Today’s F1 News Delivered Faster Than a Pit Stop
Thailand's push for a Formula 1 race gained momentum as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin engaged in discussions during his official visit to Italy, notably at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he met with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and other stakeholders. Thavisin's government-backed initiative aims for a street race in Bangkok, which could potentially join the F1 calendar by 2027 or 2028, with hopes of enhancing Thailand's global visibility. Domenicali expressed enthusiasm for the idea, even though it raises questions about the future of current events like Imola, whose contract expires next year.
Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)
Malaysia has pulled out of hosting the next Formula E finale due to financial concerns, with reported disagreements over increased race fees and venue changes. The event, which was initially planned for the KL City Circuit, was relocated to the Sepang International Circuit, leading to tension between Formula E and local partner Sports Tech Holdings. The decision reflects Malaysia's economic constraints, as Sports Tech cited the significant upfront costs and misalignment with strategic priorities.
Click here to read the full article by Nick Golding (racingnews365.com)
Carlos Sainz endured a challenging Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, citing inconsistencies in his Ferrari car that hindered his performance. Despite starting fourth and briefly leading, he struggled with deployment issues and lacked pace, ultimately finishing fifth. McLaren's tactics disrupted his initial strategy, and he expressed dissatisfaction with the race.
Click here to read the full article by Phillip van Osten (f1i.com)
Formula One returned to Imola one year after the heavy floods that resulted in the cancellation of the 2023 event. This year's edition was exceptional, as it marked the 30th anniversary of Ayrton Senna's and Roland Ratzenberger's passing in Imola. The scenes were quite emotional, and even past F1 legends like Sebastian Vettel were at the track for a special Ayrton Senna/Roland Ratzenberger tribute.
Claire Williams, who served as the deputy team principal of the Williams F1 racing team from 2013 to 2020 and was one of only two women ever to have managed teams in Formula One, has expressed that selling the family’s Formula 1 team has been a painful experience that she struggles to accept. She admitted that it feels as though someone has ripped her heart out and never returned it.
