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🏎️ Verstappen Triumphs Over Norris's Surge
Jordan Williams
June 25, 2024
In this week’s email:
Verstappen Triumphs Over Norris's Surge 🏆
Briatore Returns to F1 😮
Toto Wolff Condemns Online Harassment Against Mercedes 🔇
A new contender for Sainz 👀
Newey signs record-breaking deal with Ferrari ✍️
Spanish GP Results: Verstappen Triumphs Over Norris's Surge 🏆
The Spanish GP started with George Russell surprising everyone by taking the lead early on. Max Verstappen quickly caught up though and eventually secured the win. However, Lando Norris posed a challenge in the closing stages. Below are results from the top 10 this past weekend:
Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
Lando Norris (McLaren)
Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
George Russell (Mercedes)
Charles Lecelerc (Ferrari)
Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
Sergio Perez (Red Bull)
Pierre Gasly (Alpine)
Esteban Ocon (Alpine)
Other things to note:
Alpine showed unexpected pace with Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon finishing in the points, marking a positive development for the team.
Norris, who started on pole, was disappointed with second place. Feeling he could have won if not for a costly start that allowed Russell to pass him.
The next races in Austria and Silverstone are expected to continue the close competition seen in Spain. With Red Bull leading both in driver's and constructor's championships.
Briatore Returns to F1 Despite Race Fixing Ban 😮
Alpine F1 has stirred controversy by appointing Flavio Briatore as an executive advisor. Despite his tainted history in Formula One. Known for orchestrating the 'Crashgate' scandal in 2008. Where Nelson Piquet Jr. deliberately crashed to help Fernando Alonso win.
Briatore received a lifetime ban initially, later overturned. Despite the scandal, Alpine defends the appointment. Citing Briatore's past success and experience in leading winning teams.
While some in F1, including rivals like Toto Wolff and Fred Vasseur, support his return, the decision raises questions about ethics and forgiveness in the sport.
Toto Wolff Condemns Online Harassment Against Mercedes 🔇
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff spoke out strongly against the rising tide of online abuse directed at George Russell and the team. Particularly following Russell's podium finish at the Canadian Grand Prix.
He vehemently denied allegations of sabotage against Lewis Hamilton's car, which surfaced in an anonymous email. Emphasizing that such unfounded claims were deeply unsettling for the team.
The issue of online abuse in Formula 1 has become a pressing concern. Prompting initiatives like the "Drive It Out" campaign aimed at combating harassment within the sport. Wolff stressed the need for accountability among online users and supported technological solutions. Such as artificial intelligence to tackle the problem effectively.
A new contender for Sainz 👀
Carlos Sainz is keeping his options open regarding his future in Formula 1. Originally sought after by Audi and Williams, a new contender emerged.
Alpine, led by Renault CEO Luca de Meo and advised by Flavio Briatore. Alpine remains keen on securing Sainz. They has been engaging in continuous talks with him during the Barcelona event this past weekend.
They are considering transitioning to a customer team with Mercedes ties for 2026. Potentially enhancing their appeal to Sainz. Despite Alpine's efforts, Sainz has yet to make a final decision, leaving the timing of his choice uncertain ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix.
Adrian Newey signs record-breaking deal with Ferrari ✍️
Adrian Newey, famed as Red Bull's design chief, has reportedly secured a groundbreaking $105 million contract over three years with Ferrari.
This move is rumored to have been finalized just before the Miami Grand Prix. Which marks a significant shift in Newey's storied career.
Despite interest from Mercedes and McLaren, it appears Ferrari, led by Eddie Jordan's influence, has clinched the deal.
Newey's substantial salary increase and anticipated role leading Ferrari's design department could reshape team dynamics. Pairing him with Lewis Hamilton to elevate Ferrari's competitiveness in the sport.
Other things happening around F1 🛞