Williams could miss Las Vegas GP over crash damage, The gamble behind F1's much-awaited car launch experiment, and other big updates

Williams could miss Las Vegas GP over crash damage

Williams Racing faces the possibility of missing the 2024 Las Vegas GP due to severe damage sustained in crashes at the Mexico and Brazilian GPs. Both Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto were involved in multiple accidents, leaving the team with insufficient spare parts for their cars. Although Williams received a £100m cash injection from a recent share sale, logistical issues, not budget, are hindering their ability to repair the cars in time. With the team's hopes of finishing eighth in the standings dwindling, Williams is determined to keep fighting despite the growing challenges and their rivals' strong performances.

Click here to read the full article by Brandon Sutton (total-motorsport.com)

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The gamble behind F1's much-awaited car launch experiment

Formula 1's upcoming joint season launch aims to shake up the traditional car reveals with a single, concert-style livery showcase. While this approach promises a burst of attention, it risks overshadowing individual teams, particularly smaller ones, who could lose their dedicated spotlight. This format might condense fan engagement into a single event, potentially making the rest of February feel lackluster until testing begins. Although this combined launch could reach a wider audience quickly, it may also sacrifice the deeper excitement, insight, and buildup fans enjoy during the typical two-week launch season.

Click here to read the full article by Scott Mitchell-Malm (the-race.com)

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Rui Marques replaces Niels Wittich as race director

Rui Marques will replace Niels Wittich as Formula 1's race director for the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix. Marques, who previously served as race director for Formula 2 and 3, steps in after Wittich's sudden departure. The FIA did not clarify the reasons behind Wittich's resignation, but the timing is unusual as changes to the race director role rarely occur mid-season.

Click here to read the full article by Agence France-Presse (firstpost.com)

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Hamilton's first Ferrari run to be in 2022 F1-75

Lewis Hamilton's first drive for Ferrari will likely be in the 2022 F1-75 car early next year, as he won't be able to test in Abu Dhabi due to Mercedes' commitments. He will join Ferrari in 2025 after leaving Mercedes, but Ferrari hoped to get him testing sooner. Since that's not possible, Ferrari plans to use a few testing days to help Hamilton get ready for the season. Team principal Fred Vasseur believes Hamilton doesn't need much time to adjust because of his experience.

Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)

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Five technical accusations and the FIA's findings

F1 2024 has seen accusations of rule-breaking, especially from top teams. McLaren was accused of having a hole in their brake drum, which could help with cooling, but they explained it was just for a sensor and covered it when asked. McLaren was also suspected of adding water to their tires for cooling, but the FIA found no evidence of this. Red Bull was questioned over a system to adjust their car’s height and flexible wings, but after checking, the FIA found no problems.

Click here to read the full article by Thomas Maher (planetf1.com)