Fast Five: Ferrari overhauls 95% of current-spec car for 2024, Why Verstappen has ‘no interest’ in Hamilton-Brad Pitt film, and other big updates

Ferrari overhauls 95% of current-spec car for 2024

Ferrari's Formula 1 team, led by boss Frederic Vasseur, is making extensive changes to 95% of the components in its 2024 car after facing challenges with the inconsistent 2023 model, which hindered its title pursuit against Red Bull. Despite a mid-season concept change, Ferrari finished third in the Constructors' Championship. Vasseur, who replaced Mattia Binotto last winter, expresses optimism for the upcoming season, highlighting a more stable and prepared approach compared to his challenging first year with the team.

Click here to read the full article by Taylor Powling (motorsportweek.com)

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Why Verstappen has ‘no interest’ in Hamilton-Brad Pitt film

Max Verstappen openly dismisses interest in the upcoming F1 film starring Brad Pitt, despite its ties to the sport and influence from Lewis Hamilton. Verstappen, known for his direct approach, criticizes the film's fictional and over-dramatized portrayal of Formula 1, expressing disinterest in watching a dramatized version of his own sport. He acknowledges Brad Pitt's acting skills and the behind-the-scenes footage but remains uninterested in the movie. Verstappen previously took a similar stance with Netflix's Drive to Survive series but returned after addressing concerns about false narratives and over-dramatization.

Click here to read the full article by Lydia Mee (si.com)

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McLaren raises concerns over Red Bull-AlphaTauri 'alliance'

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown expresses significant concerns about the partnership between sister Formula 1 team, Red Bull and AlphaTauri. While AlphaTauri's aggressive upgrades led to notable improvements, especially in low-speed corners where Red Bull struggled, Brown questions the transparency of Red Bull's development progress and highlights worries about the alliance's potential advantages. He emphasizes the need for the sport to ensure true independence among teams and suggests a closer examination of the governance surrounding technical alliances, given the unique circumstances of common ownership between Red Bull and AlphaTauri.

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

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Bottas launches Finnish-inspired Shiraz wine 

Formula One driver Valtteri Bottas has collaborated with McLaren Vale wine producer Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards to launch IHANA Shiraz Edition #1, a wine project reflecting his Finnish roots. The 2022 vintage, influenced by La Niña, is a notably cool McLaren Vale vintage. Bottas actively participated in the winemaking process, blending a 40-year-old Shiraz block as the base. Limited to 5,000 bottles, IHANA is priced at €129 euros for a two-pack and is currently available on Tallink Silja Line's cruise ships in the US, Australia, and Finland. Bottas hints at a future edition #2, expressing his passion for wine beyond mere investment.

Click here to read the full article by Ilkka Sirén (thedrinksbusiness.com)

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How Verstappen became a three-time champion

Max Verstappen won his first F1 title in Abu Dhabi and has been a strong driver in the RB18 and RB19 for the past two seasons. Now, the team, including the reigning World Champion, race engineer GP, Checo Perez, and Christian, delve into the lessons learned about Max as he approaches his ninth season.