Williams’ new FW47 hits the track at Silverstone, Why F1 scrapped fastest lap bonus, and other big updates

Williams’ new FW47 hits the track at Silverstone

Williams showed off its FW47 car for the 2025 Formula 1 season at Silverstone with a temporary black and blue livery before the official launch in London. Team boss James Vowles said it’s an upgrade from last year’s car, with improvements in every detail. With the new signing of Carlos Sainz alongside Alexander Albon, Williams hopes to improve its ninth-place finish in 2024 while adjusting to ongoing factory changes. Though podiums remain unlikely, Vowles believes unexpected opportunities could arise, especially with a more potent driver lineup and continued development.

Click here to read the full article by Filip Cleeren & Ben Vinel (motorsport.com)

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Why F1 scrapped fastest lap bonus

Formula 1 removed the fastest lap bonus point for the 2025 season because it caused controversy. The FIA announced the change last October but didn’t explain why. The issue started after Daniel Ricciardo's late pitstop in Singapore took a point from Lando Norris in his fight with Max Verstappen. F1 admitted that the rule led to incidents like this, where drivers outside the top 10 could disrupt the points for others, making the bonus point controversial.

Click here to read the full article at f1chronicle.com

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UK Gambling Commission forces Stake to close website

Stake, Sauber’s title sponsor, is closing its UK website after the Gambling Commission took action over a controversial video with Stake’s logo. The video, which showed an adult performer outside Nottingham Trent University, went viral on social media. Because of this, TGP Europe Limited, which runs the site, said it would shut down by March 2025. This comes as Sauber gets ready for Formula 1’s 75th anniversary and Audi’s takeover in 2026.

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

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Drivers insist on opposing FIA's swearing ban

The FIA is pushing to ban swearing in F1, but drivers are strongly against the new rules. Alex Albon said they’ve been discussing the issue among themselves and don’t agree with the changes. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has proposed stopping team radio broadcasts, even with censored language. The new guidelines carry harsh penalties, including race bans and points deductions for those who break the rules.

Click here to read the full article by Fergal Welsh & Ian Parkes (racingnews365.com)

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Albon denies pressure from Sainz arrival

Alex Albon dismissed any added pressure from Carlos Sainz's arrival at Williams, calling it a "great challenge" that excites him. Albon has rebuilt his career after a tough stint at Red Bull and is confident in facing the challenge of a teammate with Sainz's reputation. He believes their similar work ethic and approaches to driving will benefit both himself and the team. Albon sees Sainz’s experience at Ferrari as valuable for Williams, and their collaboration could help the team improve as they aim for progress in F1.

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