F1 Fast Five: Abu Dhabi gears up for autonomous Grand Prix in April, Alpine admits complete overhaul after "tricky" 2023, and other big updates

Abu Dhabi gears up for autonomous Grand Prix in April

The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) is launching its first Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit on April 28, 2024. The race features ten teams from global universities and research facilities competing with identical Dallara Super Formula SF23 cars, distinguished only by their software algorithms. Unlike traditional races, these autonomous vehicles lack drivers and aim to deliver a unique viewing experience through virtual and augmented reality. Operated by Aspire, the event focuses on combining talent, technology, and extreme sports to pave the way for the future of mobility. If successful, more races may be added in the future.

Click here to read the full article by Brian Hood (robbreport.co.uk)

Alpine admits complete overhaul after "tricky" 2023

Alpine's Technical Director, Matt Harman, acknowledges the need for cautious financial investment following a challenging 2023 campaign despite the team's focus on the future. The A522's initial success in 2022 did not translate to improvement in the 2023 season, as Alpine finished sixth in the team standings after a promising fourth place the previous year. Harman attributes the slow start to struggles in adjusting the car's setup and compromises in performance, leading to a disappointing score of eight points in the first four races. Despite uncertainties, including celebrity investments and managerial changes, Alpine aims to address power and aerodynamics balance in their completely new car set to debut in pre-season testing on February 21, 2024.

Click here to read the full article by Oliver Brindle (formulanerds.com)

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Carlos Sainz Sr. confirms talks with son on potential Audi move

Carlos Sainz's father has acknowledged discussing the potential move to Audi with his son amid ongoing rumors of the F1 driver joining Audi for their entry in 2026. Andreas Seidl, Sainz's former McLaren team principal and now Sauber's CEO, is facilitating Audi's F1 entry. Sainz Sr, a four-time Dakar Rally winner with Audi, expressed confidence in Audi's F1 preparations and mentioned exchanging views with his son about the future Audi team. Sainz Jr's Ferrari contract expires in 2024, and discussions suggest a two-year extension, while his father emphasized instilling a competitive spirit and leading by example in their family.

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

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McLaren CEO urges unity amid FIA-F1 strife

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has urged for a more cohesive relationship between the FIA and Formula 1 amid recent conflicts. Tensions arose due to disagreements, including the proposed entry of Andretti Cadillac and an investigation into a potential conflict involving Toto Wolff, which was swiftly dropped. Brown emphasized the importance of collaboration for the sport's success, disassociating McLaren from the Wolff investigation and expressing support for the F1 Academy. His call for unity echoes a broader consensus among stakeholders for effective collaboration between the FIA and Formula 1 to address challenges and uphold the sport's competitiveness and appeal.

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

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Key questions teams must answer ahead of the 2024 season

RacingNews365 examines key questions facing each Formula 1 team in the upcoming season. Notable queries include Red Bull's ability to unlock Sergio Perez's potential, Mercedes' understanding of its car concept, Ferrari's progress under Frederic Vasseur, McLaren's pursuit of the final step, Aston Martin's consistency, Alpine's aim for a normal season, Williams' bid to retain Alex Albon, AlphaTauri's ambition to secure a higher Constructors' position, Stake's need to dispel the Audi myth, and Haas' transition post-Guenther Steiner's departure.

Click here to read the full article by Jake Nichol (racingnews365.com)