Verstappen acknowledges the mental games in the title race for 2025.
"That comes to me naturally."
Max Verstappen has acknowledged that he continued to engage in psychological tactics during the 2025 championship battle with McLaren, despite previously claiming he had moved on from such strategies. In October, the four-time world champion downplayed any notion of using mental games against Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, comparing this season to his intense rivalry with Lewis Hamilton in 2021.
"Back then, that was the kind of game I played. Will I do that again? I don’t need to," Verstappen stated at the time. "Back then, I hadn’t won a world title. Now, I have a few, while they haven’t. At this point, you tend to feel more anxious if you haven't become a world champion compared to when you have titles under your belt.
"That comes to me naturally."
Max Verstappen has acknowledged that he continued to engage in psychological tactics during the 2025 championship battle with McLaren, despite previously claiming he had moved on from such strategies. In October, the four-time world champion downplayed any notion of using mental games against Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, comparing this season to his intense rivalry with Lewis Hamilton in 2021.
"Back then, that was the kind of game I played. Will I do that again? I don’t need to," Verstappen stated at the time. "Back then, I hadn’t won a world title. Now, I have a few, while they haven’t. At this point, you tend to feel more anxious if you haven't become a world champion compared to when you have titles under your belt.
I just began earning money in F1 this year - Hadjar.
"Certainly, Red Bull is there to assist you."
Incoming Red Bull Racing driver Isack Hadjar has disclosed that 2025 was the first season in which he truly made a living from motorsport. In an interview with French streamer Zack Nani, the 21-year-old confessed that, despite achieving the position of runner-up in Formula 2 and progressing to F1 with Racing Bulls, his journey to the elite level was financially burdensome rather than profitable. “I only started to earn a living this year in F1, in 2025,” Hadjar, who had a highly praised rookie season this year leading to a Red Bull Racing seat for 2026, stated. When asked if he profited from finishing second in Formula 2, he candidly responded, "No. It’s a complicated system where you have to pay for your seasons.
"Certainly, Red Bull is there to assist you."
Incoming Red Bull Racing driver Isack Hadjar has disclosed that 2025 was the first season in which he truly made a living from motorsport. In an interview with French streamer Zack Nani, the 21-year-old confessed that, despite achieving the position of runner-up in Formula 2 and progressing to F1 with Racing Bulls, his journey to the elite level was financially burdensome rather than profitable. “I only started to earn a living this year in F1, in 2025,” Hadjar, who had a highly praised rookie season this year leading to a Red Bull Racing seat for 2026, stated. When asked if he profited from finishing second in Formula 2, he candidly responded, "No. It’s a complicated system where you have to pay for your seasons.
Ford’s investment in electric vehicles, which has not paid off, will result in a loss of $19.5 billion for the company: TDS.
Bill Pugliano via Getty Images
The latest in automotive news and reviews, no nonsense
Our free daily newsletter delivers the most important stories straight to your inbox every weekday.
Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.
Concise, engaging, and straightforward, TDS compiles the latest automotive news from around the world in one convenient location. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for those interested in more details.
I’m on my first cup of coffee and will soon be ready for a second, so let’s dive in.
🚘 What I’m driving: The 2026 Lucid Air has left my driveway, and I’d be lying if I said I’m not a bit sad to see it go.
Bill Pugliano via Getty Images
The latest in automotive news and reviews, no nonsense
Our free daily newsletter delivers the most important stories straight to your inbox every weekday.
Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.
Concise, engaging, and straightforward, TDS compiles the latest automotive news from around the world in one convenient location. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for those interested in more details.
I’m on my first cup of coffee and will soon be ready for a second, so let’s dive in.
🚘 What I’m driving: The 2026 Lucid Air has left my driveway, and I’d be lying if I said I’m not a bit sad to see it go.
Rovanpera's health is getting better following a setback with dizziness.
"He regrets that he wasn’t able to drive."
Kalle Rovanpera's health concerns seem to be improving after the two-time world rally champion had to cut short last week’s Super Formula test in Japan. As reported by Ilta-Sanomat, Rovanpera's manager Timo Jouhki stated that the symptoms of benign positional vertigo, which interrupted the Finn's essential preparations for a potential Formula 1 opportunity, have mostly reduced. "The symptoms have noticeably improved," Jouhki informed the newspaper. "The message I received wasn't entirely clear, but I gathered that he no longer has symptoms. I’m unsure if he is completely well.
"He regrets that he wasn’t able to drive."
Kalle Rovanpera's health concerns seem to be improving after the two-time world rally champion had to cut short last week’s Super Formula test in Japan. As reported by Ilta-Sanomat, Rovanpera's manager Timo Jouhki stated that the symptoms of benign positional vertigo, which interrupted the Finn's essential preparations for a potential Formula 1 opportunity, have mostly reduced. "The symptoms have noticeably improved," Jouhki informed the newspaper. "The message I received wasn't entirely clear, but I gathered that he no longer has symptoms. I’m unsure if he is completely well.
Horner and Alpine remain reserved regarding team buyout rumors.
The team "never makes public comments on such matters."
Christian Horner has not dismissed the possibility of discussions regarding a return to Formula 1 ownership, as reports suggest that the former Red Bull leader may be looking into acquiring a minority stake in Alpine. According to De Telegraaf, the investment company Otro Capital is considering the sale of its 24 percent stake in the Enstone-based team, with Horner listed among those interested alongside other investors.
"When inquired, Horner does not deny having talks with Renault or Alpine, but opted not to elaborate further," the Dutch newspaper notes. A spokesperson for Alpine provided a brief response, indicating that the team "never publicly comments on such matters.
The team "never makes public comments on such matters."
Christian Horner has not dismissed the possibility of discussions regarding a return to Formula 1 ownership, as reports suggest that the former Red Bull leader may be looking into acquiring a minority stake in Alpine. According to De Telegraaf, the investment company Otro Capital is considering the sale of its 24 percent stake in the Enstone-based team, with Horner listed among those interested alongside other investors.
"When inquired, Horner does not deny having talks with Renault or Alpine, but opted not to elaborate further," the Dutch newspaper notes. A spokesperson for Alpine provided a brief response, indicating that the team "never publicly comments on such matters.
Verstappen tests GT3 as Portugal confirms F1 return.
Two Mercedes-AMG GT3s adorned in Red Bull liveries
Max Verstappen has quickly shifted focus following the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season, heading to Portugal for a new motorsport challenge. Just over a week after the Abu Dhabi finale, the four-time world champion tested a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the first time at Estoril. The car was run by 2 Seas Motorsport, which already manages Verstappen.com Racing’s GT program and has strong connections to Mercedes-AMG vehicles.
This test has sparked paddock speculation that Verstappen.com Racing may be preparing to transition from Ferrari to Mercedes-AMG GT3 equipment in the GT World Challenge Europe, possibly moving up to the Pro class.
Two Mercedes-AMG GT3s adorned in Red Bull liveries
Max Verstappen has quickly shifted focus following the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season, heading to Portugal for a new motorsport challenge. Just over a week after the Abu Dhabi finale, the four-time world champion tested a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the first time at Estoril. The car was run by 2 Seas Motorsport, which already manages Verstappen.com Racing’s GT program and has strong connections to Mercedes-AMG vehicles.
This test has sparked paddock speculation that Verstappen.com Racing may be preparing to transition from Ferrari to Mercedes-AMG GT3 equipment in the GT World Challenge Europe, possibly moving up to the Pro class.
Pin uncovers Mercedes simulation activities, suggesting a potential F1 test.
"My aspiration has always been to compete in single-seaters."
Recently crowned F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin has announced that she is already involved in Mercedes’ Formula 1 simulator, and a preliminary on-track F1 test could be forthcoming. Speaking with Canal Plus after clinching the 2025 F1 Academy title on her second attempt, the 21-year-old French driver confirmed that her integration at Brackley is progressing quickly. "I began working on the F1 simulator last week and if everything goes well, a test is in the works," Pin stated. Supported by Mercedes and racing for Prema, Pin finished the F1 Academy season 15 points ahead of Ferrari junior Maya Weug, showcasing a year of remarkable consistency with four victories, eight podiums, and no race result lower than sixth.
"My aspiration has always been to compete in single-seaters."
Recently crowned F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin has announced that she is already involved in Mercedes’ Formula 1 simulator, and a preliminary on-track F1 test could be forthcoming. Speaking with Canal Plus after clinching the 2025 F1 Academy title on her second attempt, the 21-year-old French driver confirmed that her integration at Brackley is progressing quickly. "I began working on the F1 simulator last week and if everything goes well, a test is in the works," Pin stated. Supported by Mercedes and racing for Prema, Pin finished the F1 Academy season 15 points ahead of Ferrari junior Maya Weug, showcasing a year of remarkable consistency with four victories, eight podiums, and no race result lower than sixth.
Verstappen feels at ease with his title loss due to fatherhood.
"Don't feel disheartened, as I'm not either."
Max Verstappen acknowledges that his life outside of Formula 1 has found a new equilibrium, with fatherhood helping him gain perspective on both wins and losses. In an interview with Viaplay following his championship defeat to McLaren's Lando Norris, the four-time world champion shared how becoming a father has influenced his mindset, just before he got back to racing at Estoril to test a GT3 car.
"I feel a bit more relaxed now, I suppose," Verstappen mentioned. "It's more vital to spend time with family and stay home as much as possible. Organizing your time better is key."
The Dutch driver seemed notably unfazed by missing out on a fifth consecutive world title to Norris. "Don't be disappointed, as I’m not either," Verstappen remarked to his interviewers.
"Don't feel disheartened, as I'm not either."
Max Verstappen acknowledges that his life outside of Formula 1 has found a new equilibrium, with fatherhood helping him gain perspective on both wins and losses. In an interview with Viaplay following his championship defeat to McLaren's Lando Norris, the four-time world champion shared how becoming a father has influenced his mindset, just before he got back to racing at Estoril to test a GT3 car.
"I feel a bit more relaxed now, I suppose," Verstappen mentioned. "It's more vital to spend time with family and stay home as much as possible. Organizing your time better is key."
The Dutch driver seemed notably unfazed by missing out on a fifth consecutive world title to Norris. "Don't be disappointed, as I’m not either," Verstappen remarked to his interviewers.
FIA believes that the 2026 regulations will enhance the quality of racing.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis acknowledges that the recent ground-effect regulations in Formula 1 have lost their effectiveness over time, but he maintains that the comprehensive reset for 2026 should result in prolonged closer racing. While discussing the FIA’s detailed presentation of the new regulations, Tombazis recognized that the cars from 2022 initially addressed significant overtaking challenges, but teams eventually adapted to create dirty air once more.
"The 2022 cars made a notable improvement in their wake characteristics," Tombazis explained. "Downforce at about 20 meters behind increased from around 50 percent in the previous generation to about 80 or 85 percent initially. However, this gradually declined over the regulation period, and now we are likely at around 70 percent.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis acknowledges that the recent ground-effect regulations in Formula 1 have lost their effectiveness over time, but he maintains that the comprehensive reset for 2026 should result in prolonged closer racing. While discussing the FIA’s detailed presentation of the new regulations, Tombazis recognized that the cars from 2022 initially addressed significant overtaking challenges, but teams eventually adapted to create dirty air once more.
"The 2022 cars made a notable improvement in their wake characteristics," Tombazis explained. "Downforce at about 20 meters behind increased from around 50 percent in the previous generation to about 80 or 85 percent initially. However, this gradually declined over the regulation period, and now we are likely at around 70 percent.
"My favorite number has always been 3."
Max Verstappen has nearly confirmed that he will change to car number 3 starting in 2026, instead of going back to his previous number 33. With Lando Norris taking number 1 and new regulations permitting Verstappen and other drivers to alter their racing numbers, the four-time world champion mentioned to Viaplay that his choice is already determined. "It won’t be 33. My favorite number has always been 3, apart from 1. Now we can change it. It will be 3," Verstappen stated. "The number 33 has always been good, but I believe a single 3 is nicer than two 3s," he added. "Of course, I always said it represented double the happiness, but I’ve already experienced that luck in Formula 1." The Dutch driver also chuckled at ongoing jokes about a more attention-grabbing choice - 69. "Every time I bring it up in an interview, Kelly looks at me like 'what are you saying?'" Verstappen smiled.
Max Verstappen has nearly confirmed that he will change to car number 3 starting in 2026, instead of going back to his previous number 33. With Lando Norris taking number 1 and new regulations permitting Verstappen and other drivers to alter their racing numbers, the four-time world champion mentioned to Viaplay that his choice is already determined. "It won’t be 33. My favorite number has always been 3, apart from 1. Now we can change it. It will be 3," Verstappen stated. "The number 33 has always been good, but I believe a single 3 is nicer than two 3s," he added. "Of course, I always said it represented double the happiness, but I’ve already experienced that luck in Formula 1." The Dutch driver also chuckled at ongoing jokes about a more attention-grabbing choice - 69. "Every time I bring it up in an interview, Kelly looks at me like 'what are you saying?'" Verstappen smiled.
Barcelona is poised for a rotational Formula 1 agreement extending until 2032.
"The negotiations are moving forward positively."
Barcelona seems poised to stay on the Formula 1 calendar for the next decade with a new rotational European hosting model. According to La Vanguardia, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has reached a tentative agreement with Formula One Management to host grands prix in 2028, 2030, and 2032, alternating with Spa-Francorchamps. While the deal is still awaiting final signatures, it would conclude Barcelona’s continuous run after 36 consecutive editions, yet extend its overall presence to at least 42 seasons. Catalonia’s Minister of Business and Labour, Miquel Samper, confirmed that discussions are making progress but urged caution against jumping to conclusions.
"The negotiations are moving forward positively."
Barcelona seems poised to stay on the Formula 1 calendar for the next decade with a new rotational European hosting model. According to La Vanguardia, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has reached a tentative agreement with Formula One Management to host grands prix in 2028, 2030, and 2032, alternating with Spa-Francorchamps. While the deal is still awaiting final signatures, it would conclude Barcelona’s continuous run after 36 consecutive editions, yet extend its overall presence to at least 42 seasons. Catalonia’s Minister of Business and Labour, Miquel Samper, confirmed that discussions are making progress but urged caution against jumping to conclusions.
Marko acknowledges that the turmoil at Red Bull impacted Verstappen's championship.
"I accept some responsibility for that."
Dr. Helmut Marko has acknowledged a portion of the responsibility for Max Verstappen's failure to secure a fifth consecutive world championship, recognizing that Red Bull did not provide sufficient support amid internal turmoil. "Max had another outstanding season this year, perhaps his best," the 82-year-old stated in an interview with Munich Merkur. "It wasn’t his fault; it was ours. We didn’t give him a car that was consistently competitive. I accept some responsibility for that, and that’s why I wanted to step down now."
Marko also distanced himself from the ousted former team principal Christian Horner, emphasizing that his departure was amicable at the board level. "I didn’t want to travel anymore; the timing felt appropriate," he explained.
"I accept some responsibility for that."
Dr. Helmut Marko has acknowledged a portion of the responsibility for Max Verstappen's failure to secure a fifth consecutive world championship, recognizing that Red Bull did not provide sufficient support amid internal turmoil. "Max had another outstanding season this year, perhaps his best," the 82-year-old stated in an interview with Munich Merkur. "It wasn’t his fault; it was ours. We didn’t give him a car that was consistently competitive. I accept some responsibility for that, and that’s why I wanted to step down now."
Marko also distanced himself from the ousted former team principal Christian Horner, emphasizing that his departure was amicable at the board level. "I didn’t want to travel anymore; the timing felt appropriate," he explained.
Antonelli downplays Ferrari speculation and focuses on winning the Mercedes championship.
"I'm very satisfied with my current situation."
Kimi Antonelli has addressed speculation connecting him to Ferrari, emphasizing that his primary focus is on securing a world championship with Mercedes. In an interview with Sky Italia during the ACI Caschi d’Oro awards in collaboration with Autosprint, the Italian rookie acknowledged the allure of Ferrari but clarified that he is pleased with his present position. "Ferrari is an incredible team. Racing for Ferrari is fantastic, but I'm very satisfied with where I am and I'm thankful for the opportunity Mercedes has provided me," Antonelli stated. "My current dream is to win a world championship with them, and then we'll see what happens in the future.
"I'm very satisfied with my current situation."
Kimi Antonelli has addressed speculation connecting him to Ferrari, emphasizing that his primary focus is on securing a world championship with Mercedes. In an interview with Sky Italia during the ACI Caschi d’Oro awards in collaboration with Autosprint, the Italian rookie acknowledged the allure of Ferrari but clarified that he is pleased with his present position. "Ferrari is an incredible team. Racing for Ferrari is fantastic, but I'm very satisfied with where I am and I'm thankful for the opportunity Mercedes has provided me," Antonelli stated. "My current dream is to win a world championship with them, and then we'll see what happens in the future.
Ferrari has scheduled the shakedown for their 2026 car on January 23.
The 2026 car will be the first one fully managed by Loic Serra.
Ferrari is set to unveil and conduct a brief run of its 2026 Formula 1 car on January 23 at Fiorano, with team principal Fred Vasseur cautioning that next season presents an even bigger leap into the unknown than the onset of the hybrid era. During Ferrari’s usual Christmas lunch, which was attended by CEO Benedetto Vigna, Piero Ferrari, and senior technical personnel, Vasseur confirmed that the Scuderia will disclose the new car online ahead of a brief shakedown, likely covering just 15 kilometers.
"What fans will see from the Via Giardini overpass won’t be a prototype, but rather an 'A version' of the red car, which we’ll likely put together the day before," Vasseur informed La Repubblica. "As for the name? We will announce it then.
The 2026 car will be the first one fully managed by Loic Serra.
Ferrari is set to unveil and conduct a brief run of its 2026 Formula 1 car on January 23 at Fiorano, with team principal Fred Vasseur cautioning that next season presents an even bigger leap into the unknown than the onset of the hybrid era. During Ferrari’s usual Christmas lunch, which was attended by CEO Benedetto Vigna, Piero Ferrari, and senior technical personnel, Vasseur confirmed that the Scuderia will disclose the new car online ahead of a brief shakedown, likely covering just 15 kilometers.
"What fans will see from the Via Giardini overpass won’t be a prototype, but rather an 'A version' of the red car, which we’ll likely put together the day before," Vasseur informed La Repubblica. "As for the name? We will announce it then.
Verstappen dismisses Mercedes speculation once more.
Max Verstappen has once again downplayed ongoing rumors linking him to Mercedes, asserting that he has made his stance clear amid renewed speculation following his recent GT3 test. In an end-of-year interview with Viaplay, the Red Bull driver addressed the Mercedes rumors that resurfaced earlier this year after he was seen vacationing with Toto Wolff.
"You don't hear anything about it now because I have clearly stated that I'm staying," Verstappen said, acknowledging that he understands why the rumors escalated in 2025. "Our vacation together didn’t help, of course," he joked.
Verstappen described their much-talked-about meeting in Sardinia as mere coincidence. "We were on vacation. I enjoy Sardinia, and he enjoys Sardinia," he clarified. "It wasn’t planned; we just ended up there. At some point, you know the nice locations.
Max Verstappen has once again downplayed ongoing rumors linking him to Mercedes, asserting that he has made his stance clear amid renewed speculation following his recent GT3 test. In an end-of-year interview with Viaplay, the Red Bull driver addressed the Mercedes rumors that resurfaced earlier this year after he was seen vacationing with Toto Wolff.
"You don't hear anything about it now because I have clearly stated that I'm staying," Verstappen said, acknowledging that he understands why the rumors escalated in 2025. "Our vacation together didn’t help, of course," he joked.
Verstappen described their much-talked-about meeting in Sardinia as mere coincidence. "We were on vacation. I enjoy Sardinia, and he enjoys Sardinia," he clarified. "It wasn’t planned; we just ended up there. At some point, you know the nice locations.
De la Rosa uncertain if Alonso will continue racing after 2026.
"It’s a very personal matter"
Pedro de la Rosa acknowledges that even Fernando Alonso is uncertain about the duration of his Formula 1 career following the new 2026 regulations. The two Spaniards share a long-standing friendship and professional relationship, with de la Rosa currently working as a brand ambassador for Aston Martin alongside Alonso. In a conversation on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, de la Rosa noted that the decision ultimately rests on Alonso’s personal feelings.
"I’ve learned from Fernando to value his talent and to collaborate with him race by race," he stated. "I’m not sure—nor do I think he is either. It’s a deeply personal issue, and when he senses a drop in performance or energy, he’ll be the first to acknowledge it. But for now, that isn’t the case."
De la Rosa emphasized that there are no indications of decline.
"It’s a very personal matter"
Pedro de la Rosa acknowledges that even Fernando Alonso is uncertain about the duration of his Formula 1 career following the new 2026 regulations. The two Spaniards share a long-standing friendship and professional relationship, with de la Rosa currently working as a brand ambassador for Aston Martin alongside Alonso. In a conversation on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, de la Rosa noted that the decision ultimately rests on Alonso’s personal feelings.
"I’ve learned from Fernando to value his talent and to collaborate with him race by race," he stated. "I’m not sure—nor do I think he is either. It’s a deeply personal issue, and when he senses a drop in performance or energy, he’ll be the first to acknowledge it. But for now, that isn’t the case."
De la Rosa emphasized that there are no indications of decline.
Doornbos is skeptical about Norris's ability to replicate his F1 championship success.
"The world champion of 2025 is not the top driver of that year."
Former Formula 1 driver Robert Doornbos states that "everyone" acknowledges Lando Norris was not the leading driver of the 2025 season and expresses skepticism regarding the new world champion's potential to win another title. "The world champion of 2025 isn’t the best driver of 2025, and everyone knows this," Doornbos told the Dutch publication Formule 1.
He believes that Norris' primary weakness lies in his mental strength, especially under pressure. "I understand how it works. When the media writes positively about you, it feels great. And when they write negatively, you might insist you don’t read it, but it still affects you," he remarked.
"The world champion of 2025 is not the top driver of that year."
Former Formula 1 driver Robert Doornbos states that "everyone" acknowledges Lando Norris was not the leading driver of the 2025 season and expresses skepticism regarding the new world champion's potential to win another title. "The world champion of 2025 isn’t the best driver of 2025, and everyone knows this," Doornbos told the Dutch publication Formule 1.
He believes that Norris' primary weakness lies in his mental strength, especially under pressure. "I understand how it works. When the media writes positively about you, it feels great. And when they write negatively, you might insist you don’t read it, but it still affects you," he remarked.
I witnessed F1 champion Lando Norris defeat his McLaren boss in a kart race, and it was an eye-opening experience for me.
McLaren
The most significant news and reviews in the automotive world, without any nonsense.
Our complimentary daily newsletter delivers the essential stories directly to you every weekday.
With over 30 years of following Formula 1, I have seen the advancement of the finest technological race cars and the fierce personalities who drive them. As a child, I observed strong, middle-aged men wrestle with race cars, fueled by intense passion and fearless determination. Now, as an adult, I watch lean young drivers operate high-performance machines every other weekend, striving for recognition, global fame, and substantial financial rewards.
McLaren
The most significant news and reviews in the automotive world, without any nonsense.
Our complimentary daily newsletter delivers the essential stories directly to you every weekday.
With over 30 years of following Formula 1, I have seen the advancement of the finest technological race cars and the fierce personalities who drive them. As a child, I observed strong, middle-aged men wrestle with race cars, fueled by intense passion and fearless determination. Now, as an adult, I watch lean young drivers operate high-performance machines every other weekend, striving for recognition, global fame, and substantial financial rewards.
Verstappen: It's the body, not age, that hinders F1 drivers.
Max Verstappen notes that Fernando Alonso has demonstrated that age alone doesn’t make a Formula 1 driver slower, although the physical demands of the cars tend to increase. During a conversation with Viaplay, the four-time world champion shared a recent discussion with 44-year-old Alonso on a flight to Qatar late in the season. "I was flying to Qatar with Fernando and we talked about it," Verstappen recounted. "For me, it’s intriguing to learn - he’s 44! So I asked him something like, ‘What are your thoughts on that?’ I thought it would be interesting to ask."
Verstappen mentioned that Alonso asserted that speed doesn’t merely fade with age. "It’s more about physical discomfort," Verstappen clarified. "You encounter more issues, and these cars aren’t the easiest to handle. As you get older, you feel these effects more acutely.
Max Verstappen notes that Fernando Alonso has demonstrated that age alone doesn’t make a Formula 1 driver slower, although the physical demands of the cars tend to increase. During a conversation with Viaplay, the four-time world champion shared a recent discussion with 44-year-old Alonso on a flight to Qatar late in the season. "I was flying to Qatar with Fernando and we talked about it," Verstappen recounted. "For me, it’s intriguing to learn - he’s 44! So I asked him something like, ‘What are your thoughts on that?’ I thought it would be interesting to ask."
Verstappen mentioned that Alonso asserted that speed doesn’t merely fade with age. "It’s more about physical discomfort," Verstappen clarified. "You encounter more issues, and these cars aren’t the easiest to handle. As you get older, you feel these effects more acutely.
Pollock cautions that patience is essential for Cadillac as they enter Formula 1 for the first time.
"Cadillac is undertaking a task I once faced"
Craig Pollock acknowledges that Cadillac is embarking on a challenging journey as it establishes a Formula 1 team from the ground up, yet he believes the timing for their entry is quite favorable. The former founder of BAR and the person who guided Jacques Villeneuve's career expressed to La Presse Canadienne that Cadillac is tackling similar obstacles that he encountered in the past.
"Cadillac is doing what I had to do," Pollock stated. "You begin from zero, and you have to construct the team. That’s incredibly difficult."
BAR, known for its rocky start in 1999 when it failed to achieve a single point, eventually made improvements. Pollock emphasized the need to manage expectations wisely this time around.
"Cadillac is undertaking a task I once faced"
Craig Pollock acknowledges that Cadillac is embarking on a challenging journey as it establishes a Formula 1 team from the ground up, yet he believes the timing for their entry is quite favorable. The former founder of BAR and the person who guided Jacques Villeneuve's career expressed to La Presse Canadienne that Cadillac is tackling similar obstacles that he encountered in the past.
"Cadillac is doing what I had to do," Pollock stated. "You begin from zero, and you have to construct the team. That’s incredibly difficult."
BAR, known for its rocky start in 1999 when it failed to achieve a single point, eventually made improvements. Pollock emphasized the need to manage expectations wisely this time around.
Mintzlaff backs Horner's departure, downplays Verstappen's contract clause.
"It was a well-known fact that there was too much happening within the team."
Red Bull's CEO, Oliver Mintzlaff, has staunchly defended the decision to part ways with Christian Horner, asserting that the team had to "move forward" while dismissing claims that Max Verstappen has excessive influence within the organization. In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Mintzlaff emphasized that the choice regarding Horner was not made lightly.
"We recognized the need for action," Mintzlaff explained. "I’m not merely a manager who hires and fires. Relying on the past is not a viable long-term strategy; it was time for a new chapter. It was challenging, but we did not approach it lightly.
"It was a well-known fact that there was too much happening within the team."
Red Bull's CEO, Oliver Mintzlaff, has staunchly defended the decision to part ways with Christian Horner, asserting that the team had to "move forward" while dismissing claims that Max Verstappen has excessive influence within the organization. In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Mintzlaff emphasized that the choice regarding Horner was not made lightly.
"We recognized the need for action," Mintzlaff explained. "I’m not merely a manager who hires and fires. Relying on the past is not a viable long-term strategy; it was time for a new chapter. It was challenging, but we did not approach it lightly.