Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One&nbsp;2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December. While many expected the veteran driver Hamilton to claim his eighth title, it was the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver&nbsp;Verstappen who stunned one and all and went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to win a maiden driver's title.

The race was full of ups and downs. The 37-year-old British car race driver&nbsp;Hamilton was on the verge&nbsp;of lifting his eighth title before&nbsp;Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams prior to the four laps before the last one, calling for the appearance of the safety car. Verstappen went ahead with new&nbsp;tyres, however, Hamilton didn't. Thus, the youngster Verstappen moved past his&nbsp;close rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to emerge victorious at the&nbsp;Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi.

The race remains in discussion to date.&nbsp;The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has ordered an investigation into the conduct of the entire proceedings in Abu Dhabi. The result is expected to be out in March, 2022.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | Red Bull Racing (<a href="https://twitter.com/redbullracing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbullracing</a>) Team Principal Christian Horner speaks to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/Max33Verstappen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Max33Verstappen</a>'s maiden world title win at 2021 <a href="https://twitter.com/F1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabiGP</a> and uncertainty over 7-time World Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LewisHamilton</a> for the 2022 season<a href="https://twitter.com/redbull?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbull</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/redbullindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbullindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/thdSbK9F3h">pic.twitter.com/thdSbK9F3h</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1486024818386477065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/max-verstappens-maiden-formula-one-world-title-red-bulls-biggest-achievement-so-far-christian-horner-436466">Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner</a>

Anid all this, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. Horner&nbsp;opened up on the epic race in Abu Dhabi, rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton, Hamilton's future and more.&nbsp;

The 48-year-old Horner, who remains&nbsp;the mastermind behind four constructors' titles at Red Bull racing, lauded Max's rise and said, "Amazing reception to welcome Max back as a world champion. He has grown up with Red Bull, a product of the junior team. The way he drove last year, he fully deserved the world title."

Horner admitted that a late safety car played into Max's hands and took Hamilton by surprise. On the intense rivalry between the duo, which has gained mileage in recent times, Horner stated it is the need of the hour for the sport. He pointed out, "For sure, sport is all about competition. When you have good serial winners, it becomes less attractive. There was big rivalry and it was very little to choose between the two teams and drivers, hence, it was the best year Formula One has had as a sport for probably 30-40 years."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-sachin-to-rosberg-how-sporting-fraternity-reacted-to-max-verstappens-thrilling-maiden-f1-win-436510">From Sachin to Rosberg: How sporting fraternity reacted to Max Verstappen's thrilling maiden F1 win</a>

Following the season-finale,&nbsp;Hamilton had alleged that the race was manipulated. Moreover, the&nbsp;Mercedes Principal Toto Wolff went ahead and said that the superstar driver is disillusioned and may not race again. Horner, under whose guidance&nbsp;the Red Bull drivers have won as many as five titles, also opined on Hamilton's future. He said, "Certainly, hope Lewis will be around. Ultimately, it is his choice, his career and his decision. I am sure he will decide to do what he wants to do and what is best for him."

Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One 2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December.

Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One 2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December. While many expected the veteran driver Hamilton to claim his eighth title, it was the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver Verstappen who stunned one and all and went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to win a maiden driver's title. The race was full of ups and downs. The 37-year-old British car race driver Hamilton was on the verge of lifting his eighth title before Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams prior to the four laps before the last one, calling for the appearance of the safety car. Verstappen went ahead with new tyres, however, Hamilton didn't. Thus, the youngster Verstappen moved past his close rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to emerge victorious at the Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi. The race remains in discussion to date. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has ordered an investigation into the conduct of the entire proceedings in Abu Dhabi. The result is expected to be out in March, 2022. #EXCLUSIVE | Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) Team Principal Christian Horner speaks to WION's @DiggySinghDeo on @Max33Verstappen's maiden world title win at 2021 @F1 #AbuDhabiGP and uncertainty over 7-time World Champion @LewisHamilton for the 2022 season@redbull @redbullindia pic.twitter.com/thdSbK9F3h — WION (@WIONews) January 25, 2022 × ALSO READ | Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner Anid all this, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. Horner opened up on the epic race in Abu Dhabi, rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton, Hamilton's future and more. The 48-year-old Horner, who remains the mastermind behind four constructors' titles at Red Bull racing, lauded Max's rise and said, "Amazing reception to welcome Max back as a world champion. He has grown up with Red Bull, a product of the junior team. The way he drove last year, he fully deserved the world title." Horner admitted that a late safety car played into Max's hands and took Hamilton by surprise. On the intense rivalry between the duo, which has gained mileage in recent times, Horner stated it is the need of the hour for the sport. He pointed out, "For sure, sport is all about competition. When you have good serial winners, it becomes less attractive. There was big rivalry and it was very little to choose between the two teams and drivers, hence, it was the best year Formula One has had as a sport for probably 30-40 years." ALSO READ | From Sachin to Rosberg: How sporting fraternity reacted to Max Verstappen's thrilling maiden F1 win Following the season-finale, Hamilton had alleged that the race was manipulated. Moreover, the Mercedes Principal Toto Wolff went ahead and said that the superstar driver is disillusioned and may not race again. Horner, under whose guidance the Red Bull drivers have won as many as five titles, also opined on Hamilton's future. He said, "Certainly, hope Lewis will be around. Ultimately, it is his choice, his career and his decision. I am sure he will decide to do what he wants to do and what is best for him."

EXCLUSIVE | Christian Horner opens up on Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Max Verstappen vs Lewis Hamilton rivalry

Lewis Hamilton will take a five-place grid penalty for Sunday's Sao Paulo Grand Prix in another blow to the Briton's hopes of winning a record eighth Formula One world championship this season.

The Mercedes driver is 19 points adrift of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who is building momentum with four races remaining.

Formula One's governing body confirmed on Friday that Hamilton had taken a new engine, his fifth of the 22-race campaign.

Drivers have three engines to last the season, with any more triggering a penalty of 10 places for the first time the limit is exceeded and then five places for subsequent engines.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-has-neymar-onside-ahead-of-big-f1-battle-in-brazil-428451">Lewis Hamilton has Neymar onside ahead of big F1 battle in Brazil</a>

Hamilton collected a 10 place grid penalty after taking his fourth engine in Turkey in October and started Friday practice at Interlagos with his fifth.

Red Bull are favourites to win at Interlagos, with Dutch 24-year-old Verstappen chasing his third win in a row and 10th of the season. He won the last pre-pandemic race at the Sao Paulo circuit in 2019.

Verstappen started the Russian Grand Prix in September from the back of the grid, finishing second, due to power unit penalties.

Team boss Christian Horner saw no need for Red Bull, who are only a point behind Mercedes in the constructors'&nbsp;championship, to take any further engine penalties.

"It's entirely understandable that Mercedes would strategically decide to take that penalty here, which they will incur on Sunday," he told Sky Sports television. "We're just focused on ourselves and do the best job we can.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mexican-grand-prix-max-verstappen-wins-to-stretch-f1-lead-by-19-points-against-lewis-hamilton-427713">Mexican Grand Prix: Max Verstappen wins to stretch F1 lead by 19 points against Lewis Hamilton</a>

"All things being normal, we expect to get to the end of the year with the combustion engines that we have.

"Obviously we lost one following the crash at Silverstone (in July between Hamilton and Verstappen) but with the penalty we took in Sochi that got us back into good shape."

Lewis Hamilton will take a five-place grid penalty for Sunday's Sao Paulo Grand Prix in another blow to the Briton's hopes of winning a record eighth Formula One world championship this season.

Lewis Hamilton will take a five-place grid penalty for Sunday's Sao Paulo Grand Prix in another blow to the Briton's hopes of winning a record eighth Formula One world championship this season. The Mercedes driver is 19 points adrift of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who is building momentum with four races remaining. Formula One's governing body confirmed on Friday that Hamilton had taken a new engine, his fifth of the 22-race campaign. Drivers have three engines to last the season, with any more triggering a penalty of 10 places for the first time the limit is exceeded and then five places for subsequent engines. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton has Neymar onside ahead of big F1 battle in Brazil Hamilton collected a 10 place grid penalty after taking his fourth engine in Turkey in October and started Friday practice at Interlagos with his fifth. Red Bull are favourites to win at Interlagos, with Dutch 24-year-old Verstappen chasing his third win in a row and 10th of the season. He won the last pre-pandemic race at the Sao Paulo circuit in 2019. Verstappen started the Russian Grand Prix in September from the back of the grid, finishing second, due to power unit penalties. Team boss Christian Horner saw no need for Red Bull, who are only a point behind Mercedes in the constructors' championship, to take any further engine penalties. "It's entirely understandable that Mercedes would strategically decide to take that penalty here, which they will incur on Sunday," he told Sky Sports television. "We're just focused on ourselves and do the best job we can. ALSO READ: Mexican Grand Prix: Max Verstappen wins to stretch F1 lead by 19 points against Lewis Hamilton "All things being normal, we expect to get to the end of the year with the combustion engines that we have. "Obviously we lost one following the crash at Silverstone (in July between Hamilton and Verstappen) but with the penalty we took in Sochi that got us back into good shape."

Sau Paulo Grand Prix: Grid penalty another blow to Lewis Hamilton's title hopes

Formula One's title rivalry flared up on Friday with championship leader Max Verstappen calling Lewis Hamilton a "stupid idiot" as they went wheel-to-wheel in second U.S. Grand Prix practice.

The 24-year-old Red Bull racer also gave the seven-times world champion, the most successful driver of all time, a single digit salute as the Mercedes accelerated away on a hot and humid Texas afternoon at Austin`s Circuit of the Americas.

"Ignore it, don`t worry about it," his race engineer told him over the radio. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner joked Verstappen was simply pointing out who was number one in the standings.

Verstappen is six points clear of Hamilton with six rounds remaining and the battle is getting more intense with every race as the pendulum swings one way and then the other.

The Dutch youngster's Mexican team mate Sergio Perez was quickest in the second session, with a best lap of one minute 34.946 seconds.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-excessive-make-up-restricted-dressing-saudi-arabias-dress-code-for-formula-1-sparks-controversy-422060">No excessive make-up, restricted dressing: Saudi Arabia's dress code for Formula 1 sparks controversy</a>

"It was a good day, obviously it`s going to be very tight," said Perez, whose role will be to support Verstappen unless circumstances fall his way.

"There`s a lot to be done to try to improve the car," he added.

Verstappen, meanwhile, was frustrated by traffic and failed to set a proper flying lap. He ended up eighth in the session after third in the morning.

"The track's quite bumpy and to find the right compromise with the car hasn’t been the easiest so far," said Verstappen. 
Jenson Button, Britain`s 2009 world champion who is now a television pundit for Sky, wondered whether Hamilton was playing mind games.

"Obviously it did rattle Max a little bit, he was very upset on the radio," he said.

"It's been quite a fiery day for Max, to be fair. Not getting his lap. I think there's a bit of frustration building, with that incident he couldn't get his lap and then he had traffic in FP2 on his new tyres for two laps in a row."

McLaren`s Lando Norris was second fastest and Hamilton, who had his best lap deleted for exceeding track limits, third.

"Generally it`s been a good day but still work to do," said the champion, who will be chasing a record-extending 101st career win on Sunday and sixth in nine races in Austin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-in-world-cups-with-12-0-record-pakistan-has-yet-to-win-a-match-in-50-and-20-overs-formats-423081">India vs Pakistan in World Cups: With 12-0 record, Pakistan has yet to win a match in 50 and 20 overs formats</a>

Mercedes had dominated the first session with Hamilton`s Finnish team mate Valtteri Bottas 0.045 quicker than the champion with Verstappen third but nearly a second off the Finn's pace.

Bottas, fourth in the afternoon session, will have a five-place grid penalty for Sunday`s race after using his sixth engine of the campaign -- three more than the rules allow.

Mercedes are favourites to win on Sunday after taking pole for the last six races there. Last year`s round was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were fourth and fifth in the morning, a boost for a team fighting McLaren for third.

The opening session was stopped after three minutes when Fernando Alonso stopped on track. The team said the Spaniard, who returned later, had done so as a precaution.

Haas`s Mick Schumacher and Perez clashed on the bumpy track late in that session, with the Mexican unimpressed by the German rookie but later clearing things up. Stewards decided to take no further action.

Formula One's title rivalry flared up on Friday with championship leader Max Verstappen calling Lewis Hamilton a "stupid idiot" as they went wheel-to-wheel in second U.

Formula One's title rivalry flared up on Friday with championship leader Max Verstappen calling Lewis Hamilton a "stupid idiot" as they went wheel-to-wheel in second U.S. Grand Prix practice. The 24-year-old Red Bull racer also gave the seven-times world champion, the most successful driver of all time, a single digit salute as the Mercedes accelerated away on a hot and humid Texas afternoon at Austin`s Circuit of the Americas. "Ignore it, don`t worry about it," his race engineer told him over the radio. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner joked Verstappen was simply pointing out who was number one in the standings. Verstappen is six points clear of Hamilton with six rounds remaining and the battle is getting more intense with every race as the pendulum swings one way and then the other. The Dutch youngster's Mexican team mate Sergio Perez was quickest in the second session, with a best lap of one minute 34.946 seconds. ALSO READ: No excessive make-up, restricted dressing: Saudi Arabia's dress code for Formula 1 sparks controversy "It was a good day, obviously it`s going to be very tight," said Perez, whose role will be to support Verstappen unless circumstances fall his way. "There`s a lot to be done to try to improve the car," he added. Verstappen, meanwhile, was frustrated by traffic and failed to set a proper flying lap. He ended up eighth in the session after third in the morning. "The track's quite bumpy and to find the right compromise with the car hasn’t been the easiest so far," said Verstappen. Jenson Button, Britain`s 2009 world champion who is now a television pundit for Sky, wondered whether Hamilton was playing mind games. "Obviously it did rattle Max a little bit, he was very upset on the radio," he said. "It's been quite a fiery day for Max, to be fair. Not getting his lap. I think there's a bit of frustration building, with that incident he couldn't get his lap and then he had traffic in FP2 on his new tyres for two laps in a row." McLaren`s Lando Norris was second fastest and Hamilton, who had his best lap deleted for exceeding track limits, third. "Generally it`s been a good day but still work to do," said the champion, who will be chasing a record-extending 101st career win on Sunday and sixth in nine races in Austin. ALSO READ | India vs Pakistan in World Cups: With 12-0 record, Pakistan has yet to win a match in 50 and 20 overs formats Mercedes had dominated the first session with Hamilton`s Finnish team mate Valtteri Bottas 0.045 quicker than the champion with Verstappen third but nearly a second off the Finn's pace. Bottas, fourth in the afternoon session, will have a five-place grid penalty for Sunday`s race after using his sixth engine of the campaign -- three more than the rules allow. Mercedes are favourites to win on Sunday after taking pole for the last six races there. Last year`s round was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were fourth and fifth in the morning, a boost for a team fighting McLaren for third. The opening session was stopped after three minutes when Fernando Alonso stopped on track. The team said the Spaniard, who returned later, had done so as a precaution. Haas`s Mick Schumacher and Perez clashed on the bumpy track late in that session, with the Mexican unimpressed by the German rookie but later clearing things up. Stewards decided to take no further action.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen calls Lewis Hamilton a 'stupid idiot' as F1 rivals clash

Formula One should award points for qualifying if circumstances prevent a meaningful race from going ahead, as was the case in Belgium last weekend, McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl said on Friday. 
 
Half-points were awarded at a wet Spa on Sunday after drivers completed a couple of laps behind the safety car with no overtaking, the podium places effectively a reward for Saturday`s qualifying. 
 
The farce has led to calls for a review of the regulations that allow half-points to be awarded after two laps have been completed. 
 
"On the points side, there is definitely something that should be learned from what happened last weekend," Seidl told reporters at Zandvoort, ahead of the first Dutch Grand Prix in 36 years. 
 
He said race director Michael Masi had already asked teams to provide feedback. 
 
"One idea is simply to make crystal clear and straightforward that if a race can’t happen... that you then award or distribute points based on qualifying result, maybe half points. 
 
"I think that needs to be discussed in detail, I would be fine with that and it would also avoid this discussion that we had of `were the laps only done because of getting a classification or not`," added the German. 
 
"From my point of view, rewarding points for a qualifying result, if the race doesn’t happen, is something I could imagine is introduced. It would be also fair because that`s the last point during a weekend where you had a fair competition between all competitors." 
 
Seidl said that would be the same as qualifying not happening and the grid being established by final practice times, and easy for everyone to understand. 
 
FIA President Jean Todt said after Spa that the governing body would review how points are awarded. 
 
The findings will be on the agenda for the next F1 Commission meeting, which includes the teams and stakeholders, on Oct. 5. 
&nbsp;

Formula One should award points for qualifying if circumstances prevent a meaningful race from going ahead, as was the case in Belgium last weekend, McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl said on Friday.

Formula One should award points for qualifying if circumstances prevent a meaningful race from going ahead, as was the case in Belgium last weekend, McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl said on Friday. Half-points were awarded at a wet Spa on Sunday after drivers completed a couple of laps behind the safety car with no overtaking, the podium places effectively a reward for Saturday`s qualifying. The farce has led to calls for a review of the regulations that allow half-points to be awarded after two laps have been completed. "On the points side, there is definitely something that should be learned from what happened last weekend," Seidl told reporters at Zandvoort, ahead of the first Dutch Grand Prix in 36 years. He said race director Michael Masi had already asked teams to provide feedback. "One idea is simply to make crystal clear and straightforward that if a race can’t happen... that you then award or distribute points based on qualifying result, maybe half points. "I think that needs to be discussed in detail, I would be fine with that and it would also avoid this discussion that we had of `were the laps only done because of getting a classification or not`," added the German. "From my point of view, rewarding points for a qualifying result, if the race doesn’t happen, is something I could imagine is introduced. It would be also fair because that`s the last point during a weekend where you had a fair competition between all competitors." Seidl said that would be the same as qualifying not happening and the grid being established by final practice times, and easy for everyone to understand. FIA President Jean Todt said after Spa that the governing body would review how points are awarded. The findings will be on the agenda for the next F1 Commission meeting, which includes the teams and stakeholders, on Oct. 5.

Formula One: McLaren boss would support points for qualifying if no race

As they gear up for Formula One's doubleheader at the Red Bull Ring, starting with this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix, the Red Bull Racing Honda and Scuderia AlphaTauri drivers went head-to-head in the ultimate scavenger hunt, codenamed 'Formula Schnitzeljagd'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-driver-sebastian-vettel-lashes-out-at-uefa-over-rainbow-protest-refusal-393724" hreflang="en">Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel lashes out at UEFA over 'rainbow' protest refusal</a>

Formula Schnitzeljagd is an off-road Austrian adventure like no other. Red Bull Racing duo Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez joined Scuderia AlphaTauri racers Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda on a tour that mixed culture with driving challenges.

First up, they travelled to Hangar-7 in Salzburg and jumped on board a Cessna 208 Caravan seaplane for the short 80km flight to Styria's largest lake, Grundlsee.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RVr3C8nAucA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After arriving at Grundlsee and kitting themselves out in traditional Austrian clothing, the Bulls faced their first challenge of racing two of the lake's traditional long wooden Plätten boats.

Next up, was stepping into a pair of enormous six-wheel Pinzgauer trucks. Originally manufactured in nearby Graz, Pinzgauers are high-mobility, all-terrain vehicles capable of taking on daunting landscapes, and the most treacherous of inclines and declines.

<img alt="ss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32c12120-5f22-4b00-86db-fe794533c39f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2820%29.jpg" />

The drivers were tested to make full use of the Pinzgauer's capabilities as they went head-to-head through the forests deep in the Styrian countryside on their way to the Red Bull Ring.

And once at the home of F1 in Austria and with a suitably damp track awaiting them, there was only one final challenge to face – an all-or-nothing sprint to the flag.

<img alt="sss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb55d22b-7e2b-42a7-b465-948d7d636d5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2822%29.jpg" />

Verstappen, 23, said: "Honestly I'd never seen anything like the Pinzgauer before – a six-wheel car. It pretty was cool to drive! It's always nice to race in Austria and now we get the opportunity to do it twice. It's our home Grand Prix and we've won it before, so hopefully we can have two good weekends here."

Pérez, 31, added: "It was very competitive, very serious (laughs) and the best type of preparation you can have for the race weekend."

Tsunoda, 21, said: "It was a really interesting and exciting event and there was plenty of teamwork. It was fun. The driving in the off-road with the Pinzgauer, we got stuck a lot on the hills and we had a tough time to get out from there, but it was fun."

Gasly, 25, concluded: "We went around the Austrian countryside and discovered a lot of different parts of the country before we ended up at The Red Bull Ring. It was good to be with all four drivers together."

As they gear up for Formula One's doubleheader at the Red Bull Ring, starting with this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix, the Red Bull Racing Honda and Scuderia AlphaTauri drivers went head-to-head in the ultimate scavenger hunt, codenamed 'Formula Schnitzeljagd'.

As they gear up for Formula One's doubleheader at the Red Bull Ring, starting with this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix, the Red Bull Racing Honda and Scuderia AlphaTauri drivers went head-to-head in the ultimate scavenger hunt, codenamed 'Formula Schnitzeljagd'. ALSO READ: Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel lashes out at UEFA over 'rainbow' protest refusal Formula Schnitzeljagd is an off-road Austrian adventure like no other. Red Bull Racing duo Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez joined Scuderia AlphaTauri racers Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda on a tour that mixed culture with driving challenges. First up, they travelled to Hangar-7 in Salzburg and jumped on board a Cessna 208 Caravan seaplane for the short 80km flight to Styria's largest lake, Grundlsee. × After arriving at Grundlsee and kitting themselves out in traditional Austrian clothing, the Bulls faced their first challenge of racing two of the lake's traditional long wooden Plätten boats. Next up, was stepping into a pair of enormous six-wheel Pinzgauer trucks. Originally manufactured in nearby Graz, Pinzgauers are high-mobility, all-terrain vehicles capable of taking on daunting landscapes, and the most treacherous of inclines and declines. The drivers were tested to make full use of the Pinzgauer's capabilities as they went head-to-head through the forests deep in the Styrian countryside on their way to the Red Bull Ring. And once at the home of F1 in Austria and with a suitably damp track awaiting them, there was only one final challenge to face – an all-or-nothing sprint to the flag. Verstappen, 23, said: "Honestly I'd never seen anything like the Pinzgauer before – a six-wheel car. It pretty was cool to drive! It's always nice to race in Austria and now we get the opportunity to do it twice. It's our home Grand Prix and we've won it before, so hopefully we can have two good weekends here." Pérez, 31, added: "It was very competitive, very serious (laughs) and the best type of preparation you can have for the race weekend." Tsunoda, 21, said: "It was a really interesting and exciting event and there was plenty of teamwork. It was fun. The driving in the off-road with the Pinzgauer, we got stuck a lot on the hills and we had a tough time to get out from there, but it was fun." Gasly, 25, concluded: "We went around the Austrian countryside and discovered a lot of different parts of the country before we ended up at The Red Bull Ring. It was good to be with all four drivers together."

WATCH - Formula One drivers face off in fun Austrian off-road adventure

Max Verstappen will seek to extend his lead over Lewis Hamilton in the world championship at this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix as the cracks in Mercedes' armoury widen.

The 23-year-old Dutchman heads the defending seven time champion by 12 points after beating him at last Sunday's French Grand Prix as the Formula One circus prepares for the second part of a triple-header of three consecutive races, two in Austria following the closely-fought encounter at Le Castellet.

Hamilton, 36, and his Mercedes team were unable to find an answer to Red Bull's competitiveness, speed and superior tactical acumen in France and their hopes of retaining their titles could be badly damaged if they cannot recapture form and fortunes.

But after licking their wounds, they are determined to bounce back with an attacking response to prevent their rivals claiming a fourth straight win for the first time since 2014.&nbsp;

Last year, when the sweeping circuit in the Styrian Alps also hosted two successive season-opening events, Mercedes won both with Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas claiming one apiece.

However, Verstappen won in 2018 and 2019 and he has been the dominant force since Hamilton's last win in early May.

If he can triumph again in the Styrian race, he will be well-placed for a repeat seven days later in the Austrian Grand Prix and might then have a comfortable cushion in points advantage before Hamilton's home British Grand Prix at Silverstone in July.

Both men and both teams will know, however, that the Red Bull Ring, a down-sized version of its old Osterreichring predecessor, remains a majestic track with a habit of creating drama and, occasionally, controversy.

Red Bull go into the weekend with a 36-point lead in the constructors championship and, importantly, a straight-line speed advantage that they demonstrated at the Paul Ricard circuit, leaving Hamilton and his team baffled and frustrated.

The Briton, 36, could not explain if this was due to 'drag' – the use of less wing – or power from the upgraded Honda engines introduced in France and faces the prospect of extending his winless streak to four races for the first time since 2016, the only year since 2014 when he was not champion.

His erstwhile Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg won the 2016 title, when Hamilton went five without a win.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Have to improve' -</h2>

He also went six without winning from 2017 to 2018, three at the end of one season and the start of the next.

Cracks are appearing in Mercedes' once-impenetrable performance armoury as last Sunday's loss, after leading when Verstappen ran wide at the first corner, showed.

Strategic errors by the team undid both Hamilton and Bottas, as conceded by Mercedes team strategist James Vowles and boss Toto Wolff.

"In a season like this, every point will matter and make a difference," said Wolff.

"And we've left points on the table at the last few races. We've debriefed France and we understand where we have to improve.

"Now it's all about focusing on bringing those improvements to the next two rounds in Austria where, hopefully, we can swing the positive momentum back in our favour."

Verstappen, showing composure beyond his years, has ignored the title speculation.&nbsp;

"I just want to go to the next race and try to win again," he said.&nbsp;

"I know it's not always possible, but we try as a team every weekend to get the best out of it."

He shrugged aside a recent exchange of comments suggesting he was faster than Hamilton.&nbsp;

"It's just a bit of talk from both sides, which is fine. You have to believe in your own capabilities. I believe I'm the fastest, but he also believes he's the fastest.

"In Austria, we have to set up the car well again and read the conditions. I don't know what the weather forecast is, but I'm looking forward to it. For sure, it will be close again."

Max Verstappen will seek to extend his lead over Lewis Hamilton in the world championship at this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix as the cracks in Mercedes' armoury widen.

Max Verstappen will seek to extend his lead over Lewis Hamilton in the world championship at this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix as the cracks in Mercedes' armoury widen. The 23-year-old Dutchman heads the defending seven time champion by 12 points after beating him at last Sunday's French Grand Prix as the Formula One circus prepares for the second part of a triple-header of three consecutive races, two in Austria following the closely-fought encounter at Le Castellet. Hamilton, 36, and his Mercedes team were unable to find an answer to Red Bull's competitiveness, speed and superior tactical acumen in France and their hopes of retaining their titles could be badly damaged if they cannot recapture form and fortunes. But after licking their wounds, they are determined to bounce back with an attacking response to prevent their rivals claiming a fourth straight win for the first time since 2014. Last year, when the sweeping circuit in the Styrian Alps also hosted two successive season-opening events, Mercedes won both with Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas claiming one apiece. However, Verstappen won in 2018 and 2019 and he has been the dominant force since Hamilton's last win in early May. If he can triumph again in the Styrian race, he will be well-placed for a repeat seven days later in the Austrian Grand Prix and might then have a comfortable cushion in points advantage before Hamilton's home British Grand Prix at Silverstone in July. Both men and both teams will know, however, that the Red Bull Ring, a down-sized version of its old Osterreichring predecessor, remains a majestic track with a habit of creating drama and, occasionally, controversy. Red Bull go into the weekend with a 36-point lead in the constructors championship and, importantly, a straight-line speed advantage that they demonstrated at the Paul Ricard circuit, leaving Hamilton and his team baffled and frustrated. The Briton, 36, could not explain if this was due to 'drag' – the use of less wing – or power from the upgraded Honda engines introduced in France and faces the prospect of extending his winless streak to four races for the first time since 2016, the only year since 2014 when he was not champion. His erstwhile Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg won the 2016 title, when Hamilton went five without a win. - 'Have to improve' - He also went six without winning from 2017 to 2018, three at the end of one season and the start of the next. Cracks are appearing in Mercedes' once-impenetrable performance armoury as last Sunday's loss, after leading when Verstappen ran wide at the first corner, showed. Strategic errors by the team undid both Hamilton and Bottas, as conceded by Mercedes team strategist James Vowles and boss Toto Wolff. "In a season like this, every point will matter and make a difference," said Wolff. "And we've left points on the table at the last few races. We've debriefed France and we understand where we have to improve. "Now it's all about focusing on bringing those improvements to the next two rounds in Austria where, hopefully, we can swing the positive momentum back in our favour." Verstappen, showing composure beyond his years, has ignored the title speculation. "I just want to go to the next race and try to win again," he said. "I know it's not always possible, but we try as a team every weekend to get the best out of it." He shrugged aside a recent exchange of comments suggesting he was faster than Hamilton. "It's just a bit of talk from both sides, which is fine. You have to believe in your own capabilities. I believe I'm the fastest, but he also believes he's the fastest. "In Austria, we have to set up the car well again and read the conditions. I don't know what the weather forecast is, but I'm looking forward to it. For sure, it will be close again."

Formula One: Verstappen ready to pounce as cracks widen in Mercedes armour

Mick Schumacher's famous name may have helped him to accelerate through motor racing's lower levels, but it will also add pressure when he makes his Formula One debut on Sunday.&nbsp;

Mick, son of seven-time world champion Michael, will drive for US team Haas in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Schumacher, 22, earned his chance by winning the Formula Three European championship in 2018 and the Formula Two title in 2020.

His famous name has helped make it easier for Haas to find funding, but the young German's longer-term career plan seems clear.

Mick is part of the academy at Ferrari, where his father won five of his seven world titles.

Haas and Ferrari each pay half of Mick Schumacher's salary and, if he proves himself, he seems destined to eventually race in the famous red of the Maranello-based company.

"The name Schumacher is a brand, but it is a brand linked to the first name Michael," Herve Bodinier, a sports marketing professional and Formula 1 expert, told AFP.

"Ferrari and the others are not patrons, Mick will have to write his own story."

A thick veil of mystery surrounds the current health of Michael Schumacher.

The 52-year-old has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in the French Alps in 2013, witnessed by Mick, left the Formula One legend with severe brain injuries.

Now, 15 years after his father last raced for Ferrari, Mick will bring one of the most famous names in motorsport back to Formula One.

The hype has been building for weeks.

According to a survey, 35 percent of Sky Germany's subscribers say they will watch more Formula One if Mick Schumacher is at the wheel.

The German broadcaster has based its entire pre-season advertising around the German, who turned 22 last Monday.

<h2>- Family footsteps -</h2>

"His arrival is already a boost for Formula One, his name is attracting a lot of attention, and the whole series is benefiting from it," admitted Stefano Domenicali, the Formula One boss who is close to the Schumacher family.

However, Schumacher has been warned that his surname carries extra pressure.

"It's not easy to be a 'son of'," 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg, who won the Formula One title 34 years after his father Keke Rosberg, told Sport1.

"At the beginning the media attention on him will be even bigger than on (defending champion) Lewis Hamilton."

Since his first laps in karting, the media have always taken an interest in Schumacher.

He came through the ranks of Formula Three and Two shielded by a management team who made it taboo for reporters to ask about his father's health.

"He has forged a shell, he has a good family and has turned his dramatic story into a strength," said Bodinier.

<h2>- "Give him time" -</h2>

Being a Schumacher has helped.

"His name certainly opens doors for him," said Ross Brawn, Formula One's managing director and close friend of the Schumacher family, "but it also puts a lot of pressure on him, without a doubt."

On the down side, the extra attention has the potential to rob Schumacher of the space and time needed to develop at the top level.

"He deserved this promotion. He has reached the level of a Formula One driver by his own strength, not because of his name," said Domenicali.

"Now we have to give him time to grow, to learn... and to follow a normal progression curve."

Mick Schumacher's famous name may have helped him to accelerate through motor racing's lower levels, but it will also add pressure when he makes his Formula One debut on Sunday.

Mick Schumacher's famous name may have helped him to accelerate through motor racing's lower levels, but it will also add pressure when he makes his Formula One debut on Sunday. Mick, son of seven-time world champion Michael, will drive for US team Haas in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix. Schumacher, 22, earned his chance by winning the Formula Three European championship in 2018 and the Formula Two title in 2020. His famous name has helped make it easier for Haas to find funding, but the young German's longer-term career plan seems clear. Mick is part of the academy at Ferrari, where his father won five of his seven world titles. Haas and Ferrari each pay half of Mick Schumacher's salary and, if he proves himself, he seems destined to eventually race in the famous red of the Maranello-based company. "The name Schumacher is a brand, but it is a brand linked to the first name Michael," Herve Bodinier, a sports marketing professional and Formula 1 expert, told AFP. "Ferrari and the others are not patrons, Mick will have to write his own story." A thick veil of mystery surrounds the current health of Michael Schumacher. The 52-year-old has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in the French Alps in 2013, witnessed by Mick, left the Formula One legend with severe brain injuries. Now, 15 years after his father last raced for Ferrari, Mick will bring one of the most famous names in motorsport back to Formula One. The hype has been building for weeks. According to a survey, 35 percent of Sky Germany's subscribers say they will watch more Formula One if Mick Schumacher is at the wheel. The German broadcaster has based its entire pre-season advertising around the German, who turned 22 last Monday. - Family footsteps - "His arrival is already a boost for Formula One, his name is attracting a lot of attention, and the whole series is benefiting from it," admitted Stefano Domenicali, the Formula One boss who is close to the Schumacher family. However, Schumacher has been warned that his surname carries extra pressure. "It's not easy to be a 'son of'," 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg, who won the Formula One title 34 years after his father Keke Rosberg, told Sport1. "At the beginning the media attention on him will be even bigger than on (defending champion) Lewis Hamilton." Since his first laps in karting, the media have always taken an interest in Schumacher. He came through the ranks of Formula Three and Two shielded by a management team who made it taboo for reporters to ask about his father's health. "He has forged a shell, he has a good family and has turned his dramatic story into a strength," said Bodinier. - "Give him time" - Being a Schumacher has helped. "His name certainly opens doors for him," said Ross Brawn, Formula One's managing director and close friend of the Schumacher family, "but it also puts a lot of pressure on him, without a doubt." On the down side, the extra attention has the potential to rob Schumacher of the space and time needed to develop at the top level. "He deserved this promotion. He has reached the level of a Formula One driver by his own strength, not because of his name," said Domenicali. "Now we have to give him time to grow, to learn... and to follow a normal progression curve."

Spotlight on Schumacher as famous name returns to Formula One

Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who was out of contract with Racing Point, will replace Alexander Albon at Red Bull in the 2021 season, the Formula One outfit announced on Friday. Perez will pair up with Max Verstappen for Red Bull team in 2021.<o:p></o:p>

The move for Perez means Malaysian driver Albon will be without a team for the 2021 season. However, he will remain with the Red Bull team as Test and Reserve Driver with focus on 2022 development.

<o:p></o:p>

"Red Bull Racing can today confirm that Sergio Perez will join the Team and race alongside Max Verstappen in the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship," the F1 team said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-mahomes-to-giannis-athletes-with-biggest-contracts-in-sporting-history-350214" hreflang="en">From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history</a><o:p></o:p>

"Current driver Alex Albon remains an important member of the Team and takes on the role of Red Bull Racing Test and Reserve Driver with a key focus on 2022 development, simulator work and tyre testing," it added.<o:p></o:p>

“Charging into 2021 with @SChecoPerez! #HolaCheco,” tweeted Aston Martin Red Bull Racing on Twitter as they teased the announcement of Sergio Perez.

<o:p></o:p>

Reacting to the tweet, Racing Point replied: “You're getting one hell of a driver there guys. Huge congrats to you both.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You're getting one hell of a driver there guys. Huge congrats to you both 🙌
— BWT Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/RacingPointF1/status/1339936189353250818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Perez has been hailed as one of the F1’s fastest and most consistent drivers despite never enjoying equipment capable of producing podiums week in and week out. Perez has, thus far, scored 10 podiums and one win, during his 10-year stay in Grand Prix racing.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Perez made his debut in 2011 with Sauber and bagged his first podium in 2012 at the Malaysian GP before joining McLaren for the 2013 season. He later switched base to Force India, which was later renamed as Racing Point in 2019.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who was out of contract with Racing Point, will replace Alexander Albon at Red Bull in the 2021 season, the Formula One outfit announced on Friday.

Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who was out of contract with Racing Point, will replace Alexander Albon at Red Bull in the 2021 season, the Formula One outfit announced on Friday. Perez will pair up with Max Verstappen for Red Bull team in 2021. The move for Perez means Malaysian driver Albon will be without a team for the 2021 season. However, he will remain with the Red Bull team as Test and Reserve Driver with focus on 2022 development. "Red Bull Racing can today confirm that Sergio Perez will join the Team and race alongside Max Verstappen in the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship," the F1 team said in a statement. ALSO READ: From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history "Current driver Alex Albon remains an important member of the Team and takes on the role of Red Bull Racing Test and Reserve Driver with a key focus on 2022 development, simulator work and tyre testing," it added. “Charging into 2021 with @SChecoPerez! #HolaCheco,” tweeted Aston Martin Red Bull Racing on Twitter as they teased the announcement of Sergio Perez. Reacting to the tweet, Racing Point replied: “You're getting one hell of a driver there guys. Huge congrats to you both.” ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 You're getting one hell of a driver there guys. Huge congrats to you both 🙌 — BWT Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) December 18, 2020 × Perez has been hailed as one of the F1’s fastest and most consistent drivers despite never enjoying equipment capable of producing podiums week in and week out. Perez has, thus far, scored 10 podiums and one win, during his 10-year stay in Grand Prix racing. Perez made his debut in 2011 with Sauber and bagged his first podium in 2012 at the Malaysian GP before joining McLaren for the 2013 season. He later switched base to Force India, which was later renamed as Racing Point in 2019.

Sergio Perez to race for Red Bull in F1 2021 season

Formula One unveiled a 23-race calendar for 2021 on Tuesday, its biggest ever, but the Vietnamese Grand Prix has been dropped.

The season will start in Australia on March 21 and will include the first ever race in Saudi Arabia on November 28 before the season ends a week later in Abu Dhabi.

Vietnam was to hold a street race on April 25 but doubts about the event arose after Nguyen Duc Chung, who was Hanoi's mayor and a major supporter of the event, was arrested on corruption charges in August. In the calendar unveiled on Tuesday, the race slot was left vacant.

F1's 2020 season was heavily disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic but is eventually being run over 17 races, with reigning champion Lewis Hamilton on course to win the title for the seventh time.

Spectators have been barred from most races this year but organisers said they expect fans to return next year.

"The plans for 2021 have involved extensive dialogue with all promoters and their local and national authorities at a time of ongoing fluidity related to the global pandemic," F1 said in a statement.&nbsp;

"As we have said before, we expect fans to return for the 2021 season and for the calendar to look similar to the originally planned 2020 season."

Saudi Arabia said last week it was holding a race for the first time, an announcement that is likely to spark fresh accusations from human rights groups that the kingdom is using high-profile sports events to "wash" its human rights record.

The Netherlands, home to the popular Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, gets a race a year earlier than originally planned with a September 5 slot in the coastal town of Zandvoort. It will be the first Dutch grand prix since 1985.

Vietnam signed up for Formula One hoping the glamour of the sport could reflect the country's economic lift-off and reshape Hanoi's staid image, much as it has done for Singapore which will again host a race next year.

The communist nation inked a 10-year deal with Formula One in 2018 with state media saying hosting the race would cost the country $60 million per year.

The fee has been picked up in full by the country's largest private conglomerate, VinGroup, which had been hoping to dazzle with a night race.

But its 2020 race was cancelled due to concerns that teams and fans coming from overseas could spark a new outbreak of Covid-19 and the corruption scandal surrounding Nguyen Duc Chung now threatens the future of the event.

"Without Chung, the future of the race is gloomy. It might not happen," a source close to the race told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Formula One unveiled a 23-race calendar for 2021 on Tuesday, its biggest ever, but the Vietnamese Grand Prix has been dropped. The season will start in Australia on March 21 and will include the first ever race in Saudi Arabia on November 28 before the season ends a week later in Abu Dhabi.

Formula One unveiled a 23-race calendar for 2021 on Tuesday, its biggest ever, but the Vietnamese Grand Prix has been dropped. The season will start in Australia on March 21 and will include the first ever race in Saudi Arabia on November 28 before the season ends a week later in Abu Dhabi. Vietnam was to hold a street race on April 25 but doubts about the event arose after Nguyen Duc Chung, who was Hanoi's mayor and a major supporter of the event, was arrested on corruption charges in August. In the calendar unveiled on Tuesday, the race slot was left vacant. F1's 2020 season was heavily disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic but is eventually being run over 17 races, with reigning champion Lewis Hamilton on course to win the title for the seventh time. Spectators have been barred from most races this year but organisers said they expect fans to return next year. "The plans for 2021 have involved extensive dialogue with all promoters and their local and national authorities at a time of ongoing fluidity related to the global pandemic," F1 said in a statement. "As we have said before, we expect fans to return for the 2021 season and for the calendar to look similar to the originally planned 2020 season." Saudi Arabia said last week it was holding a race for the first time, an announcement that is likely to spark fresh accusations from human rights groups that the kingdom is using high-profile sports events to "wash" its human rights record. The Netherlands, home to the popular Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, gets a race a year earlier than originally planned with a September 5 slot in the coastal town of Zandvoort. It will be the first Dutch grand prix since 1985. Vietnam signed up for Formula One hoping the glamour of the sport could reflect the country's economic lift-off and reshape Hanoi's staid image, much as it has done for Singapore which will again host a race next year. The communist nation inked a 10-year deal with Formula One in 2018 with state media saying hosting the race would cost the country $60 million per year. The fee has been picked up in full by the country's largest private conglomerate, VinGroup, which had been hoping to dazzle with a night race. But its 2020 race was cancelled due to concerns that teams and fans coming from overseas could spark a new outbreak of Covid-19 and the corruption scandal surrounding Nguyen Duc Chung now threatens the future of the event. "Without Chung, the future of the race is gloomy. It might not happen," a source close to the race told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Formula One unveils biggest-ever 23-race calendar for 2021

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday.

"Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement.

Alonso, who has notched up 32 wins and 97 podiums in 314 Grand Prix starts, will replace Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, who is McLaren-bound at the end of this season.

Alonso, who won his two world championship titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, said the French team had afforded him his "fondest memories" in Formula One.

"Renault is my family," the 38-year-old Spaniard said.

"It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I'm returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level."

Alonso left Formula One in 2018 after four fruitless years at McLaren and is due to make a third attempt to win the Indianapolis 500 with McLaren in August.

Alonso said he had bought into Renault's project for the coming season.

"Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates," he said.

"The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I."

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday. "Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement.

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday. "Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement. Alonso, who has notched up 32 wins and 97 podiums in 314 Grand Prix starts, will replace Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, who is McLaren-bound at the end of this season. Alonso, who won his two world championship titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, said the French team had afforded him his "fondest memories" in Formula One. "Renault is my family," the 38-year-old Spaniard said. "It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I'm returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level." Alonso left Formula One in 2018 after four fruitless years at McLaren and is due to make a third attempt to win the Indianapolis 500 with McLaren in August. Alonso said he had bought into Renault's project for the coming season. "Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates," he said. "The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I."

Alonso returns to his Renault 'family' for 2021 FI season

f1-2021

F1 2021, News on F1 2021, stories on F1 2021, articles on F1 2021, F1 2021 stories at Wion, F1 2021 news, F1 2021 latest news

f1 2021