The long-standing rivalry between Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Red Bull’s Christian Horner has flared up again, with Wolff accusing his counterpart of being the lone holdout among Formula 1 team principals during last year’s FIA investigation into a potential conflict of interest involving Wolff and his wife, Susie Wolff.

In a candid interview with The Guardian, Toto Wolff revealed how Horner hesitated to support a statement opposing the FIA’s December 2023 probe, which alleged a conflict between his role at Mercedes and Susie Wolff’s position as Managing Director of the F1 Academy.

“Wolff vs. Horner: The Saga Continues”

While nine of the ten team principals quickly rallied behind Wolff, spearheaded by Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur, Horner reportedly needed “persuasion” before signing on.

“Fred took it into his hands and said: ‘This is just so unfair,’” Wolff recounted. “From Guenther Steiner to James Vowles, everybody jumped on to this… except Christian.”

Wolff said Horner initially refused to endorse the collective statement and even attempted to amend its wording.

“In the second iteration, he tried to get the word ‘official’ in the statement. He wanted it noted that no one [among the team principals] officially complained to the FIA,” Wolff revealed. “The other teams said: ‘Fine. We do our declaration and you do your own.’ In the end, he signed it.”

Wolff criticized Horner’s apparent reluctance, remarking, “I don’t think you can rely on what he says.”

“The Short-Lived Probe and Its Fallout”

The FIA’s investigation, launched after an unnamed team principal lodged a complaint, was swiftly closed following backlash from the Wolffs and a unified response from nine of the ten teams. However, the brief probe sparked outrage, particularly from Susie Wolff, who later filed a criminal complaint against the FIA in March 2024.

“There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter,” Susie Wolff stated. “Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility—it does not.”

The incident coincided with the recent departure of Paolo Basarri, the FIA’s Compliance Officer, amid alleged tensions with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

“Horner’s Calculated Move?”

Horner’s initial hesitation and subsequent demands for amendments raise questions about his motives. Was it a calculated move to avoid implicating Red Bull in the FIA’s actions, or simply another chapter in his combative relationship with Wolff?

The incident underscores the persistent power struggle between Mercedes and Red Bull, with Horner’s actions once again placing him in the spotlight as the Wolff-Horner feud shows no signs of cooling.

“The Bigger Picture: FIA Accountability”

Beyond the Wolff-Horner dynamic, the controversy has reignited calls for greater transparency and accountability within the FIA. The quick closure of the probe, coupled with Susie Wolff’s vocal criticism, has put pressure on the governing body to address perceived lapses in its procedures.

As Formula 1 heads into another high-stakes season, the Wolff-Horner rivalry remains a focal point, reflecting broader tensions within the sport. Whether these incidents will lead to meaningful reforms—or just more fiery headlines—remains to be seen.

O conteúdo Toto Wolff Calls Out Christian Horner Over FIA Conflict Probe Reluctance aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

23XI Racing has announced a significant expansion ahead of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, confirming the addition of a third full-time entry with Riley Herbst behind the wheel of the No. 35 Toyota Camry, powered by sponsorship from Monster Energy. The move marks another bold step in 23XI’s rapid ascent within NASCAR, aligning with its vision to grow into a powerhouse organization.

“Herbst Steps Up to Full-Time Cup Racing”

Riley Herbst, a five-season Xfinity Series veteran, will make his first full-time Cup Series debut in 2025. Having achieved three wins in 175 Xfinity starts, Herbst brings determination and fresh energy to 23XI. He has already gained experience in the Cup Series, with eight starts over the past two years, giving him a taste of NASCAR’s top-tier competition.

“It’s an honor to join 23XI and Toyota for the opportunity to race in the Cup Series each week,” Herbst said. “Racing full-time in the Cup Series has been my goal since I started in NASCAR, and I’m excited to start my Cup career with such an accomplished and driven team.”

Herbst will reunite with Davin Restivo, his crew chief from Stewart-Haas Racing in the Xfinity Series. The pair’s chemistry and experience together could prove vital in Herbst’s transition to the Cup Series.

“23XI’s Vision for Growth”

This move highlights 23XI Racing’s ongoing ambition as it prepares for its fifth season in NASCAR. With Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick already leading the team, Herbst’s addition signals the organization’s intent to compete on all fronts.

“We felt the time was right to continue the growth of our organization by adding a third team, and Riley is a driver we think will be a great fit for us,” said 23XI President Steve Lauletta. “We have a solid foundation with both Bubba and Tyler, and they will be a great resource for Riley as he begins his journey in the Cup Series.”

“Litigation Looms Over Charter Plans”

Despite the exciting announcement, 23XI’s expansion comes amid ongoing legal battles with NASCAR over the 2025 charter agreement. While the team intends to secure a charter from Stewart-Haas Racing, the sale has not yet been finalized.

23XI’s lead attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, recently confirmed that the team is prepared to race as an open entry next year. However, the organization continues to appeal for a preliminary injunction to compete as a charter team in 2025, citing ongoing litigation over the anticompetitive nature of NASCAR’s charter system.

“We are confident in our direction and committed to seeing this through,” Kessler said.

“A New Chapter for Herbst and 23XI”

With a strong lineup featuring Wallace, Reddick, and now Herbst, 23XI Racing is poised for an exciting 2025 season. Herbst, backed by Monster Energy’s legacy in NASCAR, is eager to prove himself as he transitions to full-time Cup racing.

“What 23XI has accomplished in a short time is impressive,” Herbst said. “I look forward to building on their success and adding to Monster’s legacy in the sport.”

The addition of a third car reflects 23XI’s relentless push for growth and success in NASCAR. As the legal dust settles, all eyes will be on how Herbst and the team rise to the challenge in one of the most competitive environments in motorsports.

O conteúdo 23XI Racing Goes Big for 2025: Riley Herbst Joins as Third Full-Time NASCAR Cup Driver aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with controversy as rival teams push back against a cost cap adjustment set to benefit Audi when it enters the sport in 2026. Audi, taking over the Sauber team based in Switzerland, will uniquely profit from a cost cap “consideration factor” aimed at addressing higher wages in specific countries—a move that has sparked sharp opposition.

“A Cost Cap Divide”

The adjustment, approved by the FIA earlier this year, introduces a mechanism to account for the higher salaries in Switzerland compared to Formula 1’s traditional hubs in the UK and Italy. The “consideration factor” will calculate the average annual wages of a team’s country relative to a weighted average, using independent OECD economic data.

The FIA argues the change levels the playing field for Sauber, which would otherwise be at a disadvantage due to the higher cost of living in Switzerland. Critics, however, see the adjustment as an unnecessary exemption that undermines the cost cap’s integrity.

“Why does a team based in Switzerland get an exemption? Everyone chooses where to set up their team,” said Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu.

“Rivals Voice Their Frustration”

Komatsu wasn’t alone in questioning the fairness of the adjustment. With nine out of ten teams reportedly opposing the move, the pushback has been loud and clear. Komatsu pointed to the complexities of cost caps, arguing that trying to account for every variable is impractical and risks setting a dangerous precedent.

“Where do you stop?” Komatsu asked. “Do you compensate for regional differences in the UK? Or engineers moving to Italy? It’s impossible to make it completely fair.”

He also emphasized that the decision to base a team in Switzerland is voluntary and could come with benefits beyond wages, such as lifestyle perks for employees.

“The FIA Defends Its Stance”

FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis firmly defended the adjustment, calling it a necessary move to ensure fairness for Sauber and avoid economic pressures forcing the team to relocate.

“We found that a team in a high-cost country like Switzerland would have 30–40% fewer staff for the same cost cap,” Tombazis said. “That is fundamentally unfair.”

Tombazis added that the adjustment is backed by compelling data from OECD research and F1 teams’ salary reports, ensuring its transparency and fairness.

“Without this adjustment, Sauber might have to close or move, which we don’t think is right for a world championship,” he explained.

“The Broader Implications”

Rival teams worry this adjustment could open the door to further exemptions. If Switzerland’s costs are acknowledged, they argue, why not adjust for regional disparities within the UK, Italy, or other countries? The concern is that the cost cap—a cornerstone of F1’s financial fairness—could unravel under the weight of exceptions.

“This is a slippery slope,” Komatsu warned. “Unless every variable is considered, which is impossible, the system risks becoming fundamentally flawed.”

“Audi’s Advantage: Opportunity or Unfair Boost?”

For Audi, the adjustment provides a significant advantage as it gears up for its 2026 entry. By benefiting from a higher effective cost cap, the German manufacturer could field a more competitive team sooner than its rivals anticipate. However, this advantage is precisely what has other teams on edge, as they fear it skews competition in favor of a newcomer.

“Looking Ahead to 2026”

With just two years until Audi joins Formula 1, the debate over the cost cap adjustment is unlikely to die down. While the FIA insists the change is fair and justified, rival teams remain skeptical, with some questioning the governing body’s commitment to neutrality.

“It’s a democracy where nine wolves and one sheep sit at the table,” Tombazis said. “Sometimes, it’s our job to ensure fairness, even if it’s unpopular.”

The controversy underscores the delicate balance Formula 1 must strike between encouraging new entrants and maintaining a level playing field. As the paddock watches Audi’s progress, the long-term ramifications of this decision could shape the sport’s financial landscape for years to come.

O conteúdo F1’s Cost Cap Controversy: Rivals Push Back Against Audi’s Swiss Advantage aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The final showdown of the 2024 World Rally Championship season kicked off with a gripping shakedown stage at Rally Japan, where Ott Tänak delivered a commanding performance to set the fastest time. On the slippery Kuragaike Park stage, Tänak edged out rivals in treacherous conditions, keeping the pressure firmly on Thierry Neuville in the fight for the drivers’ championship.

“Tänak Shines, Neuville Holds the Advantage”

Despite the challenging surface, Tänak showed precision and aggression, clocking the quickest time on his second run and securing the top spot by 0.4 seconds over M-Sport’s Adrien Fourmaux. Meanwhile, Neuville—who only needs six points this weekend to secure his maiden WRC title—started strong but faded to sixth in the session.

“We have our targets clear,” Neuville said. “As a team, we want both championships, so it’s about balancing the push with managing the gaps.”

Tänak, the only driver still capable of denying Neuville the title, remains focused on maximizing points for Hyundai, who lead Toyota by 15 points in the manufacturers’ championship.

“It’s going to be a big attack weekend,” Tänak declared. “We’re defending hard, and Toyota will be pushing just as much. Let’s see how it plays out.”

“Toyota in the Hunt, Ogier Leads the Charge”

Toyota’s Sébastien Ogier finished third fastest, showing determination to keep the manufacturers’ championship within reach. With the team’s home event providing added motivation, Ogier is eyeing a strong finish to overturn Hyundai’s lead.

“We have to deliver a very strong rally for the team,” Ogier said. “There’s still a chance for the manufacturers’ title, and that’s what drives us this weekend.”

“M-Sport Impresses, Katsuta Stands Strong for Toyota”

M-Sport’s Rally1 entries delivered a surprise surge, with Adrien Fourmaux and Grégoire Munster making significant gains during their three runs. Fourmaux secured second overall, while Munster overcame early handbrake issues to finish fifth, just behind Toyota’s home favorite Takamoto Katsuta.

Katsuta’s steady fourth-place performance underscores his critical role in Toyota’s bid for the team title. Meanwhile, Elfyn Evans struggled with grip issues and muddy conditions, ending eighth among Rally1 cars.

“Chris Ingram Dominates WRC2”

In the WRC2 category, Chris Ingram stole the spotlight. Fresh off his British Rally Championship victory, Ingram clocked the fastest time in his Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, finishing a remarkable sixth overall, level with Neuville’s Rally1 Hyundai.

“It’s been a great start for us,” Ingram said. “The car feels fantastic, and we’re pushing hard.”

Behind him, Hiroki Arai, Heikki Kovalainen, and Nikolay Gryazin rounded out the top WRC2 times, with Gryazin’s Citroën featuring a striking Initial D-inspired livery.

“Pajari’s WRC2 Title Challenge Off to a Slow Start”

Championship contender Sami Pajari had a quieter session, finishing eighth in WRC2 after a single timed run. Pajari needs a first or second-place finish this weekend to claim the title but remains focused.

“It’s never over until it’s over,” Pajari said. “We’ll stick to our plan and see what happens.”

“Slippery Start Sets the Stage for a Thrilling Finale”

The Kuragaike Park shakedown proved a fitting prelude to the drama expected at Rally Japan. With Neuville and Tänak battling for the drivers’ title and Hyundai and Toyota locked in a tight manufacturers’ race, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

As the action shifts to the competitive stages, fans can expect high-stakes battles, unpredictable conditions, and the crowning of champions in the 2024 WRC season finale. Fasten your seatbelts—Rally Japan is set to deliver a spectacular conclusion.

O conteúdo Tänak Tops Shakedown as WRC Title Fight Reaches Fever Pitch in Japan aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Lando Norris has faced the reality of seeing his maiden Formula 1 title charge unravel in dramatic fashion. After a strong season that reignited hopes of a championship fight, his bid was effectively derailed by a disastrous Brazilian Grand Prix, leaving Max Verstappen poised to secure yet another crown.

Speaking candidly ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Norris admitted that the devastating points swing at Interlagos, coupled with Verstappen’s unrelenting dominance, left him with a sobering realization: the title is now a near-impossible dream.

“Brazil’s Brutal Blow”

Norris had been riding a wave of momentum leading up to Brazil, believing he was firmly in contention. But a mix of treacherous conditions, misfortune, and a Verstappen masterclass led to a sixth-place finish from pole position, effectively ending his hopes.

“Post-Brazil was tough for me,” Norris said. “It was the first moment when I truly realized achieving first position was now nearly impossible. My fight for the championship was slimmed by almost the biggest margin of the whole year.”

The two-week break between Brazil and Las Vegas gave Norris time to process the disappointment. He now feels unburdened, ready to enjoy the remainder of the season and take the lessons learned into next year.

“I’ve been performing well and doing a good job,” he said. “I think now I can probably just go out and enjoy it more.”

“A Season of Growth and Confidence”

Despite the heartbreak, Norris views 2024 as a season of personal and professional growth. The 24-year-old acknowledged he wasn’t ready to challenge Verstappen at the start of the year but believes his performances, particularly since the summer break, have shown he has what it takes to compete for the title.

“I feel like I’ve done some of the best performances of my career since the summer,” Norris said. “I wouldn’t change anything that’s happened. But I know I still need to improve—there’s always room to be better.”

“Fighting Max: A Monumental Task”

Norris offered a frank assessment of what it takes to go head-to-head with Verstappen, calling the Dutchman one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history.

“Nobody has gone up against Max so early in their career, and I’ve put up a pretty reasonable fight,” he said. “Max is probably one of the best drivers ever in F1. To fight against someone so good takes more than what I’ve achieved this season.”

While conceding he wasn’t fully prepared to battle Verstappen this year, Norris is confident he’s now closer to the level required to take the fight to Red Bull in 2025.

“For the first time, I feel confident in saying I have what it takes to fight for a championship,” Norris asserted.

“Chess and Championships”

Using an imaginative chess analogy, Norris likened his current situation to a game nearing its conclusion.

“It’s check, and I’m all alone while Max has all his pawns ready to attack me,” he joked. “I’m not conceding until it’s mathematically over, but it’s tough.”

“Eyes on 2025”

With three races remaining, including the glittering Las Vegas Grand Prix, Norris remains focused on finishing the season strongly. More importantly, he sees this year’s experiences as the foundation for a renewed title charge in the future.

“I’ve learned that I can fight for a championship,” Norris said. “I wasn’t ready at the start, but I’m confident now. I think what I’ve done since the summer is closer to what’s needed—and I’ll bring that into next year.”

As Norris looks ahead, his 2024 campaign—while ultimately unsuccessful in its title bid—will likely be remembered as a pivotal chapter in his evolution as a driver. Whether he can turn lessons into glory in 2025 remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Lando Norris is far from done chasing his Formula 1 dream.

O conteúdo Lando Norris Reflects on 2024 Title Collapse: ‘I Have What It Takes to Win’ aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

In an electrifying start to the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) finale at Rally Japan, British Rally Champion Chris Ingram delivered a jaw-dropping performance, setting the fastest time overall on the slippery Kuragaike Park shakedown stage. Piloting a Rally2-spec Toyota GR Yaris, Ingram edged out the top-tier Rally1 competitors to steal the spotlight and set the tone for a thrilling weekend.

“Ingram’s Late Surge”

Despite the inherently lower horsepower of his Rally2 car, Ingram pulled off an astonishing feat, eclipsing Rally1 frontrunners with a perfectly executed late run. His time bested Ott Tänak’s earlier benchmark by 0.4 seconds, cementing his place at the top of the timesheets.

“Bright start for us, and the car feels fantastic,” said Ingram. “We’re here to give it everything.”

Ingram’s incredible pace wasn’t just a one-off—it showcased the potential of the Rally2 machinery in tricky conditions, leaving fans and teams buzzing about his remarkable performance.

“Tänak and Neuville’s Title Duel”

While Ingram dazzled, the spotlight remained on Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak, the only two drivers left in the hunt for the 2024 WRC title.

“It’s going to be a big attack weekend,” Tänak declared. “We want to defend our position and fight for the manufacturers’ title too.”

With a 25-point lead, Neuville needs just six points to claim his maiden WRC championship, but Tänak isn’t going down without a fight. Neuville led the opening pass but faded in later runs, ending sixth among the Rally1 cars, while Tänak posted the fastest time among the Rally1 machines.

“We know what’s at stake,” Neuville said. “We need to push and manage the gaps carefully to bring home both titles.”

“A Slippery Start for the Final Showdown”

The shakedown conditions proved challenging, with limited grip catching several drivers off guard. Elfyn Evans, who is representing Toyota in their quest for the manufacturers’ championship, described the first pass as “no grip at all,” while Sebastien Ogier admitted that a strong performance is needed to keep Toyota’s hopes alive.

“We still have this chance for the manufacturers’ title,” Ogier said. “That’s the motivation for the weekend.”

“Puma Prowess and Rally2 Surprises”

M-Sport’s Adrien Fourmaux shined with an impressive second-fastest time in Rally1, while teammate Grégoire Munster recovered from an early handbrake issue to deliver a competitive third run. Toyota’s home hero Takamoto Katsuta rounded out the top five, with Evans trailing in a frustrating eighth among Rally1 cars.

The Rally2 field also delivered standout performances. Behind Ingram, Hiroki Arai, Heikki Kovalainen, and Nikolay Gryazin—sporting an Initial D-inspired Citroën livery—showed strong form. Championship hopeful Sami Pajari, however, struggled in eighth, setting just one time as he looks to secure his WRC2 title.

“It’s never over until it’s over,” Pajari said. “We’ll see how the weekend plays out.”

“All Eyes on the Finale”

With eight Rally1 cars and six drivers fighting for titles across multiple categories, Rally Japan promises to be a spectacular conclusion to the 2024 WRC season. Ingram’s sensational start has added a layer of intrigue, while the fierce title battles in both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships ensure the stakes couldn’t be higher.

As the teams prepare for the first competitive stages, one thing is certain: the Kuragaike Park shakedown has set the stage for a dramatic weekend that could rewrite the record books. Rally fans, buckle up—this is going to be a thrilling ride.

O conteúdo Chris Ingram Stuns Rally Japan with Shakedown Masterclass, as Championship Battles Heat Up aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

As the countdown begins to the end of an era at Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton has delivered a powerful message of resilience. Speaking out against remarks that might seek to destabilize him, Hamilton vowed to rise above the noise, reaffirming his unwavering determination and commitment to finishing the season on a high.

The seven-time world champion, who will join Ferrari in 2025, responded to recent comments from Toto Wolff about the “shelf life” of individuals in Formula 1. While Wolff has since clarified his statement, Hamilton’s reaction underlined his mental fortitude as he prepares for his final races with the team that helped him achieve unparalleled success.

“Standing Tall Amid Criticism”

Hamilton dismissed the idea that Wolff’s remarks implied he was past his peak, choosing instead to focus on his form and mindset.

“I think just me being here, standing tall, I feel strong,” Hamilton told Sky Sports F1. “I’ve been training well. Honestly, I feel like I’m in the best place I’ve been mentally.”

He added that his longevity in the sport has equipped him to handle negative narratives, which he believes are often designed to disrupt his focus.

“I’ve been around this game for a long time. There have been so many things said about me, so many microaggressions—nothing can take me down,” Hamilton said. “I’m still here, I’m still fighting.”

A Legacy Beyond Mercedes

Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes marks the end of Formula 1’s most successful driver-team partnership, but the Briton emphasized his commitment to the team in their final races together.

“Even though I’m leaving, I want to make sure I give them the best I can in these next races,” Hamilton said. “We’ve got a team that I genuinely still love.”

The 39-year-old, who will turn 40 before his Ferrari debut, expressed confidence in his abilities despite recent struggles, declaring that his physical and mental fitness are at an all-time high.

Wolff Clarifies “Shelf Life” Comments

The controversy began when Wolff, in an interview, remarked that Mercedes’ decision to sign Hamilton to a one-plus-one-year deal was influenced by the belief that “everyone has a shelf life.” He later clarified that his comments were taken out of context, asserting that Hamilton remains one of the best drivers on the grid.

“What I was referring to was that all of us age, whether it’s in a car, on a pitch, or as a manager,” Wolff explained. “Lewis is still at the top of his game. We’ve simply failed to give him a car to perform his best.”

Hamilton acknowledged Wolff’s clarification and praised his boss’s unwavering support over the years.

“Toto has been massively supportive over the years. [It] doesn’t really make any bearing,” Hamilton said.

“A Final Push for Mercedes”

With just a few races left in the 2024 season, Hamilton is determined to leave Mercedes on a high note, despite the challenges of an underperforming car and a difficult campaign.

“Considering how bad the last race was, I think my attitude says enough,” Hamilton said. “I’m focused on giving my all for the team I’ve loved for so long.”

Looking Ahead to Ferrari

As Hamilton prepares to embark on a new chapter with Ferrari, his confidence and defiance send a clear message: the racing legend isn’t done yet. While questions linger about how he’ll fare in the red of Maranello, Hamilton’s mindset remains focused on delivering excellence—whether at Mercedes or beyond.

“I’m still fighting, and I’m going to continue to push,” Hamilton declared.

For now, Hamilton remains focused on the task at hand: ending his tenure at Mercedes with the same determination and grit that defined his dominance in Formula 1.

O conteúdo Lewis Hamilton Defiant: ‘Nothing Can Take Me Down’ due to Exit Rumors and Criticism aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The Faenza-based Visa Cash App RB F1 Team (RB) has stunned the paddock once again, unveiling a bold new livery for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Known for its penchant for special designs, RB has delivered its most audacious look yet—an eye-popping mix of green, blue, and red, sparkling under the city’s iconic lights. The design, described by drivers as “bright, sparkly, and loud,” aims to captivate fans while symbolizing the team’s fighting spirit as they battle for a crucial sixth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship.

“A Livery to Match Las Vegas’s Glitz”

RB’s latest design on the VCARB 01 is tailor-made for the vibrant Las Vegas atmosphere. The team, led by Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, hopes the glittering scheme will bring them luck as they tackle one of the most anticipated weekends of the season.

“We struggled here last year,” Lawson admitted. “But we’ve made some changes, and we think we understand how to improve the car here. We are optimistic, and our target is to score points with both cars.”

“A Close Fight for Sixth”

RB enters the Vegas weekend in eighth place in the Constructors’ standings, trailing Haas (46 points) and Alpine (49 points) with their current haul of 44 points. With Alpine’s surprise double podium in Brazil and Haas remaining a consistent threat, RB faces a steep challenge to climb the rankings.

Lawson and Tsunoda have been instrumental in keeping RB competitive in a turbulent 2024 campaign. Both drivers are under immense pressure, knowing that a strong finish in the standings could boost their chances of securing a coveted Red Bull Racing seat for 2025.

“We are in a close fight for P6,” Lawson emphasized. “It’s critical to maximize every opportunity in these final races.”

“A Season of Resilience and Change”

The 2024 season has been anything but smooth for RB. The team has faced challenges both on and off the track but has demonstrated resilience in adapting to changes throughout the campaign. The special liveries have provided moments of brightness in an otherwise challenging year, offering fans a spectacle while keeping morale high within the team.

Tsunoda and Lawson’s solid performances have given RB a fighting chance to surpass their rivals in the final stretch. If the pair can secure P6 in the Constructors’ Championship, it will not only validate their efforts but also place them in pole position for the Red Bull Racing seat alongside Max Verstappen in 2025.

“Vegas: The Ultimate Test”

With the high-speed straights and technical challenges of the Las Vegas circuit, RB will need both precision and strategy to stay ahead in the tight Constructors’ battle. While the dazzling livery is sure to turn heads, all eyes will be on whether Lawson and Tsunoda can deliver the double-points finish the team so desperately needs.

As the F1 carnival unfolds on the Las Vegas Strip, RB’s glittering machine will symbolize more than just style—it will stand as a statement of their determination to climb the standings and end the season on a high. Whether it’s enough to secure sixth place remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: RB is ready to light up Vegas in every sense of the word.

O conteúdo VIDEO – RB Drops Dazzling Las Vegas Livery Amidst Fierce Fight for P6 in Constructors’ Standings aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Formula 1 drivers are publicly voicing their frustration with the FIA’s governance under President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, accusing the organization of poor communication, inconsistent decision-making, and a lack of transparency. Led by George Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), the drivers have issued a rare and pointed statement calling for change, citing long-standing grievances over fines, leadership instability, and sidelining the drivers’ input.

“Fed Up With the Direction”

The GPDA statement, published after weeks of internal discussions, criticized Ben Sulayem for treating drivers “like children” and mishandling key issues, including a recent crackdown on swearing. Notably, Max Verstappen received a community service penalty for using profanity during a press conference—an action drivers felt was excessive and arbitrary.

“We’ve probably learned from the past that whenever we’ve spoken up internally, it hasn’t gone anywhere,” Russell said. “We’re showing how seriously we feel as a whole on the subject.”

“Leadership Instability and Poor Communication”

One of the drivers’ key complaints is the FIA’s revolving door of personnel. Since Ben Sulayem took over, high-profile exits have included the F1 CEO, compliance officer, and several sporting and technical directors. Most recently, race director Niels Wittich was removed just before the season’s final three races, leaving F2 and F3 race director Rui Marques to take over.

“It’s clearly not the most stable of places,” Russell remarked. “Maybe that’s why it’s been challenging to get some of the changes we’ve wanted implemented.”

Drivers were blindsided by Wittich’s dismissal, with several expressing frustration over the lack of consultation.

“We feel like we’re the last to find out,” Russell said. “When it involves us directly, it would be nice to be kept in the loop.”

“Calls for Transparency on Driver Fines”

Another major issue is the lack of clarity regarding how driver fines are used. The GPDA is pushing for financial transparency, especially after reports suggested penalties could reach $1 million.

“When we were hearing from the FIA a couple of years ago, they talked about reinvesting fine money into grassroots racing, which we’re all in favor of,” Russell said. “But we don’t see where it’s going.”

Russell emphasized that while some drivers can easily afford large fines, rookies and those on smaller contracts would be disproportionately affected. Knowing how fines are reinvested would make the penalties more acceptable, he argued.

“Drivers Demand Consistency”

The drivers’ frustrations extend to how the FIA manages race regulations and stewards’ decisions. Many feel the organization lacks the consistency seen in other sports, where permanent officials oversee operations year-round.

“Pretty much every other sport has permanent stewards for consistency,” said McLaren’s Lando Norris. “That’s what we want as drivers. Things aren’t running as smoothly as we’d like.”

“A Divide Between Drivers and the FIA”

Veterans like Kevin Magnussen lamented the lack of connection between drivers and the FIA, contrasting the current era with the late Charlie Whiting’s tenure as race director.

“With Charlie, we felt connected and listened to,” Magnussen said. “Now it seems like a lot of us are against them. There should be more cooperation.”

“Looking Forward: A Call for Change”

The drivers have made it clear that they’re not against the FIA but want a more collaborative relationship. Russell summed up the drivers’ stance, saying they are advocating for the “benefit of the sport” and hope to see a change in how their concerns are addressed.

“We all know what we want from the sport,” he said. “We want to do a small U-turn on a number of topics and work together with the FIA, but that hasn’t been happening.”

With just three races left in the season, the drivers hope their statement will prompt the FIA to take their grievances seriously. Whether the governing body responds remains to be seen, but the growing divide between the FIA and the drivers threatens to become a defining issue in Formula 1’s modern era.

O conteúdo F1 Drivers Push Back: Frustration with FIA’s Leadership Reaches Boiling Point aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Lando Norris has opened up about the emotional toll of his fading Formula 1 title hopes, admitting that his disappointing result in Brazil was a “defining moment” in his 2024 championship campaign. Heading into the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Norris trails Max Verstappen by 62 points with only three races remaining—a gap that has all but ended his dream of clinching the championship this season.

“Brazil Was the Toughest Blow”

Despite a win in the Brazil Sprint Race that briefly reduced the gap to Verstappen to 44 points, Norris’s championship aspirations took a devastating hit when he slipped from pole position to sixth in the main race. Meanwhile, Verstappen, starting from 17th on the grid, stormed to an improbable victory, extending his stranglehold on the championship.

“Post-Brazil was a tough one for me,” Norris admitted. “It was the first moment when I really realized achieving first position is now nearly impossible.”

The timing of the setback made the blow even harder to bear, with Norris noting how difficult it is to recover from such a swing this late in the season.

“This was almost a defining moment for the championship. The doors are almost shut,” he said. “For a week, I was pretty down after Brazil. It was a tough realization when hopes and belief were so high.”

“Luck Plays Its Part”

While Norris acknowledged that Formula 1 often hinges on fine margins and moments of fortune, he expressed frustration at how luck seemed to favor Verstappen in crucial races. Red flags, Safety Cars, and strategic gambles have played pivotal roles throughout the season, sometimes tilting the scales away from Norris.

“Luck can be on your side or on someone else’s. That’s life,” Norris remarked. “I’m not complaining—it’s just how Formula 1 is. One day it will go your way, the next it won’t.”

“No Regrets, Just Reflection”

Despite the heartbreak, Norris maintains that his approach has been correct throughout the season. He’s proud of the progress he’s made and the performances he’s delivered, even if they haven’t been enough to dethrone Verstappen.

“I’ve been performing well, doing a good job,” Norris said. “My approach has been the right one, but now I think I can probably just go out and enjoy it a little more.”

Norris also reflected on the emotional resilience required to handle the highs and lows of an intense title fight.

“It’s tough when your belief is knocked down so much all of a sudden, but you learn to accept it,” he said. “You move on, you keep fighting.”

Las Vegas: A Chance to Regroup

As the Formula 1 world gears up for the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Norris has little left to lose. While Verstappen is almost certain to seal his fourth championship, Norris remains focused on securing second in the standings and keeping McLaren ahead of Ferrari in the constructors’ championship.

“It doesn’t change my approach,” Norris said. “I’ll go out, do my best, and enjoy the racing.”

A Season of Growth Amidst Heartbreak

While the 2024 championship may have slipped through his fingers, Norris’s journey has showcased his growth as a driver and contender. With three wins, seven poles, and consistent performances throughout the season, the Briton has proven he belongs at the top level of Formula 1.

The disappointment of Brazil may linger, but Norris has his sights set on the future. As he prepares for Las Vegas and beyond, the young McLaren star will undoubtedly carry the lessons of 2024 into the next chapter of his racing career—hungrier and more determined than ever to turn heartbreak into triumph.

O conteúdo Lando Norris Admits to Painful Realization: F1 Title Dream Slipping Away in 2024 aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.