Fernando Alonso had his fans dreaming of future glory after the Spaniard beat favourites Red Bull and put Aston Martin top of the timesheets in Friday (March 3) practice for Formula One's Bahrain season-opener.

The 41-year-old double world champion, who made his F1 debut before McLaren's Australian rookie Oscar Piastri was born and who will be making a record-stretching 356th start, lapped the Sakhir circuit in one minute 30.907 seconds.

The time on soft tyres was 0.169 quicker than Red Bull's double world champion Max Verstappen.

“Yeah, it felt good. Obviously, it’s good to see the times and that you are competitive,” said Alonso, who took his titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006 and joined Aston Martin from Alpine at the end of last year.

“At the moment, we are just concentrating on ourselves.”

Alonso had set the second-best time in the first daylight session, behind Red Bull's Mexican Sergio Perez who was third later on under the floodlights.

The Red Bull drivers were separated by just 0.002 of a second.

“Yeah, a difficult start of the day. I mean, FP1 was really bad. Just couldn’t get a balance, which is a bit odd because in testing, whenever we tried – OK some things were maybe not amazing, but not that far out. So, a few things to understand", said Verstappen.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was fourth fastest with German veteran Nico Hulkenberg, starting his first full season since 2019, fifth for Haas.

Alonso's team mate Lance Stroll, back in the car despite breaking both his wrists in a cycle accident last month, was sixth.

The Canadian appeared to be struggling to turn the wheel at times, however, and Piastri had to take evasive action at one point.

Once-dominant Mercedes had two lacklustre sessions, with seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton 10th and eighth respectively and team mate George Russell 11th and 13th.

“We found out we were a long way off. We kind of knew that a little bit in the test. But it’s a big gap. I’m trying everything I can out there, it just is what it is. So, we’re just going to try to work at it,” Hamilton said.

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Fernando Alonso had his fans dreaming of future glory after the Spaniard beat favourites Red Bull and put Aston Martin top of the timesheets in Friday (March 3) practice for Formula One's Bahrain season-opener.

Fernando Alonso had his fans dreaming of future glory after the Spaniard beat favourites Red Bull and put Aston Martin top of the timesheets in Friday (March 3) practice for Formula One's Bahrain season-opener. The 41-year-old double world champion, who made his F1 debut before McLaren's Australian rookie Oscar Piastri was born and who will be making a record-stretching 356th start, lapped the Sakhir circuit in one minute 30.907 seconds. The time on soft tyres was 0.169 quicker than Red Bull's double world champion Max Verstappen. “Yeah, it felt good. Obviously, it’s good to see the times and that you are competitive,” said Alonso, who took his titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006 and joined Aston Martin from Alpine at the end of last year. “At the moment, we are just concentrating on ourselves.” Alonso had set the second-best time in the first daylight session, behind Red Bull's Mexican Sergio Perez who was third later on under the floodlights. The Red Bull drivers were separated by just 0.002 of a second. “Yeah, a difficult start of the day. I mean, FP1 was really bad. Just couldn’t get a balance, which is a bit odd because in testing, whenever we tried – OK some things were maybe not amazing, but not that far out. So, a few things to understand", said Verstappen. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was fourth fastest with German veteran Nico Hulkenberg, starting his first full season since 2019, fifth for Haas. Alonso's team mate Lance Stroll, back in the car despite breaking both his wrists in a cycle accident last month, was sixth. The Canadian appeared to be struggling to turn the wheel at times, however, and Piastri had to take evasive action at one point. Once-dominant Mercedes had two lacklustre sessions, with seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton 10th and eighth respectively and team mate George Russell 11th and 13th. “We found out we were a long way off. We kind of knew that a little bit in the test. But it’s a big gap. I’m trying everything I can out there, it just is what it is. So, we’re just going to try to work at it,” Hamilton 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.

Formula 1: Former champion Fernando Alonso gets top time in Bahrain GP practice

Curtains will be raised on the 2023 season of Formula One as big names once again get ready to throttle their engine rooms. Bahrain Grand Prix which will kick start the new season could lay the foundation for defending world champion Max Verstappen to start his journey to the promise land. The Dutchman could sit in the line of greatness alongside Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton as the modern-day greats.

<h3>Can Verstappen go all the way?</h3>

In the first place, the 25-year-old Red Bull driver will look to get the missing piece in the puzzle right on Sunday, having been forced to retire in his last Bahrain Grand Prix. A winning start could be the perfect beginning for him in a season where he could end up with his third successive world title. If he succeeds in doing so Verstappen will have achieved the status of the modern-day great having won three successive seasons of Formula One since the turn of the millennium.

Only Schumacher, Vettel and Hamilton have won three successive world titles in the last two decades as he urges for greatness. A win for him could also see Red Bull once again return to the summit of the standings in three seasons in a row, having last done so during the glorious rein of Vettel at the start of last decade.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-27-days-to-go-csk-begins-preparations-as-ms-dhoni-joins-the-camp-schedule-live-streaming-details-568417">IPL 2023, 27 days to go: CSK begins preparations as MS Dhoni joins the camp; Schedule &amp; live-streaming details</a>

<h3>Verstappen’s impressive 2022</h3>

While 2021 was a close affair for the two-time champion, 2022 proved to be a cakewalk having conquered his second title in Japan last October. Verstappen currently has won his last nine of the 11 races and is enjoying a dream run of form from last season. In 22 races last season, the Dutchman had 17 podium finishes while starting seven races in pole position. Not less than five times did Verstappen end with the fastest lap in a season, most by any racer in the campaign.

So with the 2023 season all set for the curtain-raiser in Bahrain on Sunday, both Red Bull and Verstappen would be hoping for a perfect start.

Curtains will be raised on the 2023 season of Formula One as big names once again get ready to throttle their engine rooms. Bahrain Grand Prix which will kick start the new season could lay the foundation for defending world champion Max Verstappen to start his journey to the promise land.

Curtains will be raised on the 2023 season of Formula One as big names once again get ready to throttle their engine rooms. Bahrain Grand Prix which will kick start the new season could lay the foundation for defending world champion Max Verstappen to start his journey to the promise land. The Dutchman could sit in the line of greatness alongside Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton as the modern-day greats. Can Verstappen go all the way? In the first place, the 25-year-old Red Bull driver will look to get the missing piece in the puzzle right on Sunday, having been forced to retire in his last Bahrain Grand Prix. A winning start could be the perfect beginning for him in a season where he could end up with his third successive world title. If he succeeds in doing so Verstappen will have achieved the status of the modern-day great having won three successive seasons of Formula One since the turn of the millennium. Only Schumacher, Vettel and Hamilton have won three successive world titles in the last two decades as he urges for greatness. A win for him could also see Red Bull once again return to the summit of the standings in three seasons in a row, having last done so during the glorious rein of Vettel at the start of last decade. ALSO READ | IPL 2023, 27 days to go: CSK begins preparations as MS Dhoni joins the camp; Schedule & live-streaming details Verstappen’s impressive 2022 While 2021 was a close affair for the two-time champion, 2022 proved to be a cakewalk having conquered his second title in Japan last October. Verstappen currently has won his last nine of the 11 races and is enjoying a dream run of form from last season. In 22 races last season, the Dutchman had 17 podium finishes while starting seven races in pole position. Not less than five times did Verstappen end with the fastest lap in a season, most by any racer in the campaign. So with the 2023 season all set for the curtain-raiser in Bahrain on Sunday, both Red Bull and Verstappen would be hoping for a perfect start.

Formula 1: Can Max Verstappen achieve modern-day great status with start of new season?

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix Live: F1 Bahrain Grand Prix began this Friday, March 3 with two practice matches scheduled for the day. One additional practice and qualifying match will be played on Saturday, March 4.

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix Live: F1 Bahrain Grand Prix began this Friday, March 3 with two practice matches scheduled for the day. One additional practice and qualifying match will be played on Saturday, March 4. And then comes the final race on Sunday, March 5. Sergio Perez took the lead in the first practice, followed by Max Verstappen in the second and Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin in the third. Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes came at the last 10th spot, followed by Alfa Romeo's Valtteri Bottas. Then, Alsonso triumphed in practice 2 with a time of 1:30.907. Max came in second at 1:31.076, followed by Perez, who came in third at 1:31.078. Leclerc followed in fourth, while Lewis finished at the eighth spot. Charles Leclerc, who finished second last year, will be hoping that his Ferrari is reliable and swift enough to challenge Verstappen's claim to a hat-trick of championships. The F1 season opener is being held in Bahrain GP for the third time in a row, and the grand event on Sunday will be a night race with 57 laps. F1 Bahrain GP final race details The formula 1 final race begins at 8:30 PM IST in India on Sunday, March 05. Before the final race, a qualifying race and a third practice race are being held on Saturday, March 04. The first two practice races have already been held on Friday, March 03. The venue of the race is Bahrain International Circuit in Bahrain. F1 Bahrain GP full schedule (timings in IST) Practice Session 1- March 3, 2023, 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm Practice Session 2- March 3, 2023, 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm Practice Session 3- March 4, 2023, 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm Bahrain GP 2023 Qualifying Session- March 4, 2023, 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm Bahrain GP 2023 Main Race- March 5, 2023, 8:30 pm onwards F1 Bahrain GP track details Location – Bahrain International Circuit, First Grand Prix – 2004 Number of Laps – 57 Circuit Length –5.412km Race Distance – 308.238 km Where to watch the F1 Bahrain GP live stream? The F1 races were previously broadcast on Star Sports and streamed live on Disney+Hotstar. To stream the sport in India this year, Formula 1 has however introduced its own OTT network, the F1 TV, for the F1 2023 season. So, watching F1 GP in India could now be a costly affair for Indian fans. When will F1 Bahrain GP final race be held? F1 Bahrain GP final race will be held on Sunday, March 05. Where will F1 Bahrain GP final race be held? F1 Bahrain GP final race will be held at Bahrain International Circuit in Bahrain. What time will F1 Bahrain GP final race start? F1 Bahrain GP final race will start at 8:30 PM IST. Where will F1 Bahrain GP final race be live-streamed? F1 Bahrain GP final race will be live-streamed on the F1 TV OTT app.

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix Live: Check Formula 1 GP race schedule, date, time, venue and live-streaming details

Formula 1 pre-testing 2023 has become the talk of the town. It began with a slam bang in Bahrain on February 23, 2023. The ten teams and 20 drivers will test their on-track skills in the upcoming days.

Formula 1 pre-testing 2023 has become the talk of the town. It began with a slam bang in Bahrain on February 23, 2023. The ten teams and 20 drivers will test their on-track skills in the upcoming days. F1 has dropped the highlights of the pre-testing laps on their official YouTube channel. The Day 2 of Formula 1 pre-testing 2023 on February 24 will follow a similar schedule as Day 1. The Formula 1 competitor teams make significant amendments to their designs during the winter break. They build new cars for every new season. Thus, they require some time before the Formula 1 race to test the latest parts and ensure their race cars are ready to race on tracks. Formula 1 Pre-Testing is not competitive, but fans love watching it. The pre-testing season is crucial for drivers as they test their brand-new machines on the tracks for the first time. Thus, they receive ample time with their latest cars before the tournament begins. Meanwhile, the engineers use the three days of the pre-testing season to analyse the race cars. They also try their skills by practising pit stops. Here are all the live-streaming details about the Day 2 of Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023. When is Day 2 of Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023? The Day 2 of Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023 is on February 24. The pre-season testing will end on Day 3 on February 25. What time will Day 2 of Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023 begin? The Formula 1 pre-testing will begin at 12:30 PM IST and continue until 10 PM IST on February 24. Day 3 of the pre-season testing will follow a similar schedule. Where can I watch Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023 live? Earlier, StarSports had the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in India. However, this year the F1 have launched their official live stream. You can watch the Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023 live on F1 TV pro in India. Formula 1 Pre-Testing: Teams Here's the list of confirmed teams in the Formula race practising in the pre-testing season 2023. Team Driver 1 Driver 2 Red Bull Max Verstappen Sergio Perez Ferrari Charles Leclerc Carlos Sainz Mercedes Lewis Hamilton George Russell Alpine Pierre Gasly Esteban Ocon McLaren Lando Norris Oscar Piastri Alfa Romeo Zhou Guanyu Valtteri Bottas Aston Martin Fernando Alonso TBC Haas Kevin Magnussen Nico Hulkenberg AlphaTauri Yuki Tsunoda Nyck de Vries Williams Logan Sargeant Alex Albon

Formula 1 Pre-Testing Day 2 Live Streaming: How to watch F1 pre-season 2023 live, Check full schedule & teams

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.

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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

Formula 1 Pre-Testing 2023: Before the Formula 1 2023 season kickstarts officially, the pre-season testing for the event will begin this week in Bahrain. The newly released cars for the Formula 1 2023 season will take the circuit for the first time from February 23 to February 25.

Formula 1 Pre-Testing 2023: Before the Formula 1 2023 season kickstarts officially, the pre-season testing for the event will begin this week in Bahrain. The newly released cars for the Formula 1 2023 season will take the circuit for the first time from February 23 to February 25. The Formula 1 pre-test comes a week after the teams chose their new liveries and cars for the new season. Formula 1 pre-season testing timings for February 23 are 12:30 PM IST. They are likely to continue until 10 PM. The teams will dedicate the following two days to testing their pristine cars on the tracks within a similar time range. After the Formula 1 2023 pre-testing, the official Formula 1 race will commence at the Bahrain Grand Prix 2023. Formula 1, or F1, will hold only one pre-season in 2023 instead of two. It implies each team has only three days to warm up before the Round 1 of Formula 1. Here's everything you need to know about Formula 1 pre-testing 2023, from live streaming details to the full schedule. Formula 1 Pre-testing 2023: Full Schedule The Formula 1 pre-testing 2023 will commence on Thursday, February 23 and continue till February 25. Every day, the event will begin around 12:30 PM IST and continue till 10 PM IST. Here is the full schedule for the Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023. Full Schedule for Formula-1 Pre-Testing Season 2023 Day 1 Feb-23 12:30 PM IST to 10 PM IST Day 2 Feb-24 12:30 PM IST to 10 PM IST Day 3 Feb-25 12:30 PM IST to 10 PM IST Where will Formula 1 Pre-testing season 2023 take place? The Formula 1 pre-testing will happen at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, Bahrain. After the three-day pre-testing event, Round 1 of Formula 1 will begin at the same venue. The Bahrain International Circuit is 5.412 kilometres long. The teams will test their new cars on the allotted days of track action. Moreover, they can run any set-ups, parts, and programmes during the Formula 1 pre-testing. Formula 1 Pre-Testing Season 2023: Live Streaming Details Where can I watch Formula 1 pre-season testing 2023? Many channels have started to broadcast the Formula 1 races. The Formula 1 pre-testing season 2023 will be available on F1 TV in India. It is the official broadcasting channel for the tournament. Formula 1 pre-testing is available on Sky Sports F1 in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Formula 1 Pre-Testing 2023 Live Streaming: How to watch F1 pre-testing season 2023 Live, Check full schedule

Rookie McLaren driver Oscar Piastri Sunday said he believed he could beat new teammate Lando Norris in his maiden Formula One season, but admitted a steep learning curve awaited him. The 21-year-old, seen as one of the sport's hottest young talents, will make his bow in Bahrain testing this month after replacing fellow Australian Daniel Ricciardo, who has returned to Red Bull as a reserve driver. Piastri said he had confidence in his ability to better Britain's Norris, but was also realistic about expectations. Asked if he could beat Norris, Piastri told Australian national broadcaster ABC: "Yeah, I think so."

"I think everyone has to have that self-belief that they can win, or if they're not in a position to win to do the best that they can with what they have," he added.

But the Australian said his main focus in 2023 was to set the foundations for a long F1 career.&nbsp;

"Putting (points and wins) numbers on my expectations is pretty difficult, especially in F1, I think it will depend where we are as a team, where the car is at," he said.

"For me, a successful year would be me setting the foundations for later in the year and the years to come, hopefully, and doing everything the right way from the beginning... starting good habits.

"If there's any results that come out of that, then that's a bonus."

Piastri was caught in a tug-of-war between Alpine -- where he was a reserve driver -- and McLaren last year with the former claiming he was contracted to them, even announcing him as part of their 2023 line-up.

But the Australian forced them into an embarrassing U-turn when he said he had no such arrangement.

An International Motoring Federation (FIA) arbitration panel judged in McLaren's favour, which saw the under-performing Ricciardo's contract terminated a year early so Piastri could join.

Piastri received plenty of negative publicity at the time and told ABC there had been "not too much" contact with Ricciardo since.

But he said he was grateful for the way his fellow Australian handled the situation.

"We got in touch through texts I guess once everything had unfolded last year and he was very supportive of me both personally and on the media front as well... which I'm very thankful for," he said.

"I'm sure I will see him around in the F1 paddock this year, he's back working with Red Bull."

Piastri's credentials face their first test at the opening race of the season in Bahrain in two weeks' time, before a huge occasion at his home Grand Prix in Melbourne, where he was born, on April 2.

"I grew up 10-15 minutes down the road from Albert Park," he said of the Australian Formula One circuit which will host the third race of the 2023 season.

"I was there last year as a reserve driver and it was a pretty electric atmosphere. So knowing that the crowd is going to be there, with me as the home driver now. It's going to be a very special event."

&nbsp;

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Rookie McLaren driver Oscar Piastri Sunday said he believed he could beat new teammate Lando Norris in his maiden Formula One season, but admitted a steep learning curve awaited him.

Rookie McLaren driver Oscar Piastri Sunday said he believed he could beat new teammate Lando Norris in his maiden Formula One season, but admitted a steep learning curve awaited him. The 21-year-old, seen as one of the sport's hottest young talents, will make his bow in Bahrain testing this month after replacing fellow Australian Daniel Ricciardo, who has returned to Red Bull as a reserve driver. Piastri said he had confidence in his ability to better Britain's Norris, but was also realistic about expectations. Asked if he could beat Norris, Piastri told Australian national broadcaster ABC: "Yeah, I think so." "I think everyone has to have that self-belief that they can win, or if they're not in a position to win to do the best that they can with what they have," he added. But the Australian said his main focus in 2023 was to set the foundations for a long F1 career. "Putting (points and wins) numbers on my expectations is pretty difficult, especially in F1, I think it will depend where we are as a team, where the car is at," he said. "For me, a successful year would be me setting the foundations for later in the year and the years to come, hopefully, and doing everything the right way from the beginning... starting good habits. "If there's any results that come out of that, then that's a bonus." Piastri was caught in a tug-of-war between Alpine -- where he was a reserve driver -- and McLaren last year with the former claiming he was contracted to them, even announcing him as part of their 2023 line-up. But the Australian forced them into an embarrassing U-turn when he said he had no such arrangement. An International Motoring Federation (FIA) arbitration panel judged in McLaren's favour, which saw the under-performing Ricciardo's contract terminated a year early so Piastri could join. Piastri received plenty of negative publicity at the time and told ABC there had been "not too much" contact with Ricciardo since. But he said he was grateful for the way his fellow Australian handled the situation. "We got in touch through texts I guess once everything had unfolded last year and he was very supportive of me both personally and on the media front as well... which I'm very thankful for," he said. "I'm sure I will see him around in the F1 paddock this year, he's back working with Red Bull." Piastri's credentials face their first test at the opening race of the season in Bahrain in two weeks' time, before a huge occasion at his home Grand Prix in Melbourne, where he was born, on April 2. "I grew up 10-15 minutes down the road from Albert Park," he said of the Australian Formula One circuit which will host the third race of the 2023 season. "I was there last year as a reserve driver and it was a pretty electric atmosphere. So knowing that the crowd is going to be there, with me as the home driver now. It's going to be a very special event." 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: Rookie McLaren driver Oscar Piastri upbeat ahead of the season

Legendary footballer Zinedine Zidane has hinted at his football comeback. Former France forward on Thursday was appointed the ambassador of the Alpine Formula 1 team. During the announcement, Zidane said he could be back in managerial capacity, as early as June.&nbsp;

"It's part of our deal. If I have to commit tomorrow, that won't prevent me from continuing to work with the team," said Zidane during the unveiling of the new Alpine car.&nbsp;

"Resuming remains my desire. Today, I have time and I don't know how long it will last. I have time now, maybe until June, but it can also go very quickly."

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Meet <a href="https://twitter.com/AlpineF1Team?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlpineF1Team</a>'s newest ambassador....🤩 
 
French footballing legend Zinedine Zidane! 🤯⚽️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://t.co/o4iuAhs9Xe">pic.twitter.com/o4iuAhs9Xe</a>
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Ahead of the new F1 season that begins next month, Alpine on Thursday launched its 2023 A523 car. However, the talk of the evening became Zidane and his surprise appearance.&nbsp;

"I am ever so happy to be part of this team, to be part of the Alpine team. Why? It’s always a meeting that starts something and I had the opportunity of meeting Laurent and the whole Alpine team for a Grand Prix and I think we had a good exchange," said Zidane during the launch.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-frances-zinedine-zidanes-infamous-headbutt-to-marco-materazzi-in-2006-wc-final-watch-437694">THROWBACK: France's Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt to Marco Materazzi in 2006 WC final - watch</a>

Zidane, during his relatively short spell as Real Madrid's manager (2016-18, 2019-20) won every silverware there was to win.

He is the only manager in football history to have won a hattrick of UEFA Champions League.&nbsp;Overall, he has won 11 trophies which includes two La Liga titles as well.

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Many had anticipated that Zidane would take over as France's manager after Didier Deschamps' tenure came to an end after the 2022 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;

However, the fallout between Zidane and French football federation president Noel Le Graet meant that the opportunity never arrived.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-football-federation-president-noel-le-graet-apologises-to-zinedine-zidane-post-disrespectful-remarks-550736">Read more:&nbsp;France Football Federation president Noel Le Graet apologises to Zinedine Zidane post disrespectful remarks</a>

Several clubs across Europe would be willing to avail his services in a heartbeat. However, the Frenchman has been tight-lipped regarding his next move since leaving Real Madrid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Legendary footballer Zinedine Zidane has hinted at his football comeback. Former France forward on Thursday was appointed the ambassador of the Alpine Formula 1 team.

Legendary footballer Zinedine Zidane has hinted at his football comeback. Former France forward on Thursday was appointed the ambassador of the Alpine Formula 1 team. During the announcement, Zidane said he could be back in managerial capacity, as early as June. "It's part of our deal. If I have to commit tomorrow, that won't prevent me from continuing to work with the team," said Zidane during the unveiling of the new Alpine car. "Resuming remains my desire. Today, I have time and I don't know how long it will last. I have time now, maybe until June, but it can also go very quickly." Meet @AlpineF1Team's newest ambassador....🤩 French footballing legend Zinedine Zidane! 🤯⚽️#F1 pic.twitter.com/o4iuAhs9Xe — Formula 1 (@F1) February 16, 2023 × Ahead of the new F1 season that begins next month, Alpine on Thursday launched its 2023 A523 car. However, the talk of the evening became Zidane and his surprise appearance. "I am ever so happy to be part of this team, to be part of the Alpine team. Why? It’s always a meeting that starts something and I had the opportunity of meeting Laurent and the whole Alpine team for a Grand Prix and I think we had a good exchange," said Zidane during the launch. THROWBACK: France's Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt to Marco Materazzi in 2006 WC final - watch Zidane, during his relatively short spell as Real Madrid's manager (2016-18, 2019-20) won every silverware there was to win. He is the only manager in football history to have won a hattrick of UEFA Champions League. Overall, he has won 11 trophies which includes two La Liga titles as well. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) × Many had anticipated that Zidane would take over as France's manager after Didier Deschamps' tenure came to an end after the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, the fallout between Zidane and French football federation president Noel Le Graet meant that the opportunity never arrived. Read more: France Football Federation president Noel Le Graet apologises to Zinedine Zidane post disrespectful remarks Several clubs across Europe would be willing to avail his services in a heartbeat. However, the Frenchman has been tight-lipped regarding his next move since leaving Real Madrid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Three-time UCL winning manager Zinedine Zidane hints at football comeback

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton is steadfast in the political stance he will be taking as the new season begins. Hamilton said 'nothing' will stop him from speaking out after FIA introduced new rules restricting the drivers from taking political standings.

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton is steadfast in the political stance he will be taking as the new season begins. Hamilton said 'nothing' will stop him from speaking out after FIA introduced new rules restricting the drivers from taking political standings. “Nothing will stop me from speaking on the things I am passionate about,” said Hamilton. “The sport has a responsibility to speak out and create awareness on important topics, particularly as we are traveling to different places. So nothing changes," he added. Hamilton said he did not want to accumulate any penalty points for his decision but asserted he was '"still going to be speaking" his mind. Being the only driver of colour on the grid, Hamilton has been one of the fiercest advocates of equality in the F1 paddock. He wore a rainbow-coloured helmet in Saudi Arabia Grand Prix to bring visibility to the host country's anti-LGBTQ laws. Read more: Drivers must not use the sport for 'personal agenda': FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem In December last year, FIA updated the International Sporting Code that required drivers to obtain prior written permission to make or display "political, religious and personal statements or comments". "The general making and display of political, religious and personal statements or comments will be considered a violation under the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its statutes," read the notification. The decision brought negative reactions from nearly all drivers as well as fans of the sport. Red Bull driver Sergio Perez showed his disapproval of the new rules by saying drivers needed to be able to speak freely "We all have different views, different beliefs in religion...I get the political side but we all should be free to express ourselves the way we want," said Perez. "I just struggle to think that they will be able to control what you are able to say or not to say. That to me is not correct. But we will discuss that." Read more: F1 drivers must be allowed to speak out freely, feels Red Bull's Sergio Perez The new F1 season begins next month on March 5 and the first race will take place in Bahrain. Most teams have already revealed their new cars as F1 gets bigger in scope with 24 races taking place this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lewis Hamilton challenges FIA after its decision banning political statements, says 'NOTHING' will stop him

The American automotive giant Ford has announced it's return to Formula One in 2026 as it joins forces with world champions Red Bull. Watch further to know more.

U.S. Auto Gaint Ford set to make a F1 return

American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday.

Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards."

The company said they would provide the power units for both the Red Bull team and the Alpha Tauri team from 2026 until at least 2030.

"This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather (Henry Ford) won a race that helped launch our company,” said Bill Ford, executive chair.

Ford last featured in F1 in 2004 when they were partnered with Jordan and their return is a further sign of the growth of the sport in the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-niki-lauda-to-jules-bianchi-horrific-crashes-in-the-history-of-formula-1-466040">Read more:&nbsp;From Niki Lauda to Jules Bianchi: Horrific crashes in the history of Formula 1</a>

Ford have played a part in 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships – making them the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with their most recent success coming via Michael Schumacher's win with Benetton in 1994.

Red Bull unveiled their new car for the upcoming season at an event in New York on Friday and team principal Christian Horner said he was looking forward to the link-up.

"It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership,” he said.

"They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself. For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting," he said.

The companies will begin collaborating this year ahead of the change of regulations for engines in F1 and the news was welcomed by Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali.

"The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula One," said Domenicali.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-extends-formula-1-deal-saudi-arabia-to-kickoff-2024-season-543369">Read more:&nbsp;Australia extends Formula 1 deal, Saudi Arabia to kickoff 2024 season</a>

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American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday. Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards.

American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday. Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards." The company said they would provide the power units for both the Red Bull team and the Alpha Tauri team from 2026 until at least 2030. "This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather (Henry Ford) won a race that helped launch our company,” said Bill Ford, executive chair. Ford last featured in F1 in 2004 when they were partnered with Jordan and their return is a further sign of the growth of the sport in the United States. Read more: From Niki Lauda to Jules Bianchi: Horrific crashes in the history of Formula 1 Ford have played a part in 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships – making them the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with their most recent success coming via Michael Schumacher's win with Benetton in 1994. Red Bull unveiled their new car for the upcoming season at an event in New York on Friday and team principal Christian Horner said he was looking forward to the link-up. "It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership,” he said. "They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself. For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting," he said. The companies will begin collaborating this year ahead of the change of regulations for engines in F1 and the news was welcomed by Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali. "The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula One," said Domenicali. Read more: Australia extends Formula 1 deal, Saudi Arabia to kickoff 2024 season WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ford officially returns to F1 in a new partnership with Red Bull

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed that growing up, he was routinely called the 'N-word' and that bananas were thrown at him by the bullies.

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed that growing up, he was routinely called the 'N-word' and that bananas were thrown at him by the bullies. “For me, school was probably the most traumatising and mostcolo difficult part of my life.I already was being bullied at the age of 6," said Hamilton in an interview for the On Purpose podcast. "I think at the time, (at) that particular school, I was probably one of three kids of colour and just bigger, stronger, bullying kids were throwing me around a lot of the time." “And then constant jabs (jibes), the things that are thrown at you, like bananas, people that would use the N-word just so relaxed. People calling you half-caste and just really not knowing where you fit in." Hamilton added that the lack of representation in history books took him by surprise. "That for me was difficult, and then when you go into history class and everything you learn in history there are no people of colour in the history they were teaching us. So I was thinking, ‘Where are the people who look like me?’” Read more: 'Hard some days to stay positive': Lewis Hamilton reveals he struggled mentally and emotionally Being the only driver of colour on the grid, Hamilton has been one of the fiercest advocates of equality in the F1 paddock. He wore a rainbow-coloured helmet in Saudi Arabia Grand Prix to bring visibility to the host country's anti-LGBTQ laws. He set up 'The Hamilton Commission' to improve F1's diversity and has frequently employed people of colour to bring them on par with their 'privileged' peers. Hamilton's F1 season Hamilton had a difficult season last year after narrowly missing out on a record eighth F1 championship trophy in 2021. Mercedes were not up to the mark as the car lagged in pace behind Ferarri and Red Bull. However, midway through the season, Hamilton and Mercedes picked up the pace and managed to make improvements. After a sedate season, it is expected that Hamilton will once again charge for the championship. Read more: ‘I find it stressful’: Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton reveals he is terrified driving on normal roads (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'People threw bananas at me, used the N-word': Lewis Hamilton opens up about racial abuse at school

Formula One on Friday launched an all-female racing series that is set to hit the track next year and prepare young girls to race in the sport. The new category, which will be called F1 Academy, will feature five teams run by outfits currently competing in the F1-feeder series Formula Two and Formula Three. They will each run three cars, creating a 15-strong grid, Formula One said in a statement.

Teams would select their own drivers, who would have to be at least 16 years of age, said F2 and F3 organiser Bruno Michel who will also run the new series. Michel said they could come from senior karting, Formula 4, Formula Regional and even the existing W Series.

They will be required to bring $155,520&nbsp;in funding, with F1 matching that amount and teams raising the rest of the $2.3 million total budget.

Next year's inaugural season will comprise seven events with three races each at circuits that host Formula One and 15 days of official testing. But only one round is likely to race on the same weekend as Formula One.

The series will feature the Tatuus T421 chassis fitted with a 165 horsepower engine and tyres from F1 supplier Pirelli, with the cars sharing the visual identity of their F3 and F2 counterparts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-upbeat-mercedes-camp-eyeing-top-prize-in-abu-dhabi-george-russell-535350">Upbeat Mercedes camp eyeing top prize in Abu Dhabi, says George Russell</a>

"Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams and achieve their potential and Formula One wants to ensure we are doing everything we can to create greater diversity and routes into this incredible sport," said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in the statement.

"That is why I am delighted to announce the F1 Academy that will give young female drivers the best chance to fulfil their ambitions through a comprehensive programme that supports their racing careers and gives them everything they need to move into F3 and hopefully to F2 and then the pinnacle of Formula One."

F1's launch of the new all-female series comes after a cash crunch forced the existing W Series, which is free to enter and pays the championship winner $500,000 out of a total $1.5 million prize money pot, to cancel the last three races of its season last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-red-bulls-horner-reflects-on-verstappens-f1-triumph-447538">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Red Bull's Horner reflects on Verstappen's F1 triumph</a>

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Organisers at the time said they were confident the series, which debuted in 2019 and ran on F1's support bill this season, would return in 2023.

There was no mention of prize money in the F1 Academy statement but Formula One said it would prepare young female drivers to progress to higher levels of competition including the W Series.

The F1 Academy would complement the W Series providing an "extra route for the next generation of young female drivers," the statement added.

W Series welcomed F1's announcement, adding it was looking forward to finalising its plans for next year.

"Our objective from the start has always been to increase the talent pool of women racing drivers, and the addition of the F1 Academy as a feeder to W Series and other series is a further step in inspiring the next generation to progress up the motorsport ladder," series founder Catherine Bond Muir in a statement.&nbsp;

No female driver has started a Grand Prix since the late Italian Lella Lombardi, also the only woman to score a top-six finish, in 1976.

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Formula One on Friday launched an all-female racing series that is set to hit the track next year and prepare young girls to race in the sport. The new category, which will be called F1 Academy, will feature five teams run by outfits currently competing in the F1-feeder series Formula Two and Formula Three.

Formula One on Friday launched an all-female racing series that is set to hit the track next year and prepare young girls to race in the sport. The new category, which will be called F1 Academy, will feature five teams run by outfits currently competing in the F1-feeder series Formula Two and Formula Three. They will each run three cars, creating a 15-strong grid, Formula One said in a statement. Teams would select their own drivers, who would have to be at least 16 years of age, said F2 and F3 organiser Bruno Michel who will also run the new series. Michel said they could come from senior karting, Formula 4, Formula Regional and even the existing W Series. They will be required to bring $155,520 in funding, with F1 matching that amount and teams raising the rest of the $2.3 million total budget. Next year's inaugural season will comprise seven events with three races each at circuits that host Formula One and 15 days of official testing. But only one round is likely to race on the same weekend as Formula One. The series will feature the Tatuus T421 chassis fitted with a 165 horsepower engine and tyres from F1 supplier Pirelli, with the cars sharing the visual identity of their F3 and F2 counterparts. ALSO READ: Upbeat Mercedes camp eyeing top prize in Abu Dhabi, says George Russell "Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams and achieve their potential and Formula One wants to ensure we are doing everything we can to create greater diversity and routes into this incredible sport," said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in the statement. "That is why I am delighted to announce the F1 Academy that will give young female drivers the best chance to fulfil their ambitions through a comprehensive programme that supports their racing careers and gives them everything they need to move into F3 and hopefully to F2 and then the pinnacle of Formula One." F1's launch of the new all-female series comes after a cash crunch forced the existing W Series, which is free to enter and pays the championship winner $500,000 out of a total $1.5 million prize money pot, to cancel the last three races of its season last month. WATCH | WION Exclusive: Red Bull's Horner reflects on Verstappen's F1 triumph × Organisers at the time said they were confident the series, which debuted in 2019 and ran on F1's support bill this season, would return in 2023. There was no mention of prize money in the F1 Academy statement but Formula One said it would prepare young female drivers to progress to higher levels of competition including the W Series. The F1 Academy would complement the W Series providing an "extra route for the next generation of young female drivers," the statement added. W Series welcomed F1's announcement, adding it was looking forward to finalising its plans for next year. "Our objective from the start has always been to increase the talent pool of women racing drivers, and the addition of the F1 Academy as a feeder to W Series and other series is a further step in inspiring the next generation to progress up the motorsport ladder," series founder Catherine Bond Muir in a statement. No female driver has started a Grand Prix since the late Italian Lella Lombardi, also the only woman to score a top-six finish, in 1976. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

F1 launches all-women racing series, set to hit tracks in 2023

Morale at Mercedes is booming after the team's first win of the Formula One season in Brazil last weekend and they will be going for it again in the finale in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, George Russell said. The 24-year-old Briton led seven times world champion teammate Lewis Hamilton one-two at the chequered flag at Interlagos after also winning the Saturday sprint and setting the fastest lap.

The Sao Paulo victory was Russell's first in Formula One, at the end of his fourth season in the sport and first with Mercedes. Russell told reporters on Thursday he had slept for most of the flight from Brazil to Abu Dhabi and the celebrations had been put on hold until after the season-ender at Yas Marina.

"I always believed I could achieve victories and you believe you can become a world champion," he said when asked if he felt any different.

"For sure confidence is high and the morale within the team is booming. But you know, I don't suddenly feel transformed overnight. I still feel the same driver as I was this time one week ago.

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Russell said Mercedes would be seeking to make it two in a row this weekend.

"I think since Austin the car's been performing really well and probably better than we could have ever hoped for," he added. "(Double world champion) Max (Verstappen) and Red Bull are going to be fast here. I think the combination of the low-speed corners and the long straights, they are going to suit their car really, really well.

"But, you know, we saw even in Brazil, on a circuit that we didn't expect to be quite as competitive, we were still very quick. So yeah, we'll be going for it."

Team-mate Hamilton, winner of a record 103 career races and preparing for his 200th with Mercedes, will be hoping to avoid completing his first season without a victory.

Sunday will also bring back memories of last year's controversial finale that dashed his hopes of a record eighth title after then-race director Michael Masi made a late change to the safety car procedure.

"I don’t really think about it, so I don't really have many thoughts on the last race here. I've had many great experiences here in the previous years," said the five times Abu Dhabi winner.

Morale at Mercedes is booming after the team's first win of the Formula One season in Brazil last weekend and they will be going for it again in the finale in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, George Russell said.

Morale at Mercedes is booming after the team's first win of the Formula One season in Brazil last weekend and they will be going for it again in the finale in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, George Russell said. The 24-year-old Briton led seven times world champion teammate Lewis Hamilton one-two at the chequered flag at Interlagos after also winning the Saturday sprint and setting the fastest lap. The Sao Paulo victory was Russell's first in Formula One, at the end of his fourth season in the sport and first with Mercedes. Russell told reporters on Thursday he had slept for most of the flight from Brazil to Abu Dhabi and the celebrations had been put on hold until after the season-ender at Yas Marina. "I always believed I could achieve victories and you believe you can become a world champion," he said when asked if he felt any different. "For sure confidence is high and the morale within the team is booming. But you know, I don't suddenly feel transformed overnight. I still feel the same driver as I was this time one week ago. ALSO READ: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen blames media for making him look bad, lashes out at abuse Russell said Mercedes would be seeking to make it two in a row this weekend. "I think since Austin the car's been performing really well and probably better than we could have ever hoped for," he added. "(Double world champion) Max (Verstappen) and Red Bull are going to be fast here. I think the combination of the low-speed corners and the long straights, they are going to suit their car really, really well. "But, you know, we saw even in Brazil, on a circuit that we didn't expect to be quite as competitive, we were still very quick. So yeah, we'll be going for it." Team-mate Hamilton, winner of a record 103 career races and preparing for his 200th with Mercedes, will be hoping to avoid completing his first season without a victory. Sunday will also bring back memories of last year's controversial finale that dashed his hopes of a record eighth title after then-race director Michael Masi made a late change to the safety car procedure. "I don’t really think about it, so I don't really have many thoughts on the last race here. I've had many great experiences here in the previous years," said the five times Abu Dhabi winner.

Upbeat Mercedes camp eyeing top prize in Abu Dhabi, says George Russell

Red Bull's breach of Formula One's budget cap leaves some big questions to be answered by a governing body whose handling of the sport is coming in for more criticism after the controversial end to last season.

The FIA revealed on Monday that Red Bull, the team of now-double world champion Max Verstappen, had spent more than allowed in 2021. The breach was declared a 'minor overspend', less than 5% of the overall cap of $145 million, but no financial details were given.

How much they overspent is the key question. It could be tens of thousands or as much as $7.25 million, which would be a significant amount in terms of track performance.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, whose team's record run of eight constructors' titles in a row is set to be ended by Red Bull, told reporters this month that a 5% overspend was worth many tenths of a second.

"You’re fighting (in) a totally different league if you have been pushing the limit upwards," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/red-bull-found-guilty-of-breaching-f1-cost-cap-says-fia-524200">Red Bull found guilty of breaching F1 cost cap, says FIA</a>

The budget cap was introduced last year and the implications are huge if any breaches are not seen to be dealt with transparently and firmly.

Wolff has already warned of a risk other teams will also overspend by millions in future because the advantage of doing so -- with knock-on benefits for following seasons -- outweighs any penalty.

What punishment, if any, the FIA imposes is another question and the process could take time if Red Bull, who reckoned they were within the cost cap limit, contest the findings.

The FIA's rules state that "the Cost Cap Adjudication Panel may impose a financial penalty and/or any minor sporting penalties" for a minor overspend.

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They include a public reprimand, deduction of points from both world championships -- considered unlikely -- a reduction of the cost cap and limitations on aerodynamic and other testing.

The FIA is also under fire on other fronts, with confusion about the scoring at last Sunday's shortened Japanese Grand Prix and widespread driver anger about the deployment of a recovery tractor on track while cars were lapping in heavy spray.

The previous weekend in Singapore it took hours before the race winner, Verstappen's Mexican team mate Sergio Perez, was made official.

There has also been some friction between the FIA and commercial rights holders Liberty Media on a number of issues, including the 2023 calendar announcement and the number of sprint races to be held.

Red Bull's breach of Formula One's budget cap leaves some big questions to be answered by a governing body whose handling of the sport is coming in for more criticism after the controversial end to last season.

Red Bull's breach of Formula One's budget cap leaves some big questions to be answered by a governing body whose handling of the sport is coming in for more criticism after the controversial end to last season. The FIA revealed on Monday that Red Bull, the team of now-double world champion Max Verstappen, had spent more than allowed in 2021. The breach was declared a 'minor overspend', less than 5% of the overall cap of $145 million, but no financial details were given. How much they overspent is the key question. It could be tens of thousands or as much as $7.25 million, which would be a significant amount in terms of track performance. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, whose team's record run of eight constructors' titles in a row is set to be ended by Red Bull, told reporters this month that a 5% overspend was worth many tenths of a second. "You’re fighting (in) a totally different league if you have been pushing the limit upwards," he said. Also Read: Red Bull found guilty of breaching F1 cost cap, says FIA The budget cap was introduced last year and the implications are huge if any breaches are not seen to be dealt with transparently and firmly. Wolff has already warned of a risk other teams will also overspend by millions in future because the advantage of doing so -- with knock-on benefits for following seasons -- outweighs any penalty. What punishment, if any, the FIA imposes is another question and the process could take time if Red Bull, who reckoned they were within the cost cap limit, contest the findings. The FIA's rules state that "the Cost Cap Adjudication Panel may impose a financial penalty and/or any minor sporting penalties" for a minor overspend. Also Read: Kylian Mbappe open to shock PSG exit in January despite signing new contract in summer - Report They include a public reprimand, deduction of points from both world championships -- considered unlikely -- a reduction of the cost cap and limitations on aerodynamic and other testing. The FIA is also under fire on other fronts, with confusion about the scoring at last Sunday's shortened Japanese Grand Prix and widespread driver anger about the deployment of a recovery tractor on track while cars were lapping in heavy spray. The previous weekend in Singapore it took hours before the race winner, Verstappen's Mexican team mate Sergio Perez, was made official. There has also been some friction between the FIA and commercial rights holders Liberty Media on a number of issues, including the 2023 calendar announcement and the number of sprint races to be held.

FIA's governance under the spotlight after Red Bull's Formula 1 cost cap breach

Two-time world champion Max Verstappen's Red Bull Formula One team exceeded the budget cap for the 2021 season, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) said on Monday, adding that the offence was a "minor violation".

Aston Martin was also found in breach of Formula 1 financial rules, the FIA announced, adding that any punishment would be decided at a later date.

"We note the findings by the FIA of&nbsp;'minor overspend breaches'... with surprise and disappointment," tweeted Red Bull.

The cap came into effect last season and was set at 145 million dollars (currently 149.6 million euros). It is intended to limit spending to make the sport viable and also to close the competitive gap between big and small teams. Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull were particularly affected.&nbsp;

Even so, Verstappen ended the season by edging Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes to win a first world title.&nbsp;&nbsp;The FIA said it was "currently determining the appropriate course of action to be taken".

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A "minor overspend breach", the statement said, is less than five percent of a team's total cap and can "result in financial penalties and/or minor sporting penalties."

Red Bull insisted on Twitter that they had not broken the rules.

"We need to carefully review the FIA's findings as our belief remains that the relevant costs are under the 2021 cost cap amount."&nbsp;

The FIA said its 'Cost Cap Administration' had finished a review of the financial documentation submitted by each team for 2021 and "issued certificates of compliance to seven of the 10".&nbsp;

The third exception was Williams, where there had been a problem with "a previous procedural breach" which the team had "remediated" in a "timely, cooperative and transparent manner".

The statement stressed that because the season under review was the first with a cost cap, the FIA had limited itself "to reviewing the submissions made by the competitors and that no full formal investigations were launched."

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The statement said that the first option for the Cost Cap Administration was to agree a settlement with the team involved.

If the two sides are unable to reach an agreement, or if the team is not in favour of seeking an agreement, it can refer the dispute to a panel of six to 12 judges elected by the FIA general assembly.

"Despite all the conjecture and positioning of others, there is of course a process under the regulations with the FIA which we will respectfully follow while we consider all the options available to us," said Red Bull.&nbsp;

The statement added that "the regulations are highly complex, reflecting the complexity of the sport as a whole". It also said that all the teams "acted at all times in a spirit of good faith and cooperation throughout the process".&nbsp;

Two-time world champion Max Verstappen's Red Bull Formula One team exceeded the budget cap for the 2021 season, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) said on Monday, adding that the offence was a "minor violation".

Two-time world champion Max Verstappen's Red Bull Formula One team exceeded the budget cap for the 2021 season, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) said on Monday, adding that the offence was a "minor violation". Aston Martin was also found in breach of Formula 1 financial rules, the FIA announced, adding that any punishment would be decided at a later date. "We note the findings by the FIA of 'minor overspend breaches'... with surprise and disappointment," tweeted Red Bull. The cap came into effect last season and was set at 145 million dollars (currently 149.6 million euros). It is intended to limit spending to make the sport viable and also to close the competitive gap between big and small teams. Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull were particularly affected. Even so, Verstappen ended the season by edging Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes to win a first world title. The FIA said it was "currently determining the appropriate course of action to be taken". Also Read: Red Bull's Max Verstappen retains Formula One world title after dramatic win at Japan Grand Prix A "minor overspend breach", the statement said, is less than five percent of a team's total cap and can "result in financial penalties and/or minor sporting penalties." Red Bull insisted on Twitter that they had not broken the rules. "We need to carefully review the FIA's findings as our belief remains that the relevant costs are under the 2021 cost cap amount." The FIA said its 'Cost Cap Administration' had finished a review of the financial documentation submitted by each team for 2021 and "issued certificates of compliance to seven of the 10". The third exception was Williams, where there had been a problem with "a previous procedural breach" which the team had "remediated" in a "timely, cooperative and transparent manner". The statement stressed that because the season under review was the first with a cost cap, the FIA had limited itself "to reviewing the submissions made by the competitors and that no full formal investigations were launched." Also Read: 'The GOAT': Virat Kohli hails Cristiano Ronaldo as Manchester United star completes 700 club goals The statement said that the first option for the Cost Cap Administration was to agree a settlement with the team involved. If the two sides are unable to reach an agreement, or if the team is not in favour of seeking an agreement, it can refer the dispute to a panel of six to 12 judges elected by the FIA general assembly. "Despite all the conjecture and positioning of others, there is of course a process under the regulations with the FIA which we will respectfully follow while we consider all the options available to us," said Red Bull. The statement added that "the regulations are highly complex, reflecting the complexity of the sport as a whole". It also said that all the teams "acted at all times in a spirit of good faith and cooperation throughout the process".

Red Bull found guilty of breaching F1 cost cap, says FIA

Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s visit to the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix in Singapore over the weekend has been criticised for his “untimely visit” when the nation is ravaged by Typhoon Noru.

The president later confirmed his trip after posting pictures on his Facebook post on Monday night, inviting a string of criticism on his online post.

“They say that playing golf is the best way to drum up business, but I say it’s Formula 1…What a productive weekend,” Marcos Jr. said.

The trip was reportedly unannounced, as Marcos Jr’s press secretary did not even issue a confirmation.&nbsp;It was revealed that he had gone to Singapore only after the local officials posted pictures of the&nbsp;Philippines' president on Facebook.

Moreover, Singaporean Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng named the Philippines' leader among the foreign dignitaries he met “to affirm our bilateral economic relationships and strengthen collaborations in energy cooperation as well as exchange views on manpower policies on the sidelines of the race.”

The opposition demanded more details from the government about the trip, asking if it was funded with public resources.

“We assert that the Singapore F1 weekend getaway was insensitive, unnecessary and irresponsible given the crisis that the nation is in,” Renato Reyes of the left-wing Bayan political alliance said in a statement, reports AP news agency.

“Only the utterly callous and shamelessly entitled would not get this point.”

According to AP, which cited a Philippine official, Marcos Jr., left for Singapore with his wife and two sons on Friday on a military plane for an overnight stay to watch the Grand Prix races.

Typhoon Noru has left at least 1 million people displaced and claimed 12 lives, disaster response officials said.

The landfall is estimated to have caused damages of nearly $51 million, leaving farmland flattened just before the harvest season.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s visit to the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix in Singapore over the weekend has been criticised for his “untimely visit” when the nation is ravaged by Typhoon Noru.

Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s visit to the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix in Singapore over the weekend has been criticised for his “untimely visit” when the nation is ravaged by Typhoon Noru. The president later confirmed his trip after posting pictures on his Facebook post on Monday night, inviting a string of criticism on his online post. “They say that playing golf is the best way to drum up business, but I say it’s Formula 1…What a productive weekend,” Marcos Jr. said. The trip was reportedly unannounced, as Marcos Jr’s press secretary did not even issue a confirmation. It was revealed that he had gone to Singapore only after the local officials posted pictures of the Philippines' president on Facebook. Moreover, Singaporean Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng named the Philippines' leader among the foreign dignitaries he met “to affirm our bilateral economic relationships and strengthen collaborations in energy cooperation as well as exchange views on manpower policies on the sidelines of the race.” The opposition demanded more details from the government about the trip, asking if it was funded with public resources. “We assert that the Singapore F1 weekend getaway was insensitive, unnecessary and irresponsible given the crisis that the nation is in,” Renato Reyes of the left-wing Bayan political alliance said in a statement, reports AP news agency. “Only the utterly callous and shamelessly entitled would not get this point.” According to AP, which cited a Philippine official, Marcos Jr., left for Singapore with his wife and two sons on Friday on a military plane for an overnight stay to watch the Grand Prix races. Typhoon Noru has left at least 1 million people displaced and claimed 12 lives, disaster response officials said. The landfall is estimated to have caused damages of nearly $51 million, leaving farmland flattened just before the harvest season. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Philippines prez’s visit to Singapore to watch F1 race panned by opposition, people

Sergio Perez won a rain-affected Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday meaning his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen, who finished seventh, must wait at least another week to retain his Formula One world championship.

The Mexican took the chequered flag 7.5sec ahead of the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc, whose teammate Carlos Sainz was third in the night race that started more than an hour late because of a storm.

Verstappen had a mathematical chance to clinch a second world title in Singapore, but needed to win and have other results go his way.

The Dutchman was always going to struggle after starting eighth on the grid at the Marina Bay Street Circuit but he battled back from a slow start where he dropped to 13th to finish seventh.

It means his world championship lead over Leclerc has been cut to 104 points ahead of next week's Japanese Grand Prix. Perez is two points behind Leclerc. Verstappen will need to be 112 points ahead at the end of next Sunday's race in Suzuka to retain his title.

It means a win will be enough for Verstappen if Leclerc fails to finish second.

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"It was certainly my best performance,"&nbsp;Perez said.&nbsp;"I controlled the race. The last three laps were so intense. When I got out of the car, I felt it. I gave everything today."

Perez was under investigation for an infringement under one of numerous safety car periods during the race, and potentially faces a time penalty that could hand the victory to Ferrari.

"I have no idea what's going on, they just told me I was under investigation and to increase the gap,"&nbsp;Perez said.

Leclerc started on pole but had a sluggish getaway on intermediate tyres in the slippery conditions allowing Perez to reach the first corner in the lead.&nbsp;

"I pushed all the way," said Leclerc. "The bad start put us on the back foot and it was a really difficult race after that.

"I need a good night's sleep and to get ready for Japan."

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Sainz said he felt he could never threaten the front two after he crossed the line 7.7sec behind his teammate.

"It was very tough out there,"&nbsp;Sainz said.&nbsp;"I never really got into a rhythm in the wet and then couldn't challenge the top two guys.

"I had to settle for P3, but the good thing is I didn't do any mistakes and could bring the car home and be quick towards the end of the race."

Lewis Hamilton started third in his Mercedes and lost a place at the start before later slithering into a barrier and finishing ninth.

Sergio Perez won a rain-affected Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday meaning his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen, who finished seventh, must wait at least another week to retain his Formula One world championship.

Sergio Perez won a rain-affected Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday meaning his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen, who finished seventh, must wait at least another week to retain his Formula One world championship. The Mexican took the chequered flag 7.5sec ahead of the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc, whose teammate Carlos Sainz was third in the night race that started more than an hour late because of a storm. Verstappen had a mathematical chance to clinch a second world title in Singapore, but needed to win and have other results go his way. The Dutchman was always going to struggle after starting eighth on the grid at the Marina Bay Street Circuit but he battled back from a slow start where he dropped to 13th to finish seventh. It means his world championship lead over Leclerc has been cut to 104 points ahead of next week's Japanese Grand Prix. Perez is two points behind Leclerc. Verstappen will need to be 112 points ahead at the end of next Sunday's race in Suzuka to retain his title. It means a win will be enough for Verstappen if Leclerc fails to finish second. Also Read: Lewis Hamilton allowed to wear piercing, but Mercedes slapped with $24,500 fine "It was certainly my best performance," Perez said. "I controlled the race. The last three laps were so intense. When I got out of the car, I felt it. I gave everything today." Perez was under investigation for an infringement under one of numerous safety car periods during the race, and potentially faces a time penalty that could hand the victory to Ferrari. "I have no idea what's going on, they just told me I was under investigation and to increase the gap," Perez said. Leclerc started on pole but had a sluggish getaway on intermediate tyres in the slippery conditions allowing Perez to reach the first corner in the lead. "I pushed all the way," said Leclerc. "The bad start put us on the back foot and it was a really difficult race after that. "I need a good night's sleep and to get ready for Japan." Also Read: Indonesia stadium stampede: What led to one of world's worst football tragedies? Sainz said he felt he could never threaten the front two after he crossed the line 7.7sec behind his teammate. "It was very tough out there," Sainz said. "I never really got into a rhythm in the wet and then couldn't challenge the top two guys. "I had to settle for P3, but the good thing is I didn't do any mistakes and could bring the car home and be quick towards the end of the race." Lewis Hamilton started third in his Mercedes and lost a place at the start before later slithering into a barrier and finishing ninth.

Red Bull's Sergio Perez wins Singapore Grand Prix as Max Verstappen finishes seventh

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.

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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.

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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

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner recently offered fans some insight into why their deal with German auto giants Porsche fell through after a brief period of negotiations and deliberations.

Two&nbsp;Volkswagon entities Porsche and Audi were gunning for a way to make their way into Formula 1. However, it seems like the Stuttgart-founded outfit failed to successfully enter the premiere racing format in the world.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/williams-f1-dealt-blow-as-alex-albon-is-ruled-out-of-italian-gp-due-to-appendicitis-514973" hreflang="en">Williams F1 dealt blow as Alex Albon is ruled out of Italian GP due to appendicitis</a>

While discussing Porsche's plans and the offers that they made to Red Bull, Horner asserted that the German luxury brand lacked solid plans. Horner also admitted that what Porsche had to offer did not seem like something worth losing their independence over.

“I think big organisations need significant planning, and I think were slightly getting a bit ahead of themselves, but there was never a binding commitment signed between the parties. That must have been subjective on their part,” Horner said.

“So I’m not going to go into the detail of what those details were or entail, but one the strengths this team has has been its independence, at times it instils all of the virtues and values of Red Bull - as a challenger, as a maverick - and it’s one of the core attributes that has enabled us to be as successful as we have in the sport to date," he further added on the matter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/porsches-future-in-f1-uncertain-as-partnership-talks-with-red-bull-crash-and-burn-514652" hreflang="en">Porsche's future in F1 uncertain as partnership talks with Red Bull crash and burn</a>

“One of our core strengths has been our independence and our quick decision-making and lack of bureaucracy. We’re a race team fundamentally and that enables us to make quick decisions, effective decisions and react very quickly as a race team," asserted Horner.&nbsp;

Red Bull are currently hurtling towards one of the grandest races in the Formula 1 calendar, the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. They will look to bolster their championship aspirations with a major point haul once the lights go out in Milan.

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner recently offered fans some insight into why their deal with German auto giants Porsche fell through after a brief period of negotiations and deliberations.

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner recently offered fans some insight into why their deal with German auto giants Porsche fell through after a brief period of negotiations and deliberations. Two Volkswagon entities Porsche and Audi were gunning for a way to make their way into Formula 1. However, it seems like the Stuttgart-founded outfit failed to successfully enter the premiere racing format in the world. ALSO READ: Williams F1 dealt blow as Alex Albon is ruled out of Italian GP due to appendicitis While discussing Porsche's plans and the offers that they made to Red Bull, Horner asserted that the German luxury brand lacked solid plans. Horner also admitted that what Porsche had to offer did not seem like something worth losing their independence over. “I think big organisations need significant planning, and I think were slightly getting a bit ahead of themselves, but there was never a binding commitment signed between the parties. That must have been subjective on their part,” Horner said. “So I’m not going to go into the detail of what those details were or entail, but one the strengths this team has has been its independence, at times it instils all of the virtues and values of Red Bull - as a challenger, as a maverick - and it’s one of the core attributes that has enabled us to be as successful as we have in the sport to date," he further added on the matter. ALSO READ: Porsche's future in F1 uncertain as partnership talks with Red Bull crash and burn “One of our core strengths has been our independence and our quick decision-making and lack of bureaucracy. We’re a race team fundamentally and that enables us to make quick decisions, effective decisions and react very quickly as a race team," asserted Horner. Red Bull are currently hurtling towards one of the grandest races in the Formula 1 calendar, the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. They will look to bolster their championship aspirations with a major point haul once the lights go out in Milan.

Red Bull frontman Christian Horner offers insight into the failed deal with German auto giants Porsche

Williams driver Alex Albon is slated to miss out on the opportunity to compete in the upcoming Italian Grand Prix as he was diagnosed with&nbsp;appendicitis.

However, his absence from the race has opened the door for the former&nbsp;Formula 2 and Formula E champion Nyck De Vries to participate in the premiere motor racing format in the world.

The team came out with a statement, revealing&nbsp;that the Thai driver had been declared unfit to participate in the race, and will be receiving medical attention sooner rather than later.

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“Williams Racing can confirm that, after feeling unwell this morning and seeking medical advice from the FIA and local hospital, Alex Albon is now undergoing treatment for appendicitis.

“Following on from this, we can confirm that the team’s Reserve Driver Nyck de Vries will drive in place of Alex for the remainder of the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Alex is in good spirits and the team wishes him a speedy recovery,” the team said in the statement.

However, Albon himself managed to see the bright side of his predicament, offering his fans an update regarding his situation with a hilarious post on social media.&nbsp;

"Appendicitis, surgery and no racing isn’t what I was expecting this weekend! Negatives: - Missing out on what looks like a strong weekend for us - Pain Positives - Weight reduction for Singapore - Cool scars," wrote Albon on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Appendicitis, surgery and no racing isn’t what I was expecting this weekend! 
 
Negatives: 
- Missing out on what looks like a strong weekend for us 
- Pain 
 
Positives 
- Weight reduction for Singapore 
- Cool scars <a href="https://t.co/HOfA18eF5W">pic.twitter.com/HOfA18eF5W</a>
— Alex Albon (@alex_albon) <a href="https://twitter.com/alex_albon/status/1568549779319279617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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Albon's weekend was going swimmingly up until the point he was ruled out of active contention due to his medical situation. He managed to bag&nbsp;10th in FP2 and 11th in FP1, as Williams were poised to be in the thick of the battle for points.&nbsp;

Whether the Grand Prix debutant&nbsp;Nyck de Vries will be able to exploit Williams' straight line speed like Albon to earn the team some much-needed points is something that remains to be seen.

Williams driver Alex Albon is slated to miss out on the opportunity to compete in the upcoming Italian Grand Prix as he was diagnosed with appendicitis. However, his absence from the race has opened the door for the former Formula 2 and Formula E champion Nyck De Vries to participate in the premiere motor racing format in the world.

Williams driver Alex Albon is slated to miss out on the opportunity to compete in the upcoming Italian Grand Prix as he was diagnosed with appendicitis. However, his absence from the race has opened the door for the former Formula 2 and Formula E champion Nyck De Vries to participate in the premiere motor racing format in the world. The team came out with a statement, revealing that the Thai driver had been declared unfit to participate in the race, and will be receiving medical attention sooner rather than later. ALSO READ: Porsche's future in F1 uncertain as partnership talks with Red Bull crash and burn “Williams Racing can confirm that, after feeling unwell this morning and seeking medical advice from the FIA and local hospital, Alex Albon is now undergoing treatment for appendicitis. “Following on from this, we can confirm that the team’s Reserve Driver Nyck de Vries will drive in place of Alex for the remainder of the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Alex is in good spirits and the team wishes him a speedy recovery,” the team said in the statement. However, Albon himself managed to see the bright side of his predicament, offering his fans an update regarding his situation with a hilarious post on social media. "Appendicitis, surgery and no racing isn’t what I was expecting this weekend! Negatives: - Missing out on what looks like a strong weekend for us - Pain Positives - Weight reduction for Singapore - Cool scars," wrote Albon on Twitter. Appendicitis, surgery and no racing isn’t what I was expecting this weekend! Negatives: - Missing out on what looks like a strong weekend for us - Pain Positives - Weight reduction for Singapore - Cool scars pic.twitter.com/HOfA18eF5W — Alex Albon (@alex_albon) September 10, 2022 × ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup final stadium passes assessment with first sell-out crowd ahead of high-profile competition Albon's weekend was going swimmingly up until the point he was ruled out of active contention due to his medical situation. He managed to bag 10th in FP2 and 11th in FP1, as Williams were poised to be in the thick of the battle for points. Whether the Grand Prix debutant Nyck de Vries will be able to exploit Williams' straight line speed like Albon to earn the team some much-needed points is something that remains to be seen.

Williams F1 dealt blow as Alex Albon is ruled out of Italian GP due to appendicitis

Porsche's Formula 1 aspirations were dealt a major blow after their negotiations with Red Bull seem to have hit a permanent roadblock. The two parties failed to reach an agreement as their ideas regarding the extent of their partnership failed to match.

The luxury car manufacturer offered fans some insight into the situation with a statement, revealing that the decision to discontinue talks was arrived at mutually. They also confirmed that they were still vying for a spot on the grid and would continue to work towards the goal despite the unforeseen delay.

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"In the course of the last few months, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG and Red Bull GmbH have held talks on the possibility of Porsche's entry into Formula 1," the statement reads. "The two companies have now jointly come to the conclusion that these talks will no longer be continued.

"The premise was always that a partnership would be based on an equal footing, which would include not only an engine partnership but also the team. This could not be achieved. With the finalised rule changes, the racing series nevertheless remains an attractive environment for Porsche, which will continue to be monitored."

While both parties have done a relatively good job at keeping the details regarding their deal under wraps, certain reports suggest that the German brand were looking to acquire a 50% stake in Red Bull's team in addition to becoming their primary engine supplier.

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This update came as a surprise as their fellow German automobile giants Audi revealed that they had finalised a deal to foray into the realm of Formula 1 as engine suppliers from the 2026 season.

It is interesting to note that Porsche, unlike Audi, have experience in working with Formula 1. They had a team on the grid between&nbsp;1957-62. However, their stint in the premiere racing format in the world was hardly something to write home about as they only managed to win once owing to&nbsp;Dan Gurney's efforts&nbsp;in the 1962 French Grand Prix.

Porsche's Formula 1 aspirations were dealt a major blow after their negotiations with Red Bull seem to have hit a permanent roadblock. The two parties failed to reach an agreement as their ideas regarding the extent of their partnership failed to match.

Porsche's Formula 1 aspirations were dealt a major blow after their negotiations with Red Bull seem to have hit a permanent roadblock. The two parties failed to reach an agreement as their ideas regarding the extent of their partnership failed to match. The luxury car manufacturer offered fans some insight into the situation with a statement, revealing that the decision to discontinue talks was arrived at mutually. They also confirmed that they were still vying for a spot on the grid and would continue to work towards the goal despite the unforeseen delay. ALSO READ: Premier League moves to postpone the upcoming match round to show respect to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II "In the course of the last few months, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG and Red Bull GmbH have held talks on the possibility of Porsche's entry into Formula 1," the statement reads. "The two companies have now jointly come to the conclusion that these talks will no longer be continued. "The premise was always that a partnership would be based on an equal footing, which would include not only an engine partnership but also the team. This could not be achieved. With the finalised rule changes, the racing series nevertheless remains an attractive environment for Porsche, which will continue to be monitored." While both parties have done a relatively good job at keeping the details regarding their deal under wraps, certain reports suggest that the German brand were looking to acquire a 50% stake in Red Bull's team in addition to becoming their primary engine supplier. ALSO READ: US Open men’s singles SF live streaming: When and where to watch Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz tie? This update came as a surprise as their fellow German automobile giants Audi revealed that they had finalised a deal to foray into the realm of Formula 1 as engine suppliers from the 2026 season. It is interesting to note that Porsche, unlike Audi, have experience in working with Formula 1. They had a team on the grid between 1957-62. However, their stint in the premiere racing format in the world was hardly something to write home about as they only managed to win once owing to Dan Gurney's efforts in the 1962 French Grand Prix.

Porsche's future in F1 uncertain as partnership talks with Red Bull crash and burn

Red Bull's Max Verstappen put on an extremely impressive performance in his home Grand Prix, managing to overcome the challenge presented by his fellow drivers to clinch pole position for the 2022 edition of the Dutch Grand Prix.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was merely 0.021s behind the home favourite as he himself attempted to wrest pole position out of Verstappen's hands.

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However, Verstappen, who produced an extremely impressive final lap at the Zandvoort circuit, was just too fast for the Italian to catch as he edged past him with the finest of margins.

The celebrations of the home fans were seemingly just loud enough to drown out the debilitating noise of techno music and the F1 cars themselves when their compatriot and&nbsp;championship leader raced past the finish line to solidify his position on the first row.

It is interesting to note that Leclerc had the leading time and was looking to outdo himself in the final lap. However, a slick middle sector helped Verstappen lay claim to the fourth pole of the season.&nbsp;

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc were followed by the Prancing Horse's second driver Carlos Sainz in P3. Lewis Hamilton, on the other hand, could only muster up P4.

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Max Verstappen's teammate, Sergio Perez, divided Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton and George Russel by picking up the fifth spot with the fledgling Silver Arrows driver picking up P6.

Verstappen had managed to make his way to the top step&nbsp;in last year's edition of the Dutch Grand Prix while&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander was in attendance.&nbsp;The Dutchman will aim to replicate the same result this time around.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen put on an extremely impressive performance in his home Grand Prix, managing to overcome the challenge presented by his fellow drivers to clinch pole position for the 2022 edition of the Dutch Grand Prix.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen put on an extremely impressive performance in his home Grand Prix, managing to overcome the challenge presented by his fellow drivers to clinch pole position for the 2022 edition of the Dutch Grand Prix. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was merely 0.021s behind the home favourite as he himself attempted to wrest pole position out of Verstappen's hands. ALSO READ: 'Sad for Indian football'- Bhaichung Bhutia shocked by the level of political interference in AIFF elections However, Verstappen, who produced an extremely impressive final lap at the Zandvoort circuit, was just too fast for the Italian to catch as he edged past him with the finest of margins. The celebrations of the home fans were seemingly just loud enough to drown out the debilitating noise of techno music and the F1 cars themselves when their compatriot and championship leader raced past the finish line to solidify his position on the first row. It is interesting to note that Leclerc had the leading time and was looking to outdo himself in the final lap. However, a slick middle sector helped Verstappen lay claim to the fourth pole of the season. Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc were followed by the Prancing Horse's second driver Carlos Sainz in P3. Lewis Hamilton, on the other hand, could only muster up P4. ALSO READ: Ravindra Jadeja likely to undergo surgery, set to be ruled out of T20 World Cup Max Verstappen's teammate, Sergio Perez, divided Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton and George Russel by picking up the fifth spot with the fledgling Silver Arrows driver picking up P6. Verstappen had managed to make his way to the top step in last year's edition of the Dutch Grand Prix while King Willem-Alexander was in attendance. The Dutchman will aim to replicate the same result this time around.

Max Verstappen outpaces Charles Leclerc to pick up pole position at his home Grand Prix

Max Verstappen won the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix from P15 on the grid in a Red Bull one-two backed up by Sergio Perez, while pole-sitter Carlos Sainz finished P3 for Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso knotted at Les Combes on Lap 1, leaving the Mercedes driver out of the race. The restart saw Verstappen line up eighth while Sainz led Perez-Leclerc having had to pit for mediums with a tear-off in his brake duct.

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Verstappen made quick work of the cars ahead, sweeping into P3 by Lap 8 with only Perez and Sainz to beat. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton had to retire from the opening lap after his Mercedes crashed with Fernando Alonso`s Alpine.

Pole-sitter Carlos Sainz held off Mercedes` George Russell to clinch third, while his Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc finished sixth after a calamitous decision.

"It was quite a hectic first lap to try and stay out of trouble," said Verstappen in an official statement. "So many things were happening in front of me.

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"But once we settled in after the Safety Car, the car was really on rails, we picked the right places to pass people and we could look after our tyres and that is how we made our way forward," he added.

"After that, once we were in the lead it was all about managing everything - but this whole weekend has been incredible. It`s been a weekend I couldn`t imagine before, but I think we want more of them, so keep working hard," said Max Verstappen, Red Bull.

Max Verstappen won the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix from P15 on the grid in a Red Bull one-two backed up by Sergio Perez, while pole-sitter Carlos Sainz finished P3 for Ferrari.

Max Verstappen won the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix from P15 on the grid in a Red Bull one-two backed up by Sergio Perez, while pole-sitter Carlos Sainz finished P3 for Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso knotted at Les Combes on Lap 1, leaving the Mercedes driver out of the race. The restart saw Verstappen line up eighth while Sainz led Perez-Leclerc having had to pit for mediums with a tear-off in his brake duct. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2022: Hardik Pandya stars as India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets in last-over thriller Verstappen made quick work of the cars ahead, sweeping into P3 by Lap 8 with only Perez and Sainz to beat. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton had to retire from the opening lap after his Mercedes crashed with Fernando Alonso`s Alpine. Pole-sitter Carlos Sainz held off Mercedes` George Russell to clinch third, while his Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc finished sixth after a calamitous decision. "It was quite a hectic first lap to try and stay out of trouble," said Verstappen in an official statement. "So many things were happening in front of me. ALSO READ: LIV Golf acquires British Open winner Cam Smith in addition to five PGA Tour players in latest haul "But once we settled in after the Safety Car, the car was really on rails, we picked the right places to pass people and we could look after our tyres and that is how we made our way forward," he added. "After that, once we were in the lead it was all about managing everything - but this whole weekend has been incredible. It`s been a weekend I couldn`t imagine before, but I think we want more of them, so keep working hard," said Max Verstappen, Red Bull.

Max Verstappen cruises to victory after starting at P14 at the Belgian Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton suffers

With Sebastian Vettel announcing his retirement from&nbsp;Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton recently opened up about his own future in the sport. He dismissed the possibility of his retirement, claiming that he was all set&nbsp;to improve the W13 in order to return to title contention.

Hamilton had previously stunned&nbsp;the Formula 1 faithful when he admitted that he was contemplating retirement after the 2021 season came to a shocking end with Red Bull's Max Verstappen laid claim to the world championship title, denying him a record-breaking eighth world title after the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

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However, in a recent interaction with Vanity Fair magazine, Hamilton dismissed these statements. He admitted that he was extremely keen on extending his contract and returning the Mercedes F1 team to its former glory.

"I’ll be lying if I said that I hadn’t thought about extending.&nbsp;I’m still on the mission, I’m still loving driving, I’m still being challenged by it. So I don’t really feel like I have to give it up anytime soon," said Hamilton.

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When asked about Sebastian Vettel's forthcoming retirement from the sport, Hamilton confirmed that it did not affect his decision to continue driving for Mercedes:

“It doesn’t make me think about my future, but it is a reminder that I am in that part of my career that people I came up with and have raced for so long will start to stop... But I am thinking about how I can improve this car, what steps we need to take to get this team winning again, what is the road map to claiming another world championship, and what we need to do to have everyone in this sport more aligned, in terms of diversity.”

The 2022 season, however, has been less than promising for the Brackley-based outfit with Red Bull's Max Verstappen putting in consistently impressive performances as he seems to be well on course to defend his title.

With Sebastian Vettel announcing his retirement from Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton recently opened up about his own future in the sport. He dismissed the possibility of his retirement, claiming that he was all set to improve the W13 in order to return to title contention.

With Sebastian Vettel announcing his retirement from Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton recently opened up about his own future in the sport. He dismissed the possibility of his retirement, claiming that he was all set to improve the W13 in order to return to title contention. Hamilton had previously stunned the Formula 1 faithful when he admitted that he was contemplating retirement after the 2021 season came to a shocking end with Red Bull's Max Verstappen laid claim to the world championship title, denying him a record-breaking eighth world title after the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. ALSO READ: ‘I find it stressful’: Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton reveals he is terrified driving on normal roads However, in a recent interaction with Vanity Fair magazine, Hamilton dismissed these statements. He admitted that he was extremely keen on extending his contract and returning the Mercedes F1 team to its former glory. "I’ll be lying if I said that I hadn’t thought about extending. I’m still on the mission, I’m still loving driving, I’m still being challenged by it. So I don’t really feel like I have to give it up anytime soon," said Hamilton. ALSO READ: 'Hard some days to stay positive': Lewis Hamilton reveals he struggled mentally and emotionally When asked about Sebastian Vettel's forthcoming retirement from the sport, Hamilton confirmed that it did not affect his decision to continue driving for Mercedes: “It doesn’t make me think about my future, but it is a reminder that I am in that part of my career that people I came up with and have raced for so long will start to stop... But I am thinking about how I can improve this car, what steps we need to take to get this team winning again, what is the road map to claiming another world championship, and what we need to do to have everyone in this sport more aligned, in terms of diversity.” The 2022 season, however, has been less than promising for the Brackley-based outfit with Red Bull's Max Verstappen putting in consistently impressive performances as he seems to be well on course to defend his title.

'I'm still loving driving'- Lewis Hamilton rules out possibility of his retirement anytime soon

Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. The seven-time F1 champion often drives at over 200mph on the circuit but has revealed he is terrified of driving on normal roads with traffic. Hamilton said he finds roads 'crazy' and hard to negotiate the traffic as too much is 'going on' on busy roads for his liking.

Hamilton made the surprising revelations in an interview with the Vanity Fair magazine when he was asked if he enjoys as much driving on normal roads as on the circuit. Hamilton, who has represented McLaren and Mercedes in his illustrious career, insisted he doesn't like driving on roads due to the traffic and risk of something going wrong.

“Look, we’re on these roads, anything can happen," Hamilton told the interviewer while driving around busy roads in southern France during the interview.&nbsp;“This is now stressful for me. This road is crazy. So much going on here. I’m going to turn around in a second," he added.

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Hamilton is the most successful driver in Formula One history with seven world titles under his belt. He has not enjoyed much success so far this season but managed to finish on the podium in his last two races. However, the 37-year-old revealed he considered retiring from F1 after the controversial final at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year.

Max Verstappen had pipped Hamilton to the title in controversial circumstances denying him a record 8th Formula One title. Hamilton revealed strengthless after the shock defeat and called it one of the toughest moments of his career so far.

“I don’t know if I can really put into words the feeling that I had. I do remember just sitting there in disbelief," said the seven-time F1 champion.

"And realising I’ve got to undo my belts, I’ve got to get out of there, I’ve got to climb out of this thing, I’ve got to find the strength. I had no strength. And it was one of the toughest moments, I would say, that I’ve had in a long, long time," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-deep-dive-into-serena-williams-achievements-over-the-course-of-her-storied-career-505560">A look at Serena Williams' greatest achievements over the course of her illustrious career</a>

However, Hamilton admitted he loves being challenged and his&nbsp;chase for the elusive 8th Formula One championship is what has kept him going even after the dejection of his last year's loss in the final race. The British driver said he remains on a 'mission' and is not going to give up anytime soon.

Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. The seven-time F1 champion often drives at over 200mph on the circuit but has revealed he is terrified of driving on normal roads with traffic.

Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. The seven-time F1 champion often drives at over 200mph on the circuit but has revealed he is terrified of driving on normal roads with traffic. Hamilton said he finds roads 'crazy' and hard to negotiate the traffic as too much is 'going on' on busy roads for his liking. Hamilton made the surprising revelations in an interview with the Vanity Fair magazine when he was asked if he enjoys as much driving on normal roads as on the circuit. Hamilton, who has represented McLaren and Mercedes in his illustrious career, insisted he doesn't like driving on roads due to the traffic and risk of something going wrong. “Look, we’re on these roads, anything can happen," Hamilton told the interviewer while driving around busy roads in southern France during the interview. “This is now stressful for me. This road is crazy. So much going on here. I’m going to turn around in a second," he added. Also Read: 'He threw me out of hotel room naked': Ryan Giggs' ex makes shocking revelations during trial Hamilton is the most successful driver in Formula One history with seven world titles under his belt. He has not enjoyed much success so far this season but managed to finish on the podium in his last two races. However, the 37-year-old revealed he considered retiring from F1 after the controversial final at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year. Max Verstappen had pipped Hamilton to the title in controversial circumstances denying him a record 8th Formula One title. Hamilton revealed strengthless after the shock defeat and called it one of the toughest moments of his career so far. “I don’t know if I can really put into words the feeling that I had. I do remember just sitting there in disbelief," said the seven-time F1 champion. "And realising I’ve got to undo my belts, I’ve got to get out of there, I’ve got to climb out of this thing, I’ve got to find the strength. I had no strength. And it was one of the toughest moments, I would say, that I’ve had in a long, long time," he added. Also Read: A look at Serena Williams' greatest achievements over the course of her illustrious career However, Hamilton admitted he loves being challenged and his chase for the elusive 8th Formula One championship is what has kept him going even after the dejection of his last year's loss in the final race. The British driver said he remains on a 'mission' and is not going to give up anytime soon.

‘I find it stressful’: Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton reveals he is terrified driving on normal roads

The Austrian Formula1 race started with Max Verstappen at the pol and the two Ferraris at No. 2 and 3. The start was, good for Max as he kept a distance from the Ferraris, however, his RedBull partner Checo Perez got a collision with Mercedes's Russell early in the race which damaged his car, as a result, he had to pit early but retire soon as the damage to the car was beyond repair on time.

In the middle of the race, Max's speed was also not improving (due to some mechanical/traction issues), which made him pit early and by that time Ferraris had taken 1 and 2 positions in the race.&nbsp;

During the last few laps when Ferraris' Carlos Sainz had almost caught Max to overtake him, his car's engine gave in and he had to retire, thus ruining Ferrari's 1-2 finish in the race and score maximum points to close into Red Bull in Constructor's championship.

In the last two laps, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc also got some issues with the throttle pedals but he somehow managed to keep it under control while Max was closing on him (but fell short of 1.6 seconds in the end).

Red bull still tops the Drivers' and Constructors' championship points.

Mercedes's Lewis Hamilton got 3rd place twice in a row and had a good race this weekend.

&nbsp;

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The Austrian Formula1 race started with Max Verstappen at the pol and the two Ferraris at No. 2 and 3. The start was, good for Max as he kept a distance from the Ferraris, however, his RedBull partner Checo Perez got a collision with Mercedes's Russell early in the race which damaged his car, as a result, he had to pit early but retire soon as the damage to the car was beyond repair on time.

The Austrian Formula1 race started with Max Verstappen at the pol and the two Ferraris at No. 2 and 3. The start was, good for Max as he kept a distance from the Ferraris, however, his RedBull partner Checo Perez got a collision with Mercedes's Russell early in the race which damaged his car, as a result, he had to pit early but retire soon as the damage to the car was beyond repair on time. In the middle of the race, Max's speed was also not improving (due to some mechanical/traction issues), which made him pit early and by that time Ferraris had taken 1 and 2 positions in the race. During the last few laps when Ferraris' Carlos Sainz had almost caught Max to overtake him, his car's engine gave in and he had to retire, thus ruining Ferrari's 1-2 finish in the race and score maximum points to close into Red Bull in Constructor's championship. In the last two laps, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc also got some issues with the throttle pedals but he somehow managed to keep it under control while Max was closing on him (but fell short of 1.6 seconds in the end). Red bull still tops the Drivers' and Constructors' championship points. Mercedes's Lewis Hamilton got 3rd place twice in a row and had a good race this weekend. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

Recap of Austria GP: Formula1

Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel slammed the racist and homophobic behaviour of fans during the Australian Grand Prix last week. There were reports that a group of fans made racist, sexist and homophobic comments against others during the race. Some women were also reportedly harassed by the crowd during the Austrian Grand Prix.

Vettel said there should be zero tolerance when it comes to racism and stated that the unruly fans, who physically and verbally abused others in the stands should be ashamed of themselves. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc had pipped Max Verstappen to win the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday.

"Whoever these people are, they should be ashamed of themselves and they should be banned from racing events for their lives. I think there should be zero tolerance," Aston Martin driver Vettel told reporters when asked about the racist behaviour of fans during the Austrian Grand Prix.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-formula-one-chief-bernie-ecclestone-charged-with-fraud-496417">Ex-Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone charged with fraud</a>

Hamilton, who finished third at the Austrian Grand Prix, said he was 'disgusted and disappointed' by the reports of racist behaviour from the fans during the event. Reports of fans' disgusting behaviour at the circuit had gone viral on social media last week prompting several prominent drivers to react.

“Disgusted and disappointed to hear that some fans are facing racist, homophobic, and generally abusive behaviour at the circuit this weekend. Attending the Austrian Grand Prix or any GP should never be a source of anxiety and pain for fans, and something must be done to ensure that races are safe spaces for all," Hamilton wrote on social media.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferraris-charles-leclerc-beats-max-verstappen-to-win-austrian-grand-prix-revives-title-hopes-496176">&nbsp;Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to win Austrian Grand Prix, revives title hopes</a>

Meanwhile, Formula One released an official statement announcing that they are investigating the matter and such behaviour&nbsp;Meanwhile, Formula One released an official statement announcing that they are investigating the matter and such behaviour will not be tolerated. Formula One said it was made aware that some fans were subjected to &nbsp;"completely unacceptable comments" by the others during the Austrian Grand Prix.

Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel slammed the racist and homophobic behaviour of fans during the Australian Grand Prix last week. There were reports that a group of fans made racist, sexist and homophobic comments against others during the race.

Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel slammed the racist and homophobic behaviour of fans during the Australian Grand Prix last week. There were reports that a group of fans made racist, sexist and homophobic comments against others during the race. Some women were also reportedly harassed by the crowd during the Austrian Grand Prix. Vettel said there should be zero tolerance when it comes to racism and stated that the unruly fans, who physically and verbally abused others in the stands should be ashamed of themselves. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc had pipped Max Verstappen to win the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday. "Whoever these people are, they should be ashamed of themselves and they should be banned from racing events for their lives. I think there should be zero tolerance," Aston Martin driver Vettel told reporters when asked about the racist behaviour of fans during the Austrian Grand Prix. Also Read: Ex-Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone charged with fraud Hamilton, who finished third at the Austrian Grand Prix, said he was 'disgusted and disappointed' by the reports of racist behaviour from the fans during the event. Reports of fans' disgusting behaviour at the circuit had gone viral on social media last week prompting several prominent drivers to react. “Disgusted and disappointed to hear that some fans are facing racist, homophobic, and generally abusive behaviour at the circuit this weekend. Attending the Austrian Grand Prix or any GP should never be a source of anxiety and pain for fans, and something must be done to ensure that races are safe spaces for all," Hamilton wrote on social media. Also Read: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beats Max Verstappen to win Austrian Grand Prix, revives title hopes Meanwhile, Formula One released an official statement announcing that they are investigating the matter and such behaviour Meanwhile, Formula One released an official statement announcing that they are investigating the matter and such behaviour will not be tolerated. Formula One said it was made aware that some fans were subjected to "completely unacceptable comments" by the others during the Austrian Grand Prix.

'They should be ashamed': Vettel, Hamilton slam racist crowd after fans face abuse during Austrian GP

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."

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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

Lewis Hamilton called for action to change "archaic mindsets" after a racist remark about him by Brazilian triple champion Nelson Piquet emerged on social media, triggering widespread condemnation. In a Brazilian interview on YouTube in November, Piquet, 69, used a racial slur in Portuguese when referring to the seven-time world champion, when commenting on Hamilton`s British Grand Prix crash with Max Verstappen.

He also said Hamilton had "played dirty" in the incident. Piquet`s daughter Kelly is Verstappen`s partner, and the comments resurfaced as the drivers prepare to return to Silverstone this weekend. Hamilton, who was recently awarded honorary Brazilian citizenship and is the sport`s only Black driver, responded on Twitter.

"It`s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport," the Mercedes driver said.

"I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action."

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It’s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport. I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action.
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton/status/1541750081296244736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Motor racing`s governing body FIA, Formula One and Mercedes all issued statements condemning racism but without mentioning Piquet by name.

"Discriminatory or racist language is unacceptable in any form and has no part in society. Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect," Formula One said.

Mercedes said Hamilton was "a true champion of diversity on and off track", while FIA expressed solidarity and support for the Briton`s "commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in motor sport".

Other prominent sporting figures expressed support for Hamilton, with tennis player Naomi Osaka retweeting his response with the added words "Emphasis on `there has been plenty of time to learn`."

"The comments made towards Lewis should not be tolerated, and we should continue to push for a more diverse and inclusive sport," said Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc.

"We need to remove discriminatory behaviour and racist language in any form from not just our sport, but our society as well."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-labels-nelson-piquets-racist-language-towards-seven-time-champion-lewis-hamilton-unacceptable-492613">F1 labels Nelson Piquet's racist language towards seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton 'unacceptable'</a>

Piquet`s press team did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Brazil`s former Environmental Minister Carlos Minc called Hamilton a hero and said the driver had helped in the fight against the clearing of a forest to build a circuit in Rio de Janeiro.

Piquet, who won his titles in 1981, 1983 and 1987, has been a vocal supporter of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and drove the presidential Rolls-Royce during a ceremony last year. Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil after the lower house this month passed a bill proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo.

The Briton, whose boyhood hero was the late Brazilian triple champion Ayrton Senna, unfurled a Brazilian flag after he won last year`s race at Sao Paulo`s Interlagos circuit.

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Lewis Hamilton called for action to change "archaic mindsets" after a racist remark about him by Brazilian triple champion Nelson Piquet emerged on social media, triggering widespread condemnation.

Lewis Hamilton called for action to change "archaic mindsets" after a racist remark about him by Brazilian triple champion Nelson Piquet emerged on social media, triggering widespread condemnation. In a Brazilian interview on YouTube in November, Piquet, 69, used a racial slur in Portuguese when referring to the seven-time world champion, when commenting on Hamilton`s British Grand Prix crash with Max Verstappen. He also said Hamilton had "played dirty" in the incident. Piquet`s daughter Kelly is Verstappen`s partner, and the comments resurfaced as the drivers prepare to return to Silverstone this weekend. Hamilton, who was recently awarded honorary Brazilian citizenship and is the sport`s only Black driver, responded on Twitter. "It`s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport," the Mercedes driver said. "I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action." It’s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport. I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action. — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) June 28, 2022 × Also Read: 'Who knows?': Serena Williams on returning to Wimbledon next year after loss against Harmony Tan Motor racing`s governing body FIA, Formula One and Mercedes all issued statements condemning racism but without mentioning Piquet by name. "Discriminatory or racist language is unacceptable in any form and has no part in society. Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect," Formula One said. Mercedes said Hamilton was "a true champion of diversity on and off track", while FIA expressed solidarity and support for the Briton`s "commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in motor sport". Other prominent sporting figures expressed support for Hamilton, with tennis player Naomi Osaka retweeting his response with the added words "Emphasis on `there has been plenty of time to learn`." "The comments made towards Lewis should not be tolerated, and we should continue to push for a more diverse and inclusive sport," said Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc. "We need to remove discriminatory behaviour and racist language in any form from not just our sport, but our society as well." Also Read: F1 labels Nelson Piquet's racist language towards seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton 'unacceptable' Piquet`s press team did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Brazil`s former Environmental Minister Carlos Minc called Hamilton a hero and said the driver had helped in the fight against the clearing of a forest to build a circuit in Rio de Janeiro. Piquet, who won his titles in 1981, 1983 and 1987, has been a vocal supporter of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and drove the presidential Rolls-Royce during a ceremony last year. Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil after the lower house this month passed a bill proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo. The Briton, whose boyhood hero was the late Brazilian triple champion Ayrton Senna, unfurled a Brazilian flag after he won last year`s race at Sao Paulo`s Interlagos circuit. ×

Lewis Hamilton calls for action amid storm over racist comment from Nelson Piquet

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits.&nbsp;

Soon, Dhoni's presence of mind, calmness, improved keeping skills, and fearless approach to the game saw him being promoted as India's captain across formats. While he became much a mature finisher in limited-overs, got the runs coming in whites (especially by playing some gutsy knocks both at home and overseas), and made world cricket take note of his unorthodox yet effective keeping skills, Dhoni changed Indian cricket forever by leading them to all major ICC titles and No. 1 rankings across formats.

Dhoni ended with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 634 catches, and 195 stumpings, overall, however, his knack for reading the game from behind the stumps,&nbsp;fast reflexes as a keeper, power-hitting, quick legs and overall fitness separated him from others.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-rohits-barren-run-to-mi-csks-mighty-fall-5-surprising-elements-from-ipl-2022s-league-stage-481871">Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage</a>

Recently, Team India's former trainer&nbsp;Ramji Srinivasan -- part of the team during their 2011 ODI World Cup success -- hailed the former captain after having observed him from closed quarters.

"MSD is an enigma and like Sachin Tendulkar, is one in a billion product. He does what suits him, be it strength work, agility, speed or hybrid work. He has his own protocols in place, which suits him. He has amazing reflex like a Formula One driver and with a mind like 5-star General. Very few can match MSD fitness when they reach that age," Srinivasan told the New Indian Express.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-legend-ms-dhoni-confirms-participation-in-ipl-2023-says-will-be-unfair-not-to-say-thank-you-to-chennai-480762">CSK legend MS Dhoni confirms participation in IPL 2023, says 'will be unfair to not say thank you to Chennai'</a>

Dhoni was recently seen in IPL 2022, where he once again represented the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 40-year-old continued to display his sharp mind as a leader and keeper whereas his fitness remains unmatched. He has confirmed his participation in IPL 2023 and is most likely to continue as CSK's skipper for another season.

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits.

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits. Soon, Dhoni's presence of mind, calmness, improved keeping skills, and fearless approach to the game saw him being promoted as India's captain across formats. While he became much a mature finisher in limited-overs, got the runs coming in whites (especially by playing some gutsy knocks both at home and overseas), and made world cricket take note of his unorthodox yet effective keeping skills, Dhoni changed Indian cricket forever by leading them to all major ICC titles and No. 1 rankings across formats. Dhoni ended with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 634 catches, and 195 stumpings, overall, however, his knack for reading the game from behind the stumps, fast reflexes as a keeper, power-hitting, quick legs and overall fitness separated him from others. ALSO READ | Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage Recently, Team India's former trainer Ramji Srinivasan -- part of the team during their 2011 ODI World Cup success -- hailed the former captain after having observed him from closed quarters. "MSD is an enigma and like Sachin Tendulkar, is one in a billion product. He does what suits him, be it strength work, agility, speed or hybrid work. He has his own protocols in place, which suits him. He has amazing reflex like a Formula One driver and with a mind like 5-star General. Very few can match MSD fitness when they reach that age," Srinivasan told the New Indian Express. ALSO READ | CSK legend MS Dhoni confirms participation in IPL 2023, says 'will be unfair to not say thank you to Chennai' Dhoni was recently seen in IPL 2022, where he once again represented the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 40-year-old continued to display his sharp mind as a leader and keeper whereas his fitness remains unmatched. He has confirmed his participation in IPL 2023 and is most likely to continue as CSK's skipper for another season.

MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer

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