Fast Five: Monaco threatened by blackouts, Massa proceeds with 'crashgate' legal battle, and other big updates

Monaco GP risks blackout due to protests

The Monaco Grand Prix may face energy disruptions due to ongoing protests in France against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms. Unions announced 100 days of protests, targeting major events like the Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival, and Roland Garros tennis tournament. The National Federation Mines Energy (FMNE) encouraged energy disturbances, with protestors already claiming responsibility for two power outages earlier this month.

Click here to read the full article by Sam Tomlinson (motorsportweek.com).

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Massa proceeds with 2008 ‘crashgate’ title case

Felipe Massa has intensified investigations into the legality of the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship, following new comments from former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone. Massa has long blamed the 'crashgate' scandal for losing the 2008 title to Lewis Hamilton. Ecclestone recently admitted that he and former FIA President Max Mosley knew about the incident in 2008 but kept it a secret to "protect the sport." Massa has now assembled a team of lawyers to investigate the case further.

Click here to read the full article by Luke Murphy (RacingNews365.com).

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FIA’s push for sustainable fuel

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The FIA is actively engaged in the development of regulations and research across its global championships, including Formula 1, Formula E, WEC, and WRC, with the ambitious goal of ensuring that all series operate on sustainable energy by 2026. By promoting and implementing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable energy solutions in the world's most prominent racing series, the FIA aims to drive innovation and catalyze a transformative shift in global transport systems, paving the way for more efficient, eco-friendly, and advanced mobility options.

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Silverstone alters track after Zhou's frightening F1 accident

Silverstone circuit has modified its Turn 1 run-off area, replacing the gravel bed with a larger asphalt section to prevent cars from digging in during accidents. The change follows Alfa Romeo F1 driver Zhou Guanyu's dramatic crash in the 2022 British Grand Prix. Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle stated that the goal was to address the issue of cars digging in, which was the primary concern in Zhou's accident.

Click here to read the full article by Matt Kew (motorsport.com).

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Is Perez still “King of Baku”?

Sergio Perez, known as the "King of Baku," has had great success at the Baku City Circuit in Azerbaijan. However, his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen has also shown strong performance in Baku, making Perez's title questionable. To challenge Verstappen for the 2023 championship, Perez must capitalize on his strengths and re-establish himself as Baku's top performer.

Click here to read the full article by Will Wood (racefans.net).