F1 Fast Five: Saudi Arabia unveils thrilling Qiddiyah circuit, FIA chief faces probe for Saudi GP penalty interference, other big updates

Saudi Arabia unveils thrilling Qiddiyah circuit

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a new permanent F1 circuit in Qiddiyah, which is a part of the Saudi Vision 2030 project. Designed by Alex Wurz and Hermann Tilke, it features a 200mph counterclockwise layout with 21 corners and a 108-meter elevation change, earning Grade One status from the FIA. The standout feature is the "Blade," a sky-high first corner rising 70 meters. The track offers a mix of high-speed sections and technical corners, multiple configurations, and modern viewing experiences, alongside additional attractions like a music venue and a Six Flags roller coaster.

Click here to read the full article by Michael Delaney (f1i.com)

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FIA chief faces probe for Saudi GP penalty interference

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem faces accusations of influencing the outcome of the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix by overturning a penalty against Fernando Alonso, enabling the Aston Martin driver to finish on the podium. The allegation involves communication with a steward to reverse Alonso's penalty for touching his car during a pit stop. If proven true, this constitutes interference and influence peddling, prompting an investigation by the FIA Ethics Committee. The controversy unfolds ahead of the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, adding intensity to the already eventful race weekend.

Click here to read the full article by Raúl Daffunchio Picazo (insidethegames.biz)

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Alpine's troubled start undermines celebrity investor confidence

Renault Group sold a 24% stake in the Alpine Formula 1 team to investors including Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and Michael B. Jordan, later joined by Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Rory McIlroy, and others. Despite celebrity backing, the team faced significant struggles at the start of the 2024 season, with their new car performing poorly in testing and qualifying, resulting in a back row lockout. The team's performance in the opening race was even worse, resembling the disastrous start of the 2019 Williams team, with little hope for a quick turnaround. Amidst the disappointment, Kelce notably wore an Alpine hat during a Super Bowl press conference, providing a consolation for those not in favor of the Chiefs' continued success.

Click here to read the full article by Asher Fair (beyondtheflag.com)

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Red Bull drone vs Tesla S Plaid

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In the wake of Red Bull's Verstappen vs. Red Bull Drone showdown, which showcased the world's fastest film drone, this video intends to compare its speed with the Tesla Model Plaid. While the Tesla is expected to bolt off the line, the drone needs to ascend before it can propel forward. Could this aerial maneuver be its downfall?

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Team Torque with Williams

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Williams' racing duo, Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant, chat about the upcoming race, answer fan questions, and have a casual conversation as they gear up for the new season. Albon kicks off by asking Sargeant what he's been up to lately. Sargeant confesses to feeling a mix of emotions and shares his efforts to improve his golf swing during the off-season.