Fast Five: Verstappen smashes 71-year record, Ex-Ferrari engineer launches new karting league, and other big updates

Verstappen smashes 71-year record

Max Verstappen broke Alberto Ascari's F1 record for the highest win percentage in a season with his 17th victory in the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, surpassing Ascari's 71-year-old record. Verstappen's win percentage now stands at least 77.27%, exceeding Ascari's 75% from 1952, making it the most dominant season in F1 history. Verstappen attributed his success to a well-functioning team and enjoying the moment.

Click here to read the full article by Lewis Larkam (crashf1.net)

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Ex-Ferrari engineer launches new karting league

Former Ferrari and Williams team member Rob Smedley has launched the Global Karting League (GKL) to make karting more accessible for young drivers by removing the high costs associated with the sport. Smedley aims to democratize karting, believing that the fastest Formula 1 driver may not have had the chance to race yet due to financial barriers. The GKL will start with the UK Championship in 2024, offering equal electric karts for children aged 6 to 17 to focus solely on their talent. Additionally, Smedley is keen on increasing female participation in motorsport and utilizing data analytics to identify and coach young talent. Formula 1 teams are showing interest in supporting the initiative, recognizing the need to expand the talent pool.

Click here to read the full article by Sam Cooper (planetf1.com)

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Fantasy lessons from the Brazilian GP

The Brazilian Grand Prix featured thrilling action, with Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin resurgence earning him a podium finish and Aston Martin claiming double points. However, Mercedes disappointed, and Lewis Hamilton struggled to secure P8, making alternatives like Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari more appealing for the remaining races. Sergio Perez, despite a previous DNF, redeemed himself with a strong performance, while the race saw six drivers retiring, highlighting the imbalance between scoring opportunities and DNF penalties. Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo impressed as budget driver options.

Click here to read the full article on f1fantasyhq.com

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MGK storms away from 'most awkward' Martin Brundle interview

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Machine Gun Kelly stormed away from Martin Brundle during an excruciatingly awkward interview at the Brazilian Grand Prix. MGK was stopped by the racing driver-turned-broadcaster for a gridwalk interview before Sunday's race, and the unlikely duo engaged in conversation for a two-minute chat filled with awkward pauses, leading to MGK eventually storming away from an embarrassed Brundle.

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Ferrari drivers in 'don't spill the water challenge'

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Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc took on the challenge of not spilling water or tearing toilet paper. They placed a cup of water on a roll of toilet paper and attempted to pull the paper without spilling the water or tearing it. Sainz had little luck, while Leclerc appeared to understand the game better.