Fast Five: Ricciardo seeks Red Bull 'fairytale' ending, FIA mulls grid access restrictions, and other big updates

Ricciardo seeks Red Bull 'fairytale' ending 

Daniel Ricciardo, who joined Red Bull as a reserve driver for the 2023 Formula 1 season, desires a return to the grid and, ideally, with Red Bull for a "fairytale" ending to his career. However, finding a seat with the team may be difficult due to existing contracts with Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Ricciardo is open to driving for AlphaTauri in 2024, but de Vries and Yuki Tsunoda currently hold contracts. Rumors about Perez's seat being in danger were dismissed by Red Bull officials. Ricciardo believes he can regain his previous form and has impressed Red Bull's Team Principal. He is scheduled for a test at Silverstone after the British Grand Prix. Although returning to the grid would mean he can no longer eat during races, Ricciardo is willing to make that sacrifice for a chance at the "fairytale" ending.

Click here to read the full article by Mark Schofield (sbnation.com)

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FIA mulls grid access restrictions

The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) is considering implementing restrictions on access to the grid at Formula 1 races following an incident at the Spanish Grand Prix. During the formation lap, Neymar and other guests were still on the edge of the main straight, posing a safety concern. Typically, celebrities and invited guests are granted access to the grid before races, but the recent incident has prompted the FIA to develop a remediation plan. The proposed restrictions aim to limit the number of celebrities allowed on the grid walk. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of learning from the Spanish Grand Prix incident and ensuring a safe environment for all participants in motorsport.

Click here to read the full article by Stuart Ballard (express.co.uk)

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Stella optimistic amid McLaren's woes

The McLaren F1 Team's struggle at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve continued as they failed to score any points in the Canadian Grand Prix. Lando Norris finished eighth on track but was penalized for unsportsmanlike behavior, dropping him to thirteenth place. Oscar Piastri narrowly missed out on points, finishing eleventh. McLaren last scored points on this track in 2014. This race marked the fifth time in the 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season that neither of McLaren's drivers scored. Andrea Stella, the Team Principal, expressed disappointment but acknowledged that the team showed improved race pace compared to previous events. He emphasized the need to upgrade the MCL60 car to consistently compete for points in the future.

Click here to read the full article by Paul Hensby (thecheckeredflag.co.uk).

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Button eyes full-time racing comeback

Jenson Button, the former Formula 1 driver, is planning to return to full-time racing in 2024. He won't be returning to Formula 1 but is considering the World Endurance Championship or the IMSA SportsCar Championship. Button retired from Formula 1 in 2017 and has since competed in various series, including Super GT and the NASCAR Cup series. He wants to do a full season next year to get the best out of himself and develop better skills with his team. Button is open to exploring future opportunities in WEC, IMSA, or NASCAR. He races because he loves the sport and enjoys the challenges it brings.

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

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Is Lance good enough for his seat?

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Fernando Alonso has showcased exceptional prowess in harnessing the full potential of Aston Martin's new upgrade, but Stroll has continued to struggle. Is Lance good enough for his seat?