F1 Fast Five: FIA loses two high-profile officials, Meet the rookies ready to take on F1, and other big updates

FIA loses two high-profile officials

The FIA's director of communications and public affairs, Luke Skipper, and the secretary general of automobile mobility and tourism, Jacob Bangsgaard, have both resigned. Skipper joined the FIA in 2022, and Bangsgaard started in May 2023. They leave a growing list of senior officials who have left the FIA, including Deborah Mayer and FIA sporting director Steve Nielsen. These changes come as FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem faces criticism for his comments about F1's language and media coverage.

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

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Meet the rookies ready to take on F1

2025 is set to be the year of rookies in Formula 1, with new drivers like Kimi Antonelli, Ollie Bearman, Jack Doohan, and Liam Lawson joining the grid. This season will bring a significant shift as it introduces a new generation of talent while still featuring veterans like Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, along with the established trio of Russell, Norris, and Albon. Bearman impressed during his debut and earned points with Haas, while Antonelli has garnered attention after being signed by Mercedes despite skipping a traditional progression through the junior series. With potential additions like Franco Colapinto and Gabriel Bortoleto, next season promises to deliver a refreshing dynamic to the competition.

Click here to read the full article by Erika Di Guido (lastwordonsports.com)

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Disappointing ways to end great careers

Daniel Ricciardo’s poor performance at the Singapore Grand Prix shows a common trend in Formula 1. Whether it’s a lackluster race like Ricciardo’s, where he finished last while sacrificing his position for a rival, or unfortunate events that marred their farewells, several esteemed drivers have faced similar fates. Examples include David Coulthard, whose final race ended in a crash just one corner in, and Jenson Button, who struggled to avoid last place before a crash in Monaco. This trend reflects the harsh reality of a sport where even legends can find their last races tarnished by misfortune or underwhelming performances.

Click here to read the full article by Josh Suttill (the-race.com)

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Are teams too harsh on drivers?

F1 is a brutal sport, and recent changes, like Daniel Ricciardo and Logan Sargeant being replaced by Liam Lawson, have sparked debate among fans. Many wonder if teams are too harsh on drivers, especially young rookies who face immense pressure to perform as soon as they step into the car for the first time.

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Albon beats the heat

The Singapore GP is dubbed the most demanding race on the F1 calendar. Drivers face the risk of heat stress due to ambient temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, which can push cockpit temperatures up to 60 degrees or higher. So don't be surprised if Albon goes above and beyond to lower his core body temperature.