FIA bars top officials over refusal to sign NDA, How extra pit stops will shape Monaco GP, and other big updates

FIA bars top officials over refusal to sign NDA

Dave Richards and Robert Reid were blocked from an FIA meeting because they refused to sign an NDA, which stops members from discussing FIA matters outside meetings. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who says British media is biased against him, has also been criticized for reducing the audit and ethics committee’s powers and banning swearing in motorsport. Legal letters have been sent over the NDA dispute, making things more tense before Ben Sulayem’s re-election. The FIA says the NDA is important to keep information private and protect its business.

Click here to read the full article by Dan Lawrence (motorsportweek.com)

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How extra pit stops will shape Monaco GP

The FIA has introduced a new rule for the Monaco Grand Prix, requiring drivers to make at least two pit stops and use three sets of tires with two different dry compounds if conditions remain dry. Additional regulation updates clarify procedures for aborted race starts and extra formation laps following confusion at the 2023 Brazilian GP. A new driver cooling system is now mandatory in extreme heat conditions, but drivers can opt out of wearing a cooling vest if they carry an extra 0.5kg of ballast. From 2025, any driver with a badly damaged car must stop as soon as it is safe to avoid danger.

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

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McLaren and Red Bull clash over FIA’s latest move

The FIA is introducing stricter rear-wing flex tests in Australia and front-wing tests in Spain to curb flexi-wings. McLaren’s Zak Brown downplayed the impact, saying it won’t significantly alter the pecking order, while Red Bull’s Christian Horner questioned the timing, calling it an “oddball” move. Last season, Red Bull and Ferrari raised concerns about McLaren and Mercedes’ front wings, but the FIA confirmed compliance with regulations. The FIA defended the phased rollout, stating it prevents teams from discarding components unnecessarily while ensuring fair competition.

Click here to read the full article by Michelle Foster (planetf1.com)

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Key takeaways from Bahrain pre-season testing

All 10 Formula 1 teams were on track together for the first time on the opening day of pre-season testing, giving everyone plenty to analyze. From the first long-run comparisons of 2025 to trackside observations of each car, here are nine key takeaways from day one in Bahrain.

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Inside the life of Williams team principal

Williams team principal James Vowles took charge in February 2023 and has since done a solid job, taking the accolades when the drivers perform and the criticism when things go south. But what does it actually take to be the man in the hot seat? Go behind the scenes at Grove HQ as he reflects on his tenure as team principal.