alonso says he could remain competitive in Formula One into his late forties or even to age fifty if fully committed, citing improved fitness and strong physical test results. While Aston Martin is eager to extend his contract, Alonso remains uncertain about how long he wants to continue given the sport’s demanding schedule. He emphasises that motivation and total dedication are essential for longevity in F1. Team principal Mike Krack expressed a desire to keep Alonso beyond 2025, acknowledging that Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari complicates the driver market.

Ferrari added 18-year-old Formula Two driver Oliver Bearman to their reserve roster alongside Antonio Giovinazzi and Robert Shwartzman to cover potential schedule clashes in a record 24‑race Formula One season. Arthur Leclerc and two Italian drivers joined as development drivers working in the simulator. Ferrari will conduct tyre testing with Pirelli in Barcelona, with Bearman scheduled to drive the 2022 F1‑75. Upcoming F1 testing begins in February, and two teams will race under new names: Alfa Romeo becoming Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber and Alpha Tauri rebranding as Visa Cash App RB.

McLaren’s Zak Brown urges Formula One and the FIA to address concerns over the increasingly close relationship between Red Bull and AlphaTauri, arguing that shared ownership risks undermining competitive fairness. Red Bull maintains that AlphaTauri operates independently despite allowed parts sharing, while the FIA acknowledges the issue and plans further guidance. The debate arises amid Red Bull’s recent dominance and AlphaTauri’s ongoing restructuring and rebranding efforts.

Valentino Rossi will compete full-time with BMW in the FIA World Endurance Championship’s new LMGT3 class, making his Le Mans 24 Hours debut next year. The entry list features 19 Hypercars and 18 LMGT3 entries from 14 manufacturers. Robert Kubica joins the Hypercar field with AF Corse driving a Ferrari, while Mick Schumacher debuts in Hypercar with Alpine. Championship leadership highlights the strong manufacturer participation as a sign of endurance racing’s current growth.

Bernie Ecclestone expresses skepticism about the long-term viability of Formula One’s return to Las Vegas despite acknowledging the improved layout and heightened interest in the United States. He contrasts past failures in the 1980s with the current high-profile effort driven by Liberty Media and boosted by Netflix’s influence on American audiences. While the upcoming race is expected to draw a large crowd, he questions whether high prices and competition from other U.S. circuits will affect its sustainability, even as F1 leaders view Las Vegas as central to expanding the sport’s American presence.

Spanish motorcycle racer Raul Torras Martinez died during the first Supertwin race at the Isle of Man TT after crashing on the final lap. The experienced competitor, who debuted in 2017, had earlier achieved his fastest lap while finishing 20th in the Superstock race. Organisers noted he was the fastest Spaniard to lap the course. His death marks the 267th fatality in the event’s history, which is considered one of the most dangerous in motorsport.

Drivers, including George Russell and Sergio Perez, called for more leniency and common sense in Formula One penalty decisions after Fernando Alonso received and later had overturned time sanctions at the Saudi Grand Prix. Similar issues affected Esteban Ocon in Bahrain, with drivers citing limited cockpit visibility as a contributing challenge. The FIA acknowledged conflicting precedents and plans to clarify rules ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

Haas plans to save $250,000 in freight costs by reducing its pitwall seating to three positions, redirecting funds to car development under Formula One’s cost cap. The team aims to maximize performance across a record 23-race season, supported by increased budget through a new MoneyGram sponsorship, with Guenther Steiner emphasizing efficiency and prioritizing development spending.

McLaren enters its debut Formula E season after taking over the title‑winning Mercedes team, with team principal Ian James aiming to maintain championship‑level performance amid a reset for the series and the introduction of new Gen3 cars. The team will run a Nissan powertrain and field drivers Rene Rast and Jake Hughes while retaining much of the former Mercedes squad. James emphasises the challenges of adapting to a complex new car and competitive field but maintains aspirations to fight for wins and championships as the season begins in Mexico City.

Audi will enter Formula One in 2026 by taking a stake in Sauber, which will become its works team. Sauber will continue using Ferrari engines until the new 2026 power-unit regulations, under which Audi will introduce its own unit built in Bavaria. Leaders from both companies cite shared values and strategic alignment, while Porsche continues exploring potential F1 partnerships following the collapse of talks with Red Bull. The 2026 regulations will increase electrical power and mandate sustainable fuels as Formula One targets net‑zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Stewards upheld a Haas protest declaring Fernando Alonso’s car unsafe after loose bodywork at the US Grand Prix, dropping him from seventh to 15th with a 30‑second penalty. Alpine contested the decision, arguing the protest was filed after the deadline and should not have been accepted. The penalty reduced Alpine’s points advantage over McLaren in the constructors’ championship, while Kevin Magnussen moved up a place and doubled his race points for Haas.

The International Boxing Association lifted its ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete with national flags and anthems. The organization cited political neutrality and equal treatment while restoring participation rights for athletes and technical officials from both countries. The move follows earlier suspensions after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and comes amid tension with the International Olympic Committee, which has removed Olympic qualifying events from the IBA due to governance and ethical concerns.

Max Verstappen enters his home Dutch Grand Prix expecting a tougher weekend despite recent dominant wins, noting Zandvoort’s high-downforce demands may favor Ferrari. With a commanding championship lead, he aims to build on his season’s momentum while rivals Ferrari and Mercedes target recovery after mixed results in Belgium. Zandvoort’s limited overtaking makes qualifying crucial as teams prepare for the second race in a triple‑header leading into Monza.

Ferrari aims for a one-two finish at the Hungarian Grand Prix to recover from Charles Leclerc’s costly retirement in France and close the gap to championship leader Max Verstappen and Red Bull. Team boss Mattia Binotto expresses confidence in securing strong results as both Ferrari drivers look to overcome a season marked by retirements. Red Bull anticipates Hungary will favor Ferrari due to downforce demands, while Lewis Hamilton hopes Mercedes upgrades will improve competitiveness. The race precedes the summer break, with Verstappen firmly leading the championship and several teams introducing car updates.

Alpine is considering loaning reserve driver Oscar Piastri to another Formula One team next season while retaining Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon. Team principal Laurent Rossi said both Piastri and Alonso have viable paths for 2023, with a loan allowing Piastri to gain experience before returning. Williams is viewed as a likely destination, and its principal, Jost Capito, expressed openness to the arrangement. Rossi noted Alonso’s long-term future with Alpine could include a move to its LMDh sportscar programme when he leaves F1.

Jamie Chadwick secured her seventh consecutive W Series victory at the French Grand Prix, extending her championship lead to 70 points over Abbi Pulling. After starting third due to a penalty, she reclaimed the lead early and maintained it through two safety car periods. Belen Garcia and Nerea Marti completed the podium, while Beitske Visser fell from pole to fourth. The W Series continues to aim at creating a pathway for women into Formula One, which has not seen a female race driver since 1976.

Sebastian Vettel says he is in talks with Aston Martin about continuing with the team beyond the 2022 season and indicates there is a clear intention to keep racing. Aston Martin principal Mike Krack wants to retain the four-time world champion, but Vettel will make the final decision. Vettel dismissed rumors of a move to McLaren, whose 2023 driver lineup includes contracted drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Lando Norris. Vettel has scored 15 points for Aston Martin, compared with Lance Stroll’s three, while the team sits ninth in the ten-team championship.

Formula One’s governing body, the FIA, plans tougher roll-hoop tests for 2023 after Guanyu Zhou’s Alfa Romeo overturned and slid upside down during the British Grand Prix, with the roll hoop tearing away. Zhou escaped serious injury, aided by the car’s Halo device. The FIA also warned that porpoising could worsen next season as teams develop cars with more downforce, and announced measures including raised floor edges, stricter floor-deflection tests and improved sensors, while acknowledging that changes introduced for the Belgian Grand Prix may not provide a long-term solution.

The 2022 British Grand Prix at Silverstone was presented as evidence that Formula One’s new cars deliver closer, more exciting racing while improving safety. Managing director Ross Brawn praised the ability of drivers to follow closely, race side by side and make sustained overtaking attempts, attributing the changes to new aerodynamic regulations. The halo protection system helped protect Guanyu Zhou in a major first-lap crash, while Zhou and Alex Albon were safely discharged from the medical centre. Carlos Sainz secured his first Formula One victory.

Alpine reserve driver Oscar Piastri will take part in a Friday free-practice session after the Formula One summer break, according to team principal Otmar Szafnauer. The 2021 Formula Two champion is widely expected to secure a Formula One race seat in 2023 after a rapid junior-career progression, although Alpine’s options depend partly on Fernando Alonso’s contract decision. Piastri has been linked with Williams and McLaren, but Williams principal Jost Capito said there were no plans to replace either of the team’s current drivers during the season.