F1 Fast Five: Drivers slam "joke" penalty points system, How Alpine is overcoming early setbacks, and other big updates

Drivers slam "joke" penalty points system

Logan Sargeant and Sergio Perez have called for a review of Formula 1's penalty points system, describing it as a "joke" due to its inconsistent application. Sargeant received two penalty points for a minor safety car infringement at the Chinese Grand Prix and argued that more severe incidents often go unpunished. Perez, who has also been affected by the system, emphasized the need for a reassessment, especially with the increased number of races.

Click here to read the full article by Ewan Gale & Rowland Vording (motorsport.com)

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How Alpine is overcoming early setbacks

Alpine faced a challenging start to the season but has made steady improvements with the A524, as they earned their first points in Miami thanks to Esteban Ocon's performance. Concerns about the car's performance have been addressed with incremental progress from the Enstone factory. Realistically, they're expected to battle in the midfield against teams like RB and Haas this season. Alpine aims to solidify its position in the midfield by competing for points with other upper-midfield teams through strategic updates.

Click here to read the full article by Jaden Diaz-Ndisang (lastwordonsports.com)

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Mercedes faces worst season start since 2012

Mercedes is experiencing its worst start to a Formula 1 season since 2012, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell securing only 64 points in the first six races. Despite past dominance from 2014 to 2021, the team has struggled with new ground-effect regulations and additional scoring opportunities from sprint races and fastest lap points. If Mercedes fails to score six points at the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, it will mark their worst season start since 2011.

Click here to read the full article by Samuel Coop (racingnews365.com)

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How McLaren outpaced Red Bull in Miami

McLaren shook up the F1 scene with game-changing upgrades to the MCL38 at the Miami GP. McLaren's upgrades, notably evident in Lando Norris's performance, changed the narrative. Helmut Marko acknowledged McLaren's superior pace, saying it wasn't a surprise that Norris was their main opponent in Miami. With McLaren's improved speed and reduced vulnerabilities, they've positioned themselves as formidable contenders for race victories, which has prompted Red Bull to reassess their approach.

Click here to read the full article by Jaden Diaz-Ndisang (lastwordonsports.com)

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Red Bull's Miami race weekend

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The Miami Grand Prix was quite eventful, especially for Oracle Red Bull Racing. The week-long event included filming, partner activities, and meet-and-greets with Max Verstappen, Checo Perez, and the team. Checo learned some golf tricks from Gabby Degasperis, the drivers raced RC boats, and they met with the F1 Academy, among other activities.