DRC urges F1 to reject Rwanda's race bid amid conflict, TAG Heuer becomes first title sponsor of Monaco GP, and other big updates

DRC urges F1 to reject Rwanda's race bid amid conflict

The DRC has warned Formula 1 that its brand will be “smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda” if it moves forward with hosting a grand prix in Kigali. Foreign minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner accused Rwanda of occupying eastern DRC with its proxy militia M23, displacing over 700,000 people, and called on F1 to end negotiations. She also urged F1 to consider South Africa instead and condemned Rwanda’s alleged theft of minerals and violations of ceasefire agreements. While F1 said it is evaluating all potential race locations, Rwanda has defended its military presence in the DRC and dismissed the accusations.

Click here to read the full article by Frank Dalleres (cityam.com)

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TAG Heuer becomes first title sponsor of Monaco GP

Formula 1 has announced that TAG Heuer will be the title partner of the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, making it the first time the race has a sponsor in its name. The event, which was previously called the Formula 1 Grand Prix De Monaco, will now be known as the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix De Monaco 2025. TAG Heuer, a partner of the Automobile Club de Monaco since 2011, will also take over from Rolex as F1’s official timekeeper. F1 and TAG Heuer leaders said the brand has a strong history with Monaco and motorsport.

Click here to read the full article at motorsportweek.com

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Ex-F1 boss Jordan takes over London Irish

Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan has led a group that took London Irish out of administration, acquiring key assets like the club’s intellectual property and brand. His son, Kyle Jordan, stated their goal is to rebuild the club with strong investor support and reconnect with the global Irish community. While they aim to return to professional rugby, reports suggest they may join the United Rugby Championship instead of the English system. Meanwhile, Eddie Jordan’s attempt to be involved in SA Rugby’s private equity deal has collapsed amid opposition from key figures.

Click here to read the full article by Colin Newboult (planetrugby.com)

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Separating fact from fiction in 2026 engine rules

The 2026 F1 engine regulations raised concerns about cars running out of energy, especially on long straights, with fears of drivers needing to downshift to preserve power. However, as real-world testing progressed, these fears were found to be based on inaccurate early simulations, as the new cars will have less drag and better energy management. The revised system now has power reduction limits and ramp rates to prevent sudden energy loss, which ensures smoother performance on tracks like Monza. Drivers must also adjust their strategies as the new power boost button for overtakes adds tactical depth to races.

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

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Key rule changes for 2025 season

For the 2025 Formula 1 season, some important rule changes have been made. The extra point for the fastest lap in a race is now gone, which could change race strategies. In very hot weather (31°C or more), teams must use a cooling system for drivers, and cars can be 5 kg heavier because of it. Also, rookie drivers now get two practice sessions per season instead of one.

Click here to read the full article by Chris Medland (formula1.com)