Several injured after explosion at Nürburgring paddock

Several people were airlifted to hospitals following a horrifying explosion in the Nürburgring Grand Prix paddock during test and setup runs for the Nürburgring Endurance Series. Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was caused by a pressure cylinder. The injured received immediate care at the Nürburgring Medical Centre before being transported by rescue helicopter, and the police are investigating the scene.

Click here to read the full article by Nick Golding (racingnews365.com)

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What happens during F1 summer break?

Formula 1 teams are entering a mandatory two-week summer shutdown as per the 2024 FIA F1 sporting regulations, which prohibits any work related to car performance. During this period, all activities like design, research, and even performance-related communications are banned to ensure compliance. However, non-performance-related tasks, such as maintenance, repairs, and facility upgrades, continue. Teams rely on their integrity to adhere to these rules, as direct policing by the FIA is challenging but essential to maintain the break's integrity.

Click here to read the full article by Ben Hunt (motorsport.com)

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Why Renault can no longer make engines

Bruno Famin, who is leaving his role as Alpine team principal, said that F1’s financial rules are why Renault might stop making engines for the sport. He explained that the rules require engine makers to sell their engines at capped prices, making it cheaper to be a customer team. Famin also noted that Renault’s engine has been underperforming and cannot be improved due to the freeze on engine development since 2021. Despite these issues, Renault CEO Luca de Meo insists that Alpine is not for sale, even though other companies are interested.

Click here to read the full article by Andrew Lewin (f1i.com)

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Mercedes' bittersweet Belgian GP 

In this episode of Akkodis Debrief, host Jodi and Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin look back at a bittersweet afternoon for the team at the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix. They talk about George's disqualification and the decision to stop Lewis twice. Shovlin also answers questions about how the team feels after the win and why George chose a one-stop strategy while Lewis didn't.

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The Stakes of Red Bull's gamble on Perez

Sergio Perez will continue racing for Red Bull post the F1 summer break, a decision critical in this year's championship race. Following talks between team bosses Christian Horner and Helmut Marko after the Belgian Grand Prix, Horner confirmed Perez's retention, stating, "We look forward to seeing him perform at tracks he has previously excelled at after the summer break." Reports indicate Perez retains his seat, with a tentative "for now" added.