Formula One’s US-based owner Liberty Media has announced a takeover of MotoGP’s parent company Dorna, MotoGP said in a statement on Monday.

“Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% of Dorna, with Dorna management retaining approximately 14% of their equity... the transaction reflects an enterprise value for Dorna/MotoGP of €4.2 billion ($4.53 billion) and an equity value of €3.5 billion,” MotoGP added.

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“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP,” Liberty Media president and CEO Greg Maffei said.

“We are excited for what this milestone brings to Dorna, the MotoGP paddock and racing fans,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna.

The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year subject to clearances and approvals by law authorities, MotoGP added.

The takeover could attract regulatory scrutiny. CVC Capital Partners, who sold Formula One to Liberty in 2017, were cleared by the European Commission to buy F1 in 2006 on condition they sold Dorna.

Formula One’s US-based owner Liberty Media has announced a takeover of MotoGP’s parent company Dorna, MotoGP said in a statement on Monday. “Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% of Dorna, with Dorna management retaining approximately 14% of their equity.

Formula One’s US-based owner Liberty Media has announced a takeover of MotoGP’s parent company Dorna, MotoGP said in a statement on Monday. “Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% of Dorna, with Dorna management retaining approximately 14% of their equity... the transaction reflects an enterprise value for Dorna/MotoGP of €4.2 billion ($4.53 billion) and an equity value of €3.5 billion,” MotoGP added. Also Read: 'It’s not in our hands': Guardiola on Premier League title race after Arsenal draw “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP,” Liberty Media president and CEO Greg Maffei said. “We are excited for what this milestone brings to Dorna, the MotoGP paddock and racing fans,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year subject to clearances and approvals by law authorities, MotoGP added. The takeover could attract regulatory scrutiny. CVC Capital Partners, who sold Formula One to Liberty in 2017, were cleared by the European Commission to buy F1 in 2006 on condition they sold Dorna.

Racing: Formula One owner Liberty Media acquires MotoGP

When Lewis Hamilton was officially announced to be part of Ferrari from 2025, in February 2024, the development also meant that the Great Britain driver would replace Carlos Sainz. This means&nbsp;Sainz will have no seat in F1 after the ongoing 2024 season, and it remains to be seen which team will pick him in the near future. As per reports, Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg could reunite as teammates as the Sauber F1 team's owner, Audi, is keen to rope in both the drivers for their future lineup.

Notably, the Sainz family also have a good connection with Audi. The Ferrari driver's father, Sainz Sr., also features in the Rally Raid series with Audi's team. As per the Auto Motor und Sport, the German giants are willing to acquire the services of Sainz Jr.

Sainz Jr. recently stunned one and all as he returned&nbsp;to the circuit soon after an appendix surgery and won the Australian Grand Prix, in Melbourne, early this week.

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Talking about Hulkenberg, the 36-year-old German returned to F1 with Haas last year. While he&nbsp;featured in a few&nbsp;races as a replacement driver for Racing Point (currently Aston Martin),&nbsp;he wasn't content there and complained&nbsp;of the team's car being very slow,&nbsp;hinting at a possible switch. This sparked conversation about him leaving for Audi, especially for also being a German.

It is to be noted that Audi plans to complete the ownership of Sauber F1 team by 2026 season, when the FIA will also grant teams to develop and use their brand-new power units.

When Lewis Hamilton was officially announced to be part of Ferrari from 2025, in February 2024, the development also meant that the Great Britain driver would replace Carlos Sainz.

When Lewis Hamilton was officially announced to be part of Ferrari from 2025, in February 2024, the development also meant that the Great Britain driver would replace Carlos Sainz. This means Sainz will have no seat in F1 after the ongoing 2024 season, and it remains to be seen which team will pick him in the near future. As per reports, Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg could reunite as teammates as the Sauber F1 team's owner, Audi, is keen to rope in both the drivers for their future lineup. Notably, the Sainz family also have a good connection with Audi. The Ferrari driver's father, Sainz Sr., also features in the Rally Raid series with Audi's team. As per the Auto Motor und Sport, the German giants are willing to acquire the services of Sainz Jr. Sainz Jr. recently stunned one and all as he returned to the circuit soon after an appendix surgery and won the Australian Grand Prix, in Melbourne, early this week. Also read: Cycling: Wout Van Aert's participation at Giro d'Italia uncertain after post-crash surgery Talking about Hulkenberg, the 36-year-old German returned to F1 with Haas last year. While he featured in a few races as a replacement driver for Racing Point (currently Aston Martin), he wasn't content there and complained of the team's car being very slow, hinting at a possible switch. This sparked conversation about him leaving for Audi, especially for also being a German. It is to be noted that Audi plans to complete the ownership of Sauber F1 team by 2026 season, when the FIA will also grant teams to develop and use their brand-new power units.

F1: Renault 2018 teammates to reunite? Audi eyeing Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg - Reports

McLaren boss Zak Brown called on&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One's governing FIA to be more transparent about its recent investigations, saying the sport would struggle to move on while questions remained unanswered. The FIA's ethics committee cleared the governing body's President Mohammed Ben Sulayem of alleged interference into two races this week, but the FIA provided little detail about the judgements in each case and declined to comment further on them.

The FIA has also been in the spotlight over its recent conflict of interest inquiry into Susie Wolff. Wolff, who runs the all-female F1 Academy support series, said on Wednesday she had launched legal action against the governing body.

Brown said the cases were all very serious situations. "I think we're living in 2024, not 1984, which means total transparency," he told reporters at the team principals' press conference at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday. "I think everyone&nbsp;should welcome transparency.

"Until all the unanswered questions are answered, people will continue to ask questions, so I don't think it's a great situation that we're in - that we're three races into the calendar and we're still talking about these issues."

The FIA did not provide immediate comment when contacted by Reuters about Brown's comments, which came a day after Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton criticised the sport's authorities for having no accountability when asked about Wolff's legal action.

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The new season has also been overshadowed by allegations of misconduct against Red Bull boss Christian Horner by a female employee. Horner, who denied wrongdoing, was cleared by an independent investigation while the employee was suspended.

Media have reported the unidentified woman appealed the outcome and raised an official complaint to the FIA. The FIA has declined to comment on the reports. The McLaren CEO acknowledged the role of confidentiality in internal investigations but said people in the sport needed to have confidence in the FIA's procedures.

"We need to have the confidence that when someone&nbsp;brings forward an issue that we know it's been looked into independently (and) all parties have been heard," said Brown, whose team announced on Friday he had extended his CEO contract to 2030.

Brown stopped short of saying he had lost confidence in the FIA's governance. Other team principals at the press conference gave strong backing to the FIA.

Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said teams had no option but to have confidence in the FIA's internal investigations.

"Don't ask us to have an opinion (on individual cases)," he said.

McLaren boss Zak Brown called on Formula One's governing FIA to be more transparent about its recent investigations, saying the sport would struggle to move on while questions remained unanswered.

McLaren boss Zak Brown called on Formula One's governing FIA to be more transparent about its recent investigations, saying the sport would struggle to move on while questions remained unanswered. The FIA's ethics committee cleared the governing body's President Mohammed Ben Sulayem of alleged interference into two races this week, but the FIA provided little detail about the judgements in each case and declined to comment further on them. The FIA has also been in the spotlight over its recent conflict of interest inquiry into Susie Wolff. Wolff, who runs the all-female F1 Academy support series, said on Wednesday she had launched legal action against the governing body. Brown said the cases were all very serious situations. "I think we're living in 2024, not 1984, which means total transparency," he told reporters at the team principals' press conference at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday. "I think everyone should welcome transparency. "Until all the unanswered questions are answered, people will continue to ask questions, so I don't think it's a great situation that we're in - that we're three races into the calendar and we're still talking about these issues." The FIA did not provide immediate comment when contacted by Reuters about Brown's comments, which came a day after Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton criticised the sport's authorities for having no accountability when asked about Wolff's legal action. Also read: Premier League refers Leicester City to independent commission over alleged rule breach The new season has also been overshadowed by allegations of misconduct against Red Bull boss Christian Horner by a female employee. Horner, who denied wrongdoing, was cleared by an independent investigation while the employee was suspended. Media have reported the unidentified woman appealed the outcome and raised an official complaint to the FIA. The FIA has declined to comment on the reports. The McLaren CEO acknowledged the role of confidentiality in internal investigations but said people in the sport needed to have confidence in the FIA's procedures. "We need to have the confidence that when someone brings forward an issue that we know it's been looked into independently (and) all parties have been heard," said Brown, whose team announced on Friday he had extended his CEO contract to 2030. Brown stopped short of saying he had lost confidence in the FIA's governance. Other team principals at the press conference gave strong backing to the FIA. Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said teams had no option but to have confidence in the FIA's internal investigations. "Don't ask us to have an opinion (on individual cases)," he said.

Formula One: McLaren boss Zak Brown calls for transparency from FIA

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA&nbsp;for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo. Susie Wolff, the wife of Toto, filed a criminal complaint against the FIA on March 4 and claimed there has been no transparency in the investigation laid by the top body.

<h2>Susie Wolff files criminal complaint</h2>

"I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff said on Instagram.

"There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter. I feel more than ever it is important to stand up, call out improper behaviour and make sure people are held to account.

"Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility - it does not."

<h2>What is the matter?</h2>

According to a report in Business F1 magazine, Susie, the current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto. The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife.

A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations, the federation said it "can confirm that there is no ongoing investigation in terms of ethical or disciplinary inquiries involving any individual.”

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<h2>Turbulent last few months in F1</h2>

The probe arose in December and had the F1 world in shock with a series of other controversies during the last few months. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was being investigated for alleged inappropriate behaviour after a complaint made by a female employee of the team. The grievance was dismissed on 28 February just before the season-opening Bahrain GP.

Horner always denied any wrongdoing but there was to be no respite. A day later an email was leaked to the FIA, F1, the teams and the media that purported to contain messages between Horner and the complainant and since then the storm has only grown.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo. Susie Wolff, the wife of Toto, filed a criminal complaint against the FIA on March 4 and claimed there has been no transparency in the investigation laid by the top body. Susie Wolff files criminal complaint "I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff said on Instagram. "There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter. I feel more than ever it is important to stand up, call out improper behaviour and make sure people are held to account. "Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility - it does not." What is the matter? According to a report in Business F1 magazine, Susie, the current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto. The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife. A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations, the federation said it "can confirm that there is no ongoing investigation in terms of ethical or disciplinary inquiries involving any individual.” ALSO READ | CSK vs RCB- IPL 2024: Head-to-head, stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live streaming details & more Turbulent last few months in F1 The probe arose in December and had the F1 world in shock with a series of other controversies during the last few months. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was being investigated for alleged inappropriate behaviour after a complaint made by a female employee of the team. The grievance was dismissed on 28 February just before the season-opening Bahrain GP. Horner always denied any wrongdoing but there was to be no respite. A day later an email was leaked to the FIA, F1, the teams and the media that purported to contain messages between Horner and the complainant and since then the storm has only grown.

Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jos Verstappen, the father of three-time reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has claimed that the Red Bull team will "explode" if team boss Christian Horner, recently cleared of charges of "inappropriate behaviour" towards a female employee, remains in his job.&nbsp;

"There is tension here while he (Horner) remains in position," the former Dutch Formula One driver told the British newspaper Daily Mail in Sakhir, a few hours after his son's triumph at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday.&nbsp;

"The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode," said Verstappen.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-return-for-vettel-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-and-vettel-exchange-texts-amid-hamiltons-replacement-search-696151">F1 return for Vettel? Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search</a>

"He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems."

Red Bull announced on Wednesday that Horner had been cleared of alleged inappropriate behaviour following an internal investigation into complaints against him, which he has consistently denied.

But the sending, shortly afterwards, of an anonymous e-mail, containing WhatsApp messages allegedly written by Horner, to journalists, motor sport officials and rival teams, reignited the affair.

Jos Verstappen rejected notions which have been circulating that he played any part in the allegations which surfaced originally in Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

"That wouldn't make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?" he said.

Several teams denounced a lack of transparency during the internal investigation.

Horner, who was accompanied by his wife Geri Halliwell in Bahrain in a public show of support, reiterated after Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez claimed a Red Bull one-two in the season-opener that the team was united.&nbsp;

"A one-two finish like this is the optimum and you don’t get that without being absolutely united, having a strong team and great support from partners and shareholders," he said.

"You don’t achieve this without being united."

Asked by Sky Sports if he felt certain he had the backing of the Red Bull owners – including majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya who was with him in Bahrain -- and was sure he would be at next weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, he replied confidently.

"Backing? Absolutely, yes. And I’ll be there. Otherwise I wouldn’t be here!"

The 50-year-old Briton has guided Red Bull to six constructors’ championship wins and seven drivers’ title triumphs since 2005.

Last year’s Red Bull car won a record 21 of 22 races as the team dominated.

Jos Verstappen, the father of three-time reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has claimed that the Red Bull team will "explode" if team boss Christian Horner, recently cleared of charges of "inappropriate behaviour" towards a female employee, remains in his job.

Jos Verstappen, the father of three-time reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has claimed that the Red Bull team will "explode" if team boss Christian Horner, recently cleared of charges of "inappropriate behaviour" towards a female employee, remains in his job. "There is tension here while he (Horner) remains in position," the former Dutch Formula One driver told the British newspaper Daily Mail in Sakhir, a few hours after his son's triumph at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday. "The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode," said Verstappen. Also Read: F1 return for Vettel? Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search "He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems." Red Bull announced on Wednesday that Horner had been cleared of alleged inappropriate behaviour following an internal investigation into complaints against him, which he has consistently denied. But the sending, shortly afterwards, of an anonymous e-mail, containing WhatsApp messages allegedly written by Horner, to journalists, motor sport officials and rival teams, reignited the affair. Jos Verstappen rejected notions which have been circulating that he played any part in the allegations which surfaced originally in Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. "That wouldn't make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?" he said. Several teams denounced a lack of transparency during the internal investigation. Horner, who was accompanied by his wife Geri Halliwell in Bahrain in a public show of support, reiterated after Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez claimed a Red Bull one-two in the season-opener that the team was united. "A one-two finish like this is the optimum and you don’t get that without being absolutely united, having a strong team and great support from partners and shareholders," he said. "You don’t achieve this without being united." Asked by Sky Sports if he felt certain he had the backing of the Red Bull owners – including majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya who was with him in Bahrain -- and was sure he would be at next weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, he replied confidently. "Backing? Absolutely, yes. And I’ll be there. Otherwise I wouldn’t be here!" The 50-year-old Briton has guided Red Bull to six constructors’ championship wins and seven drivers’ title triumphs since 2005. Last year’s Red Bull car won a record 21 of 22 races as the team dominated.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth.

Seven-times world champion Hamilton lapped the 5.4km floodlit Sakhir desert track in a best time of one minute 30.374 seconds with Russell 0.206 seconds adrift and Aston Martin’s double world champion Fernando Alonso in third.

Reigning triple world champion Verstappen, who won in Bahrain last year and chalked up 19 victories in 22 races, was 0.477 off the pace.

"It's a shock to see us where we are but we'll take it for now," said Hamilton.

"But we can't get ahead of ourselves. We need to keep our heads down and keep working on the setup...I think our long run pace is nowhere near the Red Bulls for example so we've got some work to do there."

Verstappen, who has led the Formula One standings for a record 39 races going back to May 2022, had headed into the weekend favourite to open his pursuit of a fourth consecutive title with victory on Saturday.

He ended up sixth in both sessions.

Carlos Sainz was fourth for Ferrari ahead of Australian Oscar Piastri in his McLaren.

Nico Hulkenberg put Haas in seventh ahead of Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll.

Charles Leclerc was ninth in the other Ferrari while Verstappen’s team mate Sergio Perez rounded out the top 10.

Mercedes, who endured their first winless campaign since 2011 last year, have redesigned their car for the 2024 season to make it less "spiteful".

Their practice showing will offer Russell and Hamilton, who last won a race in 2021 and is replacing Sainz at Ferrari next year, encouragement of a return to the top step of the podium.

Hamilton said he was much happier in the car than last year, with a more comfortable seat position.

"I've got a better feel for the car approaching the corners but there are other areas that have been fixed and improved. It feels like a racecar for once and the last two cars didn't feel like that," he added.

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Russell refused to get carried away by the timesheets even if the qualifying pace looked strong.

"We still need to try and understand why it was so good, we made some changes from the test and it exceeded our expectations but ultimately (on) the long run pace, which is where it all happens, Max was still ahead of us," said the Briton.

"It was very close with Fernando, with Lando and the Ferraris and Lewis and I were very similar as well so we've got a real fight on our hands."

Daniel Ricciardo ended the day 12th for rebranded Red Bull sister team RB. The Australian had gone fastest in the opening session of practice, run in unrepresentative conditions.

The race in Bahrain and the following round at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are being held on a Saturday to allow the Middle Eastern kingdoms to host races before the start of Ramadan.

Qualifying will be held on Friday.

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth.

Lewis Hamilton led team mate George Russell in a surprise Mercedes one-two at the top of the Thursday practice timesheets for Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen only sixth. Seven-times world champion Hamilton lapped the 5.4km floodlit Sakhir desert track in a best time of one minute 30.374 seconds with Russell 0.206 seconds adrift and Aston Martin’s double world champion Fernando Alonso in third. Reigning triple world champion Verstappen, who won in Bahrain last year and chalked up 19 victories in 22 races, was 0.477 off the pace. "It's a shock to see us where we are but we'll take it for now," said Hamilton. "But we can't get ahead of ourselves. We need to keep our heads down and keep working on the setup...I think our long run pace is nowhere near the Red Bulls for example so we've got some work to do there." Verstappen, who has led the Formula One standings for a record 39 races going back to May 2022, had headed into the weekend favourite to open his pursuit of a fourth consecutive title with victory on Saturday. He ended up sixth in both sessions. Carlos Sainz was fourth for Ferrari ahead of Australian Oscar Piastri in his McLaren. Nico Hulkenberg put Haas in seventh ahead of Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll. Charles Leclerc was ninth in the other Ferrari while Verstappen’s team mate Sergio Perez rounded out the top 10. Mercedes, who endured their first winless campaign since 2011 last year, have redesigned their car for the 2024 season to make it less "spiteful". Their practice showing will offer Russell and Hamilton, who last won a race in 2021 and is replacing Sainz at Ferrari next year, encouragement of a return to the top step of the podium. Hamilton said he was much happier in the car than last year, with a more comfortable seat position. "I've got a better feel for the car approaching the corners but there are other areas that have been fixed and improved. It feels like a racecar for once and the last two cars didn't feel like that," he added. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel can reach the standards of MS Dhoni - Former spinner Anil Kumble's BIG claim Russell refused to get carried away by the timesheets even if the qualifying pace looked strong. "We still need to try and understand why it was so good, we made some changes from the test and it exceeded our expectations but ultimately (on) the long run pace, which is where it all happens, Max was still ahead of us," said the Briton. "It was very close with Fernando, with Lando and the Ferraris and Lewis and I were very similar as well so we've got a real fight on our hands." Daniel Ricciardo ended the day 12th for rebranded Red Bull sister team RB. The Australian had gone fastest in the opening session of practice, run in unrepresentative conditions. The race in Bahrain and the following round at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are being held on a Saturday to allow the Middle Eastern kingdoms to host races before the start of Ramadan. Qualifying will be held on Friday.

Formula One: Mercedes dominate Bahrain practice, Red Bull's Max Verstappen finishes sixth

McLaren and Mercedes bosses Zak Brown and Toto Wolff called on Formula One’s governing body to push Red Bull for greater transparency after an investigation cleared team principal Christian Horner of misconduct toward a female colleague.

Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced in a statement on Wednesday that the grievance against Horner, who denied the allegations, had been dismissed after a lengthy independent investigation. Red Bull have said the investigation report will remain confidential.

"I think the sanctioning body has a responsibility and authority to our sport, to our fans," Brown told reporters in a press conference organised by the governing FIA at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on Thursday. "So I think they need to make sure that things have been fully transparent with them. "That’s what’s needed by those who run the sport to be really able to draw a line under it. "Until then, I think there’ll continue to be some level of speculation by people and I don’t think that’s healthy for the sport."

Wolff, whose rivalry with Horner has provided much fodder for Netflix docu-series Drive to Survive, also emphasised the need for transparency. "Eventually things are going to happen, and I think we have the duty, the organisation has the duty to say well we’ve looked at it, and it’s OK, and then we can move on," said the Austrian.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bahrain-gp-red-bull-driver-max-verstappen-says-f1-is-over-the-limit-with-24-race-calendar-695122">Bahrain GP: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen says F1 is over the limit with 24-race calendar</a>

Horner spoke to Sky Sports television briefly, as he walked through the Sakhir paddock, and said he was pleased the process was over. "I obviously can't comment about it but here, very much the focus now on the grand prix and the season ahead and trying to defend both of our titles," he said.

Key paddock figures and permanently accredited journalists later received an email from an anonymous sender containing a link to material purported to be evidence submitted during the investigation.

"I won’t comment on anonymous speculation," Horner said in a subsequent statement. "But to reiterate I have always denied the allegations. I respected the integrity of the independent investigation and fully co-operated with it every step of the way. "It was a thorough and fair investigation conducted by an independent specialist barrister and it has concluded dismissing the complaint made. I remain fully focused on the start of the season."

McLaren and Mercedes bosses Zak Brown and Toto Wolff called on Formula One’s governing body to push Red Bull for greater transparency after an investigation cleared team principal Christian Horner of misconduct toward a female colleague.

McLaren and Mercedes bosses Zak Brown and Toto Wolff called on Formula One’s governing body to push Red Bull for greater transparency after an investigation cleared team principal Christian Horner of misconduct toward a female colleague. Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced in a statement on Wednesday that the grievance against Horner, who denied the allegations, had been dismissed after a lengthy independent investigation. Red Bull have said the investigation report will remain confidential. "I think the sanctioning body has a responsibility and authority to our sport, to our fans," Brown told reporters in a press conference organised by the governing FIA at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on Thursday. "So I think they need to make sure that things have been fully transparent with them. "That’s what’s needed by those who run the sport to be really able to draw a line under it. "Until then, I think there’ll continue to be some level of speculation by people and I don’t think that’s healthy for the sport." Wolff, whose rivalry with Horner has provided much fodder for Netflix docu-series Drive to Survive, also emphasised the need for transparency. "Eventually things are going to happen, and I think we have the duty, the organisation has the duty to say well we’ve looked at it, and it’s OK, and then we can move on," said the Austrian. Also read: Bahrain GP: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen says F1 is over the limit with 24-race calendar Horner spoke to Sky Sports television briefly, as he walked through the Sakhir paddock, and said he was pleased the process was over. "I obviously can't comment about it but here, very much the focus now on the grand prix and the season ahead and trying to defend both of our titles," he said. Key paddock figures and permanently accredited journalists later received an email from an anonymous sender containing a link to material purported to be evidence submitted during the investigation. "I won’t comment on anonymous speculation," Horner said in a subsequent statement. "But to reiterate I have always denied the allegations. I respected the integrity of the independent investigation and fully co-operated with it every step of the way. "It was a thorough and fair investigation conducted by an independent specialist barrister and it has concluded dismissing the complaint made. I remain fully focused on the start of the season."

Bahrain GP: F1 team bosses seek transparency over Red Bull chief Christian Horner's investigation

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

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

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

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

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has&nbsp;been dealing with serious&nbsp;allegations levelled by a female employee about his conduct. While Horner has denied&nbsp;all charges against him, he could either lose his&nbsp;job or be cleared of all claims&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;Saturday's season-opening Bahrain&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;Grand Prix. The verdict regarding Horner's investigation is set to be out soon.

As per sources, who&nbsp;talked to Reuters,&nbsp;an announcement is expected from Red Bull's Salzburg-based Austrian parent company before the race&nbsp;at Sakhir, and possibly within the next 48 hours. It is to be noted that the allegations against Horner shocked many and an investigation into the sport's longest-serving principal&nbsp;has been ongoing since early January. However, details emerged to the public weeks later.

<h2>Not much is known about the allegations</h2>

Both Red Bull and the reigning champions have not opened up on what the allegations are. However, media reports have indicated that Horner is under the radar for inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague.

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If Horner is out of&nbsp;Red Bull, it will certainly be a huge blow. Horner&nbsp;and his team had a memorable run in 2023, dominating the entire season in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;history.&nbsp;Red Bull ended up winning&nbsp;21 of 22 races and will kick off the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Mexico's Sergio Perez is the team's other driver.

Ahead of the Bahrain GP, all eyes are now on the verdict in Horner's investigation. If he is found guilty, it will impact the entire team as well.&nbsp;

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been dealing with serious allegations levelled by a female employee about his conduct. While Horner has denied all charges against him, he could either lose his job or be cleared of all claims ahead of Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been dealing with serious allegations levelled by a female employee about his conduct. While Horner has denied all charges against him, he could either lose his job or be cleared of all claims ahead of Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix. The verdict regarding Horner's investigation is set to be out soon. As per sources, who talked to Reuters, an announcement is expected from Red Bull's Salzburg-based Austrian parent company before the race at Sakhir, and possibly within the next 48 hours. It is to be noted that the allegations against Horner shocked many and an investigation into the sport's longest-serving principal has been ongoing since early January. However, details emerged to the public weeks later. Not much is known about the allegations Both Red Bull and the reigning champions have not opened up on what the allegations are. However, media reports have indicated that Horner is under the radar for inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague. Also read: Tennis: Andy Murray drops retirement hint after 500th hard-court victory in Dubai If Horner is out of Red Bull, it will certainly be a huge blow. Horner and his team had a memorable run in 2023, dominating the entire season in Formula One history. Red Bull ended up winning 21 of 22 races and will kick off the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Mexico's Sergio Perez is the team's other driver. Ahead of the Bahrain GP, all eyes are now on the verdict in Horner's investigation. If he is found guilty, it will impact the entire team as well.

Christian Horner investigation: Red Bull team principal's fate to be out before Bahrain Grand Prix

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

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

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

Questions hang over Red Bull before F1 testing in Bahrain

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

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

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

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

Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming.

Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced on Feb. 5 an independent investigation into the 50-year-old Briton's conduct after unspecified allegations against him. The process remains ongoing. Horner has denied any wrongdoing.

Formula&nbsp;One's commercial rights holder issued a short statement on Sunday in which it hoped "that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process." The Paris-based FIA followed on Monday with a statement emphasising that it "remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport."

Both said they would make no further comment until the outcome was known. Neither the energy drink company nor the British-based team have given details of the allegations, although media reports have spoken of inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-red-bull-team-boss-christian-horner-declares-business-as-normal-despite-allegations-691692">F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations</a>

Horner said at the launch of his team's RB20 car in Milton Keynes last Friday that he was confident and cooperating with the process and denied "absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." A Feb. 9 hearing in London with an independent barrister lasted almost eight hours, according to Sky Sports.

The Briton is due to attend testing in Bahrain this week and is scheduled to appear in a regular FIA news conference on Thursday with other team principals before the opening race at Sakhir on March 2. Should Horner be forced out of Red Bull it would come as a seismic shock for the sport.

Horner and his team celebrated the most dominant season in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;history last year, with Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races, and will start the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Horner is also the longest serving team boss in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005.

Formula One and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming.

Formula One and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming. Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced on Feb. 5 an independent investigation into the 50-year-old Briton's conduct after unspecified allegations against him. The process remains ongoing. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. Formula One's commercial rights holder issued a short statement on Sunday in which it hoped "that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process." The Paris-based FIA followed on Monday with a statement emphasising that it "remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport." Both said they would make no further comment until the outcome was known. Neither the energy drink company nor the British-based team have given details of the allegations, although media reports have spoken of inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague. Also read: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations Horner said at the launch of his team's RB20 car in Milton Keynes last Friday that he was confident and cooperating with the process and denied "absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." A Feb. 9 hearing in London with an independent barrister lasted almost eight hours, according to Sky Sports. The Briton is due to attend testing in Bahrain this week and is scheduled to appear in a regular FIA news conference on Thursday with other team principals before the opening race at Sakhir on March 2. Should Horner be forced out of Red Bull it would come as a seismic shock for the sport. Horner and his team celebrated the most dominant season in Formula One history last year, with Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races, and will start the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Horner is also the longest serving team boss in Formula One and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005.

FIA, F1 break silence on Red Bull team boss Christian Horner ahead of testing

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

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

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

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

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari. The 39-year-old had signed a new two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million ($126 million) in August. But&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;recently activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian team after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down.

Speaking at the Mercedes launch for the first time since his blockbuster move was confirmed,&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said: "The last few weeks have obviously been emotional and it is very surreal to be here. "The focus through the whole of winter training is getting the team back to where we once were. We have had these difficult couple of years which have been really grounding for us. It has helped us regroup and really look at things."

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, standing alongside&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;at the launch, added: "It has been a very busy winter. It will be our last season with Lewis so we are keen on bringing a quick car." Hamilton, who joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, won six of his record-equalling seven world championships with the Silver Arrows. But the British driver has struggled to match Red Bull rival Max Verstappen since he missed out on what would have been a record eighth world championship in 2021 in controversial fashion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-signing-lewis-hamilton-a-huge-opportunity-for-ferrari-reckons-team-boss-fred-vasseu-690251">Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a 'huge opportunity' for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseu</a>

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His long goodbye to Mercedes made for an awkward final car launch at the team's Northamptonshire base.&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;answered just three questions from the Mercedes moderator during the brief nine-minute event. "I came here in 2013 so 11 years with the team and now I am starting my 12th," he said. "It is such a privilege to work with a group of people where you see the work they do over the winter and you see a car come together at the beginning of the year and it is the most exciting part of the season."

Hamilton, without a win in two years, and team-mate George Russell, will get their first taste of this season's Mercedes car during a shakedown test at rain-lashed Silverstone on Wednesday.

"We have to be diligent, maximise practice and even one lap, George and I might get in the rain today will give us a feeling of what is to come,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said.

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

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

F1: ‘Emotional’ Lewis Hamilton unveils Mercedes 2024 car

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

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

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

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

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes. Alonso, who was Ferrari’s prime driver between 2010 and 2014, hopes Hamilton enjoys his stint&nbsp;at Ferrari after it was announced on Feb 1 that he will switch to the Italian giants from the 2025 Formula One season. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari from Mercedes has come as a big surprise to many because of his legendary status with the latter where he won four consecutive World Championships.

<h2>Alonso opines on Hamilton switch</h2>

"But nothing really to comment on, I hope he enjoys the experience. It's a very special team but it is more special when you win.

"That's the thing, you need to win, and it's a few years already that they have a very fast car and they were fighting for big things and maybe Lewis can bring that extra [ingredient] to fight for the championship.

"The car is there. At the end of last year even with a very dominating Red Bull car, Ferrari were still average,” added the Spaniard.

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Alonso who won the F1 titles in 2005 and 2006, added that winning was the primary reason Hamilton could have made the switch. Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes&nbsp;this year. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outshined by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons, including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap.

Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points, closing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One.

The latest season of&nbsp;F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes.

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes. Alonso, who was Ferrari’s prime driver between 2010 and 2014, hopes Hamilton enjoys his stint at Ferrari after it was announced on Feb 1 that he will switch to the Italian giants from the 2025 Formula One season. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari from Mercedes has come as a big surprise to many because of his legendary status with the latter where he won four consecutive World Championships. Alonso opines on Hamilton switch "But nothing really to comment on, I hope he enjoys the experience. It's a very special team but it is more special when you win. "That's the thing, you need to win, and it's a few years already that they have a very fast car and they were fighting for big things and maybe Lewis can bring that extra [ingredient] to fight for the championship. "The car is there. At the end of last year even with a very dominating Red Bull car, Ferrari were still average,” added the Spaniard. ALSO READ | Blow to Multan Sultans as Reece Topley ruled out of PSL 2024; IPL participation under dark cloud Alonso who won the F1 titles in 2005 and 2006, added that winning was the primary reason Hamilton could have made the switch. Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes this year. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outshined by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons, including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap. Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points, closing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One. The latest season of F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Formula One: Fernando Alonso reacts to Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari switch, says 'I hope he enjoys the experience'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The British Grand Prix will be held at Silverstone for the next 10 years&nbsp;after the announcement of a new long-term deal with the venue on Thursday.

Silverstone's five-year contract with Formula One's American owners Liberty Media was up for renewal this year.

The Northamptonshire track, owned by the British Drivers' Racing Club, has battled speculation that it could lose the prestigious Grand Prix in recent years.

But Thursday's fresh deal, worth a reported £30 million ($37 million) per year, keeps the race at Silverstone until at least 2034.

"I am delighted to announce that the British Grand Prix will remain on the calendar for 10 more years with this agreement," F1 president Stefano Domenicali said.

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"Silverstone is an iconic venue at the heart of F1 history and as it approaches its ninth decade hosting Grands Prix, the event continues to attract fans from around the world for fantastic racing on track and the amazing fan experience off it."

The British Grand Prix has been an ever-present on the F1 calendar, dating back more than 70 years, with Silverstone staging the sport's first world championship race in 1950.

A record-breaking crowd in excess of 150,000 watched Max Verstappen win last year's British Grand Prix, with nearly half a million spectators passing through the gates over the course of the weekend.

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Silverstone chief executive Stuart Pringle added: "This long-term commitment reflects the importance of the British Grand Prix to Formula One and their acknowledgement of our ability to deliver a world-class experience.

"The cheers of support for the home teams, and particularly for the British drivers on the grid, makes the Silverstone atmosphere unique."

Liberty has flirted with the idea of staging a street race in London, but a number of roadblocks have thwarted any serious progress.

The American company's commitment to Silverstone comes just weeks after a new race in Madrid was confirmed from 2026.

The new F1 season starts in Bahrain on March 2, with Silverstone hosting the British Grand Prix on July 7.

The British Grand Prix will be held at Silverstone for the next 10 years after the announcement of a new long-term deal with the venue on Thursday. Silverstone's five-year contract with Formula One's American owners Liberty Media was up for renewal this year.

The British Grand Prix will be held at Silverstone for the next 10 years after the announcement of a new long-term deal with the venue on Thursday. Silverstone's five-year contract with Formula One's American owners Liberty Media was up for renewal this year. The Northamptonshire track, owned by the British Drivers' Racing Club, has battled speculation that it could lose the prestigious Grand Prix in recent years. But Thursday's fresh deal, worth a reported £30 million ($37 million) per year, keeps the race at Silverstone until at least 2034. "I am delighted to announce that the British Grand Prix will remain on the calendar for 10 more years with this agreement," F1 president Stefano Domenicali said. × "Silverstone is an iconic venue at the heart of F1 history and as it approaches its ninth decade hosting Grands Prix, the event continues to attract fans from around the world for fantastic racing on track and the amazing fan experience off it." The British Grand Prix has been an ever-present on the F1 calendar, dating back more than 70 years, with Silverstone staging the sport's first world championship race in 1950. A record-breaking crowd in excess of 150,000 watched Max Verstappen win last year's British Grand Prix, with nearly half a million spectators passing through the gates over the course of the weekend. ALSO READ | SA20: Aiden Markram pulls off ‘catch of season’ to leave crowd, commentators stunned – WATCH Silverstone chief executive Stuart Pringle added: "This long-term commitment reflects the importance of the British Grand Prix to Formula One and their acknowledgement of our ability to deliver a world-class experience. "The cheers of support for the home teams, and particularly for the British drivers on the grid, makes the Silverstone atmosphere unique." Liberty has flirted with the idea of staging a street race in London, but a number of roadblocks have thwarted any serious progress. The American company's commitment to Silverstone comes just weeks after a new race in Madrid was confirmed from 2026. The new F1 season starts in Bahrain on March 2, with Silverstone hosting the British Grand Prix on July 7.

Formula One: British Grand Prix to stay at Silverstone for next 10 years

Red Bull&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory. There was no official confirmation from the reigning world champions or the Austrian energy drink giant that owns the team as well as sister outfit Visa Cash App RB (previously AlphaTauri). Red Bull Racing are due to launch their new car on Feb. 15, with testing starting in Bahrain on Feb. 21 and the opening race on March 2. The team has so far made no public comment on the allegations.

The BBC said it understood the complaint related to "inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature". Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, has been quoted by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf saying he completely denies the allegations. Red Bull Austria said in a statement on Monday that they were investigating a complaint against Horner, without giving details. 
 
"After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation," it said. "This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. "It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time."

Horner, 50, and his team celebrated the most dominant season in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;history last year, with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row and Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races. The Briton is the longest-serving team boss in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005. Under him, the team have won six constructors' championships and seven drivers' titles and are favourites for another season of domination.

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Should Horner have to stand down, the effect on the sport would be seismic. Red Bull's other main man in the paddock is Austrian motorsport consultant and former racer Helmut Marko, who is now 80-years-old, not a team employee and not believed to have any leadership ambitions. Marko has also been controversial, receiving a written warning from the sport's governing body last September after he blamed the patchy form of the team's Mexican driver Sergio Perez on his ethnicity.

There have been reports of friction between Horner and Marko since the death in October 2022 of Red Bull's Austrian co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz and the arrival of new leadership at the energy drink brand.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory. There was no official confirmation from the reigning world champions or the Austrian energy drink giant that owns the team as well as sister outfit Visa Cash App RB (previously AlphaTauri). Red Bull Racing are due to launch their new car on Feb. 15, with testing starting in Bahrain on Feb. 21 and the opening race on March 2. The team has so far made no public comment on the allegations. The BBC said it understood the complaint related to "inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature". Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, has been quoted by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf saying he completely denies the allegations. Red Bull Austria said in a statement on Monday that they were investigating a complaint against Horner, without giving details. "After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation," it said. "This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. "It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time." Horner, 50, and his team celebrated the most dominant season in Formula One history last year, with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row and Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races. The Briton is the longest-serving team boss in Formula One and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005. Under him, the team have won six constructors' championships and seven drivers' titles and are favourites for another season of domination. Also read: Rugby: Rassie Erasmus eyes World Cup history with new Springbok contract Should Horner have to stand down, the effect on the sport would be seismic. Red Bull's other main man in the paddock is Austrian motorsport consultant and former racer Helmut Marko, who is now 80-years-old, not a team employee and not believed to have any leadership ambitions. Marko has also been controversial, receiving a written warning from the sport's governing body last September after he blamed the patchy form of the team's Mexican driver Sergio Perez on his ethnicity. There have been reports of friction between Horner and Marko since the death in October 2022 of Red Bull's Austrian co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz and the arrival of new leadership at the energy drink brand.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner set for hearing in unspecified complaint case

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

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

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

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

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025. Now, it has been confirmed that the British driver is parting ways with Mercedes and will become a part of Ferrari from next year onwards.&nbsp;Notably, he&nbsp;signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last August, however,&nbsp;there was a release option that could be activated to allow him an early release.

Hamilton, thus, used the option to join Ferrari. He will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season. Both parties reacted to the development, on social media platform X, on Friday (Feb 2).&nbsp;

"The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last August and this season will therefore be his last driving for the Silver Arrows."

"The news brings an end to what is currently a 17-year long relationship in F1 with Mercedes-Benz and an 11-year long partnership with the works team," read the statement from Mercedes.

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Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last year.
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1753130989054763178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract," read the statement.

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Team Statement 
 
Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract. <a href="https://t.co/moEMqUgzXH">pic.twitter.com/moEMqUgzXH</a>
— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScuderiaFerrari/status/1753133900925129140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Hamilton will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for the 2025 season.

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<h2>'Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13'</h2>

Hamilton reacted to his departure from Mercedes and said&nbsp;in the Mercedes statement, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember."

The seven-time world champion's decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari also confirms that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari&nbsp;at the end of the 2024 season.

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

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

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

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, a living legend of the sport will race for Ferrari from the 2025 Formula One season and will wave goodbye to Mercedes after more than a decade. The controversial move was made public on Thursday with many comparing his upcoming stint with Michael Schumacher, who enjoyed grand success at the Ferrari.

<h2>Hamilton’s comparisons with Schumacher</h2>

"We've talked to him about it for years, interviews [along the lines of] 'wouldn't you fancy doing a Michael Schumacher and joining Ferrari to make them champions?'," Brundle told Sky Sports in an exclusive conversation.

"He's always said 'I've been with Mercedes, even when I was at McLaren I had Mercedes engines, they're my team and my manufacturer for life'.

"What a story - Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari."

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Hamilton like Schumacher has won seven World Championships and is the most successful driver in the history of the sport. He has 104 F1 poles (most) and an astonishing win record with 103 races. He remains the only racer to have crossed the 100-win tally on the F1 circuit.

It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away.

Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of it from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow, especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1).

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, a living legend of the sport will race for Ferrari from the 2025 Formula One season and will wave goodbye to Mercedes after more than a decade. The controversial move was made public on Thursday with many comparing his upcoming stint with Michael Schumacher, who enjoyed grand success at the Ferrari. Hamilton’s comparisons with Schumacher "We've talked to him about it for years, interviews [along the lines of] 'wouldn't you fancy doing a Michael Schumacher and joining Ferrari to make them champions?'," Brundle told Sky Sports in an exclusive conversation. "He's always said 'I've been with Mercedes, even when I was at McLaren I had Mercedes engines, they're my team and my manufacturer for life'. "What a story - Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari." ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start Hamilton like Schumacher has won seven World Championships and is the most successful driver in the history of the sport. He has 104 F1 poles (most) and an astonishing win record with 103 races. He remains the only racer to have crossed the 100-win tally on the F1 circuit. It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away. Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of it from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow, especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season.&nbsp;The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch. While both parties have denied any such negotiations taking place, it is believed that Hamilton is now set to move from Mercedes after the end of his two-year deal.

It is to be noted that Sky Sports television claimed that Mercedes principal Toto Wolff would brief the team before a formal announcement later on Thursday (Feb 1).&nbsp;Hamilton, 39, has been associated with Mercedes since 2013 and won his first title with McLaren 16 years back, in 2008.

It is interesting to note that&nbsp;Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it&nbsp;appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away.&nbsp;

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Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of them&nbsp;from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused for such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.&nbsp;

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season. The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season. The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch. While both parties have denied any such negotiations taking place, it is believed that Hamilton is now set to move from Mercedes after the end of his two-year deal. It is to be noted that Sky Sports television claimed that Mercedes principal Toto Wolff would brief the team before a formal announcement later on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, 39, has been associated with Mercedes since 2013 and won his first title with McLaren 16 years back, in 2008. It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away. Also read: La Liga: Vitor Roque scores debut goal as struggling Barcelona finds form with home win over Osasuna Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of them from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused for such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Formula One: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari in 2025 season - Reports

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has extended his stay with Italian Formula One giants&nbsp;after signing a new deal on Thursday (Jan 25). Leclerc, who finished fifth in the Formula One standings in 2023 will continue his stay with Ferrari in his sixth consecutive season as he tries to surpass the Max Verstappen to clinch his maiden title. While the length of the new contract was undisclosed, it is expected that Leclerc will stay with the 16-time champions in the near future.

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The journey so far 😍 flip through <a href="https://twitter.com/Charles_Leclerc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Charles_Leclerc</a>’s special moments with us ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/QRkuRyX2k5">pic.twitter.com/QRkuRyX2k5</a>
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<h2>Leclerc extends stay at Ferrari</h2>

"I'm very pleased to know that I will be wearing the Scuderia Ferrari race suit for several more seasons to come. To race for this team has been my dream since I was three years old," Leclerc said in a statement.

"My dream remains that of winning the world championship with Ferrari and I'm sure that in the years ahead, we will enjoy great times together and make our fans happy," he further said

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Not since the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022 has Leclerc won a race on the Formula One circuit and will look to end that drought in the upcoming 2024 season. His last pole position came in the Las Vegas GP but was not able to convert that into a win. In the entire 2023 season, he secured six podium finishes and ended with 206 points.

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Leclerc’s best performance came in the 2022 season when he finished runner-up to Verstappen in a one-sided title parade. However, he had to stretch to the final lap of the season to clinch the second spot ahead of Red Bull’s Sergio Perez when he went toe-to-toe at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"Charles... has been part of the Ferrari family for eight years now, dating back to a time before he first sported the prancing horse emblem on his race suit," said Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur.

"We are determined to give Charles a winning car and I know that his determination and commitment are elements that can make the difference in helping us reach our goals,' he added.

The latest season of the Formula One will start with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 2 with 24 races scheduled across the calendar.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has extended his stay with Italian Formula One giants after signing a new deal on Thursday (Jan 25). Leclerc, who finished fifth in the Formula One standings in 2023 will continue his stay with Ferrari in his sixth consecutive season as he tries to surpass the Max Verstappen to clinch his maiden title.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has extended his stay with Italian Formula One giants after signing a new deal on Thursday (Jan 25). Leclerc, who finished fifth in the Formula One standings in 2023 will continue his stay with Ferrari in his sixth consecutive season as he tries to surpass the Max Verstappen to clinch his maiden title. While the length of the new contract was undisclosed, it is expected that Leclerc will stay with the 16-time champions in the near future. The journey so far 😍 flip through @Charles_Leclerc’s special moments with us ❤️ pic.twitter.com/QRkuRyX2k5 — Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) January 25, 2024 × Leclerc extends stay at Ferrari "I'm very pleased to know that I will be wearing the Scuderia Ferrari race suit for several more seasons to come. To race for this team has been my dream since I was three years old," Leclerc said in a statement. "My dream remains that of winning the world championship with Ferrari and I'm sure that in the years ahead, we will enjoy great times together and make our fans happy," he further said × Not since the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022 has Leclerc won a race on the Formula One circuit and will look to end that drought in the upcoming 2024 season. His last pole position came in the Las Vegas GP but was not able to convert that into a win. In the entire 2023 season, he secured six podium finishes and ended with 206 points. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters women's singles final with win over Coco Gauff Leclerc’s best performance came in the 2022 season when he finished runner-up to Verstappen in a one-sided title parade. However, he had to stretch to the final lap of the season to clinch the second spot ahead of Red Bull’s Sergio Perez when he went toe-to-toe at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. "Charles... has been part of the Ferrari family for eight years now, dating back to a time before he first sported the prancing horse emblem on his race suit," said Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur. "We are determined to give Charles a winning car and I know that his determination and commitment are elements that can make the difference in helping us reach our goals,' he added. The latest season of the Formula One will start with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 2 with 24 races scheduled across the calendar.

Formula One: Charles Leclerc signs contract extension at Ferrari, commits long term future with Italian outfit

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

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

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

Toto Wolff signs three-year extension with Mercedes F1 team

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title. His on-track exploits helped Red Bull clinch the Constructor’s Championship while underling his legacy as one of the greatest racers of all time.

<h2>Verstappen’s record-breaking year</h2>

Starting the 2023 Formula One season as a favourite, Verstappen recorded 19 wins across 22 different tracks. He finished on the podium in all but one grand prix which saw him stamp his authority during the season. Coupled with his 19 grand prix wins, he also won four sprint races as his&nbsp;dominance surfaced&nbsp;in all departments. In fact, his victory at the Qatar sprint race saw him clinch the 2023 Formula One season.

The 25-year-old smashed for most consecutive grand prix wins during the campaign as he secured the top prize starting from Miami to Italy. His record point tally of 575 out of 620 is the most efficient scoring rate for any driver in the history of the championship (92.7%). He won the championship with six races left in the season at the Qatar GP, again a new record.

Having led 1003 laps, Verstappen showcased why he is the modern-day great as he set a new record. Interestingly, his closest rival for most laps led was Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez who clocked 146 laps, a massive difference of 857. Comparing his dominance on the track, he was 290 points ahead of second-placed Perez while he bagged 17 wins more than the Mexican driver (2). Verstappen also amassed nine fastest laps in the campaign, keeping him way ahead of other drivers on the circuit.

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2023 also saw Verstappen go level with some greats of the game as equalled Michael Schumacher’s record for most races left before winning the title. He also equalled the German for being the only driver since the turn of the millennium to complete all the laps of a Formula One season. With 39 consecutive races as championship leader, he broke Schumacher’s record of 37 races set in 2002.

He also smashed record books to get the better of former Red Bull driver and F1 legend Sebastian Vettel. With a 290-point winning margin, he broke the legendary Vettel’s previous tally of 155 points. With 12 wins from pole position, he also broke Vettel’s tally of nine wins set in 2011 when he won his second title.

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title.

It was a record-breaking year for Dutchman Max Verstappen on the Formula One circuit after the Dutchman broke record books left, right and centre. Verstappen conquered the Formula One Championship with a record points tally smashing several records as he clinched his third consecutive title. His on-track exploits helped Red Bull clinch the Constructor’s Championship while underling his legacy as one of the greatest racers of all time. Verstappen’s record-breaking year Starting the 2023 Formula One season as a favourite, Verstappen recorded 19 wins across 22 different tracks. He finished on the podium in all but one grand prix which saw him stamp his authority during the season. Coupled with his 19 grand prix wins, he also won four sprint races as his dominance surfaced in all departments. In fact, his victory at the Qatar sprint race saw him clinch the 2023 Formula One season. The 25-year-old smashed for most consecutive grand prix wins during the campaign as he secured the top prize starting from Miami to Italy. His record point tally of 575 out of 620 is the most efficient scoring rate for any driver in the history of the championship (92.7%). He won the championship with six races left in the season at the Qatar GP, again a new record. Having led 1003 laps, Verstappen showcased why he is the modern-day great as he set a new record. Interestingly, his closest rival for most laps led was Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez who clocked 146 laps, a massive difference of 857. Comparing his dominance on the track, he was 290 points ahead of second-placed Perez while he bagged 17 wins more than the Mexican driver (2). Verstappen also amassed nine fastest laps in the campaign, keeping him way ahead of other drivers on the circuit. ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Blow to Pakistan as seamer Khurram Shahzad doubtful for Melbourne Test 2023 also saw Verstappen go level with some greats of the game as equalled Michael Schumacher’s record for most races left before winning the title. He also equalled the German for being the only driver since the turn of the millennium to complete all the laps of a Formula One season. With 39 consecutive races as championship leader, he broke Schumacher’s record of 37 races set in 2002. He also smashed record books to get the better of former Red Bull driver and F1 legend Sebastian Vettel. With a 290-point winning margin, he broke the legendary Vettel’s previous tally of 155 points. With 12 wins from pole position, he also broke Vettel’s tally of nine wins set in 2011 when he won his second title.

Max Verstappen - Story for ages after smashing records left, right and centre in 2023 Formula One season

Indian sports had a fabulous 2023 as top athletes made the nation proud on multiple fronts including the Asian Games and the ODI World Cup. However, away from the limelight of the top sports, India scripted history in the motor sport in 2023 as Prarthana Murugavel made the nation proud with her eye-catching gold medal-winning performance in Karting Slalom category in Malaysia. She spoke exclusively to WION and reflected on her journey as India added another feather to its impressive hat.

Prarthana, an open-wheel 4W racer, competed for the top prize with some of the best racers in her category and clinched gold at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia in October. She claimed the gold by clocking a best of 52.350 seconds in the fourth&nbsp;run&nbsp;of the finals after standing first in both the quarterfinal and semifinal.

Question: How did your journey begin in motor sports and whom did you idolise during your initial years in the sports?

Answer: I started following motor sports in 2014 .when Sebastian Vettel was at his peak. &nbsp;Over the years, observing and learning the intricacies of the sport, led to a huge impact on me and ignited my interest even more.

Question: What challenges did you face when you started your journey and what role did your family play?

Answer: My journey was a huge roller-coaster ride, being the only girl amongst 25-30 drivers demanded a lot from my side. There was intense competition when I started competing at different events. &nbsp;Often times, my capabilities as a driver was doubted by people at the track.&nbsp;The technique used to train the girls is the same as boys and this brings a big challenge.

My father has been a big support system for me and has always been with me. He is my biggest emotional support and understands all my needs during the race and off the race day. Despite being an expensive sport, my family has always stood by me.

Question: You secured gold in the Women's Karting Slalom category at the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship this year, talk us through your journey there.

Answer: I was approached by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) in mid August to compete in the Women's Karting Slalom category at the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship. In the second week of September, my participation in the event representing India was confirmed. However, this was a new experience as I had never competed in this category.

Since the slalom is designed in such a way that there is a time penalty for each cone dropped during the race. It was a different experience altogether with its own set of challenges, but luckily I prevailed to win the top prize.

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Question: How did you feel when you held the Indian flag during the medal presentation at the event?

Answer: It was a very special feeling to carry the Indian flag on a foreign territory&nbsp;while I held the gold. The feeling of holding a gold medal and listening to the Indian national anthem is something that cannot be described in words.

Question: What is your aim for 2024 and ahead considering that you are already punching above your weight?

Answer: I am still not a finished product as I think there is always room for improvement. I need to be physically fit; I have to adapt to environments and nutrition always plays a big role. I am currently aiming to complete a full season of the F1600 cars and hope to break a couple of records. I would also like to represent India in the FIA Motorsport Games in Spain in 2024.&nbsp;

With aspirations to conquer the international circuits in the F1 academy and Formula 4, Prarthana has embarked on an exceptional trajectory within the realm of the sports as she continues her remarkable rise in the motor sport. She now seeks support from the government and corporates to take the next big step in the field of motor sports.

Indian sports had a fabulous 2023 as top athletes made the nation proud on multiple fronts including the Asian Games and the ODI World Cup. However, away from the limelight of the top sports, India scripted history in the motor sport in 2023 as Prarthana Murugavel made the nation proud with her eye-catching gold medal-winning performance in Karting Slalom category in Malaysia.

Indian sports had a fabulous 2023 as top athletes made the nation proud on multiple fronts including the Asian Games and the ODI World Cup. However, away from the limelight of the top sports, India scripted history in the motor sport in 2023 as Prarthana Murugavel made the nation proud with her eye-catching gold medal-winning performance in Karting Slalom category in Malaysia. She spoke exclusively to WION and reflected on her journey as India added another feather to its impressive hat. Prarthana, an open-wheel 4W racer, competed for the top prize with some of the best racers in her category and clinched gold at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia in October. She claimed the gold by clocking a best of 52.350 seconds in the fourth run of the finals after standing first in both the quarterfinal and semifinal. Question: How did your journey begin in motor sports and whom did you idolise during your initial years in the sports? Answer: I started following motor sports in 2014 .when Sebastian Vettel was at his peak. Over the years, observing and learning the intricacies of the sport, led to a huge impact on me and ignited my interest even more. Question: What challenges did you face when you started your journey and what role did your family play? Answer: My journey was a huge roller-coaster ride, being the only girl amongst 25-30 drivers demanded a lot from my side. There was intense competition when I started competing at different events. Often times, my capabilities as a driver was doubted by people at the track. The technique used to train the girls is the same as boys and this brings a big challenge. My father has been a big support system for me and has always been with me. He is my biggest emotional support and understands all my needs during the race and off the race day. Despite being an expensive sport, my family has always stood by me. Question: You secured gold in the Women's Karting Slalom category at the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship this year, talk us through your journey there. Answer: I was approached by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) in mid August to compete in the Women's Karting Slalom category at the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship. In the second week of September, my participation in the event representing India was confirmed. However, this was a new experience as I had never competed in this category. Since the slalom is designed in such a way that there is a time penalty for each cone dropped during the race. It was a different experience altogether with its own set of challenges, but luckily I prevailed to win the top prize. ALSO READ | India pacer Mohammed Shami out of South Africa Tests with injury; Akash Deep replaces Deepak Chahar for ODIs Question: How did you feel when you held the Indian flag during the medal presentation at the event? Answer: It was a very special feeling to carry the Indian flag on a foreign territory while I held the gold. The feeling of holding a gold medal and listening to the Indian national anthem is something that cannot be described in words. Question: What is your aim for 2024 and ahead considering that you are already punching above your weight? Answer: I am still not a finished product as I think there is always room for improvement. I need to be physically fit; I have to adapt to environments and nutrition always plays a big role. I am currently aiming to complete a full season of the F1600 cars and hope to break a couple of records. I would also like to represent India in the FIA Motorsport Games in Spain in 2024. With aspirations to conquer the international circuits in the F1 academy and Formula 4, Prarthana has embarked on an exceptional trajectory within the realm of the sports as she continues her remarkable rise in the motor sport. She now seeks support from the government and corporates to take the next big step in the field of motor sports.

EXCLUSIVE: Prarthana Murugavel - First Indian female racer to win gold at Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship

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