FIA makes late change to flexi-wings, What’s in Cape Town’s street race proposal?, and other big updates

FIA makes late change to flexi-wings

After significant controversy last season surrounding the legality of flexing front-wings, the FIA has finally made a ruling about the allowance for the 2025 season. The wing WILL be allowed to flex but only 2mm-3mm as opposed to the 15mm of the 2024 season. This change comes extremely late into development for most teams.

Click here to read the full article by Mark Hughes (therace.com)

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What’s in Cape Town’s street race proposal?

South Africa is pushing for a Formula 1 street race in Cape Town, with a proposed 5.7-kilometre track in the Green Point area. This idea, which has been in development for nearly 20 years, is backed by Cape Town Grand Prix SA and supported by partnerships, including track architects Tilke. The circuit is based on the 2023 Formula E race layout, which showcased high-speed sections and dramatic views of Table Mountain. Even though Kyalami is a strong option, Cape Town is still hopeful and has support for its bid.

Click here to read the full article by Jon Noble (the-race.com)

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How much do drivers earn in 2025?

Max Verstappen earns approximately $65 million annually as a base salary, while Lewis Hamilton's base salary is around $60 million. Both drivers top the list of highest-paid Formula 1 drivers in 2025. Verstappen's earnings include additional performance bonuses and sponsorship deals with brands like EA Sports and Heineken. Hamilton’s total income nears $100 million when factoring in bonuses and endorsements, and this keeps him ahead of Charles Leclerc, who earns $34 million. 

Click here to read the full article at racingnews365.com

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Red Bull’s hiring spree after key departures

Red Bull has aggressively hired 60 staff from rival F1 teams after losing key figures like Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and Will Courtenay. Verstappen's race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, was promoted to head of racing as part of internal restructuring. Dutch publication de Telegraaf reported these hirings, while Christian Horner previously claimed Red Bull took over 200 staff from Mercedes, a claim Mercedes disputed. The team enters 2025 with a new driver lineup featuring Liam Lawson alongside Max Verstappen and will debut its RB21 on February 25 in Bahrain.

Click here to read the full article by Pepijn van der Hulst (racingnews365.com)

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Newey believes Alonso deserves more than two titles

Adrian Newey said that Fernando Alonso’s two world championships don’t show his true skill. Newey, who starts as Aston Martin's technical partner in March, has long wanted to work with Alonso, whom he respects greatly. The two will collaborate for at least two years, as Alonso’s contract runs until 2026. While Aston Martin has denied a £1bn bid for Max Verstappen, Newey's connection to the driver and their future engine partner, Honda, could make the move possible.

Click here to read the full article by Connor McDonagh (crash.net)