Two weeks after surgery for appendicitis and with no training since the operation, Carlos Sainz will ease back into his Ferrari racing seat for the first free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday. The 29-year-old Spaniard, third in the Bahrain season-opener, had to relinquish his seat to reserve driver Olive Bearman at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix while recovering from surgery.

Sainz will return to the track at Albert Park feeling less than 100 percent fit and without having trained in the team's simulator in Maranello. While confident he will be robust enough to drive through race week, he said he would not hesitate to give up his seat again if his body told him to. "If I don't feel good tomorrow, I will be the first&nbsp;one&nbsp;to raise my hand and say that I need another two weeks until the next race," he told reporters at the Albert Park paddock on Thursday. "And I'm the first&nbsp;one&nbsp;that doesn't want to be in pain, to suffer, or to make it any worse. So I'm not stupid. And I will be very clear with how I'm feeling and everything."

In his absence, Bearman finished seventh in a stellar F1 debut at Jeddah to be named F1's "Driver of the Day" and earn glowing reviews from rival drivers. Sainz was similarly impressed by Bearman's performance, though admitted it was tough seeing someone&nbsp;else in his car.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-amid-red-bull-turmoil-verstappen-vows-to-see-out-contract-till-2028-702629">F1: Amid Red Bull turmoil, Verstappen vows to see out contract till 2028</a>

"Well it's not a nice feeling, obviously, not being able to race especially after such a strong start to the season, seeing how competitive the car was again in Jeddah (and) doing the calculations about how many points you lost by the surgery," he said.

Sainz is not the first driver to make a quick comeback from appendicitis. Alex Albon also had it ahead of the Italian Grand Prix in 2022, which saw Nyck de Vries take his place in the Williams car, but the Thai driver returned for the next race in Singapore.

While unconcerned about his lack of simulator work, Sainz conceded he would not know how his body would respond to the rigours of racing until behind the wheel. "Until you put yourself in an F1 car and feel the forces, it's impossible to know," he said. "What I know is that today I am a lot better than yesterday, and yesterday I was a lot better than two days ago. "So with that progress, I'm quite encouraged and positive."

Two weeks after surgery for appendicitis and with no training since the operation, Carlos Sainz will ease back into his Ferrari racing seat for the first free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday.

Two weeks after surgery for appendicitis and with no training since the operation, Carlos Sainz will ease back into his Ferrari racing seat for the first free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday. The 29-year-old Spaniard, third in the Bahrain season-opener, had to relinquish his seat to reserve driver Olive Bearman at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix while recovering from surgery. Sainz will return to the track at Albert Park feeling less than 100 percent fit and without having trained in the team's simulator in Maranello. While confident he will be robust enough to drive through race week, he said he would not hesitate to give up his seat again if his body told him to. "If I don't feel good tomorrow, I will be the first one to raise my hand and say that I need another two weeks until the next race," he told reporters at the Albert Park paddock on Thursday. "And I'm the first one that doesn't want to be in pain, to suffer, or to make it any worse. So I'm not stupid. And I will be very clear with how I'm feeling and everything." In his absence, Bearman finished seventh in a stellar F1 debut at Jeddah to be named F1's "Driver of the Day" and earn glowing reviews from rival drivers. Sainz was similarly impressed by Bearman's performance, though admitted it was tough seeing someone else in his car. Also read: F1: Amid Red Bull turmoil, Verstappen vows to see out contract till 2028 "Well it's not a nice feeling, obviously, not being able to race especially after such a strong start to the season, seeing how competitive the car was again in Jeddah (and) doing the calculations about how many points you lost by the surgery," he said. Sainz is not the first driver to make a quick comeback from appendicitis. Alex Albon also had it ahead of the Italian Grand Prix in 2022, which saw Nyck de Vries take his place in the Williams car, but the Thai driver returned for the next race in Singapore. While unconcerned about his lack of simulator work, Sainz conceded he would not know how his body would respond to the rigours of racing until behind the wheel. "Until you put yourself in an F1 car and feel the forces, it's impossible to know," he said. "What I know is that today I am a lot better than yesterday, and yesterday I was a lot better than two days ago. "So with that progress, I'm quite encouraged and positive."

Australian GP: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz won't be 'stupid' about racing after surgery

The EU's General Court on Wednesday (Mar 20) handed a win to Russian former F1 driver Nikita Mazepin, overturning EU sanctions imposed against him as part of the bloc's response to Russia's war in Ukraine.

The EU's General Court on Wednesday (Mar 20) handed a win to Russian former F1 driver Nikita Mazepin, overturning EU sanctions imposed against him as part of the bloc's response to Russia's war in Ukraine. The European Union said it had added Mazepin, 25, to its sanctions list due to his association with his father, Dmitry, an influential businessman who it said was the main sponsor of his son's activities as a racing driver. The European Union had described Dmitry Mazepin as "a member of the closest circle" of Russian President Vladimir Putin. But in Wednesday's ruling, the court said Mazepin had stopped being a driver for the Haas F1 racing team, meaning the EU was wrong to keep the athlete on its sanctions list after he quit the team. The court said the "association" criterion used in the EU sanctions regime requires the existence of a link going beyond a simple family relationship which it said wasn't the case after Mazepin stopped F1 racing. "I am hugely encouraged by today's ruling and grateful to the European Court for a fair trial of my case," Mazepin said in a statement e-mailed by one of his aides. "This is certainly a crucial milestone." Mazepin has also challenged EU and Canadian sanctions as part of his attempt to return to F1. Also read | Formula 1: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz likely to race in Australia after return from appendicitis surgery He currently competes in the Asian Le Mans series, a lesser-known racing league staging competitions in the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia. His aide did not immediately reply when asked by Reuters if Mazepin still planned to return to F1. Last month, diplomatic sources told Reuters the EU was preparing to lift sanctions on Mazepin, saying Hungary had been lobbying on the driver's behalf.

Former F1 driver Nikita Mazepin removed from EU sanctions list

John McEnroe accepts the inevitability of Saudi Arabia's growing influence on tennis but the American great fears the country's ambition to host a 10th Masters tournament could add to player and fan fatigue. The outspoken New Yorker has been&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the most vocal critics of Saudi Arabia's big-money push into tennis, describing the potential engagement of the women's tour with the country as "laughable".

According to a source with knowledge of the plans, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is keen to own a tennis event featuring the top players, with multiple reports saying they are eyeing a slot before the Australian Open in January. The tennis season traditionally kicks off after a short break in the last couple of days of December with the warm-ups to the Melbourne Park Grand Slam, meaning players have limited time to rest, recover and work on their game.

"I read recently they're talking about an event before the Australian Open. That's going to open up a whole can of worms. So we'll see what develops," the 65-year-old McEnroe told Reuters in a video call from New York. "I'm not a big believer in having the tennis circuit go year round. We need an off season. Not only for players to recuperate but for fans to recuperate. And this is something we've always had difficulty with. "I think tennis has shot itself in the foot for too long."

SRJ Sports Investments, which was formed by the PIF to accelerate the growth of sports in the Gulf country, declined to comment. Reuters has contacted the PIF for comment. The PIF, which has already invested heavily in sports like golf, soccer,&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and boxing, has steadily made inroads into men's tennis and replaced Pepperstone&nbsp;as the official naming partner of its world rankings last month.

As part of the multi-year agreement, the sovereign wealth fund will also partner ATP tournaments in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing and the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin as well as the Next Gen Finals in Jeddah.

"After what I saw happened in golf, I can't say I'm totally surprised. I think everyone&nbsp;involved in tennis suspected this," McEnroe said of the growing Saudi footprint. "I can't honestly say at this point that I'm a big supporter of this. I don't agree with it."

HUGE FUNDS

Former world number&nbsp;one&nbsp;and seven-times Grand Slam winner McEnroe this week signed as a global ambassador for CFD broker Pepperstone, previously a platinum sponsor of the ATP Tour.

McEnroe said Saudi Arabia would undoubtedly bring huge funds to a new Masters event but questioned if tennis would ultimately benefit from it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-woman-who-accused-christian-horner-of-inappropriate-behaviour-files-official-complaint-to-fia-701071">F1: Woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour files official complaint to FIA</a>

"It depends on what people define that as. Is it going to be more money? Yes. Does that mean it's better? Not necessarily. It depends where that money is spent, where it goes," McEnroe said. "But even if it was, I don't think that means it's good automatically for the game because Saudi Arabia has a Masters 1000 event. That doesn't mean anything to me as far as whether it's a net positive or negative. "It harks back to people that have commitment to the game, a love for the game and have a real idea of what the future is."

That will be something the women's tour is considering as it mulls a move for the WTA Finals to Saudi Arabia despite push back from McEnroe's contemporaries Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert.

The two greats have argued that the WTA's values sit in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of using the PIF to "sportswash" its human rights record.

Saudi Arabia denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws. Another women's tennis great, Billie Jean King, believes the WTA will inevitably go to the Middle Eastern nation but thinks the tour can use the relationship to push for social change.

McEnroe, though, remains sceptical. "Someone&nbsp;I've looked up to and think is the most influential human being on the face of the earth over the past 50 years for women's sports has endorsed this idea from what I've read," McEnroe said.

"I love Billie Jean. I'd like to speak to her about why she thinks that's a good thing, because to me it's not. But I'm an outsider looking in ... It's like, 'why in the hell would the WTA play their event there, where there's human rights issues still going on today.

"I've never been there. Apparently things have improved to some level, so it's not like I'm some sort of expert. When I read about it, I completely disagreed with it."

John McEnroe accepts the inevitability of Saudi Arabia's growing influence on tennis but the American great fears the country's ambition to host a 10th Masters tournament could add to player and fan fatigue.

John McEnroe accepts the inevitability of Saudi Arabia's growing influence on tennis but the American great fears the country's ambition to host a 10th Masters tournament could add to player and fan fatigue. The outspoken New Yorker has been one of the most vocal critics of Saudi Arabia's big-money push into tennis, describing the potential engagement of the women's tour with the country as "laughable". According to a source with knowledge of the plans, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is keen to own a tennis event featuring the top players, with multiple reports saying they are eyeing a slot before the Australian Open in January. The tennis season traditionally kicks off after a short break in the last couple of days of December with the warm-ups to the Melbourne Park Grand Slam, meaning players have limited time to rest, recover and work on their game. "I read recently they're talking about an event before the Australian Open. That's going to open up a whole can of worms. So we'll see what develops," the 65-year-old McEnroe told Reuters in a video call from New York. "I'm not a big believer in having the tennis circuit go year round. We need an off season. Not only for players to recuperate but for fans to recuperate. And this is something we've always had difficulty with. "I think tennis has shot itself in the foot for too long." SRJ Sports Investments, which was formed by the PIF to accelerate the growth of sports in the Gulf country, declined to comment. Reuters has contacted the PIF for comment. The PIF, which has already invested heavily in sports like golf, soccer, Formula One and boxing, has steadily made inroads into men's tennis and replaced Pepperstone as the official naming partner of its world rankings last month. As part of the multi-year agreement, the sovereign wealth fund will also partner ATP tournaments in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing and the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin as well as the Next Gen Finals in Jeddah. "After what I saw happened in golf, I can't say I'm totally surprised. I think everyone involved in tennis suspected this," McEnroe said of the growing Saudi footprint. "I can't honestly say at this point that I'm a big supporter of this. I don't agree with it." HUGE FUNDS Former world number one and seven-times Grand Slam winner McEnroe this week signed as a global ambassador for CFD broker Pepperstone, previously a platinum sponsor of the ATP Tour. McEnroe said Saudi Arabia would undoubtedly bring huge funds to a new Masters event but questioned if tennis would ultimately benefit from it. Also read: F1: Woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour files official complaint to FIA "It depends on what people define that as. Is it going to be more money? Yes. Does that mean it's better? Not necessarily. It depends where that money is spent, where it goes," McEnroe said. "But even if it was, I don't think that means it's good automatically for the game because Saudi Arabia has a Masters 1000 event. That doesn't mean anything to me as far as whether it's a net positive or negative. "It harks back to people that have commitment to the game, a love for the game and have a real idea of what the future is." That will be something the women's tour is considering as it mulls a move for the WTA Finals to Saudi Arabia despite push back from McEnroe's contemporaries Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert. The two greats have argued that the WTA's values sit in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of using the PIF to "sportswash" its human rights record. Saudi Arabia denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws. Another women's tennis great, Billie Jean King, believes the WTA will inevitably go to the Middle Eastern nation but thinks the tour can use the relationship to push for social change. McEnroe, though, remains sceptical. "Someone I've looked up to and think is the most influential human being on the face of the earth over the past 50 years for women's sports has endorsed this idea from what I've read," McEnroe said. "I love Billie Jean. I'd like to speak to her about why she thinks that's a good thing, because to me it's not. But I'm an outsider looking in ... It's like, 'why in the hell would the WTA play their event there, where there's human rights issues still going on today. "I've never been there. Apparently things have improved to some level, so it's not like I'm some sort of expert. When I read about it, I completely disagreed with it."

Tennis legend John McEnroe fears Saudi Masters move could lead to year-round season

The woman who accused Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has submitted an official complaint to the FIA, according to multiple media reports. The complaint was filed after Red Bull rejected the claims in its internal investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The FIA's ethics committee is responsible for noting the complaint and conducting further investigation. After the reports came out, FIA released a statement where it refused to divulge any further details.&nbsp;

"At the FIA, enquiries and complaints are received and managed by the Compliance Officer, and the Ethics Committee where appropriate. Both the bodies operate autonomously, guaranteeing strict confidentiality throughout the process," the FIA said, per BBC.

"As a consequence, and in general, we are unable to confirm the receipt of any specific complaint and it is unlikely that we will be able to provide further comment on the complaints that we may receive from any parties," it further said.

The complaint by the woman comes&nbsp;a little over a week after she was suspended by the Milton Keynes-based outfit.&nbsp;According to reports, the employee has not been at Red Bull racing headquarters since March 4&nbsp;after being told to stay home.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-jos-verstappens-outburst-on-christian-horner-raises-big-questions-for-red-bull-696372">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Jos Verstappen's outburst on Christian Horner raises big questions for Red Bull</a>

<h2>What is the controversy?</h2>

A&nbsp;day after Red Bull dismissed the complaint against Horner, an anonymous mail was made public with numerous screenshots showing Horner's alleged inappropriate correspondence with the woman.

However, Horner denied the allegations and said he remains "absolutely confident" that he would stay at the helm for the remainder of the season.

While Horner remains at the helm, all does not appear to be well behind the scenes. Long-time Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko recently claimed he could be suspended by the team over his defiant stance against Horner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-max-verstappens-father-says-red-bull-in-danger-of-being-torn-apart-if-christian-horner-stays-696194">Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays</a>

Meanwhile, Horner said Verstappen was free to leave the team if he desired and that he wouldn't stand in his way as no individual was bigger than the team.

"It's like anything in life. You can't force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper.&nbsp;If somebody didn't want to be at this team, then you know, we're not going to force somebody against their will to be here," said Horner.&nbsp;

"That applies whether it's a machine operator or a designer or somebody in one of the support functions, that runs through the business."

Despite the off-field antics, Red Bull have started the season in supreme manner with Verstappen winning the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The next GP takes place at the Albert Park in Melbourne next week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The woman who accused Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has submitted an official complaint to the FIA, according to multiple media reports.

The woman who accused Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has submitted an official complaint to the FIA, according to multiple media reports. The complaint was filed after Red Bull rejected the claims in its internal investigation. The FIA's ethics committee is responsible for noting the complaint and conducting further investigation. After the reports came out, FIA released a statement where it refused to divulge any further details. "At the FIA, enquiries and complaints are received and managed by the Compliance Officer, and the Ethics Committee where appropriate. Both the bodies operate autonomously, guaranteeing strict confidentiality throughout the process," the FIA said, per BBC. "As a consequence, and in general, we are unable to confirm the receipt of any specific complaint and it is unlikely that we will be able to provide further comment on the complaints that we may receive from any parties," it further said. The complaint by the woman comes a little over a week after she was suspended by the Milton Keynes-based outfit. According to reports, the employee has not been at Red Bull racing headquarters since March 4 after being told to stay home. Also read | Formula One: Jos Verstappen's outburst on Christian Horner raises big questions for Red Bull What is the controversy? A day after Red Bull dismissed the complaint against Horner, an anonymous mail was made public with numerous screenshots showing Horner's alleged inappropriate correspondence with the woman. However, Horner denied the allegations and said he remains "absolutely confident" that he would stay at the helm for the remainder of the season. While Horner remains at the helm, all does not appear to be well behind the scenes. Long-time Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko recently claimed he could be suspended by the team over his defiant stance against Horner. Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays Meanwhile, Horner said Verstappen was free to leave the team if he desired and that he wouldn't stand in his way as no individual was bigger than the team. "It's like anything in life. You can't force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper. If somebody didn't want to be at this team, then you know, we're not going to force somebody against their will to be here," said Horner. "That applies whether it's a machine operator or a designer or somebody in one of the support functions, that runs through the business." Despite the off-field antics, Red Bull have started the season in supreme manner with Verstappen winning the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The next GP takes place at the Albert Park in Melbourne next week. (With inputs from agencies)

F1: Woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour files official complaint to FIA

Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu hailed Oliver Bearman as "a total package" after the British teenager's hugely impressive stand-in debut with Ferrari fuelled speculation he would be in Formula One full-time next season.

Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu hailed Oliver Bearman as "a total package" after the British teenager's hugely impressive stand-in debut with Ferrari fuelled speculation he would be in Formula One full-time next season. The obvious destination for the 18-year-old is Ferrari-powered Haas, who have a co-operation agreement with the Italian team and also share the Briton's services as a reserve. Bearman jumped into the Ferrari for final practice and qualifying in Jeddah last Friday (Mar 8) after Carlos Sainz had surgery for appendicitis, qualifying 11th and then finishing seventh on Saturday (Mar 9). At the same time Haas, who slumped to last overall in 2023 and replaced Guenther Steiner with Japanese engineer Komatsu, scored their first point of the campaign with Nico Hulkenberg finishing 10th. Komatsu said that was like a win for Haas but Bearman's achievement was also noted. "Last year when we ran him in FP1 (first practice) sessions in Mexico and Abu Dhabi straight away it was obvious that he’s a total package, he’s so impressive," he told Sky Sports. "So I was very happy that we got him for six FP (practice)runs this year and very happy for him," he added of the youngest ever British F1 driver. Hulkenberg, 36, and team mate Kevin Magnussen, 31, are out of contract at the end of the season. Bearman said after the race he was looking forward to building up a relationship with Haas and getting more laps in. "I hope I did a good job interview today," he said. Also read | F1: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz ruled out of Saudi Arabian GP. Know why Formula Two The Briton also has a Formula Two campaign to think about, with no points on the board so far due to missing the Jeddah round, despite taking pole position for the feature race while Barbadian Zane Maloney leads the standings with 47. Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur said F2 had to be the main focus for the youngster for the rest of the season. A second Formula One outing in Melbourne in two weeks' time cannot be completely ruled out. However, it depends on Sainz's recovery. "We’ll take a decision probably only in Melbourne," said Vasseur. "At least we know that with Ollie we have also a good reserve." Sainz will rest and recover this week and can be counted on to make every effort to be in the car in Australia, having dragged himself out of hospital a day after his operation to attend the race at the Corniche circuit. The Spaniard has already shown, however, that hope is not always enough. "He struggled a lot on Thursday in both sessions with a fever and stomach issues and at the end he was convinced that it would be much better the day after," recalled Vasseur. "The day after he called me in the morning and said he would be here for the quali for sure. At 1130 he was in the hospital and it was quite clear we were not going in the right direction."

F1: Rookie Bearman impresses Haas as Ferrari wait for Sainz’s recovery

The woman who accused Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has been suspended by the F1 World Champions. Wion's Eric Njoka gets you the details.

Christian Horner’s accuser suspended by Red Bull

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has publically defended his team principal Christian Horner amid the controversy that he conducted himself inappropriately against a female employee.&nbsp;

Perez said Horner not only had his support but also the backing of the entire Red Bull team.&nbsp;

"I think he not only has my support, but I think the entire team is behind him. He is, of course, a very important person within our organisation, and the work he has done over the years, that goes without saying. Christian is a key figure in our organization," Perez said.

The Mexican driver said he was not paying much attention to the controversy and instead was focused on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend.&nbsp;

"I can only say something from the race side, I don't know what's going on. And to be honest, I don't follow it like that. I am a race car driver and what I do here. I don't do politics. I drive the car as fast as I can," he added.

<h2>Max remains vague&nbsp;</h2>

While Perez lends his support to Horner, his teammate Max Verstappen has kept it vague. Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen has claimed Red Bull risked being torn apart if Horner stayed as the team principal.&nbsp;

"There is tension here while he remains in position," Jos Verstappen told a British news outlet.&nbsp;

"The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the&nbsp;one&nbsp;causing the problems," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-jos-verstappens-outburst-on-christian-horner-raises-big-questions-for-red-bull-696372">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Jos Verstappen's outburst on Christian Horner raises big questions for Red Bull</a>

Earlier this week, media reports claimed that Jos held a meeting with Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff, leading to aspersions that he was plotting his son's move to the German team if Horner refused to leave his position.&nbsp;

On Thursday (Mar 7), Red Bull suspended the woman who filed a complaint against Horner, claiming the team principal had acted inappropriately against her. A few hours later, Horner released a statement&nbsp;saying media and F1 officials were to be blamed for the entire fiasco.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“What has happened then after that is that others have looked to take advantage of it. F1 is a competitive business and elements have looked to benefit from it and that is perhaps the not-so-pretty side of our industry.”

Quizzed if Max Verstappen would see out his contract amid rumours that he might quit, Horner said he was certain that the Dutch would stick around.&nbsp;

"We’ve achieved an awful lot together. He’s committed to an agreement until 2028. From a team side, from Max’s side, we’re determined to build on the success that we’ve achieved already," said&nbsp;Horner.

(With inputs from agencies)

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has publically defended his team principal Christian Horner amid the controversy that he conducted himself inappropriately against a female employee.

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has publically defended his team principal Christian Horner amid the controversy that he conducted himself inappropriately against a female employee. Perez said Horner not only had his support but also the backing of the entire Red Bull team. "I think he not only has my support, but I think the entire team is behind him. He is, of course, a very important person within our organisation, and the work he has done over the years, that goes without saying. Christian is a key figure in our organization," Perez said. The Mexican driver said he was not paying much attention to the controversy and instead was focused on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. "I can only say something from the race side, I don't know what's going on. And to be honest, I don't follow it like that. I am a race car driver and what I do here. I don't do politics. I drive the car as fast as I can," he added. Max remains vague While Perez lends his support to Horner, his teammate Max Verstappen has kept it vague. Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen has claimed Red Bull risked being torn apart if Horner stayed as the team principal. "There is tension here while he remains in position," Jos Verstappen told a British news outlet. "The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems," he added. Also read | Formula One: Jos Verstappen's outburst on Christian Horner raises big questions for Red Bull Earlier this week, media reports claimed that Jos held a meeting with Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff, leading to aspersions that he was plotting his son's move to the German team if Horner refused to leave his position. On Thursday (Mar 7), Red Bull suspended the woman who filed a complaint against Horner, claiming the team principal had acted inappropriately against her. A few hours later, Horner released a statement saying media and F1 officials were to be blamed for the entire fiasco. “What has happened then after that is that others have looked to take advantage of it. F1 is a competitive business and elements have looked to benefit from it and that is perhaps the not-so-pretty side of our industry.” Quizzed if Max Verstappen would see out his contract amid rumours that he might quit, Horner said he was certain that the Dutch would stick around. "We’ve achieved an awful lot together. He’s committed to an agreement until 2028. From a team side, from Max’s side, we’re determined to build on the success that we’ve achieved already," said Horner. (With inputs from agencies)

F1: 'He has my support', Sergio Perez stands for Red Bull principal Christian Horner

Lewis Hamilton said&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has been in the spotlight after a drawn-out investigation into misconduct allegations by a female employee showed clear divisions behind the scenes.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the governing FIA, has been accused by a whistleblower of attempted interference in a race and allegedly seeking to deny certification of the Las Vegas street circuit that debuted last November. "As someone&nbsp;who loves the sport, it's definitely disappointing to see what's going on right now," the seven times world champion told reporters at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. "It doesn't look good from the outside world, the outside looking in. I think it's a really, really important time for the sport to really show and stick to its values, holding ourselves accountable for our actions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golf-gives-up-bid-for-world-ranking-points-697239">LIV Golf gives up bid for world ranking points</a>

"And it's a really pivotal moment I think for the sport, in terms of what we project to the world and how it's handled. And it's not been handled very well to this point. "I hope it's not a year that continues to go on with this. But it highlights some of the issues we also have within the sport."

Hamilton also recalled from personal experience what it was like to be at a team whose leader's position was being challenged. "I remember kind of when we were losing (McLaren boss) Ron (Dennis), for example, and the things that Ron was going through, and the steps that we had to take, it affected all of us," he said. "A leader is super-important because they set the tone, they make sure the team sticks to the core values of what the sport is about, and integrity."

Lewis Hamilton said Formula One faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body.

Lewis Hamilton said Formula One faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has been in the spotlight after a drawn-out investigation into misconduct allegations by a female employee showed clear divisions behind the scenes. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the governing FIA, has been accused by a whistleblower of attempted interference in a race and allegedly seeking to deny certification of the Las Vegas street circuit that debuted last November. "As someone who loves the sport, it's definitely disappointing to see what's going on right now," the seven times world champion told reporters at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. "It doesn't look good from the outside world, the outside looking in. I think it's a really, really important time for the sport to really show and stick to its values, holding ourselves accountable for our actions. Also read: LIV Golf gives up bid for world ranking points "And it's a really pivotal moment I think for the sport, in terms of what we project to the world and how it's handled. And it's not been handled very well to this point. "I hope it's not a year that continues to go on with this. But it highlights some of the issues we also have within the sport." Hamilton also recalled from personal experience what it was like to be at a team whose leader's position was being challenged. "I remember kind of when we were losing (McLaren boss) Ron (Dennis), for example, and the things that Ron was going through, and the steps that we had to take, it affected all of us," he said. "A leader is super-important because they set the tone, they make sure the team sticks to the core values of what the sport is about, and integrity."

Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen&nbsp;and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'.

Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good."

It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028.

It is&nbsp;believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen&nbsp;clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/important-for-f1-to-show-its-values-seven-time-world-champion-lewis-hamilton-on-recent-controversies-697505">Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies</a>

While Verstappen&nbsp;agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari,&nbsp;has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly.

"Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen&nbsp;told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added.

In addition, Verstappen&nbsp;reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'. Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good." It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028. It is believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question). Also read: Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies While Verstappen agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari, has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly. "Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added. In addition, Verstappen reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Anything is possible: Lewis Hamilton makes BIG claim, does not rule out Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes

A Ferrari stolen from Austrian former racing driver Gerhard Berger after the San Marino Grand Prix in 1995 has been recovered, Britain's Metropolitan Police said Monday (Mar 4). 
 
Berger and fellow F1 star Jean Alesi lost their private cars on the same day in April 1995 to car thieves working near the circuit at Imola.

The Austrian explained that his red F512M Testarossa had disappeared from outside his hotel.

London's Metropolitan Police said they launched an investigation in January after receiving a report from Ferrari, which had carried out checks on a car being bought by a US buyer via a UK broker in 2023, that revealed it was stolen.

Officers traced the car's background within four days, finding out that it had been shipped to Japan shortly after being stolen from Berger and then brought to the UK in late 2023.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-ferrari-transfer-ex-british-driver-martin-brundle-compares-shock-move-with-michael-schumacher-686322" target="_blank">Also read | Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher</a>

Police then took possession of the vehicle to prevent it being exported from the UK.

"The stolen Ferrari, close to the value of £350,000 ($443,000), was missing for more than 28 years before we managed to track it down in just four days," said officer Mike Pilbeam, who led the investigation.

"We worked quickly with partners including the National Crime Agency, as well as Ferrari and international car dealerships, and this collaboration was instrumental in understanding the vehicle's background and stopping it from leaving the country," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-return-for-vettel-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-and-vettel-exchange-texts-amid-hamiltons-replacement-search-696151">Also read |&nbsp;F1 return for Vettel? Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search</a>

Berger was one of the most popular drivers during his 14-season Formula One career, which began in 1984 and ended in 1997, winning 10 Grand Prix and twice finishing third in the championship while driving for Ferrari.&nbsp;

He earned a reputation as a prankster while driving at McLaren with Brazilian teammate Ayrton Senna, once filling his legendary colleague's bed with frogs.

A Ferrari stolen from Austrian former racing driver Gerhard Berger after the San Marino Grand Prix in 1995 has been recovered, Britain's Metropolitan Police said Monday (Mar 4).

A Ferrari stolen from Austrian former racing driver Gerhard Berger after the San Marino Grand Prix in 1995 has been recovered, Britain's Metropolitan Police said Monday (Mar 4). Berger and fellow F1 star Jean Alesi lost their private cars on the same day in April 1995 to car thieves working near the circuit at Imola. The Austrian explained that his red F512M Testarossa had disappeared from outside his hotel. London's Metropolitan Police said they launched an investigation in January after receiving a report from Ferrari, which had carried out checks on a car being bought by a US buyer via a UK broker in 2023, that revealed it was stolen. Officers traced the car's background within four days, finding out that it had been shipped to Japan shortly after being stolen from Berger and then brought to the UK in late 2023. Also read | Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher Police then took possession of the vehicle to prevent it being exported from the UK. "The stolen Ferrari, close to the value of £350,000 ($443,000), was missing for more than 28 years before we managed to track it down in just four days," said officer Mike Pilbeam, who led the investigation. "We worked quickly with partners including the National Crime Agency, as well as Ferrari and international car dealerships, and this collaboration was instrumental in understanding the vehicle's background and stopping it from leaving the country," he added. Also read | F1 return for Vettel? Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search Berger was one of the most popular drivers during his 14-season Formula One career, which began in 1984 and ended in 1997, winning 10 Grand Prix and twice finishing third in the championship while driving for Ferrari. He earned a reputation as a prankster while driving at McLaren with Brazilian teammate Ayrton Senna, once filling his legendary colleague's bed with frogs.

F1 star’s stolen Ferrari recovered after 28 years by UK police

Red Bull team chief Christian&nbsp;Horner&nbsp;was cleared Wednesday of wrongdoing following an investigation into complaints of inappropriate behaviour against him made by a female team member.&nbsp;

A statement from Austrian energy drinks brand Red Bull, the parent company of the world champion Formula One team, said the "grievance has been dismissed".

Horner, who has been team principal since 2005, denied the allegations made against him and was subjected to a lengthy interview by an independent London lawyer acting as investigator, who submitted a report to Red Bull.

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The lawyer's report was delivered on Tuesday and has been considered by Red Bull directors.

In a statement, Red Bull GmbH said: "The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr&nbsp;Horner&nbsp;is complete and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed.&nbsp;

"The complainant has a right of appeal. Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial.&nbsp;

"The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation and therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned.&nbsp;

"Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards."

Horner&nbsp;flew to Bahrain from London on Wednesday, but was not present at the circuit for a media day ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend.

He is expected to be on the pit wall for the opening practice sessions on Thursday.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported the allegation of "inappropriate behaviour" by a female member of staff for the British-based team earlier this month.

Asked about the accusations,&nbsp;Horner, 50, told De Telegraaf: "I completely deny these claims."

Formula One chiefs had said they wanted the issue resolved at the "earliest opportunity".

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff described the investigation as "an issue for all of Formula One" and called for transparency.

Under&nbsp;Horner's guidance, Red Bull have become the dominant force in Formula One, with Max Verstappen winning the past three drivers' titles.

Horner, who is married to former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, has been in charge of the team since they entered Formula One 19 years ago.

During that time he has overseen seven drivers' world championships and six constructors' titles.

Red Bull dominated the 2023 season, winning 21 of the 22 races as Verstappen defended his drivers' crown.

Red Bull team chief Christian Horner was cleared Wednesday of wrongdoing following an investigation into complaints of inappropriate behaviour against him made by a female team member.

Red Bull team chief Christian Horner was cleared Wednesday of wrongdoing following an investigation into complaints of inappropriate behaviour against him made by a female team member. A statement from Austrian energy drinks brand Red Bull, the parent company of the world champion Formula One team, said the "grievance has been dismissed". Horner, who has been team principal since 2005, denied the allegations made against him and was subjected to a lengthy interview by an independent London lawyer acting as investigator, who submitted a report to Red Bull. Also Read: Saudi investment fund PIF buys share in men’s tennis in strategic deal with ATP The lawyer's report was delivered on Tuesday and has been considered by Red Bull directors. In a statement, Red Bull GmbH said: "The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed. "The complainant has a right of appeal. Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial. "The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation and therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned. "Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards." Horner flew to Bahrain from London on Wednesday, but was not present at the circuit for a media day ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend. He is expected to be on the pit wall for the opening practice sessions on Thursday. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported the allegation of "inappropriate behaviour" by a female member of staff for the British-based team earlier this month. Asked about the accusations, Horner, 50, told De Telegraaf: "I completely deny these claims." Formula One chiefs had said they wanted the issue resolved at the "earliest opportunity". Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff described the investigation as "an issue for all of Formula One" and called for transparency. Under Horner's guidance, Red Bull have become the dominant force in Formula One, with Max Verstappen winning the past three drivers' titles. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, has been in charge of the team since they entered Formula One 19 years ago. During that time he has overseen seven drivers' world championships and six constructors' titles. Red Bull dominated the 2023 season, winning 21 of the 22 races as Verstappen defended his drivers' crown.

Formula 1: Red Bull boss Christian Horner cleared in 'inappropriate behaviour' case

Triple&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season. The 26-year-old Red Bull driver starts on Saturday as clear favourite, chasing his fourth successive championship, but even with his streak of success has found the calendar expansion to be wearing thin.

"From my side I’ve said it before -- this is not sustainable," Verstappen told reporters at the Bahrain International Circuit. "I love racing a lot and I do it a lot also outside of&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One. "But, if people in the sport start shortening their careers because it’s too much I think that’s a shame and so hopefully of course we can have a look at that for the future."

Formula&nbsp;One’s popularity has soared in recent years, driven in part by the success of Netflix show 'Drive to Survive'. The sport’s commercial rights holders Liberty Media have capitalised by adding new venues in the Middle East, some returning classics in Europe and three races in America, with Miami and Las Vegas joining long-time fixture Austin.

Teams have begun to rotate personnel to cope with the demands of such a long calendar while pre-season testing this year was reduced to just three days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-red-bull-boss-christian-horner-cleared-in-inappropriate-behaviour-case-694913">Formula 1: Red Bull boss Christian Horner cleared in 'inappropriate behaviour' case</a>

Spain's double world champion Fernando Alonso, 42, a veteran of the sport who made his debut in 2001, echoed Verstappen and recalled the days when the calendar featured less than 20 races.

"When I started we had 16 races, then it was 18 at some point, and then I think when Liberty came it was like a message that we have 20&nbsp;one&nbsp;season and that was absolutely the limit, 20 races," said the Aston Martin driver. "And now we are up to 24 and this is not sustainable for the future. "Even the world champion thinks this is a little bit long, the season. "Imagine for the rest of us, we go to the races in the second half for nothing, there is no incentive to fight for anything."

Triple Formula One champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season.

Triple Formula One champion Max Verstappen said on Wednesday the sport was "way over the limit" with the number of races on its calendar as he prepared to start a record 24-round season. The 26-year-old Red Bull driver starts on Saturday as clear favourite, chasing his fourth successive championship, but even with his streak of success has found the calendar expansion to be wearing thin. "From my side I’ve said it before -- this is not sustainable," Verstappen told reporters at the Bahrain International Circuit. "I love racing a lot and I do it a lot also outside of Formula One. "But, if people in the sport start shortening their careers because it’s too much I think that’s a shame and so hopefully of course we can have a look at that for the future." Formula One’s popularity has soared in recent years, driven in part by the success of Netflix show 'Drive to Survive'. The sport’s commercial rights holders Liberty Media have capitalised by adding new venues in the Middle East, some returning classics in Europe and three races in America, with Miami and Las Vegas joining long-time fixture Austin. Teams have begun to rotate personnel to cope with the demands of such a long calendar while pre-season testing this year was reduced to just three days. Also read: Formula 1: Red Bull boss Christian Horner cleared in 'inappropriate behaviour' case Spain's double world champion Fernando Alonso, 42, a veteran of the sport who made his debut in 2001, echoed Verstappen and recalled the days when the calendar featured less than 20 races. "When I started we had 16 races, then it was 18 at some point, and then I think when Liberty came it was like a message that we have 20 one season and that was absolutely the limit, 20 races," said the Aston Martin driver. "And now we are up to 24 and this is not sustainable for the future. "Even the world champion thinks this is a little bit long, the season. "Imagine for the rest of us, we go to the races in the second half for nothing, there is no incentive to fight for anything."

Bahrain GP: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen says F1 is over the limit with 24-race calendar

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season.

Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes.

"Lets see the car that rocks out on day&nbsp;one&nbsp;at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious.

"If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car."

Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-red-bull-team-boss-christian-horner-declares-business-as-normal-despite-allegations-691692">F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct</a>

PECKING ORDER

Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be.

There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with&nbsp;one&nbsp;car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races.

That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10.

Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track.

"I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season. Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes. "Lets see the car that rocks out on day one at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious. "If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car." Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. Also read: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct PECKING ORDER Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be. There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with one car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races. That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10. Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track. "I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Questions hang over Red Bull before F1 testing in Bahrain

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday. The Briton was as much in the spotlight as the shiny RB20 machine as he broke silence and faced the media for the first time since the emergence of accusations that threaten his future.

Taking centre stage at the Red Bull factory for a presentation celebrating the team's 20 years in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One, with seven drivers' titles and six constructors' championships, Horner suggested the future looked bright. The elephant in the room was not ignored for long, with Horner carrying out television interviews and media sessions and making clear he was still planning to be around for the long term.

"I deny the allegations, for me it's business as normal, I'm confident in that. If I wasn't, I wouldn’t be here," the 50-year-old told reporters. "I don't want to talk about the process. My focus and commitment is to the people and to the team and making sure that we're in the best shape possible for the season ahead," added the sport's longest-serving principal. "You can see that we've got a car that looks a great evolution from last year and we're going to have some very competitive rivals that are looking to beat us. My focus is very much on Bahrain next week."

Testing starts on Feb. 21 before the March 2 season-opener in Bahrain. Red Bull won all but&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the races last season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, would not discuss the allegations against him or a hearing that took place last week, and reporters were warned against asking.

Media reports have indicated the complaint related to inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature towards a female member of staff. The independent investigation was launched by Red Bull Austria, who have not disclosed where the complaint came from or what it was about. Sources have suggested the process could rumble on for some time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-country-is-extremely-difficult-as-a-woman-claims-india-womens-hockey-team-janneke-schopmann-691653">This country is extremely difficult as a woman, says India women’s hockey team coach Janneke Schopmann</a>

Horner, who attended a shakedown of the new car behind closed doors at Silverstone&nbsp;on Tuesday, said he was "absolutely committed" to the team. Asked whether he expected to be in Bahrain, Horner replied: "I am confident in the process and working with the process deny absolutely any allegation that's been made against me."

He said he had continued going to work as usual and felt 'overwhelming' support. "Moments of uncertainty, it brings a team together and I've never seen a team more together or more supportive than it is," said the Briton. "Everybody's focused on&nbsp;one&nbsp;thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we've worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years. The car is what everyone&nbsp;is invested in."

Verstappen, speaking separately to reporters, said the team spirit was better than ever and his relationship with Horner unchanged. "We've achieved a lot of things together so that doesn't change suddenly." he said.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the Formula One champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the Formula One champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday. The Briton was as much in the spotlight as the shiny RB20 machine as he broke silence and faced the media for the first time since the emergence of accusations that threaten his future. Taking centre stage at the Red Bull factory for a presentation celebrating the team's 20 years in Formula One, with seven drivers' titles and six constructors' championships, Horner suggested the future looked bright. The elephant in the room was not ignored for long, with Horner carrying out television interviews and media sessions and making clear he was still planning to be around for the long term. "I deny the allegations, for me it's business as normal, I'm confident in that. If I wasn't, I wouldn’t be here," the 50-year-old told reporters. "I don't want to talk about the process. My focus and commitment is to the people and to the team and making sure that we're in the best shape possible for the season ahead," added the sport's longest-serving principal. "You can see that we've got a car that looks a great evolution from last year and we're going to have some very competitive rivals that are looking to beat us. My focus is very much on Bahrain next week." Testing starts on Feb. 21 before the March 2 season-opener in Bahrain. Red Bull won all but one of the races last season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, would not discuss the allegations against him or a hearing that took place last week, and reporters were warned against asking. Media reports have indicated the complaint related to inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature towards a female member of staff. The independent investigation was launched by Red Bull Austria, who have not disclosed where the complaint came from or what it was about. Sources have suggested the process could rumble on for some time. Also read: This country is extremely difficult as a woman, says India women’s hockey team coach Janneke Schopmann Horner, who attended a shakedown of the new car behind closed doors at Silverstone on Tuesday, said he was "absolutely committed" to the team. Asked whether he expected to be in Bahrain, Horner replied: "I am confident in the process and working with the process deny absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." He said he had continued going to work as usual and felt 'overwhelming' support. "Moments of uncertainty, it brings a team together and I've never seen a team more together or more supportive than it is," said the Briton. "Everybody's focused on one thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we've worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years. The car is what everyone is invested in." Verstappen, speaking separately to reporters, said the team spirit was better than ever and his relationship with Horner unchanged. "We've achieved a lot of things together so that doesn't change suddenly." he said.

F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct

McLaren's Lando Norris said he was optimistic&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;champions Red Bull and Max Verstappen could be beaten this season but doing it repeatedly would be another matter. Red Bull won 21 of 22 races last year in the most dominant of championships, with only Ferrari's Carlos Sainz denying them a clean sweep, and triple world champion Verstappen triumphant a record 19 times.

Norris finished second six times and third once with team mate Oscar Piastri also runner-up in Qatar -- where the Australian won the sprint race -- as McLaren ended the season strongly after a slow start. The drivers were asked, after giving the new MCL38 car its first laps at a damp Silverstone&nbsp;on Wednesday, about their chances against Red Bull.

Aston Martin's technical director Dan Fallows had said earlier in the week that he considered Red Bull to be 'absolutely beatable' and the McLaren drivers agreed. "If you were to say 'are they beatable?' you're going to have to say yes, I think we want to believe to say yes, because we were very close at certain times (in 2023) and at certain times we did beat them," said Norris.

"The question is can we beat them over a season because I think that's going to be the challenging thing and I think that's going to be very difficult to do with how well they are performing. "So, yeah, optimistic. Possible to beat them at certain times, I want to believe so. Yes."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-signing-lewis-hamilton-a-huge-opportunity-for-ferrari-reckons-team-boss-fred-vasseu-690251">Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a ‘huge opportunity’ for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseur</a>

Piastri agreed and said the team could be very optimistic if they could maintain the rate of development. "We also have to be aware it's not just Red Bull we're fighting," he added. "We were in a very intense battle with Mercedes and Ferrari especially in the second half of the year in terms of championship points.

"I think there will be other top teams making progress as well," added the Australian. Team principal Andrea Stella said he expected Red Bull to start the season in Bahrain on March 2 still "enjoying some advantage" because they had been able to switch their focus to the new car early in 2023.

Both drivers said their first impressions of the new car were positive, even if the track was wet and the tyres unrepresentative. "The main thing is I jumped in and felt very comfortable straight away, no surprises or anything," said Norris. "As these kind of days go, it was smooth sailing," said Piastri.

McLaren's Lando Norris said he was optimistic Formula One champions Red Bull and Max Verstappen could be beaten this season but doing it repeatedly would be another matter.

McLaren's Lando Norris said he was optimistic Formula One champions Red Bull and Max Verstappen could be beaten this season but doing it repeatedly would be another matter. Red Bull won 21 of 22 races last year in the most dominant of championships, with only Ferrari's Carlos Sainz denying them a clean sweep, and triple world champion Verstappen triumphant a record 19 times. Norris finished second six times and third once with team mate Oscar Piastri also runner-up in Qatar -- where the Australian won the sprint race -- as McLaren ended the season strongly after a slow start. The drivers were asked, after giving the new MCL38 car its first laps at a damp Silverstone on Wednesday, about their chances against Red Bull. Aston Martin's technical director Dan Fallows had said earlier in the week that he considered Red Bull to be 'absolutely beatable' and the McLaren drivers agreed. "If you were to say 'are they beatable?' you're going to have to say yes, I think we want to believe to say yes, because we were very close at certain times (in 2023) and at certain times we did beat them," said Norris. "The question is can we beat them over a season because I think that's going to be the challenging thing and I think that's going to be very difficult to do with how well they are performing. "So, yeah, optimistic. Possible to beat them at certain times, I want to believe so. Yes." Also read: Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a ‘huge opportunity’ for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseur Piastri agreed and said the team could be very optimistic if they could maintain the rate of development. "We also have to be aware it's not just Red Bull we're fighting," he added. "We were in a very intense battle with Mercedes and Ferrari especially in the second half of the year in terms of championship points. "I think there will be other top teams making progress as well," added the Australian. Team principal Andrea Stella said he expected Red Bull to start the season in Bahrain on March 2 still "enjoying some advantage" because they had been able to switch their focus to the new car early in 2023. Both drivers said their first impressions of the new car were positive, even if the track was wet and the tyres unrepresentative. "The main thing is I jumped in and felt very comfortable straight away, no surprises or anything," said Norris. "As these kind of days go, it was smooth sailing," said Piastri.

Formula One: Lando Norris optimistic McLaren can beat dominant Red Bull

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari. The 39-year-old had signed a new two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million ($126 million) in August. But&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;recently activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian team after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down.

Speaking at the Mercedes launch for the first time since his blockbuster move was confirmed,&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said: "The last few weeks have obviously been emotional and it is very surreal to be here. "The focus through the whole of winter training is getting the team back to where we once were. We have had these difficult couple of years which have been really grounding for us. It has helped us regroup and really look at things."

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, standing alongside&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;at the launch, added: "It has been a very busy winter. It will be our last season with Lewis so we are keen on bringing a quick car." Hamilton, who joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, won six of his record-equalling seven world championships with the Silver Arrows. But the British driver has struggled to match Red Bull rival Max Verstappen since he missed out on what would have been a record eighth world championship in 2021 in controversial fashion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-signing-lewis-hamilton-a-huge-opportunity-for-ferrari-reckons-team-boss-fred-vasseu-690251">Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a 'huge opportunity' for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseu</a>

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F1 2024. Here we come 👊 <a href="https://t.co/vvYL8BAx6P">pic.twitter.com/vvYL8BAx6P</a>
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His long goodbye to Mercedes made for an awkward final car launch at the team's Northamptonshire base.&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;answered just three questions from the Mercedes moderator during the brief nine-minute event. "I came here in 2013 so 11 years with the team and now I am starting my 12th," he said. "It is such a privilege to work with a group of people where you see the work they do over the winter and you see a car come together at the beginning of the year and it is the most exciting part of the season."

Hamilton, without a win in two years, and team-mate George Russell, will get their first taste of this season's Mercedes car during a shakedown test at rain-lashed Silverstone on Wednesday.

"We have to be diligent, maximise practice and even one lap, George and I might get in the rain today will give us a feeling of what is to come,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said.

Lewis Hamilton admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari. The 39-year-old had signed a new two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million ($126 million) in August. But Hamilton recently activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian team after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down. Speaking at the Mercedes launch for the first time since his blockbuster move was confirmed, Hamilton said: "The last few weeks have obviously been emotional and it is very surreal to be here. "The focus through the whole of winter training is getting the team back to where we once were. We have had these difficult couple of years which have been really grounding for us. It has helped us regroup and really look at things." Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, standing alongside Hamilton at the launch, added: "It has been a very busy winter. It will be our last season with Lewis so we are keen on bringing a quick car." Hamilton, who joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, won six of his record-equalling seven world championships with the Silver Arrows. But the British driver has struggled to match Red Bull rival Max Verstappen since he missed out on what would have been a record eighth world championship in 2021 in controversial fashion. Also read: Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a 'huge opportunity' for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseu F1 2024. Here we come 👊 pic.twitter.com/vvYL8BAx6P — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 14, 2024 × His long goodbye to Mercedes made for an awkward final car launch at the team's Northamptonshire base. Hamilton answered just three questions from the Mercedes moderator during the brief nine-minute event. "I came here in 2013 so 11 years with the team and now I am starting my 12th," he said. "It is such a privilege to work with a group of people where you see the work they do over the winter and you see a car come together at the beginning of the year and it is the most exciting part of the season." Hamilton, without a win in two years, and team-mate George Russell, will get their first taste of this season's Mercedes car during a shakedown test at rain-lashed Silverstone on Wednesday. "We have to be diligent, maximise practice and even one lap, George and I might get in the rain today will give us a feeling of what is to come," Hamilton said.

F1: ‘Emotional’ Lewis Hamilton unveils Mercedes 2024 car

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move. However, nothing came out of it but this time around, the move got confirmed after&nbsp;Hamilton resorted to an escape clause in his contract with Mercedes to leave the team in 2025 for Ferrari. Now, Ferrari team boss Fred&nbsp;Vasseur reacted on the signing of Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, and feels 'it is a huge opportunity' for the team going ahead.&nbsp;

Talking to the reporters on Tuesday (Feb 13), Vasseur said, "A huge opportunity for the team, for sure. We are sure that he will bring us a decent step for the future and it will be a good challenge for everybody." Hamilton's move to Ferrari also confirmed&nbsp;that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari&nbsp;at the end of the 2024 season. Vasseur also reacted to Sainz's departure.

Vasseur admitted that it was a tough call for him to tell Sainz that they had signed Hamilton.&nbsp;"As you can imagine it was not the easiest call of my life," he recalled his&nbsp;conversation with Sainz. "One of the most difficult was the one with Toto," Vasseur added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-one-of-the-hardest-decisions-lewis-hamilton-on-leaving-mercedes-to-join-ferrari-in-2025-686192">Formula One: 'One of the hardest decisions' - Lewis Hamilton on leaving Mercedes and joining Ferrari</a>

<h2>'I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family'</h2>

Early this month, Hamilton confirmed his departure from Mercedes and said&nbsp;in a statement shared from his current team, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember."

Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes in last August, however, the veteran driver used a release option that could be activated to allow him an early exit. He has won six world championships with Mercedes. The 39-year-old&nbsp;will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for 2025.

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move.

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move. However, nothing came out of it but this time around, the move got confirmed after Hamilton resorted to an escape clause in his contract with Mercedes to leave the team in 2025 for Ferrari. Now, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur reacted on the signing of Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, and feels 'it is a huge opportunity' for the team going ahead. Talking to the reporters on Tuesday (Feb 13), Vasseur said, "A huge opportunity for the team, for sure. We are sure that he will bring us a decent step for the future and it will be a good challenge for everybody." Hamilton's move to Ferrari also confirmed that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season. Vasseur also reacted to Sainz's departure. Vasseur admitted that it was a tough call for him to tell Sainz that they had signed Hamilton. "As you can imagine it was not the easiest call of my life," he recalled his conversation with Sainz. "One of the most difficult was the one with Toto," Vasseur added. Also read: Formula One: 'One of the hardest decisions' - Lewis Hamilton on leaving Mercedes and joining Ferrari 'I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family' Early this month, Hamilton confirmed his departure from Mercedes and said in a statement shared from his current team, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember." Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes in last August, however, the veteran driver used a release option that could be activated to allow him an early exit. He has won six world championships with Mercedes. The 39-year-old will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand, Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for 2025.

Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a ‘huge opportunity’ for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseur

Fernando Alonso feels he could be fit enough to race in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;until he is 50, with Aston Martin already keen on extending his contract to 2026, but is unsure how long he wants to continue. The 42-year-old Spaniard is signed to the end of 2024 but already talked of as a possible successor to Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes when the seven-times champion joins Ferrari next year.

Few&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;drivers have competed in their 40s in the modern era, although 1992 champion Nigel Mansell was a race winner at 41 in 1994. Double world champion Alonso is the most experienced of all time and the oldest on the current grid, starting his 22nd season and 378th race in March. He told reporters ahead of Monday's launch of Aston Martin's AMR24 F1 car that he was fitter than ever.

"The numbers we achieve in all the physical tests that we do every season, they were the best ever this year," said the winner of 32 grands prix, who has added a nutritionist to his team. He said he needed to prepare himself better than ever to be fully ready if he were to commit to a project for years to come. "I will not drive a few more years in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;just to drive and to have fun. I am not that kind of driver, I'm not that kind of person," he said.

One&nbsp;of three active world champions but the only&nbsp;one&nbsp;still on the market for 2025, Alonso said he would talk first with Aston Martin if he decided to continue. "A few years ago I would say that maybe 42 or 41 was the limit. Now after I saw myself last year motivated and performing well, I was thinking maybe that I can keep racing a few more years," he said. "Now this winter I've been exceeding a little bit the expectations in terms of all the physical tests and everything that I did, so I would say that if you are motivated and if you want to commit you can drive maybe until 48 or 49 or even 50.

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"But at the same time you have to give up everything in life.&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;needs total dedication... and I gave my life for 24 years to this sport, which I'm happy and okay with. "I can keep doing it for a few more years but I don't know if I will be racing until 50 with such a demanding calendar and things like that. Not for the ability, but because there are other things in life that I am curious (about)."

Alonso ended last season fourth overall and stood on the podium eight times -- three second places and five thirds. Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack recognised Hamilton's move had made the driver market more complicated but told reporters: "We love Fernando, we have a very good relationship... we would be delighted, honestly, to continue with Fernando into 2025 and the year after."

Fernando Alonso feels he could be fit enough to race in Formula One until he is 50, with Aston Martin already keen on extending his contract to 2026, but is unsure how long he wants to continue.

Fernando Alonso feels he could be fit enough to race in Formula One until he is 50, with Aston Martin already keen on extending his contract to 2026, but is unsure how long he wants to continue. The 42-year-old Spaniard is signed to the end of 2024 but already talked of as a possible successor to Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes when the seven-times champion joins Ferrari next year. Few Formula One drivers have competed in their 40s in the modern era, although 1992 champion Nigel Mansell was a race winner at 41 in 1994. Double world champion Alonso is the most experienced of all time and the oldest on the current grid, starting his 22nd season and 378th race in March. He told reporters ahead of Monday's launch of Aston Martin's AMR24 F1 car that he was fitter than ever. "The numbers we achieve in all the physical tests that we do every season, they were the best ever this year," said the winner of 32 grands prix, who has added a nutritionist to his team. He said he needed to prepare himself better than ever to be fully ready if he were to commit to a project for years to come. "I will not drive a few more years in Formula One just to drive and to have fun. I am not that kind of driver, I'm not that kind of person," he said. One of three active world champions but the only one still on the market for 2025, Alonso said he would talk first with Aston Martin if he decided to continue. "A few years ago I would say that maybe 42 or 41 was the limit. Now after I saw myself last year motivated and performing well, I was thinking maybe that I can keep racing a few more years," he said. "Now this winter I've been exceeding a little bit the expectations in terms of all the physical tests and everything that I did, so I would say that if you are motivated and if you want to commit you can drive maybe until 48 or 49 or even 50. Also read: Explained: How Patrick Mahomes is ensuring Kansas City Chiefs to be qualified as dynasty sooner than later "But at the same time you have to give up everything in life. Formula One needs total dedication... and I gave my life for 24 years to this sport, which I'm happy and okay with. "I can keep doing it for a few more years but I don't know if I will be racing until 50 with such a demanding calendar and things like that. Not for the ability, but because there are other things in life that I am curious (about)." Alonso ended last season fourth overall and stood on the podium eight times -- three second places and five thirds. Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack recognised Hamilton's move had made the driver market more complicated but told reporters: "We love Fernando, we have a very good relationship... we would be delighted, honestly, to continue with Fernando into 2025 and the year after."

Formula One: Fernando Alonso feels he can be fit to race until 50, if motivated

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9). Horner, accused of inappropriate behaviour was called in for his first internal investigation in London on Friday which lasted for eight hours. Red Bull GmbH, the Austrian parent company of the F1 team has taken the allegations seriously and has launched an independent investigation into the matter.

<h2>Horner investigated for allegations</h2>

Having hired an external specialist barrister to investigate the matter, Horner was in the office for eight hours during which he was questioned on the allegations made against him. It is claimed that Horner has denied all allegations and seeks innocence in the matter. He has denied the allegations "entirely", maintains his innocence and wants to clear his name.

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The internal investigation is a hot topic of discussion considering Red Bulls are set to launch their car for the 2024 season in just six days. With the F1 pre-season testing set to take place in Bahrain on February 20, the defending champions will look to close the matter swiftly with the start of the new season not too far.

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Allegations against Horner have been deemed serious by the F1 champions as tough time awaits them in the near future. The 50-year-old British team principal is one of the most successful people in the sport having led Red Bull to seven Formula One driver’s titles while also securing six constructors' triumphs. He has been with the company since 2005 when they first entered the F1 circuit.

"After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” Red Bull said in a statement released on Monday confirming the investigation.

"This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister.

"The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time," they added.

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9).

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9). Horner, accused of inappropriate behaviour was called in for his first internal investigation in London on Friday which lasted for eight hours. Red Bull GmbH, the Austrian parent company of the F1 team has taken the allegations seriously and has launched an independent investigation into the matter. Horner investigated for allegations Having hired an external specialist barrister to investigate the matter, Horner was in the office for eight hours during which he was questioned on the allegations made against him. It is claimed that Horner has denied all allegations and seeks innocence in the matter. He has denied the allegations "entirely", maintains his innocence and wants to clear his name. × The internal investigation is a hot topic of discussion considering Red Bulls are set to launch their car for the 2024 season in just six days. With the F1 pre-season testing set to take place in Bahrain on February 20, the defending champions will look to close the matter swiftly with the start of the new season not too far. ALSO READ | Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail Allegations against Horner have been deemed serious by the F1 champions as tough time awaits them in the near future. The 50-year-old British team principal is one of the most successful people in the sport having led Red Bull to seven Formula One driver’s titles while also securing six constructors' triumphs. He has been with the company since 2005 when they first entered the F1 circuit. "After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” Red Bull said in a statement released on Monday confirming the investigation. "This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. "The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time," they added.

Formula One: No resolution reached after eight-hour investigation with Red Bull's Christian Horner

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season. The announcement made on Thursday (Feb 1) will see the seven-time Formula One champion head to enemy territory of Ferrari leaving former Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas surprised. According to Bottas, he was shocked by Hamilton’s switch to the red brand of F1 and thought it would never happen.

<h2>Bottas surprised by Hamilton’s switch</h2>

"I never thought it would happen," Bottas said while speaking in London for his Sauber-run Stake F1 team on Monday night.

"I thought in my mind he would stay at Mercedes but that’s Formula One. Things happen and I think that it’s good for him because he’s obviously made the decision and it’s a fresh, new start."

"It’s a big move in F1 which is going to create some movement as well on the drivers’ market for sure," the Bottas added.&nbsp;

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Bottas and Hamilton were teammates at Mercedes for four years between 2017 and 2021 and shared a successful stint where the British driver clinched four consecutive Formula One titles including his record-equalling seventh title.

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Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes for his last season. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outpowered by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap.

Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points finishing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One.

The latest season of the F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season.

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season. The announcement made on Thursday (Feb 1) will see the seven-time Formula One champion head to enemy territory of Ferrari leaving former Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas surprised. According to Bottas, he was shocked by Hamilton’s switch to the red brand of F1 and thought it would never happen. Bottas surprised by Hamilton’s switch "I never thought it would happen," Bottas said while speaking in London for his Sauber-run Stake F1 team on Monday night. "I thought in my mind he would stay at Mercedes but that’s Formula One. Things happen and I think that it’s good for him because he’s obviously made the decision and it’s a fresh, new start." "It’s a big move in F1 which is going to create some movement as well on the drivers’ market for sure," the Bottas added. × Bottas and Hamilton were teammates at Mercedes for four years between 2017 and 2021 and shared a successful stint where the British driver clinched four consecutive Formula One titles including his record-equalling seventh title. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes for his last season. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outpowered by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap. Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points finishing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One. The latest season of the F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Formula One: I never thought it would happen - Valtteri Bottas opines on Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari switch

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025. Now, it has been confirmed that the British driver is parting ways with Mercedes and will become a part of Ferrari from next year onwards.&nbsp;Notably, he&nbsp;signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last August, however,&nbsp;there was a release option that could be activated to allow him an early release.

Hamilton, thus, used the option to join Ferrari. He will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season. Both parties reacted to the development, on social media platform X, on Friday (Feb 2).&nbsp;

"The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last August and this season will therefore be his last driving for the Silver Arrows."

"The news brings an end to what is currently a 17-year long relationship in F1 with Mercedes-Benz and an 11-year long partnership with the works team," read the statement from Mercedes.

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Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last year.
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"Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract," read the statement.

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Hamilton will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for the 2025 season.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-kobbie-mainoo-stars-in-dramatic-man-united-win-at-wolves-west-ham-fight-back-to-draw-with-bournemouth-686185">PL: Kobbie Mainoo stars in dramatic Man United win at Wolves, West Ham fight back to draw with Bournemouth</a>

<h2>'Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13'</h2>

Hamilton reacted to his departure from Mercedes and said&nbsp;in the Mercedes statement, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember."

The seven-time world champion's decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari also confirms that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari&nbsp;at the end of the 2024 season.

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025.

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025. Now, it has been confirmed that the British driver is parting ways with Mercedes and will become a part of Ferrari from next year onwards. Notably, he signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last August, however, there was a release option that could be activated to allow him an early release. Hamilton, thus, used the option to join Ferrari. He will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season. Both parties reacted to the development, on social media platform X, on Friday (Feb 2). "The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last August and this season will therefore be his last driving for the Silver Arrows." "The news brings an end to what is currently a 17-year long relationship in F1 with Mercedes-Benz and an 11-year long partnership with the works team," read the statement from Mercedes. Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last year. — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 1, 2024 × "Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract," read the statement. Team Statement Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract. pic.twitter.com/moEMqUgzXH — Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) February 1, 2024 × Hamilton will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand, Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for the 2025 season. Also read: PL: Kobbie Mainoo stars in dramatic Man United win at Wolves, West Ham fight back to draw with Bournemouth 'Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13' Hamilton reacted to his departure from Mercedes and said in the Mercedes statement, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember." The seven-time world champion's decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari also confirms that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season.

Formula One: 'One of the hardest decisions' - Lewis Hamilton on leaving Mercedes and joining Ferrari

Mercedes&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team boss and co-owner Toto Wolff has signed a three-year deal to lead the former world champions into the sport's new engine era in 2026, he said on Monday. The 52-year-old Austrian told the Daily Telegraph in an interview that he still felt he was the best man for the job and co-owners Mercedes and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, boss of Ineos, agreed.

"At the end of the day, as a shareholder myself, I want the best return on investment. And the best return on investment is winning," said Wolff. "I’m not going to try to hang on to a position that I think somebody is going to do better than me. I make sure that I have people around who can tell me otherwise. In the end the three of us decided: 'Let’s do it again'."

Mercedes won an unprecedented eight constructors' titles in a row from 2014 to 2021 but finished third in 2022 and runners-up last year. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton has not won a race since 2021 while the team's last grand prix victory was by George Russell in Brazil in 2022. Wolff said he was hopeful the 2024 car would be more competitive after two years of domination by Red Bull and triple champion Max Verstappen. The Austrian quoted former racer Anthony Davidson, who still serves as a simulator driver for Mercedes, reporting that the car "feels like a car for the first time in two years" after driving the Australian GP layout.

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Wolff was also adamant that Hamilton, now 39, could still win a record eighth title.

"His ability is on a different level. If we are able to give him a car that he actually feels, that drives in a way that he can trust, he will be on the level that’s needed to win the championship. 39 is no age."

Mercedes Formula One team boss and co-owner Toto Wolff has signed a three-year deal to lead the former world champions into the sport's new engine era in 2026, he said on Monday.

Mercedes Formula One team boss and co-owner Toto Wolff has signed a three-year deal to lead the former world champions into the sport's new engine era in 2026, he said on Monday. The 52-year-old Austrian told the Daily Telegraph in an interview that he still felt he was the best man for the job and co-owners Mercedes and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, boss of Ineos, agreed. "At the end of the day, as a shareholder myself, I want the best return on investment. And the best return on investment is winning," said Wolff. "I’m not going to try to hang on to a position that I think somebody is going to do better than me. I make sure that I have people around who can tell me otherwise. In the end the three of us decided: 'Let’s do it again'." Mercedes won an unprecedented eight constructors' titles in a row from 2014 to 2021 but finished third in 2022 and runners-up last year. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton has not won a race since 2021 while the team's last grand prix victory was by George Russell in Brazil in 2022. Wolff said he was hopeful the 2024 car would be more competitive after two years of domination by Red Bull and triple champion Max Verstappen. The Austrian quoted former racer Anthony Davidson, who still serves as a simulator driver for Mercedes, reporting that the car "feels like a car for the first time in two years" after driving the Australian GP layout. Also read: Australian Open: Iga Swiatek battles through tough test against former champion Sofia Kenin Wolff was also adamant that Hamilton, now 39, could still win a record eighth title. "His ability is on a different level. If we are able to give him a car that he actually feels, that drives in a way that he can trust, he will be on the level that’s needed to win the championship. 39 is no age."

Toto Wolff signs three-year extension with Mercedes F1 team

Ten teams from around the world will compete in the new Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL), which will be a ground-breaking autonomous racing series starting in April 2024.

Abu Dhabi sets date for driverless race | AI cars on F1 track coming soon

The Renault-owned Alpine&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team announced on Tuesday the departure of former racing director Davide Brivio at the end of the year amid speculation the Italian was heading back to MotoGP. Brivio joined Alpine in 2021 after leaving then-MotoGP champions Suzuki where he had been team boss. The 59-year-old had also previously been the team manager for the factory Yamaha outfit when MotoGP great Valentino Rossi was the star rider.

Media speculation has linked him to former champions Repsol Honda in MotoGP, with that team recently signing Rossi's half-brother Luca Marini. Brivio was most recently director of racing expansion projects at Alpine, including the young driver programme.

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The team went through a major management change this year with the departures of team principal Otmar Szafnauer, CEO Laurent Rossi, sporting director Alan Permane and chief technical officer Pat Fry. The Enstone-based team finished the season sixth after ending up fourth in 2022.

"It has been a proud chapter in my motorsport career to be involved in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;with Alpine," Brivio said in a team statement. "I am grateful to Alpine for accommodating my wish to pursue other opportunities which may (and I hope that they will) arise in the future."

The Renault-owned Alpine Formula One team announced on Tuesday the departure of former racing director Davide Brivio at the end of the year amid speculation the Italian was heading back to MotoGP.

The Renault-owned Alpine Formula One team announced on Tuesday the departure of former racing director Davide Brivio at the end of the year amid speculation the Italian was heading back to MotoGP. Brivio joined Alpine in 2021 after leaving then-MotoGP champions Suzuki where he had been team boss. The 59-year-old had also previously been the team manager for the factory Yamaha outfit when MotoGP great Valentino Rossi was the star rider. Media speculation has linked him to former champions Repsol Honda in MotoGP, with that team recently signing Rossi's half-brother Luca Marini. Brivio was most recently director of racing expansion projects at Alpine, including the young driver programme. Also read: Golf: 'Kept entirely in the dark' - PGA members demand information about Tour's future The team went through a major management change this year with the departures of team principal Otmar Szafnauer, CEO Laurent Rossi, sporting director Alan Permane and chief technical officer Pat Fry. The Enstone-based team finished the season sixth after ending up fourth in 2022. "It has been a proud chapter in my motorsport career to be involved in Formula One with Alpine," Brivio said in a team statement. "I am grateful to Alpine for accommodating my wish to pursue other opportunities which may (and I hope that they will) arise in the future."

F1: Davide Brivio to leave Alpine F1 amid speculation of MotoGP return

Former Formula One supremo&nbsp;Bernie&nbsp;Ecclestone&nbsp;on Thursday pleaded guilty in a UK court to charges of failing to declare a multi-million-pound trust in Singapore to the British tax authorities. The 92-year-old, wearing a dark suit and grey tie, told London's Southwark Crown court: "I plead guilty."&nbsp;

Ecclestone&nbsp;was charged last year over an alleged failure to declare more than £400 million ($453 million) of overseas assets to the UK government in 2015, and was due to stand trial in November.&nbsp;

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The British businessman, whose financial net worth has been estimated at some $3 billion, is widely credited with transforming F1 commercially.

His control of the sport developed from the sale of television rights in the 1970s and he was chief executive of Formula One Group until January 2017.&nbsp;

The Crown Prosecution Service, which brings charges in England and Wales, said it brought the case for "fraud by false representation" after a "complex and worldwide" investigation by HM Revenue and Customs.

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Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone on Thursday pleaded guilty in a UK court to charges of failing to declare a multi-million-pound trust in Singapore to the British tax authorities.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone on Thursday pleaded guilty in a UK court to charges of failing to declare a multi-million-pound trust in Singapore to the British tax authorities. The 92-year-old, wearing a dark suit and grey tie, told London's Southwark Crown court: "I plead guilty." Ecclestone was charged last year over an alleged failure to declare more than £400 million ($453 million) of overseas assets to the UK government in 2015, and was due to stand trial in November. Also Read: WATCH | Dallas Mavericks go 30-0 vs Oklahoma City Thunder to create history; still end up losing The British businessman, whose financial net worth has been estimated at some $3 billion, is widely credited with transforming F1 commercially. His control of the sport developed from the sale of television rights in the 1970s and he was chief executive of Formula One Group until January 2017. The Crown Prosecution Service, which brings charges in England and Wales, said it brought the case for "fraud by false representation" after a "complex and worldwide" investigation by HM Revenue and Customs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Chief executive Bernie Eccelestone admits to pay more than US $790 million

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The three-time world champion came home 17.993 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc whose bold drive was not enough for the Italian team to claim the runners-up place in the constructors’ championship.

That went, finally, to Mercedes by just three points as although Sergio Perez came home second behind Verstappen on the road he was relegated to fourth with a five-second penalty, for a mid-race clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris, which promoted George Russell to third.

Norris was fifth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, Yuki Tsunoda of Alpha Tauri and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes.

Verstappen ended the season as the only driver to complete every lap of the season, more than 1000 laps led, and also broke Jim Clark’s 1963 record for the highest percentage of laps led in a season.

“An incredible season,” said Verstappen, who also paid tribute to retirement-bound Alpha Tauri boss Franz Tost who nurtured his early F1 career. “I felt quite emotional on the in-lap as it’s the last time in this car that has given me such a lot.

Russell said: “It was really tense at the end as the tyres were dropping off, but it’s a massive relief to bring the car home P3. It means a huge amount to so many people back at the factory.”

Leclerc, who slowed to allow Perez to pass him in the closing laps, said: “He had a penalty and we had to help him finish in front of George with the five seconds… but, unfortunately, it wasn’t enough… It’s a shame we finished third.”

The race began in hot conditions, with an air temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and the track cooling rapidly as the sun went down and the floodlights blazed on the Yas Marina Circuit. The top 12 cars started on medium compound tyres.

The Dutchman led from pole and fended off three early challenges from Leclerc to open up a one second lead before Drag Reduction System (DRS) was enabled on lap three when Perez swept inside Hamilton for ninth and Norris passed Piastri for third, having already passed Russell.

As the leaders all pitted for hards, Yuki Tsunoda took over on lap 18, giving Alpha Tauri and Tost a memorable moment, only the second time a Japanese driver had led a Formula One race.

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He stayed there as Verstappen weaved his way back to the front, finally taking control again on lap 23 when Tsunoda pitted, returning in 12th behind Hamilton, who survived an early bump into the rear of Pierre Gasly’s Alpine with front wing damage.

By lap 30, it was a familiar story. Verstappen led Leclerc by 6.5 seconds with Russell 2.1 behind in third and Norris fourth. Hamilton was eighth and Sainz 14th.

As the second stops began, Norris pitted again on lap 34, taking fresh hards. He re-joined 10th. Mercedes responded, bringing Russell in – and he came out in P9 while Hamilton battled Alonso for ninth and Sainz, on an aggressive strategy, rose to eighth.

As it stood, it was advantage Ferrari again while, at the front, Verstappen came in again on lap 44, retaining his lead to emerge with a 15-lap cruise to the flag before Hamilton passed Sainz for ninth with 10 laps to go.

It was advantage Mercedes again, but when Russell was passed by Perez, for third, the ‘silver arrows’ hopes hung on the five-second penalty the Mexican was given for an earlier clash with Norris as the flag came out for Verstappen.

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen completed a majestic and record-breaking season in familiar style on Sunday when he cruised to a record-increasing 19th win of the year for Red Bull at an action-packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The three-time world champion came home 17.993 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc whose bold drive was not enough for the Italian team to claim the runners-up place in the constructors’ championship. That went, finally, to Mercedes by just three points as although Sergio Perez came home second behind Verstappen on the road he was relegated to fourth with a five-second penalty, for a mid-race clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris, which promoted George Russell to third. Norris was fifth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, Yuki Tsunoda of Alpha Tauri and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes. Verstappen ended the season as the only driver to complete every lap of the season, more than 1000 laps led, and also broke Jim Clark’s 1963 record for the highest percentage of laps led in a season. “An incredible season,” said Verstappen, who also paid tribute to retirement-bound Alpha Tauri boss Franz Tost who nurtured his early F1 career. “I felt quite emotional on the in-lap as it’s the last time in this car that has given me such a lot. Russell said: “It was really tense at the end as the tyres were dropping off, but it’s a massive relief to bring the car home P3. It means a huge amount to so many people back at the factory.” Leclerc, who slowed to allow Perez to pass him in the closing laps, said: “He had a penalty and we had to help him finish in front of George with the five seconds… but, unfortunately, it wasn’t enough… It’s a shame we finished third.” The race began in hot conditions, with an air temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and the track cooling rapidly as the sun went down and the floodlights blazed on the Yas Marina Circuit. The top 12 cars started on medium compound tyres. The Dutchman led from pole and fended off three early challenges from Leclerc to open up a one second lead before Drag Reduction System (DRS) was enabled on lap three when Perez swept inside Hamilton for ninth and Norris passed Piastri for third, having already passed Russell. As the leaders all pitted for hards, Yuki Tsunoda took over on lap 18, giving Alpha Tauri and Tost a memorable moment, only the second time a Japanese driver had led a Formula One race. ALSO READ: Lakers beat Cavaliers for third straight win on road; 76ers hold off Oklahoma City Thunder He stayed there as Verstappen weaved his way back to the front, finally taking control again on lap 23 when Tsunoda pitted, returning in 12th behind Hamilton, who survived an early bump into the rear of Pierre Gasly’s Alpine with front wing damage. By lap 30, it was a familiar story. Verstappen led Leclerc by 6.5 seconds with Russell 2.1 behind in third and Norris fourth. Hamilton was eighth and Sainz 14th. As the second stops began, Norris pitted again on lap 34, taking fresh hards. He re-joined 10th. Mercedes responded, bringing Russell in – and he came out in P9 while Hamilton battled Alonso for ninth and Sainz, on an aggressive strategy, rose to eighth. As it stood, it was advantage Ferrari again while, at the front, Verstappen came in again on lap 44, retaining his lead to emerge with a 15-lap cruise to the flag before Hamilton passed Sainz for ninth with 10 laps to go. It was advantage Mercedes again, but when Russell was passed by Perez, for third, the ‘silver arrows’ hopes hung on the five-second penalty the Mexican was given for an earlier clash with Norris as the flag came out for Verstappen.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen caps off majestic season with record-breaking win at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

In the high-octane world of Formula 1, Red Bull Racing is orchestrating a masterful performance that propels its energy drink sales into overdrive, leaving competitors in the dust.&nbsp;

With a staggering 19 out of 20 Grand Prix victories this season, Red Bull's dominance isn't merely a win; it's a checkered flag waved with the flair of a seasoned racing champion, echoing through the corridors of the energy drink market.

Undoubtedly, Red Bull Racing has become the roaring engine of the energy drink's global advertising campaign, burning rubber and leaving an indelible mark on millions of fans during 23 high-speed race weekends each year. This isn't just motorsport; it's a strategic spectacle designed to captivate audiences and elevate the Red Bull brand to new heights.

As the maestro of Red Bull Racing, Max Verstappen, clinched his third title in early October, the team secured the constructors championship in Japan, executing flawless pit stops and overtaking competitors with the finesse of a well-tuned racing machine. This isn't just a team; it's a billion-dollar powerhouse that understands the art of winning both on and off the track.

While specific sales metrics remain guarded, Red Bull isn't merely selling energy drinks; it's offering consumers a front-row seat to the thrilling spectacle of speed, power, and the sweet taste of victory.&nbsp;

In the fiercely competitive energy drink market, where every drop counts, Red Bull's Formula 1 dominance isn't just a marketing strategy; it's a podium finish.&nbsp;

The team's relentless pursuit of excellence mirrors the very qualities that consumers seek in their energy boost – the adrenaline rush of a high-speed chase, the precision of a perfectly executed pit stop, and the taste of triumph.

As the Formula 1 season hurtles towards its grand finale, Red Bull Racing isn't just leading the pack; it's setting the track ablaze, leaving rivals in the rearview mirror.&nbsp;

In the world of energy drinks, Red Bull Racing isn't just a team; it's a roaring testament to the fusion of speed, precision, and the unrivaled taste of victory.&nbsp;

For the business-savvy audience with a thrill for motorsport, Red Bull is the undisputed champion, turning each race into a billion-dollar spectacle that transcends the racetrack and ignites the market.

In the high-octane world of Formula 1, Red Bull Racing is orchestrating a masterful performance that propels its energy drink sales into overdrive, leaving competitors in the dust.

In the high-octane world of Formula 1, Red Bull Racing is orchestrating a masterful performance that propels its energy drink sales into overdrive, leaving competitors in the dust. With a staggering 19 out of 20 Grand Prix victories this season, Red Bull's dominance isn't merely a win; it's a checkered flag waved with the flair of a seasoned racing champion, echoing through the corridors of the energy drink market. Undoubtedly, Red Bull Racing has become the roaring engine of the energy drink's global advertising campaign, burning rubber and leaving an indelible mark on millions of fans during 23 high-speed race weekends each year. This isn't just motorsport; it's a strategic spectacle designed to captivate audiences and elevate the Red Bull brand to new heights. As the maestro of Red Bull Racing, Max Verstappen, clinched his third title in early October, the team secured the constructors championship in Japan, executing flawless pit stops and overtaking competitors with the finesse of a well-tuned racing machine. This isn't just a team; it's a billion-dollar powerhouse that understands the art of winning both on and off the track. While specific sales metrics remain guarded, Red Bull isn't merely selling energy drinks; it's offering consumers a front-row seat to the thrilling spectacle of speed, power, and the sweet taste of victory. In the fiercely competitive energy drink market, where every drop counts, Red Bull's Formula 1 dominance isn't just a marketing strategy; it's a podium finish. The team's relentless pursuit of excellence mirrors the very qualities that consumers seek in their energy boost – the adrenaline rush of a high-speed chase, the precision of a perfectly executed pit stop, and the taste of triumph. As the Formula 1 season hurtles towards its grand finale, Red Bull Racing isn't just leading the pack; it's setting the track ablaze, leaving rivals in the rearview mirror. In the world of energy drinks, Red Bull Racing isn't just a team; it's a roaring testament to the fusion of speed, precision, and the unrivaled taste of victory. For the business-savvy audience with a thrill for motorsport, Red Bull is the undisputed champion, turning each race into a billion-dollar spectacle that transcends the racetrack and ignites the market.

Decoded: How Red Bull Racing gives wings to its energy drinks 

The troubled Las Vegas&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;Grand Prix has been hit with a class action lawsuit on behalf of the 35,000 people who bought tickets for Thursday’s practice session which was cancelled when Carlos Sainz's Ferrari was damaged by a loose drain cover. The highly-anticipated first action on the neon-lit circuit, which includes a section along the famed Las Vegas Strip, lasted a little over eight minutes before coming to a halt.

What followed was a five-and-a-half hour break while crews removed all 30 covers along the 3.8-mile layout and filled the holes with sand and asphalt. A second 90-minute practice session began in front of empty grandstands at 2:30 a.m. on Friday morning, long after fans had been cleared out in a move officials said was a necessary safety precaution. Las Vegas Grand Prix officials attempted damage control, offering $200 merchandise vouchers to single-day ticket holders. The compensation did not extend to those who had purchased three-day passes.

Dimopoulos Law Firm and co-counsel JK Legal &amp; Consulting said they had filed a class-action lawsuit against the&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;Las Vegas Grand Prix (LVGP) in Nevada state court on Friday on behalf of the people who purchased tickets for the practice run.

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The lawsuit named&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;owners and race promoters Liberty Media Corporation, DBA&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix and TAB Contractors Inc as defendants. "There are a number of issues with that (compensation)," Steve Dimopoulos told Reuters in a phone&nbsp;interview on Saturday. "Clearly that ($200 merchandise voucher) is not a refund that is sufficient. "A lot of fans probably don't even want that, they want their money back. "There are also peripheral issues of what about the people that came in from out of town and paid for substantial air fare and hotels."

The decision to send fans home was made out of concern for public safety and security officials who had been on duty for a long time, LVGP CEO Renee Wilm and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, said in a joint statement.

Qualifying took place on Friday and was completed without incident. Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The troubled Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix has been hit with a class action lawsuit on behalf of the 35,000 people who bought tickets for Thursday’s practice session which was cancelled when Carlos Sainz's Ferrari was damaged by a loose drain cover.

The troubled Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix has been hit with a class action lawsuit on behalf of the 35,000 people who bought tickets for Thursday’s practice session which was cancelled when Carlos Sainz's Ferrari was damaged by a loose drain cover. The highly-anticipated first action on the neon-lit circuit, which includes a section along the famed Las Vegas Strip, lasted a little over eight minutes before coming to a halt. What followed was a five-and-a-half hour break while crews removed all 30 covers along the 3.8-mile layout and filled the holes with sand and asphalt. A second 90-minute practice session began in front of empty grandstands at 2:30 a.m. on Friday morning, long after fans had been cleared out in a move officials said was a necessary safety precaution. Las Vegas Grand Prix officials attempted damage control, offering $200 merchandise vouchers to single-day ticket holders. The compensation did not extend to those who had purchased three-day passes. Dimopoulos Law Firm and co-counsel JK Legal & Consulting said they had filed a class-action lawsuit against the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix (LVGP) in Nevada state court on Friday on behalf of the people who purchased tickets for the practice run. Also read: Golf: Tiger Woods to return to competitive action at the Hero World Championship The lawsuit named Formula One owners and race promoters Liberty Media Corporation, DBA Formula One Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix and TAB Contractors Inc as defendants. "There are a number of issues with that (compensation)," Steve Dimopoulos told Reuters in a phone interview on Saturday. "Clearly that ($200 merchandise voucher) is not a refund that is sufficient. "A lot of fans probably don't even want that, they want their money back. "There are also peripheral issues of what about the people that came in from out of town and paid for substantial air fare and hotels." The decision to send fans home was made out of concern for public safety and security officials who had been on duty for a long time, LVGP CEO Renee Wilm and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, said in a joint statement. Qualifying took place on Friday and was completed without incident. Formula One did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Motor racing: Las Vegas Grand Prix hit with lawsuit after practice gets cancelled

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture.&nbsp;

The Dutch driver has been in a class of his own ever since he won the first title in 2021, in&nbsp;a rather controversial manner against Lewis Hamilton. He won the third championship last week at the Qatar Grand Prix, with four races still left in the calendar.&nbsp;

“It has an incredible history in this sport and is a great opponent to compete against. Future at Ferrari? When my current contract expires I will be 31 years old and I think I can still do well," Verstappen was quoted as saying by Sportweek.&nbsp;

Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2016 and the two have enjoyed a highly fruitful partnership over the years. Despite rumours surrounding a Ferrari move, Verstappen added that he was happy with Red Bull and felt at home with the current team.&nbsp;

"It would be a beautiful story if I could drive here forever, that's for sure, something that will be amazing. I'm really happy with where I am. I feel at home, I feel really happy with the people who are very close to me here in the team. For me, this is not something that I need to seek. I have a few more years left on my contract anyway, so I'm just enjoying the moment."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-womens-f1-academy-to-support-seven-grand-prix-in-next-season-648304">Also read |&nbsp;Motor Racing: Women's F1 Academy to support seven Grand Prix in next season</a>

<h2>Ferrari's title drought&nbsp;</h2>

While Red Bull has been enjoying a stellar run on the F1 grid, Ferrari has been struggling. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have struggled to land consistent podiums this season, primarily due to deficiencies in the car. The last driver to win the championship&nbsp;with Ferrari remains Kimi Raikkonen, who won it in 2007.&nbsp;

Regarding the lack of competition around him, Verstappen wished to have more challenge.&nbsp;

"I mean, yes, to fight different teams. But on the other hand, I also really challenge myself. I really try to get the best out of myself every single weekend. I try to look at things that I can do better and I try to improve as a driver, which I think is also great because you have all this success, right?"

At the back end of the season, Mercedes and McLaren have emerged as the two rivals that can potentially challenge Verstappen next year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen has weighed in on his future in Formula 1. Quizzed if the fans would ever see him in the iconic red of Ferrari, Verstappen said he would be 31 when his current contract expires and a switch may not be completely out of the picture. The Dutch driver has been in a class of his own ever since he won the first title in 2021, in a rather controversial manner against Lewis Hamilton. He won the third championship last week at the Qatar Grand Prix, with four races still left in the calendar. “It has an incredible history in this sport and is a great opponent to compete against. Future at Ferrari? When my current contract expires I will be 31 years old and I think I can still do well," Verstappen was quoted as saying by Sportweek. Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2016 and the two have enjoyed a highly fruitful partnership over the years. Despite rumours surrounding a Ferrari move, Verstappen added that he was happy with Red Bull and felt at home with the current team. "It would be a beautiful story if I could drive here forever, that's for sure, something that will be amazing. I'm really happy with where I am. I feel at home, I feel really happy with the people who are very close to me here in the team. For me, this is not something that I need to seek. I have a few more years left on my contract anyway, so I'm just enjoying the moment." Also read | Motor Racing: Women's F1 Academy to support seven Grand Prix in next season Ferrari's title drought While Red Bull has been enjoying a stellar run on the F1 grid, Ferrari has been struggling. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have struggled to land consistent podiums this season, primarily due to deficiencies in the car. The last driver to win the championship with Ferrari remains Kimi Raikkonen, who won it in 2007. Regarding the lack of competition around him, Verstappen wished to have more challenge. "I mean, yes, to fight different teams. But on the other hand, I also really challenge myself. I really try to get the best out of myself every single weekend. I try to look at things that I can do better and I try to improve as a driver, which I think is also great because you have all this success, right?" At the back end of the season, Mercedes and McLaren have emerged as the two rivals that can potentially challenge Verstappen next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Will Max Verstappen join Ferrari? Three-time world champion weighs in on his future

Amid chatter on the Formula 1&nbsp;circuit to have more races, after the induction of the Las Vegas Grand Prix this year,&nbsp;FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has had his say on the matter.&nbsp;Sulayem is of the view that F1 should have more teams and fewer races, which might hint at the possibility of&nbsp;US-based Andretti joining the F1 bandwagon.&nbsp;

It was only last week that FIA approved Andretti's application and sent it to Liberty Media-owned&nbsp;Formula One Management (FOM) for commercial discussions.&nbsp;

Sulayem said he was optimistic that the American company which has joined forces with General Motors' renowned&nbsp;Cadillac brand&nbsp;will become the 11th team to enter the F1 grid.&nbsp;

"Saying no to a team which has been approved by the FIA - it's very hard," Sulayem was quoted as saying by Reuters.

"You can call me optimistic, I'm always optimistic. I think yes," he added when asked whether he thought Andretti would prevail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-sergio-perez-alleges-nationality-bias-points-to-russells-crash-at-singapore-gp-642525">Also read |&nbsp;F1: Sergio Perez alleges nationality bias; points to Russell's crash at Singapore GP</a>

<h2>FIA should be begging OEMs</h2>

The Emirati revealed his future plans to expand the sport and asserted that reaching the complete set of 12 teams was his goal. F1's rules allow for up to 12 teams.&nbsp;

"The FIA should be asking, begging, OEMs [car manufacturers] to come in. We should not just say no to them," he said.

"If you say what is my dream, it is to fill up the 12 [slots] and to have one US team from an OEM and a PU [power unit] and a driver from there driving. And then go to China maybe and ask for the same thing and do it."

Currently, the F1 paddock has space for 10 teams with team bosses not enthusiastic about the prospect of another team on the grid. They are of the view that the introduction of new F1 teams would eat into their profit shares.&nbsp;

Notably, any new entrant is required to cough out a $200m (£164m) anti-dilution fee to current teams to compensate for the loss in prize money. However, teams insist that the current sum is insufficient, especially since F1 under Liberty Media has enjoyed renewed success in recent years. The teams are demanding that instead of $200 million, the new entrant furnish $1 billion to make up for the losses.&nbsp;

Beginning 2024, the F1 calendar will have 24 races, two mid-season breaks, four doubleheaders, two tripleheaders, and the return of the Chinese Grand Prix.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid chatter on the Formula 1 circuit to have more races, after the induction of the Las Vegas Grand Prix this year, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has had his say on the matter.

Amid chatter on the Formula 1 circuit to have more races, after the induction of the Las Vegas Grand Prix this year, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has had his say on the matter. Sulayem is of the view that F1 should have more teams and fewer races, which might hint at the possibility of US-based Andretti joining the F1 bandwagon. It was only last week that FIA approved Andretti's application and sent it to Liberty Media-owned Formula One Management (FOM) for commercial discussions. Sulayem said he was optimistic that the American company which has joined forces with General Motors' renowned Cadillac brand will become the 11th team to enter the F1 grid. "Saying no to a team which has been approved by the FIA - it's very hard," Sulayem was quoted as saying by Reuters. "You can call me optimistic, I'm always optimistic. I think yes," he added when asked whether he thought Andretti would prevail. Also read | F1: Sergio Perez alleges nationality bias; points to Russell's crash at Singapore GP FIA should be begging OEMs The Emirati revealed his future plans to expand the sport and asserted that reaching the complete set of 12 teams was his goal. F1's rules allow for up to 12 teams. "The FIA should be asking, begging, OEMs [car manufacturers] to come in. We should not just say no to them," he said. "If you say what is my dream, it is to fill up the 12 [slots] and to have one US team from an OEM and a PU [power unit] and a driver from there driving. And then go to China maybe and ask for the same thing and do it." Currently, the F1 paddock has space for 10 teams with team bosses not enthusiastic about the prospect of another team on the grid. They are of the view that the introduction of new F1 teams would eat into their profit shares. Notably, any new entrant is required to cough out a $200m (£164m) anti-dilution fee to current teams to compensate for the loss in prize money. However, teams insist that the current sum is insufficient, especially since F1 under Liberty Media has enjoyed renewed success in recent years. The teams are demanding that instead of $200 million, the new entrant furnish $1 billion to make up for the losses. Beginning 2024, the F1 calendar will have 24 races, two mid-season breaks, four doubleheaders, two tripleheaders, and the return of the Chinese Grand Prix. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIA boss says F1 should have more teams but fewer races

Max&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;wrote his name in Formula One's history books on Sunday after winning a record-breaking 10th straight race, coming out on top at the Italian Grand Prix in another show of force from Red Bull.

The reigning world champion dominated on a beautiful day in northern Italy which left Ferrari fans disappointed, with&nbsp;Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez finishing second ahead of home hope and pole-sitter Carlos Sainz.

Red Bull hailed a "stroll in the park" after a brilliant one-two which extended&nbsp;Verstappen's lead on Perez at the top of the drivers' standings to 145 points and also maintained a perfect team record of 14 wins from as many GPs this season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-coco-gauff-ends-wozniackis-dream-run-novak-djokovic-enter-last-eight-in-us-open-632073">Tennis: Coco Gauff ends Wozniacki's dream run, Novak Djokovic enter last eight in US Open</a>

"I never thought at the beginning of the season that something like this was possible. Very proud, but also just very happy with the race in general,"&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

"At one point Carlos had a little lock up which gave me a little run at turn two, and once I got into the lead I could just focus on my own pace."

Spaniard Sainz crossed more than 11 seconds behind&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;despite a valiant performance in an exciting race.

The red sea of home fans loudly chanted "Carlos, Carlos" in appreciation of Sainz's first podium finish of the year, just ahead of fellow Ferrari man Charles Leclerc who was the last Scuderia driver to win at Monza in 2019.

"Very happy because P3 at Monza in front of the 'tifosi' is as good as it can get, at least for this weekend because Red Bull were in the end quite a bit quicker than us as we expected," said Sainz.

"It was a day to try and I did everything I could to keep them behind."

Verstappen&nbsp;has now won 12 of this season's races and is all but certain to claim his third consecutive F1 title after breaking a record he shared with Sebastian Vettel by winning in Zandvoort last weekend.

<h2>Record breaker</h2>

He needs four more wins from the season's remaining eight GPs to break his own record for victories in one year and is 90 points away from the all-time highest tally of 454 he accumulated in 2022.

The Dutch driver made it 10 in a row in a race which was delayed by 20 minutes and cut to 51 laps after Yuki Tsunoda's AlphaTauri car suffered a power-unit failure during the pre-race formation lap.

Sainz knew he had to keep&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;at bay in the opening two corners just after lights out and he drew a massive cheer from the stands once he was round the third Biassono turn and still ahead.

Verstappen&nbsp;was practically attached to Sainz's rear with Leclerc pursuing close behind in support of his teammate.

But Sainz's resistance ended at the start of lap 15 when&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;pounced on a slow exit from the first corner and surged into the lead.

Verstappen&nbsp;was back in front 10 laps later after a round of pit stops, blowing past former title rival Lewis Hamilton and showing the rest of the field a clean pair of heels.

With first place all-but sewn up Ferrari battled to keep the two other podium spots but Perez slipped past Sainz at the start of lap 45 to demonstrate Red Bull's dominance.

All that was left was for Ferrari's pair to do battle for a spot on the podium, with Sainz just holding on after another race in which no-one could handle Red Bull's power.

Red Bull's closest challenger Fernando Alonso fell 194 points behind&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;after finishing ninth, with Lewis Hamilton looming over his fellow veteran's shoulder in the overall standings following a creditable sixth spot.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton, 38, trails Alonso by six points despite a difficult weekend in his Mercedes, with whom he confirmed a two-year contract extension on Thursday.

Last season Hamilton failed to win or claim pole position at any GP for the first time in his career and he looks a long way from adding to his record 103 race victories.

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Max Verstappen wrote his name in Formula One's history books on Sunday after winning a record-breaking 10th straight race, coming out on top at the Italian Grand Prix in another show of force from Red Bull.

Max Verstappen wrote his name in Formula One's history books on Sunday after winning a record-breaking 10th straight race, coming out on top at the Italian Grand Prix in another show of force from Red Bull. The reigning world champion dominated on a beautiful day in northern Italy which left Ferrari fans disappointed, with Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez finishing second ahead of home hope and pole-sitter Carlos Sainz. Red Bull hailed a "stroll in the park" after a brilliant one-two which extended Verstappen's lead on Perez at the top of the drivers' standings to 145 points and also maintained a perfect team record of 14 wins from as many GPs this season. Also Read: Tennis: Coco Gauff ends Wozniacki's dream run, Novak Djokovic enter last eight in US Open "I never thought at the beginning of the season that something like this was possible. Very proud, but also just very happy with the race in general," Verstappen told reporters. "At one point Carlos had a little lock up which gave me a little run at turn two, and once I got into the lead I could just focus on my own pace." Spaniard Sainz crossed more than 11 seconds behind Verstappen despite a valiant performance in an exciting race. The red sea of home fans loudly chanted "Carlos, Carlos" in appreciation of Sainz's first podium finish of the year, just ahead of fellow Ferrari man Charles Leclerc who was the last Scuderia driver to win at Monza in 2019. "Very happy because P3 at Monza in front of the 'tifosi' is as good as it can get, at least for this weekend because Red Bull were in the end quite a bit quicker than us as we expected," said Sainz. "It was a day to try and I did everything I could to keep them behind." Verstappen has now won 12 of this season's races and is all but certain to claim his third consecutive F1 title after breaking a record he shared with Sebastian Vettel by winning in Zandvoort last weekend. Record breaker He needs four more wins from the season's remaining eight GPs to break his own record for victories in one year and is 90 points away from the all-time highest tally of 454 he accumulated in 2022. The Dutch driver made it 10 in a row in a race which was delayed by 20 minutes and cut to 51 laps after Yuki Tsunoda's AlphaTauri car suffered a power-unit failure during the pre-race formation lap. Sainz knew he had to keep Verstappen at bay in the opening two corners just after lights out and he drew a massive cheer from the stands once he was round the third Biassono turn and still ahead. Verstappen was practically attached to Sainz's rear with Leclerc pursuing close behind in support of his teammate. But Sainz's resistance ended at the start of lap 15 when Verstappen pounced on a slow exit from the first corner and surged into the lead. Verstappen was back in front 10 laps later after a round of pit stops, blowing past former title rival Lewis Hamilton and showing the rest of the field a clean pair of heels. With first place all-but sewn up Ferrari battled to keep the two other podium spots but Perez slipped past Sainz at the start of lap 45 to demonstrate Red Bull's dominance. All that was left was for Ferrari's pair to do battle for a spot on the podium, with Sainz just holding on after another race in which no-one could handle Red Bull's power. Red Bull's closest challenger Fernando Alonso fell 194 points behind Verstappen after finishing ninth, with Lewis Hamilton looming over his fellow veteran's shoulder in the overall standings following a creditable sixth spot. Seven-time world champion Hamilton, 38, trails Alonso by six points despite a difficult weekend in his Mercedes, with whom he confirmed a two-year contract extension on Thursday. Last season Hamilton failed to win or claim pole position at any GP for the first time in his career and he looks a long way from adding to his record 103 race victories. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Formula One: Red Bull's Max Verstappen wins record-breaking 10th straight race with Italian Grand Prix victory

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