Fast Five: Zhou’s 2024 Alfa Romeo seat questioned, Piastri and Ricciardo red flag FP2, and other big updates

Zhou’s 2024 Alfa Romeo seat questioned

Zhou Guanyu, a Chinese F1 driver with Alfa Romeo, has not yet finalized a contract extension, as he confirmed to the media. He remains uncertain about securing a spot on the 2024 grid, but he remains somewhat confident. Despite initial scrutiny, Zhou has addressed many criticisms since joining Alfa Romeo, yet potential alternatives in the market could still impact his position. Theo Pourchaire, leading Formula 2 Championship from Sauber's junior team, is a strong contender, though assessing drivers from feeder series results can be challenging. Zhou remains hopeful about reaching a new agreement, emphasizing positive discussions with the team and his optimism about the future, unlike a year ago.

Click here to read the full article on formu1a.uno

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Piastri and Ricciardo red flag FP2

Oscar Piastri lost control of his car temporarily mid-turn, sending the Australian driver into the wall. Daniel Ricciardo, who was close behind at the time, quickly steered to avoid a collision and went directly into the wall, too. The situation immediately raised a red flag. Oscar walked away without issue, whereas Daniel complained his wrist was hurt by the steering wheel on impact. He went to the medical tent for a checkup. McLaren’s Lando Norris went on to finish the session at the top of the leaderboard.

Click here to read the full article by Jake Nichol (RacingNews365)

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Marko makes U-turn on Perez after meeting Ricciardo

Helmut Marko's stance on Sergio Perez's 2024 contract has shifted after meeting with Daniel Ricciardo during the summer break. Perez rebounded with strong performances at the Hungarian and Belgian Grands Prix, strengthening his second-place championship position. Marko initially assured Perez's seat if he finishes second in the standings but now suggests uncertainty due to performance-related discussions, possibly influenced by his meeting with Ricciardo. Marko expects Ricciardo's experience to aid AlphaTauri's progress, aiming for points with upcoming updates. Marko remains optimistic about Perez's P2 chances, given the changing landscape behind Red Bull in the championship race.

Click here to read the full article by Michelle Foster (planetf1.com)

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Leclerc and Sainz tackle eco maze challenge

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In challenge 2 of the series, Shell, Scuderia Ferrari's Innovation Partner, had Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz work together to complete a maze. The maze was designed based on Shell and Scuderia Ferrari's efforts to make motorsports more eco-friendly through decarbonization.

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Where drivers call home

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It's common knowledge that Monaco is the most popular place of residence for F1 drivers. But why? Is it the case for every F1 driver? And for those who pick a different place, where do they go?