Rally drivers join F1 in challenging FIA swearing fines, Sainz doubts Williams' shot at a podium in 2025, and other big updates

Rally drivers join F1 in challenging FIA swearing fines

Rally drivers have joined Formula 1 drivers in opposing the FIA’s decision to fine competitors for swearing during official media activities. The World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), which is supported by 33 drivers, criticized the harsh penalties for minor language lapses, especially considering the intense emotions and adrenaline drivers experience after races. They argue that common swear words shouldn't be treated the same as genuine insults and that non-native speakers might not fully understand the meaning of certain words. WoRDA is demanding a meeting with the FIA to find a fair solution and more transparency on how fine money is used.

Click here to read the full article by Keith Collantine (racefans.net)

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Sainz doubts Williams' shot at a podium in 2025

Carlos Sainz said it would be a surprise if Williams fought for a podium in the 2025 Formula 1 season, even though McLaren believes a midfield team could win a race this year. The season is expected to be very competitive, with the top four teams winning all recent races in 2024. Still, there’s a big gap between those teams and the rest, with Mercedes far ahead of Aston Martin in fourth place. Sainz thinks Williams is about three-tenths of a second too slow to challenge the top teams and sees 2025 as a year of preparation for better chances in 2026.

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

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Aston Martin’s AMR25 breaks cover

Aston Martin have revealed their 2025 F1 car, the AMR25, which features major aerodynamic changes to the front and rear wings, sidepods, engine cover, and floor. The upgrades aim to improve drivability and boost driver confidence after struggles faced by Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in 2024. The car will debut on track in Bahrain for a filming day before official pre-season testing begins. Team principal Andy Cowell and both drivers are focused on making progress in 2025, with an eye on staying competitive ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.

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

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Bearman still feels like a rookie despite 2024 debut

Oliver Bearman raced three times in Formula 1 last season but still sees himself as a rookie as he begins his first full year with Haas. The 19-year-old debuted for Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, finishing seventh and holding off drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris. Even after signing a multi-year deal with Haas, Bearman believes his lack of experience and knowledge of some tracks make him a rookie. He admitted to feeling nervous before the new season but plans to take things step by step.

Click here to read the full article by Harry Whitfield (motorsportweek.com)

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Eni makes F1 comeback with Alpine

Alpine and Eni have started a new partnership, which will bring Eni back to Formula One for the first time since 2000. In a deal that will last several years, Eni will be Alpine’s energy and fuel partner. They will work together on sustainable transport, including testing bio-gasoline with the BWT Alpine F1 Team. Eni’s logo will appear on Alpine’s A525 car, race suits, and helmets during the season.

Click here to read the full article by Balazs Szabo (f1technical.net)