F1 eyes rotational races and track upgrades for Imola and Monza, Montoya slams bias towards British drivers, and other big updates

F1 eyes rotational races and track upgrades for Imola and Monza

Formula 1 is considering a rotational contract model for some races, including the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. This plan would allow tracks to take turns hosting races, giving them time for upgrades and meeting the growing demand from new cities to host events. Monza's contract is extended until 2031, but it’s required to modernize, which includes significant infrastructure changes. F1's goal is to align with its sustainability targets while maintaining excitement for fans.

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

‍

Montoya slams bias towards British drivers

Juan Pablo Montoya said Formula 1 is too biased towards British drivers, making it frustrating to watch. He agreed with Max Verstappen, who felt unfairly treated after getting penalties in Mexico and being criticized by Damon Hill. Montoya also pointed out how Sky Sports F1 defends Lando Norris’s mistakes but is quick to judge non-British drivers like Sergio Perez. He related to Verstappen’s “wrong passport” comment, saying if Max feels disadvantaged, it was even harder for him as a Colombian in F1.

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

Toyota hints at full-scale return

Toyota is gradually moving toward a full Formula 1 return after entering a technical partnership with Haas in 2024, according to Masaya Kaji. The company, which withdrew from F1 in 2009, has seen success in other motorsports since then. Kaji confirmed that while Toyota is exploring technologies for a possible F1 comeback, it’s not ready to commit to a full return yet, as it prefers to focus on partnerships for now. They are also thinking about the cost and staff needed before deciding if they will join F1 as a team again.

Click here to read the full article by Oliver Harden (planetf1.com)

‍

PREMA Racing unveils 2025 IndyCar team

PREMA Racing officially launched its 2025 IndyCar program with a presentation on January 10 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The team revealed Callum Ilott and rookie Robert Shwartzman as their drivers for the No. 83 and No. 90 cars, respectively, and also signed Romain Grosjean as a reserve driver. PREMA, a motorsport powerhouse, is moving into IndyCar to take on the challenge of racing on ovals, street courses, and road courses. The team’s debut season begins on March 2, 2025, in St. Petersburg.

Click here to read the full article by Phillip van Osten (f1i.com)

‍

Sainz's first day at work

Imagine starting a new job and having to meet new team members, bosses, and engineers — that's what Carlos Sainz is going through after joining Williams. But what's really important is how he's settling into his new environment. Sainz took a test drive and shared his feedback with the team engineers. Take a look because his first day at Williams is anything but what you'd expect.