Ferrari's Charles Leclerc will start from pole position for the Belgian Grand Prix despite Max Verstappen having set the fastest time in qualifying on Friday.

Double world champion Verstappen incurred a five-grid penalty for a change of gearbox on his Red Bull demoting him to sixth for Sunday's race.

Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez will start alongside Leclerc on the front row for the 12th race of the Formula One season.

Verstappen, who leads the championship by 110 points, won at Spa-Francorchamps last year from 14th on the grid.

"Last year we had lots of penalties and I still won the race so that will be the aim again," said the Belgian-born Dutch driver.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-moeen-alis-injury-a-big-turning-point-in-oval-test-feels-former-england-captain-nasser-hussain-620233">Ashes 2023: Moeen Ali's injury a big turning point in Oval Test, feels former England captain Nasser Hussain</a>

Leclerc, eight-tenths of a second slower than Verstappen, said: "Not a bad qualifying for us, especially in those conditions. Let's see how it goes."

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz in the other Ferrari occupy the second row ahead of McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

Saturday features the third sprint race of the F1 season after Azerbaijan and Austria, with qualifying for the standalone race scheduled for Saturday morning at the majestic Ardennes circuit.

Verstappen's penalty does not apply to the sprint.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc will start from pole position for the Belgian Grand Prix despite Max Verstappen having set the fastest time in qualifying on Friday. Double world champion Verstappen incurred a five-grid penalty for a change of gearbox on his Red Bull demoting him to sixth for Sunday's race.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc will start from pole position for the Belgian Grand Prix despite Max Verstappen having set the fastest time in qualifying on Friday. Double world champion Verstappen incurred a five-grid penalty for a change of gearbox on his Red Bull demoting him to sixth for Sunday's race. Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez will start alongside Leclerc on the front row for the 12th race of the Formula One season. Verstappen, who leads the championship by 110 points, won at Spa-Francorchamps last year from 14th on the grid. "Last year we had lots of penalties and I still won the race so that will be the aim again," said the Belgian-born Dutch driver. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Moeen Ali's injury a big turning point in Oval Test, feels former England captain Nasser Hussain Leclerc, eight-tenths of a second slower than Verstappen, said: "Not a bad qualifying for us, especially in those conditions. Let's see how it goes." Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz in the other Ferrari occupy the second row ahead of McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Saturday features the third sprint race of the F1 season after Azerbaijan and Austria, with qualifying for the standalone race scheduled for Saturday morning at the majestic Ardennes circuit. Verstappen's penalty does not apply to the sprint. 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: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc starts from pole at Belgian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen penalty

Bradley Cooper’s Leonard Bernstein drama Maestro, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla Presley movie, Michael Mann’s Ferrari, David Fincher’s The Killer&nbsp;and Ava DuVernay’s Origin&nbsp;will make their world debuts at the Venice International Film Festival this fall.

Organisers announced the lineup Tuesday for the 80th edition of the festival, which — despite the flashy names behind the films — could have a little less Hollywood glamour than usual gracing its picturesque docks and red carpet come September if the Hollywood actors and writers strike stretch on. As part of the strike, actors cannot promote projects from the studios and streamers with whom the union is negotiating.

The prestigious film festival already lost one high-profile premiere to the labour disputes in the US in Luca Guadagnino’s tennis drama Challengers,&nbsp;starring Zendaya, which had been set to play in the opening night slot but has now been pushed to 2024. But Alberto Barbera, the director of the Venice Film Festival, said Tuesday that the strikes’ effects on the festival lineup had otherwise been minimal.

Priscilla, an A24 film based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir Elvis and Me, stars Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi and was widely expected to be in the festival. Coppola also launched Somewhere&nbsp;in Venice in 2010. Priscilla&nbsp;will be competing for the Golden Lion alongside Ferrari, the buzzy racing drama starring Adam Driver as Enzo Ferrari, and Penélope Cruz as his wife Laura, based on Brock Yates’ biography.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-christopher-nolan-reveals-correct-answer-for-inceptions-enigmatic-ending-i-think-it-was-619239">Christopher Nolan reveals 'correct answer' for Inception's enigmatic ending: I think it was...</a>

Yorgos Lanthimos’ highly anticipated Poor Things, with Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo, will also have its bow on the Lido. Lanthimos previously launched The Favorite&nbsp;at Venice in 2019; it would go on to score 10 Oscar nominations and win one.

DuVernay’s film, Origin,&nbsp;meanwhile, is based on the book Caste&nbsp;and the life of its author, Pulitzer winner Isabel Wilkerson. The movie stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor.

Netflix will once again have a big presence at the festival with Maestro, directed by and starring Cooper as the legendary composer, opposite Carey Mulligan as Felicia Montealegre, and Fincher’s The Killer, with Michael Fassbender playing an assassin. The streamer is also bringing Pablo Larraín’s El Conde, a dark comedy in which Augusto Pinochet is a vampire, as part of the competition titles.

Another buzzy competition title is Michel Franco’s Memory, with Jessica Chastain and Peter Skarsgaard.

Venice has never been a festival to shy away from controversial directors and has programmed new films from both Roman Polanski and Woody Allen.

Polanski is back for the first time since 2019 with The Palace, about a New Year’s Eve in 1999 in a Swiss hotel, with John Cleese and Mickey Rourke. Allen is debuting his first French movie, Coup de Chance. Luc Besson, who was recently cleared of charges in a rape case, will also be on the Lido with “Dogman,” starring Caleb Landry Jones.

The jury presiding over the main competition this year is full of high-profile directors, including Damien Chazelle, Jane Campion, Martin McDonagh and last year’s Golden Lion winner Laura Poitras.

In addition to the Polanski and Allen films, also playing out of competition are Wes Anderson’s Roald Dahl-inspired The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar&nbsp;with Benedict Cumberbatch, Dev Patel and Ralph Fiennes; Harmony Korine’s Aggro Dr1ft; Richard Linklater’s Hit Man; Frederick Wiseman’s Menus Plaisirs – Les Troisgros; and William Friedkin’s The Caine Mutiny Court-Marshall.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/beyonce-playfully-tells-her-crew-to-turn-the-fan-on-mid-performance-during-renaissance-tour-viral-619258">Beyonce playfully tells her crew to 'turn the fan on' mid-performance during Renaissance Tour | Viral</a>

Venice is a top launching ground for awards hopefuls and has, in recent years, debuted Oscar-nominated films like The Whale, The Banshees of Inisherin, Tár, The Power of the Dog, A Star is Born&nbsp;and La La Land. It’s also the first major stop of the busy fall film festival season, with Toronto, Telluride and the New York Film Festivals close behind.

Like the Cannes Film Festival, celebrity is a huge part of the Venice iconography: Think of Lady Gaga perched on the side of a water taxi in her black Jonathan Simkhai bustier dress, or Timothée Chalamet vamping in that backless red halter top by Haider Ackermann. Last year there were also viral moments aplenty thanks to the cast of Don’t Worry Darling&nbsp;and the alleged “spit-gate,” in which internet spectators wondered if Harry Styles had spit on his co-star Chris Pine at the film’s premiere.

It remains unclear whether any Hollywood talent will be able to make the journey this year. Barbera said at this point that some actors and actresses will not be able to attend but, without getting specific, said that talent from independent fare will be able to grace the red carpets and press conferences.

The Venice Film Festival runs from August 30 through September 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Bradley Cooper’s Leonard Bernstein drama Maestro, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla Presley movie, Michael Mann’s Ferrari, David Fincher’s The Killer and Ava DuVernay’s Origin will make their world debuts at the Venice International Film Festival this fall.

Bradley Cooper’s Leonard Bernstein drama Maestro, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla Presley movie, Michael Mann’s Ferrari, David Fincher’s The Killer and Ava DuVernay’s Origin will make their world debuts at the Venice International Film Festival this fall. Organisers announced the lineup Tuesday for the 80th edition of the festival, which — despite the flashy names behind the films — could have a little less Hollywood glamour than usual gracing its picturesque docks and red carpet come September if the Hollywood actors and writers strike stretch on. As part of the strike, actors cannot promote projects from the studios and streamers with whom the union is negotiating. The prestigious film festival already lost one high-profile premiere to the labour disputes in the US in Luca Guadagnino’s tennis drama Challengers, starring Zendaya, which had been set to play in the opening night slot but has now been pushed to 2024. But Alberto Barbera, the director of the Venice Film Festival, said Tuesday that the strikes’ effects on the festival lineup had otherwise been minimal. Priscilla, an A24 film based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir Elvis and Me, stars Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi and was widely expected to be in the festival. Coppola also launched Somewhere in Venice in 2010. Priscilla will be competing for the Golden Lion alongside Ferrari, the buzzy racing drama starring Adam Driver as Enzo Ferrari, and Penélope Cruz as his wife Laura, based on Brock Yates’ biography. Also read: Christopher Nolan reveals 'correct answer' for Inception's enigmatic ending: I think it was... Yorgos Lanthimos’ highly anticipated Poor Things, with Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo, will also have its bow on the Lido. Lanthimos previously launched The Favorite at Venice in 2019; it would go on to score 10 Oscar nominations and win one. DuVernay’s film, Origin, meanwhile, is based on the book Caste and the life of its author, Pulitzer winner Isabel Wilkerson. The movie stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. Netflix will once again have a big presence at the festival with Maestro, directed by and starring Cooper as the legendary composer, opposite Carey Mulligan as Felicia Montealegre, and Fincher’s The Killer, with Michael Fassbender playing an assassin. The streamer is also bringing Pablo Larraín’s El Conde, a dark comedy in which Augusto Pinochet is a vampire, as part of the competition titles. Another buzzy competition title is Michel Franco’s Memory, with Jessica Chastain and Peter Skarsgaard. Venice has never been a festival to shy away from controversial directors and has programmed new films from both Roman Polanski and Woody Allen. Polanski is back for the first time since 2019 with The Palace, about a New Year’s Eve in 1999 in a Swiss hotel, with John Cleese and Mickey Rourke. Allen is debuting his first French movie, Coup de Chance. Luc Besson, who was recently cleared of charges in a rape case, will also be on the Lido with “Dogman,” starring Caleb Landry Jones. The jury presiding over the main competition this year is full of high-profile directors, including Damien Chazelle, Jane Campion, Martin McDonagh and last year’s Golden Lion winner Laura Poitras. In addition to the Polanski and Allen films, also playing out of competition are Wes Anderson’s Roald Dahl-inspired The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar with Benedict Cumberbatch, Dev Patel and Ralph Fiennes; Harmony Korine’s Aggro Dr1ft; Richard Linklater’s Hit Man; Frederick Wiseman’s Menus Plaisirs – Les Troisgros; and William Friedkin’s The Caine Mutiny Court-Marshall. Also read: Beyonce playfully tells her crew to 'turn the fan on' mid-performance during Renaissance Tour | Viral Venice is a top launching ground for awards hopefuls and has, in recent years, debuted Oscar-nominated films like The Whale, The Banshees of Inisherin, Tár, The Power of the Dog, A Star is Born and La La Land. It’s also the first major stop of the busy fall film festival season, with Toronto, Telluride and the New York Film Festivals close behind. Like the Cannes Film Festival, celebrity is a huge part of the Venice iconography: Think of Lady Gaga perched on the side of a water taxi in her black Jonathan Simkhai bustier dress, or Timothée Chalamet vamping in that backless red halter top by Haider Ackermann. Last year there were also viral moments aplenty thanks to the cast of Don’t Worry Darling and the alleged “spit-gate,” in which internet spectators wondered if Harry Styles had spit on his co-star Chris Pine at the film’s premiere. It remains unclear whether any Hollywood talent will be able to make the journey this year. Barbera said at this point that some actors and actresses will not be able to attend but, without getting specific, said that talent from independent fare will be able to grace the red carpets and press conferences. The Venice Film Festival runs from August 30 through September 9. 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.

Venice Film Festival unveils A-list lineup with Priscilla, Ferrari, Maestro amid strikes

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso will be a threat to Red Bull's unbeaten run for the Formula One season in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix, according to last year's winner Sergio Perez. Champions Red Bull have won all five races so far, four of them with one-two finishes, but Monaco's tight and twisty street circuit -- the slowest on the calendar -- gives rivals a fighting chance.

Alonso, whose last win was a decade ago with Ferrari, has finished third in four races this season and is the best of the rest after Red Bull's championship leader Max Verstappen and Perez. He is also a two times winner in Monaco and feels his current car will be well suited to the challenges of the principality, while the Red Bull enjoys less of a speed advantage.

"We certainly know that it’s not our strongest circuit," Perez told reporters. "But we will see. It's still Monaco and anything can happen. "Certainly. I think Fernando, the Ferraris, I do expect them to be quite strong as well, like they were in Baku," added the Mexican when asked who posed the biggest threat. "Obviously over one lap around this place they will be strong. So yes, I do expect them to be quite strong. And also Mercedes can be in the mix."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monaco-gp-lewis-hamilton-says-mercedes-deal-is-close-no-ferrari-talks-opines-on-vinicius-jrs-racism-case-596531">Monaco GP: Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes deal is close, no Ferrari talks; opines on Vinicius Jr's racism case</a>

Qualifying is crucial in Monaco, with overtaking near-impossible. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc has taken pole position for two years in a row in his home town but has yet to stand on the podium there. Alonso told reporters he would be gunning for victory, although he expected Ferrari to be strong.

"I think Ferrari were outstanding in Baku and we could see another great weekend for them here," said the Spaniard. "But then... if I tell you that I don't come here thinking that I can win the race, I will lie to you, because this is a one-off opportunity. "We know that Monaco, Singapore, there are specific race tracks that you need to gain the confidence on the free practice, get closer and closer to the walls and yes -- I will attack more than any other weekend."

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso will be a threat to Red Bull's unbeaten run for the Formula One season in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix, according to last year's winner Sergio Perez.

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso will be a threat to Red Bull's unbeaten run for the Formula One season in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix, according to last year's winner Sergio Perez. Champions Red Bull have won all five races so far, four of them with one-two finishes, but Monaco's tight and twisty street circuit -- the slowest on the calendar -- gives rivals a fighting chance. Alonso, whose last win was a decade ago with Ferrari, has finished third in four races this season and is the best of the rest after Red Bull's championship leader Max Verstappen and Perez. He is also a two times winner in Monaco and feels his current car will be well suited to the challenges of the principality, while the Red Bull enjoys less of a speed advantage. "We certainly know that it’s not our strongest circuit," Perez told reporters. "But we will see. It's still Monaco and anything can happen. "Certainly. I think Fernando, the Ferraris, I do expect them to be quite strong as well, like they were in Baku," added the Mexican when asked who posed the biggest threat. "Obviously over one lap around this place they will be strong. So yes, I do expect them to be quite strong. And also Mercedes can be in the mix." Also Read: Monaco GP: Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes deal is close, no Ferrari talks; opines on Vinicius Jr's racism case Qualifying is crucial in Monaco, with overtaking near-impossible. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc has taken pole position for two years in a row in his home town but has yet to stand on the podium there. Alonso told reporters he would be gunning for victory, although he expected Ferrari to be strong. "I think Ferrari were outstanding in Baku and we could see another great weekend for them here," said the Spaniard. "But then... if I tell you that I don't come here thinking that I can win the race, I will lie to you, because this is a one-off opportunity. "We know that Monaco, Singapore, there are specific race tracks that you need to gain the confidence on the free practice, get closer and closer to the walls and yes -- I will attack more than any other weekend."

Formula One: Sergio Perez sees Fernando Alonso, Ferrari as main threats in Monaco GP

There has been a lot of speculations regarding Lewis Hamilton's next move as his contract with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of this season. There were strong rumours that the&nbsp;seven-time&nbsp;world champion is likely to move to Ferrari in a whopping deal.&nbsp;Since then, a&nbsp;lot has been said and written about it. Nonetheless, Ferrari team boss has denied all such claims.

It was reported earlier this week that Ferrari made a whopping £40 million offer to acquire the services of Hamilton. However, Ferrari team boss Fred&nbsp;Vasseur cleared the air ahead of this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.

<h2>'We are not sending an offer to Lewis Hamilton'</h2>

"As a joke I could say that two weeks ago you were sending Sainz to Audi, one week ago you sent Leclerc to Mercedes - now I am alone," said Vasseur as per a report in Sky Sport.&nbsp;

He further asserted, "You know perfectly that at this stage of the season each week you will have a different story and we are not sending an offer to Lewis Hamilton, we didn't do it."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-with-lewis-hamiltons-mercedes-contract-over-is-he-moving-to-ferrari-596070">Formula One: With Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract over, is he moving to Ferrari?</a>

On being asked if he had talked with Hamilton, or if he is planning to, Vasseur replied,&nbsp;"We didn't have discussions. I think every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage, it would be bull**** to not say something like this.

"If I discuss with Hamilton, the last 20 years I discussed almost every single weekend with Hamilton, I don't want to have to stop to discuss with him because you are chasing me."

It is to be noted that Britain's Hamilton has not won a race since 2021, with Max Versteppen ruling every circuit since then. He desperately needs a winning car to challenge for a record eighth title. Thus, the upcoming races are very crucial for him and the veteran will surely analyse if Mercedes can provide him his next title or whether it is wise for him to have a last shot at somewhere else.&nbsp;

Interesting times ahead for Hamilton as he remains adamant to bounce back to winning ways and add more titles to his illustrious career.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<ul>
</ul>

There has been a lot of speculations regarding Lewis Hamilton's next move as his contract with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of this season. There were strong rumours that the seven-time world champion is likely to move to Ferrari in a whopping deal.

There has been a lot of speculations regarding Lewis Hamilton's next move as his contract with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of this season. There were strong rumours that the seven-time world champion is likely to move to Ferrari in a whopping deal. Since then, a lot has been said and written about it. Nonetheless, Ferrari team boss has denied all such claims. It was reported earlier this week that Ferrari made a whopping £40 million offer to acquire the services of Hamilton. However, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur cleared the air ahead of this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix. 'We are not sending an offer to Lewis Hamilton' "As a joke I could say that two weeks ago you were sending Sainz to Audi, one week ago you sent Leclerc to Mercedes - now I am alone," said Vasseur as per a report in Sky Sport. He further asserted, "You know perfectly that at this stage of the season each week you will have a different story and we are not sending an offer to Lewis Hamilton, we didn't do it." Also Read: Formula One: With Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract over, is he moving to Ferrari? On being asked if he had talked with Hamilton, or if he is planning to, Vasseur replied, "We didn't have discussions. I think every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage, it would be bull**** to not say something like this. "If I discuss with Hamilton, the last 20 years I discussed almost every single weekend with Hamilton, I don't want to have to stop to discuss with him because you are chasing me." It is to be noted that Britain's Hamilton has not won a race since 2021, with Max Versteppen ruling every circuit since then. He desperately needs a winning car to challenge for a record eighth title. Thus, the upcoming races are very crucial for him and the veteran will surely analyse if Mercedes can provide him his next title or whether it is wise for him to have a last shot at somewhere else. Interesting times ahead for Hamilton as he remains adamant to bounce back to winning ways and add more titles to his illustrious career. 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. ×

Ferrari have not made any contract offer to Lewis Hamilton, reveals team boss Fred Vasseur

Lewis Hamilton denied talking to Ferrari about a move to the Italian Formula One team and said on Thursday he was close to agreeing a new contract with Mercedes. The seven times world champion, the sport's most successful driver of all time, is out of contract at the end of the season and there has been speculation the 38-year-old could join Ferrari.

"My team is working closely behind the scenes with (team boss) Toto (Wolff), we are almost at the end of having a contract ready," the Briton told reporters ahead of the weekend's Monaco Grand Prix. "Having a team focus on that so I can just do my job, it's a much better position than I was in before because I remember I used to do all my negotiations on my own and it was very stressful. I don't have to do that any more."

Asked directly whether Ferrari had been in touch, Hamilton replied "no". Separately, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said the team had not made any offer. "We didn't have discussions. I think every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage. It would be rubbish to not say something like this," added the Frenchman.

Hamilton hoped the talks with Mercedes would be wrapped up "in the coming weeks". The Daily Mail reported on Monday that Ferrari were set to offer Hamilton a 40 million pound ($50.48 million) deal to partner Charles Leclerc.

Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport said there appeared to be a "foundation of truth" to the story. "When you are in contract negotiations there's always going to be speculation and I think ultimately unless you hear it from me, then that's all it is," said Hamilton. He suggested maybe the media had "just got bored" after last weekend's scheduled Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola was cancelled due to flooding.

Hamilton said Mercedes' current lack of form had not affected his decision. "It doesn't have a bearing because we're still a championship-winning team," he said. "It's just we've had the wrong car, there have been some decisions that have been made over the last two years that have not been ideal. "We are working our way through that... we have a new upgrade this weekend, the team have worked incredibly hard to bring this upgrade."

Leclerc appeared in the same session with Hamilton and winced when asked if he would welcome Hamilton as a team mate. "If I say yes, I imagine it being the title of every newspaper," he said. "I think anybody on the grid would love to have Lewis as a team mate as everybody will learn a lot from him," he added. "But I'm happy where I am and with Carlos it's a great relationship too."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferrari-have-not-made-any-contract-offer-to-lewis-hamilton-reveals-team-boss-fred-vasseur-596455">Ferrari have not made any contract offer to Lewis Hamilton, reveals team boss Fred Vasseur</a>

<h2>HAMILTON HAILS VINICIUS JR ON RACISM CASE</h2>

Hamilton hailed Real Madrid player Vinicius Jr as 'incredibly brave' for his response to racist insults in Spain and said the incidents brought back painful memories from his own career in motor racing. Brazilian forward Vinicius called LaLiga and Spain racist when he took to social media to complain about the abuse he suffered from the crowd during a match in Valencia on Sunday.

"It's devastating to think that in 2023 we're still seeing these things and hearing these things," seven-times world champion Hamilton, the sport's only Black driver, said at the Monaco Grand Prix. "It really hits home for me, it really brings up emotions about things that I experienced, whether it's back in the UK or when I was racing in Italy or in France or in Spain. It can be so hurtful the things that people say. I think he's been incredibly brave.

"I think it's amazing what so many of these that are experiencing that on the pitch are doing in terms of standing tall, standing strong, continuing to be humble in their approach, not being reactive but being responsible when they are moving forwards because they know there's lots of young kids that are watching."

Mercedes driver Hamilton was granted honorary Brazilian citizenship last year, with the country's parliament highlighting his deep connection with the country where he won his first title in 2008. The Briton, who was team mate to Spaniard Fernando Alonso at McLaren in a tumultuous 2007 debut season, also experienced racist abuse in Spain when testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya in 2008.

Hamilton said sports needed to do more to tackle the problem. "We all need to continue to do more and if we see it, hear it, we need to do something about it," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton denied talking to Ferrari about a move to the Italian Formula One team and said on Thursday he was close to agreeing a new contract with Mercedes.

Lewis Hamilton denied talking to Ferrari about a move to the Italian Formula One team and said on Thursday he was close to agreeing a new contract with Mercedes. The seven times world champion, the sport's most successful driver of all time, is out of contract at the end of the season and there has been speculation the 38-year-old could join Ferrari. "My team is working closely behind the scenes with (team boss) Toto (Wolff), we are almost at the end of having a contract ready," the Briton told reporters ahead of the weekend's Monaco Grand Prix. "Having a team focus on that so I can just do my job, it's a much better position than I was in before because I remember I used to do all my negotiations on my own and it was very stressful. I don't have to do that any more." Asked directly whether Ferrari had been in touch, Hamilton replied "no". Separately, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said the team had not made any offer. "We didn't have discussions. I think every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage. It would be rubbish to not say something like this," added the Frenchman. Hamilton hoped the talks with Mercedes would be wrapped up "in the coming weeks". The Daily Mail reported on Monday that Ferrari were set to offer Hamilton a 40 million pound ($50.48 million) deal to partner Charles Leclerc. Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport said there appeared to be a "foundation of truth" to the story. "When you are in contract negotiations there's always going to be speculation and I think ultimately unless you hear it from me, then that's all it is," said Hamilton. He suggested maybe the media had "just got bored" after last weekend's scheduled Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola was cancelled due to flooding. Hamilton said Mercedes' current lack of form had not affected his decision. "It doesn't have a bearing because we're still a championship-winning team," he said. "It's just we've had the wrong car, there have been some decisions that have been made over the last two years that have not been ideal. "We are working our way through that... we have a new upgrade this weekend, the team have worked incredibly hard to bring this upgrade." Leclerc appeared in the same session with Hamilton and winced when asked if he would welcome Hamilton as a team mate. "If I say yes, I imagine it being the title of every newspaper," he said. "I think anybody on the grid would love to have Lewis as a team mate as everybody will learn a lot from him," he added. "But I'm happy where I am and with Carlos it's a great relationship too." Also Read: Ferrari have not made any contract offer to Lewis Hamilton, reveals team boss Fred Vasseur HAMILTON HAILS VINICIUS JR ON RACISM CASE Hamilton hailed Real Madrid player Vinicius Jr as 'incredibly brave' for his response to racist insults in Spain and said the incidents brought back painful memories from his own career in motor racing. Brazilian forward Vinicius called LaLiga and Spain racist when he took to social media to complain about the abuse he suffered from the crowd during a match in Valencia on Sunday. "It's devastating to think that in 2023 we're still seeing these things and hearing these things," seven-times world champion Hamilton, the sport's only Black driver, said at the Monaco Grand Prix. "It really hits home for me, it really brings up emotions about things that I experienced, whether it's back in the UK or when I was racing in Italy or in France or in Spain. It can be so hurtful the things that people say. I think he's been incredibly brave. "I think it's amazing what so many of these that are experiencing that on the pitch are doing in terms of standing tall, standing strong, continuing to be humble in their approach, not being reactive but being responsible when they are moving forwards because they know there's lots of young kids that are watching." Mercedes driver Hamilton was granted honorary Brazilian citizenship last year, with the country's parliament highlighting his deep connection with the country where he won his first title in 2008. The Briton, who was team mate to Spaniard Fernando Alonso at McLaren in a tumultuous 2007 debut season, also experienced racist abuse in Spain when testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya in 2008. Hamilton said sports needed to do more to tackle the problem. "We all need to continue to do more and if we see it, hear it, we need to do something about it," he said. 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. ×

Monaco GP: Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes deal is close, no Ferrari talks; opines on Vinicius Jr's racism case

Lewis Hamilton is out of contract with Mercedes at the end of the Formula One season and, inevitably, speculation that the seven-times world champion could move to&nbsp;Ferrari&nbsp;is again picking up speed. The Daily Mail reported on Monday that&nbsp;Ferrari&nbsp;were set to offer the 38-year-old Briton a 40 million pound ($50.48 million)deal to race in red as team mate to Charles Leclerc, with company president John Elkann making the approach.

Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport said the speculation "would apparently have a foundation of truth" but could not confirm the figures. There was no comment from Mercedes or&nbsp;Ferrari&nbsp;but social media was buzzing. Hamilton has been linked to the Italian team before -- he has at least one of their luxury sportscars in his private car collection -- and in 2019 twice met Elkann socially.

Speculation that he might replace now-retired four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel alongside Leclerc came to nothing then, although the German was replaced by Spaniard Carlos Sainz at the end of 2020. The situation is different now, and there are also a number of reasons why certain parties might want to give the rumour mill an extra shove with this weekend's showcase Monaco Grand Prix looming.

Hamilton has not won a race since 2021, with George Russell a rising talent within the team, but such speculation emphasises his continuing superstar status and boosts his bargaining position -- even if Mercedes need no reminding. On&nbsp;Ferrari's side, Leclerc is a firm favourite but the Monegasque is out of contract at the end of 2024 and, with his patience at times wearing thin, has also been linked to Mercedes.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-honda-engines-to-power-aston-martin-from-2026-595826">Formula One: Honda engines to power Aston Martin from 2026</a>

Asked in April whether he had any conversations with the former champions, Leclerc replied: "Not yet, not for the moment." A move for Hamilton would be a timely reminder from&nbsp;Ferrari&nbsp;that they are not sitting still, although Sainz would not be impressed.

Hamilton needs a winning car to challenge for a record eighth title and the coming races will be crucial in helping him assess whether Mercedes can provide it, or whether to have a last shot at somewhere else. Red Bull have won everything so far in 2023 with double champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, but they are not an option.

The champions do, however, stand to gain from anything that distracts their rivals. Just how seriously Hamilton might consider a move to Maranello remains to be seen, and the championship's second oldest driver has in recent months pointed firmly to racing on with Mercedes.

The manufacturer has supported him throughout his career and allows considerable personal and commercial freedom that might not be available at&nbsp;Ferrari. "I continue to feel very much at home in this family," Hamilton said at the Australian Grand Prix in April. "I see myself with Mercedes until my last days, to be honest. I have amazing allies within the team, great relationships here." While Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said in March he would have 'no grouch' if Hamilton felt a need to look elsewhere, he also doubted the driver would leave.

Lewis Hamilton is out of contract with Mercedes at the end of the Formula One season and, inevitably, speculation that the seven-times world champion could move to Ferrari is again picking up speed.

Lewis Hamilton is out of contract with Mercedes at the end of the Formula One season and, inevitably, speculation that the seven-times world champion could move to Ferrari is again picking up speed. The Daily Mail reported on Monday that Ferrari were set to offer the 38-year-old Briton a 40 million pound ($50.48 million)deal to race in red as team mate to Charles Leclerc, with company president John Elkann making the approach. Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport said the speculation "would apparently have a foundation of truth" but could not confirm the figures. There was no comment from Mercedes or Ferrari but social media was buzzing. Hamilton has been linked to the Italian team before -- he has at least one of their luxury sportscars in his private car collection -- and in 2019 twice met Elkann socially. Speculation that he might replace now-retired four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel alongside Leclerc came to nothing then, although the German was replaced by Spaniard Carlos Sainz at the end of 2020. The situation is different now, and there are also a number of reasons why certain parties might want to give the rumour mill an extra shove with this weekend's showcase Monaco Grand Prix looming. Hamilton has not won a race since 2021, with George Russell a rising talent within the team, but such speculation emphasises his continuing superstar status and boosts his bargaining position -- even if Mercedes need no reminding. On Ferrari's side, Leclerc is a firm favourite but the Monegasque is out of contract at the end of 2024 and, with his patience at times wearing thin, has also been linked to Mercedes. Also Read: Formula One: Honda engines to power Aston Martin from 2026 Asked in April whether he had any conversations with the former champions, Leclerc replied: "Not yet, not for the moment." A move for Hamilton would be a timely reminder from Ferrari that they are not sitting still, although Sainz would not be impressed. Hamilton needs a winning car to challenge for a record eighth title and the coming races will be crucial in helping him assess whether Mercedes can provide it, or whether to have a last shot at somewhere else. Red Bull have won everything so far in 2023 with double champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, but they are not an option. The champions do, however, stand to gain from anything that distracts their rivals. Just how seriously Hamilton might consider a move to Maranello remains to be seen, and the championship's second oldest driver has in recent months pointed firmly to racing on with Mercedes. The manufacturer has supported him throughout his career and allows considerable personal and commercial freedom that might not be available at Ferrari. "I continue to feel very much at home in this family," Hamilton said at the Australian Grand Prix in April. "I see myself with Mercedes until my last days, to be honest. I have amazing allies within the team, great relationships here." While Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said in March he would have 'no grouch' if Hamilton felt a need to look elsewhere, he also doubted the driver would leave.

Formula One: With Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract over, is he moving to Ferrari?

Lewis Hamilton's current Mercedes contract expires at the end of the season and Ferrari have reportedly offered him a £40m deal to continue his pursuit of a record eighth world title with the Italian team. Will the 38-year-old join the most iconic team in the sport?

Will Hamilton leave Mercedes at the end of the season?

Italian automaker Ferrari on Monday informed a significant data breach took place at the company and that customers and their personal data may be at risk. A hacker was reportedly able to infiltrate the IT system of the luxury sports car maker and made a call for ransom in return for the data.

Italian automaker Ferrari on Monday informed a significant data breach took place at the company and that customers and their personal data may be at risk. A hacker was reportedly able to infiltrate the IT system of the luxury sports car maker and made a call for ransom in return for the data. "We regret to inform you of a cyber incident at Ferrari, where a threat actor was able to access a limited number of systems in our IT environment," Ferrari informed in a statement. The letter dated March 21 added that Ferrari was "recently contacted by a threat actor with a ransom demand related to certain client contact details". However, the Maranello-based company said it was not going to bow in front of the hacker and pay the ransom. ALSO READ | Already expensive Ferrari supercars to get even more costly. Supply chain and inflation to be blamed "As a policy, Ferrari will not be held to ransom as paying such demands funds criminal activity and enables threat actors to perpetuate their attacks." It added that the best course of action remains to inform the customers about the potential data exposure and the nature of the incident. The customer information exposed to the hacker includes names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna tried to calm down the situation by stating that no payment details, bank account numbers and/or sensitive payment information had been accessed by the alleged hacker. Ferrari added it had been working with third-party experts to secure its IT systems whilst informing about hiring a leading cybersecurity firm to investigate the matter. The concerned authorities have also been informed. Watch | World Business Watch: Ferrari says no evidence of system breach Ferrari's 7GB of internal documents hacked Notably, this is not the first instance when Ferrari has fallen prey to a ransomware attack, Last year in October, internal documents belonging to the brand had been posted online. ALSO READ | Ferrari falls victim to ransomware attack; 7GB of its internal documents made public Ransomware gang, RansomEXX, on its Tor leak site claimed that it has breached Ferrari stealing 6.99 GB of data, which not only included internal documents but also datasheets and repair manuals amongst other items. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ferrari taken for a spin: Hackers demand ransom after harvesting customer data

Ferrari NV said it was hit by a ransomware attack that exposed information on the Italian sports car maker’s customers. “Certain data relating to our clients was exposed, including names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers,” chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna said Monday in a message to clients.

Ferrari hit by ransomware attack, customer details compromised

Ferrari have moved their Formula One head of strategy Inaki Rueda out of the line of fire with&nbsp;Ravin&nbsp;Jain&nbsp;taking the high-pressure role on the pit wall for the season starting in Bahrain next week. A team spokeswoman said&nbsp;Jain, an Oxford physics graduate who joined the team in 2016, would be in charge of strategy at the track.&nbsp;Rueda remains part of the team with a factory-based sporting role at Maranello.

Strategy is one of the areas new team principal Fred Vasseur has been looking at since taking over in January to address some glaring and costly errors last season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-pre-testing-2023-live-streaming-how-to-watch-f1-pre-testing-season-2023-live-check-full-schedule-564324">Formula 1 Pre-Testing 2023 Live Streaming: How to watch F1 pre-testing season 2023 Live, Check full schedule</a>

Ferrari started that season strongly, winning two of the first three races, but ended up distant runners-up to champions Red Bull.

They were let down also by reliability and driver mistakes but strategic blunders included a pit call in Monaco that cost Charles Leclerc a home victory after starting on pole position and a tyre gamble that backfired for qualifying in Brazil.

Vasseur, who has joined as a replacement for Mattia Binotto, said this month that Ferrari would be making some marginal changes to the race team.

"Very often, when you are speaking about strategy, it's much more a matter of organization than just the guy who is on the pit wall," he said.

"I'm trying to understand exactly what's happened on every single mistake and what's happened last year. And to try to know if it's a matter of decision if it's a matter of organization, or of communication."

Ferrari have not won a championship since the 2008 constructors' title and the pressure is on Vasseur to fix the errors and end the long drought for the sport's oldest and most successful team.

The team started pre-season testing in Bahrain on Thursday with Carlos Sainz behind the wheel for the first session at the Sakhir circuit.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ferrari have moved their Formula One head of strategy Inaki Rueda out of the line of fire with Ravin Jain taking the high-pressure role on the pit wall for the season starting in Bahrain next week.

Ferrari have moved their Formula One head of strategy Inaki Rueda out of the line of fire with Ravin Jain taking the high-pressure role on the pit wall for the season starting in Bahrain next week. A team spokeswoman said Jain, an Oxford physics graduate who joined the team in 2016, would be in charge of strategy at the track. Rueda remains part of the team with a factory-based sporting role at Maranello. Strategy is one of the areas new team principal Fred Vasseur has been looking at since taking over in January to address some glaring and costly errors last season. Also Read: Formula 1 Pre-Testing 2023 Live Streaming: How to watch F1 pre-testing season 2023 Live, Check full schedule Ferrari started that season strongly, winning two of the first three races, but ended up distant runners-up to champions Red Bull. They were let down also by reliability and driver mistakes but strategic blunders included a pit call in Monaco that cost Charles Leclerc a home victory after starting on pole position and a tyre gamble that backfired for qualifying in Brazil. Vasseur, who has joined as a replacement for Mattia Binotto, said this month that Ferrari would be making some marginal changes to the race team. "Very often, when you are speaking about strategy, it's much more a matter of organization than just the guy who is on the pit wall," he said. "I'm trying to understand exactly what's happened on every single mistake and what's happened last year. And to try to know if it's a matter of decision if it's a matter of organization, or of communication." Ferrari have not won a championship since the 2008 constructors' title and the pressure is on Vasseur to fix the errors and end the long drought for the sport's oldest and most successful team. The team started pre-season testing in Bahrain on Thursday with Carlos Sainz behind the wheel for the first session at the Sakhir circuit. 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 1: Indian-origin Ravin Jain replaces Inaki Rueda as Ferrari's head of strategy

McLaren appointed Andrea Stella as&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team principal on Tuesday in a move hastened by his predecessor Andreas Seidl joining Sauber as replacement for Ferrari-bound Frederic Vasseur. Sauber run the Alfa Romeo team, which will become the factory Audi outfit in 2026. The post-season management merry-go-round came after Mattia Binotto handed in his resignation as Ferrari team principal in November. Stella worked with world champions Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso in 15 years at Ferrari under bosses Jean Todt and Stefano Domenicali before joining McLaren in 2019 at the same time as Seidl.

The Italian was promoted from an executive director role at McLaren and chief executive Zak Brown said Stella was first choice after Seidl told the team earlier in the year that he would not be extending his contract. "Andreas in a very transparent manner informed me during the season that he was going to go elsewhere when his contract was up at the end of 2025," the American told reporters on a video call with Stella. "Probably pretty clear where that destination would be, which was quite understandable given his background."

Seidl was previously head of track operations at Sauber and was also principal of Porsche's world endurance team that won the Le Mans 24 Hours three times between 2015-17. Porsche and Audi are both Volkswagen-owned brands. Brown said McLaren would have continued with Seidl to the end of his contract but events took a twist when it became clear Vasseur was going to Ferrari. "(Sauber chairman) Finn Rausing, someone&nbsp;that I've known for a decade and get along with very well, gave me a call to see if there was a discussion to be had to potentially release Andreas early," he explained. "My reaction was if Andrea would be happy to join as team principal, then I'd be very happy to make that change now which I think puts everyone&nbsp;in their permanent homes for the foreseeable future."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferrari-appoint-frechman-frederic-vasseur-as-formula-one-team-boss-542664">Ferrari appoint Frechman Frederic Vasseur as Formula One team boss</a>

Brown said the relationship between Seidl and the team meant 'gardening leave', a break between jobs to limit the flow of sensitive information, was not necessary. Stella said his style would be hands-on, with Brown leaning in more when support was needed but otherwise focusing on the commercial side and sponsors. "What I'm looking for from Andrea is total responsibility for the performance of the&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team," said Brown, whose team finished fourth in 2021 but fifth behind Renault-owned Alpine last season.

He doubted there would be much change, describing the team as going from 850 people to 849 rather than the senior leadership shrinking from three to two. "In terms of the race team, we are happy with the progress we have made recently," said Stella. "So I think it's important to retain continuity there in terms of the way we go racing trackside. "I would certainly see my presence and my impact as being quite direct in relation to that. "Factory-side we have senior leaders I will be able to rely on and I think some of them will step up a little bit such that we can cover all the tasks required to run the business."

McLaren appointed Andrea Stella as Formula One team principal on Tuesday in a move hastened by his predecessor Andreas Seidl joining Sauber as replacement for Ferrari-bound Frederic Vasseur.

McLaren appointed Andrea Stella as Formula One team principal on Tuesday in a move hastened by his predecessor Andreas Seidl joining Sauber as replacement for Ferrari-bound Frederic Vasseur. Sauber run the Alfa Romeo team, which will become the factory Audi outfit in 2026. The post-season management merry-go-round came after Mattia Binotto handed in his resignation as Ferrari team principal in November. Stella worked with world champions Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso in 15 years at Ferrari under bosses Jean Todt and Stefano Domenicali before joining McLaren in 2019 at the same time as Seidl. The Italian was promoted from an executive director role at McLaren and chief executive Zak Brown said Stella was first choice after Seidl told the team earlier in the year that he would not be extending his contract. "Andreas in a very transparent manner informed me during the season that he was going to go elsewhere when his contract was up at the end of 2025," the American told reporters on a video call with Stella. "Probably pretty clear where that destination would be, which was quite understandable given his background." Seidl was previously head of track operations at Sauber and was also principal of Porsche's world endurance team that won the Le Mans 24 Hours three times between 2015-17. Porsche and Audi are both Volkswagen-owned brands. Brown said McLaren would have continued with Seidl to the end of his contract but events took a twist when it became clear Vasseur was going to Ferrari. "(Sauber chairman) Finn Rausing, someone that I've known for a decade and get along with very well, gave me a call to see if there was a discussion to be had to potentially release Andreas early," he explained. "My reaction was if Andrea would be happy to join as team principal, then I'd be very happy to make that change now which I think puts everyone in their permanent homes for the foreseeable future." Also read: Ferrari appoint Frechman Frederic Vasseur as Formula One team boss Brown said the relationship between Seidl and the team meant 'gardening leave', a break between jobs to limit the flow of sensitive information, was not necessary. Stella said his style would be hands-on, with Brown leaning in more when support was needed but otherwise focusing on the commercial side and sponsors. "What I'm looking for from Andrea is total responsibility for the performance of the Formula One team," said Brown, whose team finished fourth in 2021 but fifth behind Renault-owned Alpine last season. He doubted there would be much change, describing the team as going from 850 people to 849 rather than the senior leadership shrinking from three to two. "In terms of the race team, we are happy with the progress we have made recently," said Stella. "So I think it's important to retain continuity there in terms of the way we go racing trackside. "I would certainly see my presence and my impact as being quite direct in relation to that. "Factory-side we have senior leaders I will be able to rely on and I think some of them will step up a little bit such that we can cover all the tasks required to run the business."

Change at Ferrari hastened Andreas Seidl's McLaren ouster

Ferrari appointed Frenchman Frederic&nbsp;Vasseur&nbsp;as Formula One team principal and general manager on Tuesday, replacing Mattia Binotto whose resignation was announced last month. Vasseur's departure from Swiss-based Sauber, which runs the Alfa Romeo team, had been announced earlier. Ferrari said he would join them on Jan. 9.

"We are delighted to welcome Fred&nbsp;Vasseur&nbsp;to Ferrari as our team principal," said the Italian sportscar maker's chief executive Benedetto Vigna in a statement. "Throughout his career he has successfully combined his technical strengths as a trained engineer with a consistent ability to bring out the best in his drivers and teams.

"This approach and his leadership are what we need to push Ferrari forward with renewed energy." Vasseur, 54, will be Ferrari's fifth principal in less than a decade. His arrival also means three of the 10 teams will have new bosses next season, with Jost Capito's exit from Williams announced on Monday.

Ferrari enjoyed a golden era with seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher during a period of stability under the leadership of Frenchman Jean Todt from 1993-2007 but have not won a title since 2008. They finished distant runners-up to Red Bull this season. Vasseur&nbsp;and his compatriot Nicolas Todt, son of Jean and manager of Ferrari's Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, are close and founded the junior series ART racing team together.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-named-wta-player-of-the-year-542644">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek named WTA Player of the Year</a>

Stellantis-owned Alfa Romeo are due to end their sponsorship of Sauber at the end of 2023, with the team then becoming the Audi factory outfit from 2026. Vasseur&nbsp;said he was "truly delighted and honoured" to take over at Maranello.

"As someone who has always held a lifelong passion for motorsport, Ferrari has always represented the very pinnacle of the racing world to me," he said in the team statement. "I look forward to working with the talented and truly passionate team in Maranello to honour the history and heritage of the Scuderia and deliver for our tifosi (fans) around the world." Ferrari's other driver is Spaniard Carlos Sainz.

Ferrari appointed Frenchman Frederic Vasseur as Formula One team principal and general manager on Tuesday, replacing Mattia Binotto whose resignation was announced last month.

Ferrari appointed Frenchman Frederic Vasseur as Formula One team principal and general manager on Tuesday, replacing Mattia Binotto whose resignation was announced last month. Vasseur's departure from Swiss-based Sauber, which runs the Alfa Romeo team, had been announced earlier. Ferrari said he would join them on Jan. 9. "We are delighted to welcome Fred Vasseur to Ferrari as our team principal," said the Italian sportscar maker's chief executive Benedetto Vigna in a statement. "Throughout his career he has successfully combined his technical strengths as a trained engineer with a consistent ability to bring out the best in his drivers and teams. "This approach and his leadership are what we need to push Ferrari forward with renewed energy." Vasseur, 54, will be Ferrari's fifth principal in less than a decade. His arrival also means three of the 10 teams will have new bosses next season, with Jost Capito's exit from Williams announced on Monday. Ferrari enjoyed a golden era with seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher during a period of stability under the leadership of Frenchman Jean Todt from 1993-2007 but have not won a title since 2008. They finished distant runners-up to Red Bull this season. Vasseur and his compatriot Nicolas Todt, son of Jean and manager of Ferrari's Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, are close and founded the junior series ART racing team together. Also read: World No. 1 Iga Swiatek named WTA Player of the Year Stellantis-owned Alfa Romeo are due to end their sponsorship of Sauber at the end of 2023, with the team then becoming the Audi factory outfit from 2026. Vasseur said he was "truly delighted and honoured" to take over at Maranello. "As someone who has always held a lifelong passion for motorsport, Ferrari has always represented the very pinnacle of the racing world to me," he said in the team statement. "I look forward to working with the talented and truly passionate team in Maranello to honour the history and heritage of the Scuderia and deliver for our tifosi (fans) around the world." Ferrari's other driver is Spaniard Carlos Sainz.

Ferrari appoint Frechman Frederic Vasseur as Formula One team boss

Ferrari&nbsp;Formula One boss Mattia Binotto has handed in his resignation and will leave at the end of the year, the championship runners-up said on Tuesday. The news came after considerable media speculation that the 53-year-old, whose contract was due to expire at the end of 2023, had lost top-level support after another failed title challenge.

"With the regret that this entails, I have decided to conclude my collaboration with&nbsp;Ferrari," the Italian sportscar manufacturer quoted Binotto as saying in a statement announcing his departure. "I am leaving a company that I love, which I have been part of for 28 years, with the serenity that comes from the conviction that I have made every effort to achieve the objectives set. "I leave a united and growing team. A strong team, ready, I’m sure, to achieve the highest goals, which I wish all the best for the future. I think it is right to take this step at this time, as hard as this decision has been for me."

Ferrari&nbsp;said they had started the search for a replacement, likely to be finalised in the New Year. Italian media have suggested&nbsp;Ferrari&nbsp;Chief Executive Benedetto Vigna could take on the role on an interim basis. Frederic Vasseur, a Frenchman who runs Swiss-based Sauber and is the principal of the Alfa Romeo team, has also been touted as a likely successor.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-interest-of-the-company-juventus-chairman-andrea-agnelli-resigns-with-entire-board-538343">'Best interest of the company': Juventus Chairman Andrea Agnelli resigns with entire board</a>

Ferrari&nbsp;made a strong start to this season after two years without a victory, but their hopes were dashed by mechanical unreliability, strategy errors and driver mistakes. Although the Maranello-based team won four races, with Charles Leclerc taking three victories and nine pole positions to Carlos Sainz's sole triumph, they were distant runners-up to dominant Red Bull and Max Verstappen.

Leclerc finished second overall, 146 points behind now double-world champion Verstappen. Binotto has spent his whole career at Maranello and was appointed team boss in January 2019, replacing Maurizio Arrivabene. The sport's oldest and most successful team, present in every championship season since the first in 1950, slumped to sixth overall in the 2020 constructors' standings but recovered to third in 2021.

Ferrari Formula One boss Mattia Binotto has handed in his resignation and will leave at the end of the year, the championship runners-up said on Tuesday. The news came after considerable media speculation that the 53-year-old, whose contract was due to expire at the end of 2023, had lost top-level support after another failed title challenge.

Ferrari Formula One boss Mattia Binotto has handed in his resignation and will leave at the end of the year, the championship runners-up said on Tuesday. The news came after considerable media speculation that the 53-year-old, whose contract was due to expire at the end of 2023, had lost top-level support after another failed title challenge. "With the regret that this entails, I have decided to conclude my collaboration with Ferrari," the Italian sportscar manufacturer quoted Binotto as saying in a statement announcing his departure. "I am leaving a company that I love, which I have been part of for 28 years, with the serenity that comes from the conviction that I have made every effort to achieve the objectives set. "I leave a united and growing team. A strong team, ready, I’m sure, to achieve the highest goals, which I wish all the best for the future. I think it is right to take this step at this time, as hard as this decision has been for me." Ferrari said they had started the search for a replacement, likely to be finalised in the New Year. Italian media have suggested Ferrari Chief Executive Benedetto Vigna could take on the role on an interim basis. Frederic Vasseur, a Frenchman who runs Swiss-based Sauber and is the principal of the Alfa Romeo team, has also been touted as a likely successor. Also read: 'Best interest of the company': Juventus Chairman Andrea Agnelli resigns with entire board Ferrari made a strong start to this season after two years without a victory, but their hopes were dashed by mechanical unreliability, strategy errors and driver mistakes. Although the Maranello-based team won four races, with Charles Leclerc taking three victories and nine pole positions to Carlos Sainz's sole triumph, they were distant runners-up to dominant Red Bull and Max Verstappen. Leclerc finished second overall, 146 points behind now double-world champion Verstappen. Binotto has spent his whole career at Maranello and was appointed team boss in January 2019, replacing Maurizio Arrivabene. The sport's oldest and most successful team, present in every championship season since the first in 1950, slumped to sixth overall in the 2020 constructors' standings but recovered to third in 2021.

Mattia Binotto resigns as Ferrari F1 team boss, will leave at end of 2022

Ferrari dismissed as "totally without foundation" media reports in Italy on Tuesday that Formula One team boss Mattia Binotto was set to be replaced by Sauber's Frederic Vasseur after the end of the season.

The Corriere della Sera and Gazzetta dello Sport newspapers had suggested Frenchman Vasseur was being lined up to take over in January.

"In relation to speculation in certain media regarding Scuderia Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto's position, Ferrari states that these rumours are totally without foundation," the team said.

Ferrari have won four races in 2022 but their early season promise fell away due to mechanical unreliability, strategy errors and driver mistakes.

Red Bull have won both titles, with now double world champion Max Verstappen taking a record 14 wins in a single season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-qatars-preparations-for-fifa-world-cup-as-final-countdown-begins-534405">IN PICS | Preparations in Qatar for FIFA World Cup as final countdown begins</a>

Ferrari are now in danger of dropping to third overall in the constructors' standings after this weekend's season-ending race in Abu Dhabi, with resurgent Mercedes 19 points behind.

Vasseur is principal of the Alfa Romeo team, operated by Swiss-based Sauber and which will become the Audi factory team in 2026.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/greg-norman-must-quit-liv-role-to-end-stalemate-says-no-1-ranked-rory-mcilroy-534480">Greg Norman must quit LIV role to end stalemate, says No. 1 ranked Rory McIlroy</a>

Binotto has spent his whole career at Maranello and was appointed team boss in January 2019, replacing Maurizio Arrivabene.

That change was flagged up by the Gazzetta in advance of the official announcement.

Ferrari dismissed as "totally without foundation" media reports in Italy on Tuesday that Formula One team boss Mattia Binotto was set to be replaced by Sauber's Frederic Vasseur after the end of the season.

Ferrari dismissed as "totally without foundation" media reports in Italy on Tuesday that Formula One team boss Mattia Binotto was set to be replaced by Sauber's Frederic Vasseur after the end of the season. The Corriere della Sera and Gazzetta dello Sport newspapers had suggested Frenchman Vasseur was being lined up to take over in January. "In relation to speculation in certain media regarding Scuderia Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto's position, Ferrari states that these rumours are totally without foundation," the team said. Ferrari have won four races in 2022 but their early season promise fell away due to mechanical unreliability, strategy errors and driver mistakes. Red Bull have won both titles, with now double world champion Max Verstappen taking a record 14 wins in a single season. Also Read: IN PICS | Preparations in Qatar for FIFA World Cup as final countdown begins Ferrari are now in danger of dropping to third overall in the constructors' standings after this weekend's season-ending race in Abu Dhabi, with resurgent Mercedes 19 points behind. Vasseur is principal of the Alfa Romeo team, operated by Swiss-based Sauber and which will become the Audi factory team in 2026. Also Read: Greg Norman must quit LIV role to end stalemate, says No. 1 ranked Rory McIlroy Binotto has spent his whole career at Maranello and was appointed team boss in January 2019, replacing Maurizio Arrivabene. That change was flagged up by the Gazzetta in advance of the official announcement.

Ferrari denies reports of F1 team boss Mattia Binotto facing the sack

The Ferrari in which Formula One legend Michael&nbsp;Schumacher&nbsp;won the 2003 World Championship title sold for nearly $15 million at auction in Geneva on Wednesday. "This remarkable car has achieved a world record price for a modern-era Formula One," the Sotheby's auctioneer said after the F2003-GA, Chassis 229 car went under the hammer for 13 million Swiss francs ($13.2 million).

When taxes and fees were added on, the final price stood at 14.6 million francs ($14.9 million), the auction house said later. The previous record was held by another&nbsp;Schumacher-driven Ferrari, an F2001 model sold by Sotheby's in New York in 2017 for $7.5 million.

The final price, offered by an unidentified telephone bidder from Europe after a bidding war of more than 40 minutes, far outstripped expectations, with the auction house estimating before the sale that the car would fetch up to 9.5 million Swiss francs.

It is "one of the most significant Formula One cars of all time", the auctioneers said.&nbsp;Schumacher, who has not been seen in public since suffering serious injuries in a skiing accident in 2013, raced nine times in the car.

- 'Very important car' -

He won five Grands Prix with it in the 2003 season and drove it when he clinched the title in Japan. "It's one of the Ferraris with the most victories in the constructor's history, so it's a very important car in the history of motor racing," Vincent Luzuy, from the Sotheby's branch dealing with luxury car sales, told AFP. Designed by Rory Byrne and Ross Brawn, the F2003-GA featured a longer wheelbase to improve aerodynamics, he explained.

The model was brought in at the Spanish Grand Prix, the fifth race of the 2003 season. Chassis 229 is by far the most successful of the six F2003-GAs that were built.&nbsp;Schumacher&nbsp;drove it to victory in Spain and also won the Austrian, Canadian, Italian and US Grands Prix in the car. He also claimed pole position in Spain, Austria and Italy in the vehicle, and the fastest laps in Austria, Italy and the United States.

The car powered&nbsp;Schumacher&nbsp;to his sixth F1 title -- a total that saw the German overtake the five won by Argentina's Juan Manuel Fangio in the 1950s. It also helped Ferrari win a 13th constructor's championship -- the Italian team's fifth in a row.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-announces-return-to-golf-at-hero-world-challenge-532719">Tiger Woods announces return to golf at Hero World Challenge</a>

<h2>- Luxury week -</h2>

Schumacher's Ferrari was sold during Sotheby's Luxury Week, which began last Friday and where a range of sparkling jewels, pricy watches and designer handbags are going under the hammer. But a&nbsp;spectacular blue diamond, expected to provide the grand finale to the jewellery sale and estimated to fetch up to 15 million Swiss francs, went unsold later on Wednesday.

That 5.53-carat "fancy vivid blue" cushion-shaped diamond is part of the De Beers Exceptional Blue Collection -- a group of eight rare fancy blue diamonds with a total value of more than $70 million being sold in Geneva, New York and Hong Kong.

Sotheby's told AFP the gem was "an exceptional stone in every sense" and "attracted significant interest" before the sale. "While we didn't get to see it sell in the room tonight, we are confident it will find a new home very soon," it added.

Another piece expected to draw attention, and bids, was an emerald and diamond bracelet made in the 1850s, which once belonged to French empress Eugenie, the wife of emperor Napoleon III. It has been estimated at between 60,000 and 80,000 francs.

Sotheby's is already on a roll, having sold the 11.15-carat Williamson Pink Star pink diamond in Hong Kong last Friday for HK$453.2 million ($57.7 million), setting a record for price per carat paid at auction for any diamond or gemstone, the auction house said. Pink diamonds are only found in a few places and fewer than 10 percent weigh more than one fifth of a carat, and the big ones are some of the most in-demand on the global market.

The 18.18-carat Fortune Pink -- the largest pear-shaped "fancy vivid pink" diamond ever to go under the hammer -- was meanwhile snapped up at a Christie's auction in Geneva on Tuesday for $28.5 million.

The Ferrari in which Formula One legend Michael Schumacher won the 2003 World Championship title sold for nearly $15 million at auction in Geneva on Wednesday. "This remarkable car has achieved a world record price for a modern-era Formula One," the Sotheby's auctioneer said after the F2003-GA, Chassis 229 car went under the hammer for 13 million Swiss francs ($13.

The Ferrari in which Formula One legend Michael Schumacher won the 2003 World Championship title sold for nearly $15 million at auction in Geneva on Wednesday. "This remarkable car has achieved a world record price for a modern-era Formula One," the Sotheby's auctioneer said after the F2003-GA, Chassis 229 car went under the hammer for 13 million Swiss francs ($13.2 million). When taxes and fees were added on, the final price stood at 14.6 million francs ($14.9 million), the auction house said later. The previous record was held by another Schumacher-driven Ferrari, an F2001 model sold by Sotheby's in New York in 2017 for $7.5 million. The final price, offered by an unidentified telephone bidder from Europe after a bidding war of more than 40 minutes, far outstripped expectations, with the auction house estimating before the sale that the car would fetch up to 9.5 million Swiss francs. It is "one of the most significant Formula One cars of all time", the auctioneers said. Schumacher, who has not been seen in public since suffering serious injuries in a skiing accident in 2013, raced nine times in the car. - 'Very important car' - He won five Grands Prix with it in the 2003 season and drove it when he clinched the title in Japan. "It's one of the Ferraris with the most victories in the constructor's history, so it's a very important car in the history of motor racing," Vincent Luzuy, from the Sotheby's branch dealing with luxury car sales, told AFP. Designed by Rory Byrne and Ross Brawn, the F2003-GA featured a longer wheelbase to improve aerodynamics, he explained. The model was brought in at the Spanish Grand Prix, the fifth race of the 2003 season. Chassis 229 is by far the most successful of the six F2003-GAs that were built. Schumacher drove it to victory in Spain and also won the Austrian, Canadian, Italian and US Grands Prix in the car. He also claimed pole position in Spain, Austria and Italy in the vehicle, and the fastest laps in Austria, Italy and the United States. The car powered Schumacher to his sixth F1 title -- a total that saw the German overtake the five won by Argentina's Juan Manuel Fangio in the 1950s. It also helped Ferrari win a 13th constructor's championship -- the Italian team's fifth in a row. ALSO READ | Tiger Woods announces return to golf at Hero World Challenge - Luxury week - Schumacher's Ferrari was sold during Sotheby's Luxury Week, which began last Friday and where a range of sparkling jewels, pricy watches and designer handbags are going under the hammer. But a spectacular blue diamond, expected to provide the grand finale to the jewellery sale and estimated to fetch up to 15 million Swiss francs, went unsold later on Wednesday. That 5.53-carat "fancy vivid blue" cushion-shaped diamond is part of the De Beers Exceptional Blue Collection -- a group of eight rare fancy blue diamonds with a total value of more than $70 million being sold in Geneva, New York and Hong Kong. Sotheby's told AFP the gem was "an exceptional stone in every sense" and "attracted significant interest" before the sale. "While we didn't get to see it sell in the room tonight, we are confident it will find a new home very soon," it added. Another piece expected to draw attention, and bids, was an emerald and diamond bracelet made in the 1850s, which once belonged to French empress Eugenie, the wife of emperor Napoleon III. It has been estimated at between 60,000 and 80,000 francs. Sotheby's is already on a roll, having sold the 11.15-carat Williamson Pink Star pink diamond in Hong Kong last Friday for HK$453.2 million ($57.7 million), setting a record for price per carat paid at auction for any diamond or gemstone, the auction house said. Pink diamonds are only found in a few places and fewer than 10 percent weigh more than one fifth of a carat, and the big ones are some of the most in-demand on the global market. The 18.18-carat Fortune Pink -- the largest pear-shaped "fancy vivid pink" diamond ever to go under the hammer -- was meanwhile snapped up at a Christie's auction in Geneva on Tuesday for $28.5 million.

F1 legend Michael Schumacher's Ferrari fetches record $15 million at auction

The Ferrari driven to five race victories by Michael Schumacher during his World Championship-winning 2003 Formula 1 season is being auctioned next week in Geneva, auction house Sotheby's said on Friday.

The red "Chassis 229" Ferrari raced by German world champion driver Schumacher nine times could fetch up to $9.4 million, according to the sellers.

"It's ... special because this car is one of the only four cars with more than four wins in the Ferrari history and especially with one of the most skilled driver of his generation, Michael Schumacher," said Vincent Luzuy, executive assistant to the director of RM Sotheby's sales.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-rare-18-carat-pink-diamond-sold-for-285-million-532545">Extremely rare 18-carat pear-shaped pink diamond sold for $28.5 million at auction</a>

He said the target market were race course buyers, since the car is "track-ready", as well as art collectors.

Sotheby's is also presenting eight rare "Fancy Blue" diamonds valued at more than $70 million. This colour is the highest possible colour grading for blue diamonds and is awarded to no more than 1 per cent&nbsp;of blue diamonds submitted to the Gemological Institute of America, Sotheby's said.

"It is extremely rare and to have a collection of eight it is super exciting," said jewellery specialist at Sotheby's Geneva, Marie-Cécile Cisamolo. The diamonds will be offered at auction in Geneva, New York and Hong Kong and the first one will be offered in the Swiss city on Nov. 9.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Ferrari driven to five race victories by Michael Schumacher during his World Championship-winning 2003 Formula 1 season is being auctioned next week in Geneva, auction house Sotheby's said on Friday.

The Ferrari driven to five race victories by Michael Schumacher during his World Championship-winning 2003 Formula 1 season is being auctioned next week in Geneva, auction house Sotheby's said on Friday. The red "Chassis 229" Ferrari raced by German world champion driver Schumacher nine times could fetch up to $9.4 million, according to the sellers. "It's ... special because this car is one of the only four cars with more than four wins in the Ferrari history and especially with one of the most skilled driver of his generation, Michael Schumacher," said Vincent Luzuy, executive assistant to the director of RM Sotheby's sales. Also read | Extremely rare 18-carat pear-shaped pink diamond sold for $28.5 million at auction He said the target market were race course buyers, since the car is "track-ready", as well as art collectors. Sotheby's is also presenting eight rare "Fancy Blue" diamonds valued at more than $70 million. This colour is the highest possible colour grading for blue diamonds and is awarded to no more than 1 per cent of blue diamonds submitted to the Gemological Institute of America, Sotheby's said. "It is extremely rare and to have a collection of eight it is super exciting," said jewellery specialist at Sotheby's Geneva, Marie-Cécile Cisamolo. The diamonds will be offered at auction in Geneva, New York and Hong Kong and the first one will be offered in the Swiss city on Nov. 9. 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.

Michael Schumacher's winning Ferrari up for auction in Geneva

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari might have become the latest victim of a ransomware attack. As per a Reuters report, internal documents belonging to the brand had been posted online.

The carmaker refuted that this was a ransomware attack, adding that there was no evidence of it or of a breach of the company's system.&nbsp;

However, Ferrari said that it was working to identify how the documents were made public and that appropriate actions would be taken as needed, adding that there has been no disruption to its business and operations.

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Ferrari says no evidence of system breach

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-ferrari-says-no-evidence-of-system-breach-522243/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier on Monday, Corriere della Sera newspaper, citing the Italian website&nbsp;the Red Hot Cyber, reported that the luxury carmaker had been a &nbsp;victim of a cyber attack.&nbsp;

As per Red Hot Cyber, ransomware gang,&nbsp;RansomEXX, on its Tor leak site claimed that it has breached Ferrari stealing 6.99 GB of data, which not only included internal documents but also datasheets and repair manuals etc.&nbsp;As of yet the source of these documents remains unclear.&nbsp;

In the recent past, ransomware attacks have grown exponentially. From big brands like Ferrari to public service organisations like UK's National Health Service, many have fallen prey to these attacks. Ransomware attacks use malware to block access to data or threaten to publish sensitive data unless the victim pays a substantial ransom.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ransomware-attack-hits-uk-nhss-software-experts-fear-theft-of-sensitive-patient-data-506036">Ransomware attack hits UK NHS's software, experts fear theft of sensitive patient data</a>

As per Security Affairs and Hack Notice, in December of last year, another ransomware attack indirectly targeted Ferrari. The attack by Everest ransomware allegedly hacked Speroni Spa's systems. The company is part of the supply chain of multiple car makers including Ferrari. Reportedly, 850 GB of the company's data, including customer and employee data, technical data, financial documents, bank statements, and "other very important documents" were put up for sale after the attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari might have become the latest victim of a ransomware attack. As per a Reuters report, internal documents belonging to the brand had been posted online.

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari might have become the latest victim of a ransomware attack. As per a Reuters report, internal documents belonging to the brand had been posted online. The carmaker refuted that this was a ransomware attack, adding that there was no evidence of it or of a breach of the company's system. However, Ferrari said that it was working to identify how the documents were made public and that appropriate actions would be taken as needed, adding that there has been no disruption to its business and operations. Watch | World Business Watch: Ferrari says no evidence of system breach Earlier on Monday, Corriere della Sera newspaper, citing the Italian website the Red Hot Cyber, reported that the luxury carmaker had been a victim of a cyber attack. As per Red Hot Cyber, ransomware gang, RansomEXX, on its Tor leak site claimed that it has breached Ferrari stealing 6.99 GB of data, which not only included internal documents but also datasheets and repair manuals etc. As of yet the source of these documents remains unclear. In the recent past, ransomware attacks have grown exponentially. From big brands like Ferrari to public service organisations like UK's National Health Service, many have fallen prey to these attacks. Ransomware attacks use malware to block access to data or threaten to publish sensitive data unless the victim pays a substantial ransom. Also read | Ransomware attack hits UK NHS's software, experts fear theft of sensitive patient data As per Security Affairs and Hack Notice, in December of last year, another ransomware attack indirectly targeted Ferrari. The attack by Everest ransomware allegedly hacked Speroni Spa's systems. The company is part of the supply chain of multiple car makers including Ferrari. Reportedly, 850 GB of the company's data, including customer and employee data, technical data, financial documents, bank statements, and "other very important documents" were put up for sale after the attack. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ferrari falls victim to ransomware attack; 7GB of its internal documents made public

Ferrari said some internal documents had been posted online but it has no evidence of a breach of its systems or ransomware. The luxury sports carmaker company also added that it is working to identify how this had happened.

World Business Watch: Ferrari says no evidence of system breach

In a bid to make racing much more exciting,&nbsp;F1 went ahead with&nbsp;a complete revamp of the technical regulations for the 2022 season. It comprised resorting&nbsp;to ground effect machinery along with&nbsp;a change to 18-inch wheels running less thermally-sensitive tyres.

'I don't think there's a big difference'

After the changes made, the question remains whether the efforts made by F1 have been fruitful or not. In this regard, Aston Martin's Sebastian Vettel -- who is set to retire following the 2022 season -- shared his take.&nbsp;Asked by Motorsport.com about the new rules and&nbsp;tyres, Vettel said,&nbsp;'They've always been tricky, but let's say it like this: the big push this year was to make the cars able to overtake and follow a lot closer. But I don't think there's a big difference."

“We follow closer, but we've got less drag, so you need to be closer to also overtake. And on tyres, the big target was to allow racing more, but I don't think it is a big difference either. So I don't want to say it has failed. But certainly a lot of effort had gone in and not all the effort came out, let's put it this way," said the four-time world champion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-perez-feels-red-bull-teammate-max-verstappen-deserves-to-win-f1-championship-520902">Sergio Perez feels Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen deserves to win F1 championship</a>

On&nbsp;the tyres?

“I think everybody is exploring or finding the same thing. So as long as you're on the good side of things, then [it’s okay]. But usually, the faster you are in terms of the car package, the less problems you have. So now being at the back of the grid, we do have some surprises and some weekends where it doesn't go right.

“Then, you only get one or two runs maximum in qualifying, which you know, makes it a lot harder. But I would say it's pretty much as it was," the German pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fia-gives-nod-to-three-more-sprint-sessions-in-formula-one-from-2023-520438">FIA gives nod to three more sprint sessions in Formula One from 2023</a>

What about sprint races?

Along with the&nbsp;changes, it has also brought a bold change to the sport, courtesy of the&nbsp;sprint races. However, Vettel isn't a big fan of sprint race cash.

“I think that from a driving point of view, it's not very exciting to have a sprint,” he said. “I think you are still looking at the main race. You're looking at maybe improving your position, obviously, but mostly not losing. You get some points now, and you get a little bit more [than last year], but I think the main focus is still on the race. I don't want to be the bad guy for just being the bad guy, but I think it is a way to make more money.

“If there is a race, obviously it's more exciting than maybe a practice session. You have more people watching. So I guess it's a question of approach, but then I don't have full access to the numbers. That's what we were told some while ago," he concluded.

In a bid to make racing much more exciting, F1 went ahead with a complete revamp of the technical regulations for the 2022 season. It comprised resorting to ground effect machinery along with a change to 18-inch wheels running less thermally-sensitive tyres.

In a bid to make racing much more exciting, F1 went ahead with a complete revamp of the technical regulations for the 2022 season. It comprised resorting to ground effect machinery along with a change to 18-inch wheels running less thermally-sensitive tyres. 'I don't think there's a big difference' After the changes made, the question remains whether the efforts made by F1 have been fruitful or not. In this regard, Aston Martin's Sebastian Vettel -- who is set to retire following the 2022 season -- shared his take. Asked by Motorsport.com about the new rules and tyres, Vettel said, 'They've always been tricky, but let's say it like this: the big push this year was to make the cars able to overtake and follow a lot closer. But I don't think there's a big difference." “We follow closer, but we've got less drag, so you need to be closer to also overtake. And on tyres, the big target was to allow racing more, but I don't think it is a big difference either. So I don't want to say it has failed. But certainly a lot of effort had gone in and not all the effort came out, let's put it this way," said the four-time world champion. ALSO READ | Sergio Perez feels Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen deserves to win F1 championship On the tyres? “I think everybody is exploring or finding the same thing. So as long as you're on the good side of things, then [it’s okay]. But usually, the faster you are in terms of the car package, the less problems you have. So now being at the back of the grid, we do have some surprises and some weekends where it doesn't go right. “Then, you only get one or two runs maximum in qualifying, which you know, makes it a lot harder. But I would say it's pretty much as it was," the German pointed out. ALSO READ | FIA gives nod to three more sprint sessions in Formula One from 2023 What about sprint races? Along with the changes, it has also brought a bold change to the sport, courtesy of the sprint races. However, Vettel isn't a big fan of sprint race cash. “I think that from a driving point of view, it's not very exciting to have a sprint,” he said. “I think you are still looking at the main race. You're looking at maybe improving your position, obviously, but mostly not losing. You get some points now, and you get a little bit more [than last year], but I think the main focus is still on the race. I don't want to be the bad guy for just being the bad guy, but I think it is a way to make more money. “If there is a race, obviously it's more exciting than maybe a practice session. You have more people watching. So I guess it's a question of approach, but then I don't have full access to the numbers. That's what we were told some while ago," he concluded.

I don't think there's a big difference: Sebastian Vettel's take on F1 2022 new rules

Red Bull's&nbsp;Max&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;dashed Ferrari's home hopes and won the Italian Grand Prix behind the safety car on Sunday to move potentially a race away from his second Formula One world championship.

The Dutch 24-year-old's victory at the "Temple of Speed", in a race that ended disappointingly and to jeers from the crowd, was&nbsp;Verstappen's fifth in a row and 11th from 16 races this season.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc,&nbsp;Verstappen's closest rival and now 116 points adrift with six races remaining, took second after starting on pole position.

George Russell finished third for Mercedes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graham-potter-pens-open-letter-to-brighton-hove-albion-begging-for-forgiveness-after-leaving-for-chelsea-515171" hreflang="en">Graham Potter pens open letter to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion fans after leaving for Chelsea</a>

If&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;scores 22 points more than Leclerc in the next race under floodlights in Singapore on Oct. 2, the title battle will be over. Otherwise, it goes on to Japan a week later.

"You deserve that victory. It's a shame it didn't get going at the end there but you were the fastest car all weekend," Red Bull boss Christian Horner told&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;over the radio after the chequered flag.

"Great job guys, we had a great race car," he replied.

The win was the 31st of&nbsp;Verstappen's career, lifting him level with Britain's 1992 champion Nigel Mansell in the all-time lists.

Verstappen&nbsp;started seventh on the grid but was third by the end of the opening lap and 19.5 seconds clear of Leclerc with 20 laps remaining after the Monegasque had pitted for a second time to switch from medium tyres to softs.

The safety car, deployed six laps from the end when last year's winner Daniel Ricciardo stopped his McLaren on track with an engine failure, raised the home fans' hopes but time ran out.

The race, at a super-fast circuit celebrating its 100th anniversary, finished with the safety car peeling off into the pits at the finish and no opportunity for the order to change in the short run to the flag.

"The end was frustrating, I wish we could have had a bit of a race," said Leclerc.

"It's a shame, but I gave it all today. I wish I could have won in front of the amazing Tifosi (fans) but I just couldn't today."

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz was fourth, after starting 18th and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton went from the back row of the grid to fifth for Mercedes.

Red Bull's Sergio Perez was sixth, and took a bonus point for fastest lap, ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris and AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ufc-279-who-won-the-fight-between-nate-diaz-and-tony-ferguson-515195" hreflang="en">UFC 279: Who won the fight between Nate Diaz and Tony Ferguson?</a>

Dutch debutant Nyck de Vries took ninth place for Williams, a stellar achievement that earned him the Driver of the Day accolade, and China's Guanyu Zhou was 10th for Alfa Romeo in their home race.

"My shoulders are dead," said De Vries, who was standing in for regular driver Alex Albon after the Thai suffered appendicitis on Saturday morning.

A minute's silence was observed before the start for Queen Elizabeth, Britain's longest reigning monarch who died aged 96 on Thursday.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen dashed Ferrari's home hopes and won the Italian Grand Prix behind the safety car on Sunday to move potentially a race away from his second Formula One world championship.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen dashed Ferrari's home hopes and won the Italian Grand Prix behind the safety car on Sunday to move potentially a race away from his second Formula One world championship. The Dutch 24-year-old's victory at the "Temple of Speed", in a race that ended disappointingly and to jeers from the crowd, was Verstappen's fifth in a row and 11th from 16 races this season. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, Verstappen's closest rival and now 116 points adrift with six races remaining, took second after starting on pole position. George Russell finished third for Mercedes. ALSO READ: Graham Potter pens open letter to Brighton & Hove Albion fans after leaving for Chelsea If Verstappen scores 22 points more than Leclerc in the next race under floodlights in Singapore on Oct. 2, the title battle will be over. Otherwise, it goes on to Japan a week later. "You deserve that victory. It's a shame it didn't get going at the end there but you were the fastest car all weekend," Red Bull boss Christian Horner told Verstappen over the radio after the chequered flag. "Great job guys, we had a great race car," he replied. The win was the 31st of Verstappen's career, lifting him level with Britain's 1992 champion Nigel Mansell in the all-time lists. Verstappen started seventh on the grid but was third by the end of the opening lap and 19.5 seconds clear of Leclerc with 20 laps remaining after the Monegasque had pitted for a second time to switch from medium tyres to softs. The safety car, deployed six laps from the end when last year's winner Daniel Ricciardo stopped his McLaren on track with an engine failure, raised the home fans' hopes but time ran out. The race, at a super-fast circuit celebrating its 100th anniversary, finished with the safety car peeling off into the pits at the finish and no opportunity for the order to change in the short run to the flag. "The end was frustrating, I wish we could have had a bit of a race," said Leclerc. "It's a shame, but I gave it all today. I wish I could have won in front of the amazing Tifosi (fans) but I just couldn't today." Ferrari's Carlos Sainz was fourth, after starting 18th and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton went from the back row of the grid to fifth for Mercedes. Red Bull's Sergio Perez was sixth, and took a bonus point for fastest lap, ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris and AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly. ALSO READ: UFC 279: Who won the fight between Nate Diaz and Tony Ferguson? Dutch debutant Nyck de Vries took ninth place for Williams, a stellar achievement that earned him the Driver of the Day accolade, and China's Guanyu Zhou was 10th for Alfa Romeo in their home race. "My shoulders are dead," said De Vries, who was standing in for regular driver Alex Albon after the Thai suffered appendicitis on Saturday morning. A minute's silence was observed before the start for Queen Elizabeth, Britain's longest reigning monarch who died aged 96 on Thursday.

Italian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen inches closer to F1 title following a dominant race-win at Monza

Luxury carmaker Ferrari is recalling nearly every car it is made since 2005 for possible brake failure. Eric Njoka tells you more.

WION Fineprint |Ferrari recalls 17 years worth of luxury cars over failing brakes

The breakdown in the supply chain system has hit auto companies across the planet. The delay in the supply of crucial electrical and mechanical equipment required to roll cars out of the factories has led to a huge backlog of deliveries.

The breakdown in the supply chain system has hit auto companies across the planet. The delay in the supply of crucial electrical and mechanical equipment required to roll cars out of the factories has led to a huge backlog of deliveries. Couple it with sky-high inflation rates and you have a market where already expensive Ferrari supercars are set to get even more expensive from the first quarter of next year. Reportedly, Enzo Ferrari founded Ferrari is expected to hike the prices of its supercar models which include the likes of Monza and Portofino. While Monza is priced at $1.6 million already, Portofino is not much cheaper either as it comes at a price of $219,460. However, both are set to receive a price hike. While Ferrari has witnessed a positive demand trend in the supercar segment, it is not able to achieve speedy deliveries of cars. According to Ferrari's Chief Executive Officer Benedetto Vigna, the supercar company is booking orders from customers who will be receiving the delivery beyond next year. Vigna, speaking at the earnings call stated that growth in deliveries is expected to remain slow in 2023 as well. It is quite remarkable that a sector that was earlier bleeding due to lack of demand at the peak of the pandemic, is now troubled by the lack of supplies. However, the auto segment is not the only sector to be troubled by inflation and supply chain problems. As reported by WION, leading aircraft manufacturer Boeing has also remarked that the chances of deliveries improving in 2023 were slim. Read More: Supply chain constraints and labour shortage delay Boeing 737 MAX production However, despite all the problems, the Italy-based auto manufacturer reported a net profit of $257 million in the quarter ending June. One of the biggest calls to come from the warning call was Ferrari's new business plan of making 80 per cent of its cars by 2030, either electric or hybrid. Currently, Ferrari is known for its gas-guzzling, thunderous-noise-producing conventional combustion engines. However, as the world moves toward an electric and green future, Ferrari is looking to stay with the curve. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Already expensive Ferrari supercars to get even more costly. Supply chain and inflation to be blamed

Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz will take a penalty of at least 10 places on Sunday`s French Grand Prix starting grid, Formula One stewards said. The Spaniard, whose engine went up in flames at the previous race in Austria, started Friday practice at Le Castellet with a new control electronics in his car`s power unit, triggering a 10 place penalty.

Ferrari could still change more elements of the power unit, adding to the drop. Sainz, winner in Britain on July 3, is fourth in the championship but 75 points behind Red Bull`s overall leader Max Verstappen. Ferrari are chasing their third successive win this weekend after Charles Leclerc followed up Sainz`s Silverstone victory by winning in Austria.

Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz will take a penalty of at least 10 places on Sunday`s French Grand Prix starting grid, Formula One stewards said. The Spaniard, whose engine went up in flames at the previous race in Austria, started Friday practice at Le Castellet with a new control electronics in his car`s power unit, triggering a 10 place penalty.

Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz will take a penalty of at least 10 places on Sunday`s French Grand Prix starting grid, Formula One stewards said. The Spaniard, whose engine went up in flames at the previous race in Austria, started Friday practice at Le Castellet with a new control electronics in his car`s power unit, triggering a 10 place penalty. Ferrari could still change more elements of the power unit, adding to the drop. Sainz, winner in Britain on July 3, is fourth in the championship but 75 points behind Red Bull`s overall leader Max Verstappen. Ferrari are chasing their third successive win this weekend after Charles Leclerc followed up Sainz`s Silverstone victory by winning in Austria.

Ferrari's Spanish driver Carlos Sainz takes a grid drop for French Grand Prix

Apple TV+ has announced a series on the life of automaker Enzo Ferrari, which will come from the creator of the hit BBC show ‘Peaky Blinders’, Steven Knight. The series will be directed by Stefano Sollima of 'Without Remorse,' with Lorenzo Mieli and Paolo Sorrentino serving as executive producers.

In a statement, Knight said, "I am thrilled to be telling such an evocative story about this legendary man and his iconic brand."

"Enzo Ferrari’s utterly extraordinary life was defined by his dramatic personal and professional journey, and Ferrari is a celebration of an incredibly complex and fascinating human being," he added.&nbsp;

The series will be based on Luca Dal Monte's best-selling biography Ferrari Rex and will follow the life of Enzo Ferrari, his dedication to developing the fastest racing car in history, and the sufferings that passion brought him in his life. Enzo, in between 1956 and 1961 suffered trauma and pain after his firstborn son Dino died&nbsp;for which he blames his driver, Juan Manule Fangio.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-rings-of-power-new-teaser-an-epic-stunning-return-to-middle-earth-497346">'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' new teaser: An epic, stunning return to Middle-earth</a>

The show will be produced by Fremantle-owned The Young Pope, The Apartment Pictures and Indigo Film, which have put together a top-notch creative team, with Knight penning the script. Apart from Lorenzo Mieli and Paolo Sorrentino, Nicola Guiliano, Knight, Solima, Giulio Marantonio, and Lorenzo De Maio will executive produce the series. Dal Monte has been onboarded as a historical consultant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ferrari is Knight's second Apple TV+ project after the sci-fi thriller ‘See’, starring Jason Momoa and Alfre Woodard, which is soon coming to an end.&nbsp;

Apple TV+ has announced a series on the life of automaker Enzo Ferrari, which will come from the creator of the hit BBC show ‘Peaky Blinders’, Steven Knight. The series will be directed by Stefano Sollima of 'Without Remorse,' with Lorenzo Mieli and Paolo Sorrentino serving as executive producers.

Apple TV+ has announced a series on the life of automaker Enzo Ferrari, which will come from the creator of the hit BBC show ‘Peaky Blinders’, Steven Knight. The series will be directed by Stefano Sollima of 'Without Remorse,' with Lorenzo Mieli and Paolo Sorrentino serving as executive producers. In a statement, Knight said, "I am thrilled to be telling such an evocative story about this legendary man and his iconic brand." "Enzo Ferrari’s utterly extraordinary life was defined by his dramatic personal and professional journey, and Ferrari is a celebration of an incredibly complex and fascinating human being," he added. The series will be based on Luca Dal Monte's best-selling biography Ferrari Rex and will follow the life of Enzo Ferrari, his dedication to developing the fastest racing car in history, and the sufferings that passion brought him in his life. Enzo, in between 1956 and 1961 suffered trauma and pain after his firstborn son Dino died for which he blames his driver, Juan Manule Fangio. Also Read: 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' new teaser: An epic, stunning return to Middle-earth The show will be produced by Fremantle-owned The Young Pope, The Apartment Pictures and Indigo Film, which have put together a top-notch creative team, with Knight penning the script. Apart from Lorenzo Mieli and Paolo Sorrentino, Nicola Guiliano, Knight, Solima, Giulio Marantonio, and Lorenzo De Maio will executive produce the series. Dal Monte has been onboarded as a historical consultant. Ferrari is Knight's second Apple TV+ project after the sci-fi thriller ‘See’, starring Jason Momoa and Alfre Woodard, which is soon coming to an end.

Apple TV+ announces drama series 'Ferrari' from the makers of 'Peaky Blinders'

Charles Leclerc survived a late throttle scare to win the Austrian Grand Prix for Ferrari on Sunday and move back up as Formula One world championship leader Max Verstappen`s closest rival. Red Bull`s Verstappen had to settle for second, with a comfortable 38-point lead over the Monegasque after 11 of 22 races.

Mercedes` seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton completed the podium for the third race in a row. "I was scared. I was really scared," said a relieved Leclerc over the team radio after taking the chequered flag at the Red Bull Ring with Verstappen in his mirrors and one and half seconds behind.

He overtook the Dutch driver three times in the race but feared the win might still slip away as he battled a throttle problem over the last few laps.

"It would get stuck at 20 or 30% throttle in the low speeds, so it was very tricky. We managed to make it stick until the end and I am so happy," said Leclerc.

"I definitely needed that one. The last five races have been incredibly difficult for myself and for the team. To finally show that we have the pace in the car and we can do it is incredible."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battle-for-best-rafael-in-sport-rafael-fiziev-calls-out-tennis-legend-rafael-nadal-after-win-at-ufc-vegas-58-496122">Battle for best Rafael in sport? Fiziev calls out tennis legend Nadal after win at UFC Vegas 58</a>

Leclerc`s Spanish teammate Carlos Sainz had already retired with an engine failure, his car rolling to a halt and flames erupting from the rear, with 14 laps to go while chasing a likely Ferrari one-two. Verstappen`s teammate Sergio Perez, who had been second overall, also failed to finish with his car damaged in a first-lap collision with Mercedes` George Russell, who ended up fourth despite a five-second penalty.

The win was Leclerc`s third of the season, his first since Australia in April and the first time he was won from anywhere other than pole position. Verstappen had been chasing his fourth Austrian GP win in five years, with his Orange Army out in their tens of thousands to cheer him on. Organisers put the weekend attendance at 303,000.

"Unfortunately I couldn`t give them a win today but second place is still a good result," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-go-to-a-nightclub-instagram-chat-between-djokovic-and-kyrgios-ahead-of-wimbledon-final-goes-viral-496066">'Let's go to a nightclub..': Instagram chat between Djokovic and Kyrgios ahead of Wimbledon final goes viral</a>

Alpine`s Esteban Ocon was fifth, ahead of Mick Schumacher -- who scored the first Formula One points of his career at Silverstone last weekend -- in sixth for Haas. The German was voted driver of the day.

Lando Norris finished seventh for McLaren ahead of Haas`s Kevin Magnussen and McLaren`s Daniel Ricciardo with Alpine`s Fernando Alonso taking the final point in 10th. The starting grid was set by a Saturday sprint, the second of the season, won by Verstappen from pole position with Leclerc second. The top eight in that race also took points.

Charles Leclerc survived a late throttle scare to win the Austrian Grand Prix for Ferrari on Sunday and move back up as Formula One world championship leader Max Verstappen`s closest rival.

Charles Leclerc survived a late throttle scare to win the Austrian Grand Prix for Ferrari on Sunday and move back up as Formula One world championship leader Max Verstappen`s closest rival. Red Bull`s Verstappen had to settle for second, with a comfortable 38-point lead over the Monegasque after 11 of 22 races. Mercedes` seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton completed the podium for the third race in a row. "I was scared. I was really scared," said a relieved Leclerc over the team radio after taking the chequered flag at the Red Bull Ring with Verstappen in his mirrors and one and half seconds behind. He overtook the Dutch driver three times in the race but feared the win might still slip away as he battled a throttle problem over the last few laps. "It would get stuck at 20 or 30% throttle in the low speeds, so it was very tricky. We managed to make it stick until the end and I am so happy," said Leclerc. "I definitely needed that one. The last five races have been incredibly difficult for myself and for the team. To finally show that we have the pace in the car and we can do it is incredible." Also Read: Battle for best Rafael in sport? Fiziev calls out tennis legend Nadal after win at UFC Vegas 58 Leclerc`s Spanish teammate Carlos Sainz had already retired with an engine failure, his car rolling to a halt and flames erupting from the rear, with 14 laps to go while chasing a likely Ferrari one-two. Verstappen`s teammate Sergio Perez, who had been second overall, also failed to finish with his car damaged in a first-lap collision with Mercedes` George Russell, who ended up fourth despite a five-second penalty. The win was Leclerc`s third of the season, his first since Australia in April and the first time he was won from anywhere other than pole position. Verstappen had been chasing his fourth Austrian GP win in five years, with his Orange Army out in their tens of thousands to cheer him on. Organisers put the weekend attendance at 303,000. "Unfortunately I couldn`t give them a win today but second place is still a good result," he said. Also Read: 'Let's go to a nightclub..': Instagram chat between Djokovic and Kyrgios ahead of Wimbledon final goes viral Alpine`s Esteban Ocon was fifth, ahead of Mick Schumacher -- who scored the first Formula One points of his career at Silverstone last weekend -- in sixth for Haas. The German was voted driver of the day. Lando Norris finished seventh for McLaren ahead of Haas`s Kevin Magnussen and McLaren`s Daniel Ricciardo with Alpine`s Fernando Alonso taking the final point in 10th. The starting grid was set by a Saturday sprint, the second of the season, won by Verstappen from pole position with Leclerc second. The top eight in that race also took points.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to win Austrian Grand Prix, revives title hopes

Carmaker Ferrari is looking to snub 'engines' to woo 'Electrics'. It will invest billions with an aim to shift to zero-emission models. It is currently working with the battery makers.

Expensive shift to zero-emission models: Ferrari snubs 'engines' to woo 'Electrics'

Not everyone can own a Ferrari. Not only does one have to have enough moolah to afford this luxury car but also follow&nbsp;a certain code of ethics set by the company. The code of ethics also forbids the owner of the car to repaint it and auction it which unfortunately singer Justin Bieber had no clue of.&nbsp; 
 
The singer reportedly changed the colour of F458 from original white to electric blue and changed the alloy wheels, the visible bolts and even the colour of the prancing horse emblem on the steering wheel from the usual red to electric blue. The singer eventually auctioned the car in 2017 flouting all the rules set by the Italian brand. 
 
<img alt="j" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5add7544-89c2-4dc5-ad67-04e5ef7d9bcd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202022-05-05T192409.503.jpg" /> 
 
Now, according to reports, the singer has been blacklisted by Ferrari for life. This means Bieber will not be able to purchase a car from the brand in his life.&nbsp; 
 
An Italian publication also states that Ferrari was not happy with the way the singer treated his 2015 model. 
Apparently, Bieber had lost the car for weeks after partying hard in Los Angeles and it was retrieved only by his team days later from a parking lot.&nbsp; 
 
Funnily, Bieber is not the only celebrity to have been blacklisted by Ferrari. The singer joins the list of other celebrities allegedly banned for life from buying Ferraris, which reportedly includes&nbsp;rapper Tyga; and automotive journalist Chris Harris.&nbsp;

Not everyone can own a Ferrari. Not only does one have to have enough moolah to afford this luxury car but also follow a certain code of ethics set by the company.

Not everyone can own a Ferrari. Not only does one have to have enough moolah to afford this luxury car but also follow a certain code of ethics set by the company. The code of ethics also forbids the owner of the car to repaint it and auction it which unfortunately singer Justin Bieber had no clue of. The singer reportedly changed the colour of F458 from original white to electric blue and changed the alloy wheels, the visible bolts and even the colour of the prancing horse emblem on the steering wheel from the usual red to electric blue. The singer eventually auctioned the car in 2017 flouting all the rules set by the Italian brand. Now, according to reports, the singer has been blacklisted by Ferrari for life. This means Bieber will not be able to purchase a car from the brand in his life. An Italian publication also states that Ferrari was not happy with the way the singer treated his 2015 model. Apparently, Bieber had lost the car for weeks after partying hard in Los Angeles and it was retrieved only by his team days later from a parking lot. Funnily, Bieber is not the only celebrity to have been blacklisted by Ferrari. The singer joins the list of other celebrities allegedly banned for life from buying Ferraris, which reportedly includes rapper Tyga; and automotive journalist Chris Harris.

Has Ferrari blacklisted Justin Bieber from buying its cars?

Ferrari`s Formula One championship leader Charles Leclerc performed under pressure with a late flyer after a spin to surge from 10th to pole position ahead of Sunday`s Spanish Grand Prix.

Main rival and reigning champion Max Verstappen, who had looked like taking the top slot for Red Bull, had to settle for second after a late problem wrecked his final effort.

Ferrari`s home hero Carlos Sainz secured third place on the grid for Sunday, with George Russell taking the fourth slot for a revived Mercedes team.

Russell`s teammate and seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton qualified sixth, behind Red Bull`s Sergio Perez.

"It was a very, very difficult session...because I did a mistake in the opening and then obviously I only had one lap," said Leclerc after his fourth pole in six races and second in succession.

He had spun in his first flying lap of the final session and, with Verstappen fastest, was then left with one lap and everything riding on it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-kevin-de-bruyne-named-premier-leagues-player-of-the-season-481080" hreflang="en">Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne named Premier League's Player of the Season</a>

"It went extremely well, I had (some) moments on my lap but at the end I made it stick and I`m very, very happy with pole position," he said.

Verstappen, who has won the last two races to close the championship gap to 19 points, complained over the radio of a loss of power at the key moment in the final phase.

"I couldn`t do my final run. I had a DRS (drag reduction system that) didn`t open or I just lost power, so it`s a bit of a shame," said the Dutch driver.

"But I think, overall, to be on the front row for us here, looking at the whole weekend so far it was a good achievement. But, of course, I would have liked to go for that final run."

Sainz, who has yet to win in Formula One, said everything was still possible.

"Conditions haven`t been the easiest with the heat, with the wind, but today we managed to put in a decent lap which means we can fight tomorrow," he said.

McLaren`s Lando Norris had looked set to make the top 10 but had his best lap time deleted in the second session for exceeding track limits, allowing Haas`s Mick Schumacher to leapfrog ahead and qualify 10th.

The Briton`s Australian team mate Daniel Ricciardo did make the final shootout and starts ninth. 
Both Aston Martins went out at the first hurdle despite an eye-catching update package that drew accusations of copying from Red Bull.

Four times world champion Sebastian Vettel starts 16th and Canadian team mate Lance Stroll, son of the team`s billionaire owner Lawrence, qualified 18th.

Two times world champion Fernando Alonso, the only Spaniard to win his home race, will lineup a disappointing 17th for Renault-owned Alpine.

Ferrari`s Formula One championship leader Charles Leclerc performed under pressure with a late flyer after a spin to surge from 10th to pole position ahead of Sunday`s Spanish Grand Prix.

Ferrari`s Formula One championship leader Charles Leclerc performed under pressure with a late flyer after a spin to surge from 10th to pole position ahead of Sunday`s Spanish Grand Prix. Main rival and reigning champion Max Verstappen, who had looked like taking the top slot for Red Bull, had to settle for second after a late problem wrecked his final effort. Ferrari`s home hero Carlos Sainz secured third place on the grid for Sunday, with George Russell taking the fourth slot for a revived Mercedes team. Russell`s teammate and seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton qualified sixth, behind Red Bull`s Sergio Perez. "It was a very, very difficult session...because I did a mistake in the opening and then obviously I only had one lap," said Leclerc after his fourth pole in six races and second in succession. He had spun in his first flying lap of the final session and, with Verstappen fastest, was then left with one lap and everything riding on it. Also read | Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne named Premier League's Player of the Season "It went extremely well, I had (some) moments on my lap but at the end I made it stick and I`m very, very happy with pole position," he said. Verstappen, who has won the last two races to close the championship gap to 19 points, complained over the radio of a loss of power at the key moment in the final phase. "I couldn`t do my final run. I had a DRS (drag reduction system that) didn`t open or I just lost power, so it`s a bit of a shame," said the Dutch driver. "But I think, overall, to be on the front row for us here, looking at the whole weekend so far it was a good achievement. But, of course, I would have liked to go for that final run." Sainz, who has yet to win in Formula One, said everything was still possible. "Conditions haven`t been the easiest with the heat, with the wind, but today we managed to put in a decent lap which means we can fight tomorrow," he said. McLaren`s Lando Norris had looked set to make the top 10 but had his best lap time deleted in the second session for exceeding track limits, allowing Haas`s Mick Schumacher to leapfrog ahead and qualify 10th. The Briton`s Australian team mate Daniel Ricciardo did make the final shootout and starts ninth. Both Aston Martins went out at the first hurdle despite an eye-catching update package that drew accusations of copying from Red Bull. Four times world champion Sebastian Vettel starts 16th and Canadian team mate Lance Stroll, son of the team`s billionaire owner Lawrence, qualified 18th. Two times world champion Fernando Alonso, the only Spaniard to win his home race, will lineup a disappointing 17th for Renault-owned Alpine.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc puts in a late flyer for pole in Spanish Grand Prix

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc claimed his second win of the Formula One season with a thumping, pole-to-flag victory at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull's world champion Max Verstappen suffered "deja vu" with another retirement.

Leclerc's car was dominant on the upgraded Albert Park circuit as the Monagesque sealed his fourth career win more than 20 seconds ahead of Red Bull's runnerup Sergio Perez.

Third-placed George Russell grabbed his second podium and first for Mercedes in an encouraging day for the struggling constructors'&nbsp;champions.

"What a race and what pace," said a thrilled Leclerc on the team radio, having finished more than 20 seconds ahead of Perez in the 58-lap race.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-ferraris-charles-leclerc-beats-max-verstappen-to-claim-pole-position-for-australian-grand-prix-469679">Formula 1: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to claim pole position for Australian Grand Prix</a>

"The car was incredible today, well done guys."

Winner of the season-opener in Bahrain, 24-year-old Leclerc has now built a 34-point lead over Russell to emerge as early favourite for the drivers'&nbsp;championship.

Ferrari's celebrations were tempered by Carlos Sainz crashing out shortly after the start, while four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel of Aston Martin crashed his car on his return after missing the opening races due to COVID-19.

Verstappen was second behind Leclerc when his RB18 car suffered a reliability problem and rolled to a halt during his 39th lap with smoke billowing.

"I smell some weird fluid," said the Dutchman before coming to a stop at turn two.

Yet he would have had little hope of reeling in Leclerc.

&nbsp;

"I knew I could not fight Charles so there was no point to try and put pressure on him," Verstappen told Sky.

"But we didn`t even finish the race so it's pretty frustrating and unacceptable."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-organisers-holding-talks-with-british-government-on-participation-of-players-from-russia-belarus-468661">Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus</a>

It was a similar outcome to the season-opener in Bahrain, where Verstappen retired three laps from the end while on course for a second-place finish.

Lewis Hamilton finished fourth for Mercedes after starting fifth on the grid, having been passed by Russell due to a safety car deployment.

McLaren's Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo finished fifth and sixth respectively as the team showed improvement after a poor start to the season.

Sainz, who started ninth on the grid after set-up troubles in qualifying, had a dreadful start then skidded into grass before spinning across the track, somehow missing oncoming traffic before coming to a stop in gravel at turn 10.

Vettel later locked up on a kerb at turn four before shunting his Aston Martin into a wall and leaving a trail of debris across the track.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-sebastian-vettel-fined-5000-euros-for-riding-scooter-around-australian-grand-prix-circuit-469450">Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit</a>

Vettel's crash saw the safety car deployed again, and Russell capitalised by pitting before rejoining in third place ahead of Perez and Hamilton.

Leclerc's lead was wiped out by the safety car and nearly taken out as Verstappen swooped after the restart but the Monagesque saw off the Dutchman and built his lead to the finish.

Alex Albon started 19th on the grid but finished 10th, grabbing a first point for Williams after managing his hard tyres virtually to the finish.

Organisers said an estimated 420,000 people flocked to Albert Park over the race week, making it the biggest attendance for a weekend sporting event in Australia.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc claimed his second win of the Formula One season with a thumping, pole-to-flag victory at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull's world champion Max Verstappen suffered "deja vu" with another retirement.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc claimed his second win of the Formula One season with a thumping, pole-to-flag victory at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull's world champion Max Verstappen suffered "deja vu" with another retirement. Leclerc's car was dominant on the upgraded Albert Park circuit as the Monagesque sealed his fourth career win more than 20 seconds ahead of Red Bull's runnerup Sergio Perez. Third-placed George Russell grabbed his second podium and first for Mercedes in an encouraging day for the struggling constructors' champions. "What a race and what pace," said a thrilled Leclerc on the team radio, having finished more than 20 seconds ahead of Perez in the 58-lap race. ALSO READ: Formula 1: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to claim pole position for Australian Grand Prix "The car was incredible today, well done guys." Winner of the season-opener in Bahrain, 24-year-old Leclerc has now built a 34-point lead over Russell to emerge as early favourite for the drivers' championship. Ferrari's celebrations were tempered by Carlos Sainz crashing out shortly after the start, while four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel of Aston Martin crashed his car on his return after missing the opening races due to COVID-19. Verstappen was second behind Leclerc when his RB18 car suffered a reliability problem and rolled to a halt during his 39th lap with smoke billowing. "I smell some weird fluid," said the Dutchman before coming to a stop at turn two. Yet he would have had little hope of reeling in Leclerc. "I knew I could not fight Charles so there was no point to try and put pressure on him," Verstappen told Sky. "But we didn`t even finish the race so it's pretty frustrating and unacceptable." ALSO READ: Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus It was a similar outcome to the season-opener in Bahrain, where Verstappen retired three laps from the end while on course for a second-place finish. Lewis Hamilton finished fourth for Mercedes after starting fifth on the grid, having been passed by Russell due to a safety car deployment. McLaren's Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo finished fifth and sixth respectively as the team showed improvement after a poor start to the season. Sainz, who started ninth on the grid after set-up troubles in qualifying, had a dreadful start then skidded into grass before spinning across the track, somehow missing oncoming traffic before coming to a stop in gravel at turn 10. Vettel later locked up on a kerb at turn four before shunting his Aston Martin into a wall and leaving a trail of debris across the track. ALSO READ: Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit Vettel's crash saw the safety car deployed again, and Russell capitalised by pitting before rejoining in third place ahead of Perez and Hamilton. Leclerc's lead was wiped out by the safety car and nearly taken out as Verstappen swooped after the restart but the Monagesque saw off the Dutchman and built his lead to the finish. Alex Albon started 19th on the grid but finished 10th, grabbing a first point for Williams after managing his hard tyres virtually to the finish. Organisers said an estimated 420,000 people flocked to Albert Park over the race week, making it the biggest attendance for a weekend sporting event in Australia.

Formula 1: Charles Leclerc wins Australian Grand Prix for Ferrari as Red Bull's Max Verstappen retires again

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc claimed his second pole position of the year with a blistering final lap in qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday.

Leclerc, who won the season-opening race in Bahrain in March, posted a time of 1 minute, 17.868 seconds to edge Red Bull driver and defending series champion Max Verstappen by .286 seconds.

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez qualified in third position, while Lando Norris will start from the second row in his McLaren after qualifying fourth.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-sebastian-vettel-fined-5000-euros-for-riding-scooter-around-australian-grand-prix-circuit-469450">Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit</a>

Lewis Hamilton, who had claimed pole position in the six previous Grand Prix races held in Melbourne, finished .957 seconds behind Leclerc in fifth.

The brilliant drive from Leclerc gave Ferrari its first pole position in Melbourne since Kimi Raikkonen in 2007.

"It felt good. Even more, because it was a track I have always struggled at as a driver," Leclerc said.

"In Q3, I managed to pull everything together. It feels great. Tomorrow we just need to do a good start and hopefully we can maintain pole position."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-opens-disciplinary-proceedings-against-atletico-madrid-for-discriminatory-behaviour-after-man-city-tie-469439">UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie</a>

Verstappen said he "didn't really feel good in the car all weekend so far" and that it had been a "bit of a struggle . . . For me, this weekend has been all over the place. As a team, we want more."

In a major renovation to the Melbourne track, five corners were reprofiled at Albert Park and two were removed completely.

After two races, Leclerc leads the drivers' championship with 45 points, followed by Sainz with 33 and Verstappen, who won in Saudi Arabia two weeks ago, with 25.

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc claimed his second pole position of the year with a blistering final lap in qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday. Leclerc, who won the season-opening race in Bahrain in March, posted a time of 1 minute, 17.

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc claimed his second pole position of the year with a blistering final lap in qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday. Leclerc, who won the season-opening race in Bahrain in March, posted a time of 1 minute, 17.868 seconds to edge Red Bull driver and defending series champion Max Verstappen by .286 seconds. Red Bull driver Sergio Perez qualified in third position, while Lando Norris will start from the second row in his McLaren after qualifying fourth. ALSO READ: Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit Lewis Hamilton, who had claimed pole position in the six previous Grand Prix races held in Melbourne, finished .957 seconds behind Leclerc in fifth. The brilliant drive from Leclerc gave Ferrari its first pole position in Melbourne since Kimi Raikkonen in 2007. "It felt good. Even more, because it was a track I have always struggled at as a driver," Leclerc said. "In Q3, I managed to pull everything together. It feels great. Tomorrow we just need to do a good start and hopefully we can maintain pole position." ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie Verstappen said he "didn't really feel good in the car all weekend so far" and that it had been a "bit of a struggle . . . For me, this weekend has been all over the place. As a team, we want more." In a major renovation to the Melbourne track, five corners were reprofiled at Albert Park and two were removed completely. After two races, Leclerc leads the drivers' championship with 45 points, followed by Sainz with 33 and Verstappen, who won in Saudi Arabia two weeks ago, with 25.

Formula 1: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to claim pole position for Australian Grand Prix

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit.

The Dutchman, who won the last race in Saudi Arabia, posted the fourth quickest lap in the first free practice but was second only to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in the second session.

He said tweaks to his car during the last session had ironed out some balancing issues, making him a lot happier behind the wheel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-sebastian-vettel-fined-5000-euros-for-riding-scooter-around-australian-grand-prix-circuit-469450">Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit</a>

"We're a tiny bit off Ferrari but I do think that we can maybe make it a little bit closer," he told reporters in the paddock.

"But they are quick again. In the long run everything looked quite stable and quite nice so I'm happy about that. We definitely made some good improvements today."

Two years after the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled due to COVID-19, hours before the first practice, some of the drivers struggled on their return to a vastly different track.

The re-surfaced circuit's new lay-out, which features fewer corners and some wider turns, saw a number of cars skid off on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-begins-highly-anticipated-return-with-opening-par-at-masters-469209">Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters</a>

Verstappen, however, was a fan of the upgrade, Albert Park's first since its F1 debut in 1996.

"It's good. I think the track grip is quite nice," he said.

"The bumps definitely improved, it's smoother.

"But I think it actually makes the track nicer as well because you can attack the corners a bit better now, being a bit more smooth.

"They did a good job with that. I enjoyed my laps today."

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit. The Dutchman, who won the last race in Saudi Arabia, posted the fourth quickest lap in the first free practice but was second only to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in the second session. He said tweaks to his car during the last session had ironed out some balancing issues, making him a lot happier behind the wheel. ALSO READ: Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit "We're a tiny bit off Ferrari but I do think that we can maybe make it a little bit closer," he told reporters in the paddock. "But they are quick again. In the long run everything looked quite stable and quite nice so I'm happy about that. We definitely made some good improvements today." Two years after the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled due to COVID-19, hours before the first practice, some of the drivers struggled on their return to a vastly different track. The re-surfaced circuit's new lay-out, which features fewer corners and some wider turns, saw a number of cars skid off on Friday. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters Verstappen, however, was a fan of the upgrade, Albert Park's first since its F1 debut in 1996. "It's good. I think the track grip is quite nice," he said. "The bumps definitely improved, it's smoother. "But I think it actually makes the track nicer as well because you can attack the corners a bit better now, being a bit more smooth. "They did a good job with that. I enjoyed my laps today."

Red Bull are a 'tiny bit' off Ferrari, opines Formula One world champion Max Verstappen

ferrari

Ferrari, News on Ferrari, stories on Ferrari, articles on Ferrari, Ferrari stories at Wion, Ferrari news, Ferrari latest news