Lewis Hamilton tried to tone down the ongoing feud with Max Verstappen as he was booed by the Dutchman's supporters after taking his first pole in almost three months ahead of the Grand Prix of Hungary.

The Mercedes driver was subjected to a chorus of jeers as he attempted to conduct his post-qualifying interview on Saturday.

"We do have to be so careful with our words particularly as there are young kids watching" he said.

A fortnight on from Hamilton's 180mph collision with Verstappen on the first lap of the British Grand Prix, around 10,000 Dutch fans have made the journey across Europe to the Hungaroring, a dozen miles outside of Budapest.

They are creating a hostile reception for Hamilton. One banner here read: "Sir Cheat: Karma is on its way", in reference to Hamilton's 10-second penalty for his collision with Verstappen at Silverstone.

There was also another poster of Hamilton mocked up as a crying baby in his Mercedes overalls.&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton tried to tone down the ongoing feud with Max Verstappen as he was booed by the Dutchman's supporters after taking his first pole in almost three months ahead of the Grand Prix of Hungary.

Lewis Hamilton tried to tone down the ongoing feud with Max Verstappen as he was booed by the Dutchman's supporters after taking his first pole in almost three months ahead of the Grand Prix of Hungary. The Mercedes driver was subjected to a chorus of jeers as he attempted to conduct his post-qualifying interview on Saturday. "We do have to be so careful with our words particularly as there are young kids watching" he said. A fortnight on from Hamilton's 180mph collision with Verstappen on the first lap of the British Grand Prix, around 10,000 Dutch fans have made the journey across Europe to the Hungaroring, a dozen miles outside of Budapest. They are creating a hostile reception for Hamilton. One banner here read: "Sir Cheat: Karma is on its way", in reference to Hamilton's 10-second penalty for his collision with Verstappen at Silverstone. There was also another poster of Hamilton mocked up as a crying baby in his Mercedes overalls.

'We have to be careful with our words': Lewis Hamilton on being booed by Verstappen fans

World championship leader Max&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;won Formula One's inaugural&nbsp;sprint&nbsp;race&nbsp;on Saturday to take&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position for the&nbsp;British&nbsp;Grand&nbsp;Prix.

The Red Bull driver finished the 100km dash ahead of defending world champion Lewis Hamilton with Valtteri Bottas in the second Mercedes in third place.

Verstappen&nbsp;went into the weekend with a 32-point lead over seven-time champion Hamilton who is hoping to capture an eighth&nbsp;British&nbsp;Grand&nbsp;Prix&nbsp;triumph on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-verstappen-ready-to-pounce-as-cracks-widen-in-mercedes-armour-393583">Formula One: Verstappen ready to pounce as cracks widen in Mercedes armour</a>

"We were pushing each other hard as the tyres were blistering a lot," said&nbsp;Verstappen&nbsp;who collected three points for his win.

Hamilton took two and Bottas one.

"I am happy to have scored the three points and it is funny to say I have scored the&nbsp;pole&nbsp;position too, but we'll take it," added the Dutchman.

Hamilton started the&nbsp;sprint&nbsp;at the front of the grid having topped qualifying on Friday.

However, he admitted he will face a battle to secure a 99th career win in front of around 90,000 fans on Sunday.

"First&nbsp;of all, let me say thank you to the fans, their energy is amazing," he said.

"I gave it everything today, I'm just sorry I couldn't win it for them. Tomorrow we will fight again, but Red Bull are just so strong."

Saturday's&nbsp;sprint&nbsp;qualifying&nbsp;race&nbsp;was the&nbsp;first&nbsp;of three planned for this year.

Another will follow at the Italian&nbsp;Grand&nbsp;Prix&nbsp;in September with the third venue still to be confirmed.

World championship leader Max Verstappen won Formula One's inaugural sprint race on Saturday to take pole position for the British Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver finished the 100km dash ahead of defending world champion Lewis Hamilton with Valtteri Bottas in the second Mercedes in third place.

World championship leader Max Verstappen won Formula One's inaugural sprint race on Saturday to take pole position for the British Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver finished the 100km dash ahead of defending world champion Lewis Hamilton with Valtteri Bottas in the second Mercedes in third place. Verstappen went into the weekend with a 32-point lead over seven-time champion Hamilton who is hoping to capture an eighth British Grand Prix triumph on Sunday. Also read | Formula One: Verstappen ready to pounce as cracks widen in Mercedes armour "We were pushing each other hard as the tyres were blistering a lot," said Verstappen who collected three points for his win. Hamilton took two and Bottas one. "I am happy to have scored the three points and it is funny to say I have scored the pole position too, but we'll take it," added the Dutchman. Hamilton started the sprint at the front of the grid having topped qualifying on Friday. However, he admitted he will face a battle to secure a 99th career win in front of around 90,000 fans on Sunday. "First of all, let me say thank you to the fans, their energy is amazing," he said. "I gave it everything today, I'm just sorry I couldn't win it for them. Tomorrow we will fight again, but Red Bull are just so strong." Saturday's sprint qualifying race was the first of three planned for this year. Another will follow at the Italian Grand Prix in September with the third venue still to be confirmed.

Verstappen wins first sprint race to claim British Grand Prix pole

The decades-old dream of zipping around in the sky as simply as driving on highways may be becoming a reality faster than we thought.

A full-size pilotless 'flying race car' has taken to the sky for the first time ahead of remotely piloted races to be held later this year at three international locations still to be revealed.

The Alauda Mk3's first flight brings the company's goal of an electric flying car Grand Prix, one step closer.

"It is a momentous day," founder and chief executive of Adelaide-based Alauda Aeronautics, Matt Pearson, said in an interview.

"To be able to showcase the Mark 3 to the world and show that flying car racing is just around the corner."

The Mk3 Airspeeder is a multicopter craft based on a Formula 1 car and has a greater thrust-to-weight ratio than an F15 fighter jet, according to Alauda.

Pearson's eventual plan is the Airspeeder Race Series of piloted multicopters, but he is using their EXA Series, with remotely controlled Mark 3s, as a proving ground.

"The EXA Series will always be a feeder series to the main Airspeeder event and the crewed racing that's coming. And the cool thing is it'll always be with full-size vehicles, fully functional electric flying cars, just remotely piloted for now," Pearson said.

Battery sizes, air traffic control, and other infrastructure issues are among the many potential challenges to commercialising them.

The pilots will remotely race on augmented reality sky-tracks visible to an audience watching via a digital stream.

"We don't need a track," Pearson said, "but it's important to convey what's going on to the audience at home."

Alauda Aeronautics are themselves involved in a race to be the first of several companies hoping to race manned drones or eVTOL vehicles.

Air Race E has partnered with European planemaker Airbus to launch races of 3 different classes of electric aircraft including eVTOL.

The Spanish entrepreneur behind city-based electric racing series, Formula E and off-road Extreme E, Alejandro Agag, is also considering electric air racing.

Pearson believes racing electric flying cars will hasten the development of eVTOL advanced air mobility craft, a market that Alauda Aeronautics wants a share of.

"I looked back at what happened 100 years ago," Pearson said.

"In the last great mobility revolutions when the dawn of the automobile and the airplane and what accelerated that? What drove acceptance? What drove technology? It was always racing. If you go back far enough the first application is always racing."

(With inputs from agencies)

The decades-old dream of zipping around in the sky as simply as driving on highways may be becoming a reality faster than we thought. A full-size pilotless 'flying race car' has taken to the sky for the first time ahead of remotely piloted races to be held later this year at three international locations still to be revealed.

The decades-old dream of zipping around in the sky as simply as driving on highways may be becoming a reality faster than we thought. A full-size pilotless 'flying race car' has taken to the sky for the first time ahead of remotely piloted races to be held later this year at three international locations still to be revealed. The Alauda Mk3's first flight brings the company's goal of an electric flying car Grand Prix, one step closer. "It is a momentous day," founder and chief executive of Adelaide-based Alauda Aeronautics, Matt Pearson, said in an interview. "To be able to showcase the Mark 3 to the world and show that flying car racing is just around the corner." The Mk3 Airspeeder is a multicopter craft based on a Formula 1 car and has a greater thrust-to-weight ratio than an F15 fighter jet, according to Alauda. Pearson's eventual plan is the Airspeeder Race Series of piloted multicopters, but he is using their EXA Series, with remotely controlled Mark 3s, as a proving ground. "The EXA Series will always be a feeder series to the main Airspeeder event and the crewed racing that's coming. And the cool thing is it'll always be with full-size vehicles, fully functional electric flying cars, just remotely piloted for now," Pearson said. Battery sizes, air traffic control, and other infrastructure issues are among the many potential challenges to commercialising them. The pilots will remotely race on augmented reality sky-tracks visible to an audience watching via a digital stream. "We don't need a track," Pearson said, "but it's important to convey what's going on to the audience at home." Alauda Aeronautics are themselves involved in a race to be the first of several companies hoping to race manned drones or eVTOL vehicles. Air Race E has partnered with European planemaker Airbus to launch races of 3 different classes of electric aircraft including eVTOL. The Spanish entrepreneur behind city-based electric racing series, Formula E and off-road Extreme E, Alejandro Agag, is also considering electric air racing. Pearson believes racing electric flying cars will hasten the development of eVTOL advanced air mobility craft, a market that Alauda Aeronautics wants a share of. "I looked back at what happened 100 years ago," Pearson said. "In the last great mobility revolutions when the dawn of the automobile and the airplane and what accelerated that? What drove acceptance? What drove technology? It was always racing. If you go back far enough the first application is always racing." (With inputs from agencies)

'Future of racing': Full-size flying race car takes first flight

Ferrari's Chief Executive Officer Louis Camilleri has announced his resignation after season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 65-year-old Italian cited personal reasons while he left his post.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/verstappen-edges-bottas-in-abu-dhabi-practice-as-hamilton-makes-quiet-return-349107" hreflang="en">Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return</a>

Camilleri was appointed in July 2018 as a replacement for Sergio Marchionne who was unwell and died days later. Camilleri himself recently got out of the hospital after being infected by severe COVID-19.&nbsp;

During his tenure, he brought in current team boss Mattia Binotto to replace Maurizio Arrivabene and this year deciding not to retain four-time champion, Sebastian Vettel, next season.

“Ferrari has been a part of my life and serving as its chief executive has been a great privilege,” said Camilleri in a statement issued by Ferrari.

“My admiration for the extraordinary men and women of Maranello and for the passion and dedication they apply to everything they do, knows no bounds.

“I’m proud of the company’s numerous achievements since 2018 and know that Ferrari’s best years are still to come.”

It has been a terrible season for Ferrari this year as they failed to win even a single race. In 2019, the team generated controversy by using an irregular power unit.

Ferrari’s executive chairman John Elkann has taken over as chief executive on a temporary basis.

Ferrari's Chief Executive Officer Louis Camilleri has announced his resignation after season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 65-year-old Italian cited personal reasons while he left his post.

Ferrari's Chief Executive Officer Louis Camilleri has announced his resignation after season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 65-year-old Italian cited personal reasons while he left his post. Also read: Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return Camilleri was appointed in July 2018 as a replacement for Sergio Marchionne who was unwell and died days later. Camilleri himself recently got out of the hospital after being infected by severe COVID-19. During his tenure, he brought in current team boss Mattia Binotto to replace Maurizio Arrivabene and this year deciding not to retain four-time champion, Sebastian Vettel, next season. “Ferrari has been a part of my life and serving as its chief executive has been a great privilege,” said Camilleri in a statement issued by Ferrari. “My admiration for the extraordinary men and women of Maranello and for the passion and dedication they apply to everything they do, knows no bounds. “I’m proud of the company’s numerous achievements since 2018 and know that Ferrari’s best years are still to come.” It has been a terrible season for Ferrari this year as they failed to win even a single race. In 2019, the team generated controversy by using an irregular power unit. Ferrari’s executive chairman John Elkann has taken over as chief executive on a temporary basis.

Ferrari's Chief Executive Officer Louis Camilleri resigns with immediate effect

Haas driver Romain Grosjean will miss the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to return home to Switzerland where he will receive on-going medical treatment on the burns he suffered on the back of his hands at the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Formula 1 team announced on Sunday.

Pietro Fittipaldi, currently subbing for Grosjean at the Sakhir Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit, will compete again for Haas alongside teammate Kevin Magnussen in Abu Dhabi, December 11-13.

"It is with great sadness that I will not be able to do my final race in Abu Dhabi and be with the team there. We have tried as much as we could with the doctor to recover and to repair my hand, but the risk of racing is too big for my recovery and my health. So, the decision was made that I am not going to race," Grosjean said in a statement.

"It is one of the hardest decisions of my life, but it is obviously one of the wisest. I will miss the team, but I will be supporting them as ever," he added.

That means Bahrain will be his last Grand Prix, in what was his 98th appearance for American team Haas having been with them since the beginning of their F1 project.

"I am naturally very sorry that Romain will miss what was going to be his final race with Haas F1 Team. But we are all in agreement that he has to take the best course of action regarding his treatment and recovery from last Sunday`s incident," stated Guenther Steiner, team principal Haas F1 Team.

"Romain has shown exceptional bravery and amazing spirit over the last few days - we know how badly he wanted to be able to return to the cockpit of the VF-20 in Abu Dhabi. And we all would have loved him to have been there too," he added.&nbsp;

Haas driver Romain Grosjean will miss the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to return home to Switzerland where he will receive on-going medical treatment on the burns he suffered on the back of his hands at the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Formula 1 team announced on Sunday.

Haas driver Romain Grosjean will miss the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to return home to Switzerland where he will receive on-going medical treatment on the burns he suffered on the back of his hands at the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Formula 1 team announced on Sunday. Pietro Fittipaldi, currently subbing for Grosjean at the Sakhir Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit, will compete again for Haas alongside teammate Kevin Magnussen in Abu Dhabi, December 11-13. "It is with great sadness that I will not be able to do my final race in Abu Dhabi and be with the team there. We have tried as much as we could with the doctor to recover and to repair my hand, but the risk of racing is too big for my recovery and my health. So, the decision was made that I am not going to race," Grosjean said in a statement. "It is one of the hardest decisions of my life, but it is obviously one of the wisest. I will miss the team, but I will be supporting them as ever," he added. That means Bahrain will be his last Grand Prix, in what was his 98th appearance for American team Haas having been with them since the beginning of their F1 project. "I am naturally very sorry that Romain will miss what was going to be his final race with Haas F1 Team. But we are all in agreement that he has to take the best course of action regarding his treatment and recovery from last Sunday`s incident," stated Guenther Steiner, team principal Haas F1 Team. "Romain has shown exceptional bravery and amazing spirit over the last few days - we know how badly he wanted to be able to return to the cockpit of the VF-20 in Abu Dhabi. And we all would have loved him to have been there too," he added.

Grosjean will miss Abu Dhabi GP to focus on recovery

Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world

Lewis Hamilton cemented his position as one of Formula One's true greats when he equalled Michael Schumacher's all-time record of seven world titles on Sunday, another staggering achievement for a boy who grew up in modest circumstances.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-lewis-hamilton-wins-record-equaling-7th-world-championship-343317" hreflang="en">Formula One: Lewis Hamilton wins record-equaling 7th world championship</a>

His victory in Istanbul -- the 94th of his career -- allowed him to add the 2020 title to his championships of 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/formula-one-goat-lewis-hamiltons-career-defining-races-338000" hreflang="en">Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races!</a>

The son of a black father and a white mother, whose parents separated in his youth, Hamilton, 35, grew up on a municipal housing estate. His father Anthony at one time held down three jobs to fund his son's embryonic racing career in karting.

Hamilton's journey was unprivileged and without luxury, but it was clear from an early age that he had an outstanding gift for speed and all the gutsy natural instincts of a born racer.

In 1995, aged 10, and wearing a jacket and shoes borrowed from his predecessor as British Formula Cadet karting champion, he went to a glittering awards ceremony in London where he met McLaren's then-boss Ron Dennis.

He asked for an autograph and told him "one day I want to race for you". Dennis replied: "Phone me in nine years and I'll sort you a deal."

Bold, determined and individual, he almost won the title in his first record-breaking season as he reeled off nine successive podiums from his debut in Melbourne, rocking the establishment along the way with his speed and his style.

On and off the track, he was fast, somewhat mercurial and occasionally tempestuous and the combination led to a fierce rivalry with team-mate and two-time champion Fernando Alonso at McLaren.

That was a signal of how tough it was to be for all his future team-mates as Hamilton, who narrowly missed out on the 2007 title, returned to triumph in 2008 with a dramatic last-gasp fifth-place finish in Brazil.

He also showed frustration as McLaren failed to deliver the speed to beat Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull, who reeled off four straight title triumphs from 2010 to 2013, by which time Hamilton had departed for Mercedes.

Escaping the management regime of Dennis and his father, Hamilton found freedom at Mercedes alongside team-mate Nico Rosberg, his teenage karting friend and rival.

This enabled Hamilton to express himself with a headline-grabbing trans-Atlantic lifestyle, mixing with musicians and 'fashionistas'.

He showed little love for any duty to obey conventions and, for many observers, gave his&nbsp;sport&nbsp;a welcome injection of freshness and diversity as champion again in 2014 and 2015.

Rosberg broke Hamilton's sequence of supremacy in 2016 and then retired, leaving the Englishman to dominate.

His former McLaren team-mate Jenson Button summed up Hamilton's pure speed when he said: "For me, over one lap, I don't think there is anyone as quick as Lewis and I don't think there ever has been."

That speed, which has always been a natural talent, has in recent seasons been allied to a more mature attitude to his job as team leader.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff once summed up: "He is never satisfied. He never settles. He is never happy with where he is as a racing driver and a human being."

Having achieved so much as his&nbsp;sport's best-known ambassador, Hamilton's interest in social issues has emerged more frequently.

Last season, he began voicing his concerns for the environment and revealed a fleeting despair at the state of the world when he used Instagram to declare that the planet was "a messed-up place" and he felt he wanted "to give up". &nbsp;

That commentary, including revelations about his vegan lifestyle, led to the man who frequently used private jets and occupies a&nbsp;sport&nbsp;hardly know for its green credentials being accused of hypocrisy.

"I'm only human," he retorted. "Like everyone, we have up and down days. That's what I've been really trying to convey."

This year has seen him press for greater diversity in the paddock, a push sparked by his vocal support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

His own career and his quest for self-expression and freedom has shaped his advice for young drivers.

"What I can definitely advise any kid that's out there trying to race is don't listen to people who tell you that you need a mental coach or you need someone to help control your mind," he said.

"You need to let it run wild and free and discover yourself. It is all about discovery. And only you can do it."

When Hamilton wrapped up his sixth world title in Texas last year, his father summed up his son's achievement: "It's absolutely amazing and not bad for a boy from a Stevenage council house."

Lewis Hamilton cemented his position as one of Formula One's true greats when he equalled Michael Schumacher's all-time record of seven world titles on Sunday, another staggering achievement for a boy who grew up in modest circumstances.

Lewis Hamilton cemented his position as one of Formula One's true greats when he equalled Michael Schumacher's all-time record of seven world titles on Sunday, another staggering achievement for a boy who grew up in modest circumstances. Also read: Formula One: Lewis Hamilton wins record-equaling 7th world championship His victory in Istanbul -- the 94th of his career -- allowed him to add the 2020 title to his championships of 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019. IN PICS: Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races! The son of a black father and a white mother, whose parents separated in his youth, Hamilton, 35, grew up on a municipal housing estate. His father Anthony at one time held down three jobs to fund his son's embryonic racing career in karting. Hamilton's journey was unprivileged and without luxury, but it was clear from an early age that he had an outstanding gift for speed and all the gutsy natural instincts of a born racer. In 1995, aged 10, and wearing a jacket and shoes borrowed from his predecessor as British Formula Cadet karting champion, he went to a glittering awards ceremony in London where he met McLaren's then-boss Ron Dennis. He asked for an autograph and told him "one day I want to race for you". Dennis replied: "Phone me in nine years and I'll sort you a deal." Bold, determined and individual, he almost won the title in his first record-breaking season as he reeled off nine successive podiums from his debut in Melbourne, rocking the establishment along the way with his speed and his style. On and off the track, he was fast, somewhat mercurial and occasionally tempestuous and the combination led to a fierce rivalry with team-mate and two-time champion Fernando Alonso at McLaren. That was a signal of how tough it was to be for all his future team-mates as Hamilton, who narrowly missed out on the 2007 title, returned to triumph in 2008 with a dramatic last-gasp fifth-place finish in Brazil. He also showed frustration as McLaren failed to deliver the speed to beat Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull, who reeled off four straight title triumphs from 2010 to 2013, by which time Hamilton had departed for Mercedes. Escaping the management regime of Dennis and his father, Hamilton found freedom at Mercedes alongside team-mate Nico Rosberg, his teenage karting friend and rival. This enabled Hamilton to express himself with a headline-grabbing trans-Atlantic lifestyle, mixing with musicians and 'fashionistas'. He showed little love for any duty to obey conventions and, for many observers, gave his sport a welcome injection of freshness and diversity as champion again in 2014 and 2015. Rosberg broke Hamilton's sequence of supremacy in 2016 and then retired, leaving the Englishman to dominate. His former McLaren team-mate Jenson Button summed up Hamilton's pure speed when he said: "For me, over one lap, I don't think there is anyone as quick as Lewis and I don't think there ever has been." That speed, which has always been a natural talent, has in recent seasons been allied to a more mature attitude to his job as team leader. Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff once summed up: "He is never satisfied. He never settles. He is never happy with where he is as a racing driver and a human being." Having achieved so much as his sport's best-known ambassador, Hamilton's interest in social issues has emerged more frequently. Last season, he began voicing his concerns for the environment and revealed a fleeting despair at the state of the world when he used Instagram to declare that the planet was "a messed-up place" and he felt he wanted "to give up". That commentary, including revelations about his vegan lifestyle, led to the man who frequently used private jets and occupies a sport hardly know for its green credentials being accused of hypocrisy. "I'm only human," he retorted. "Like everyone, we have up and down days. That's what I've been really trying to convey." This year has seen him press for greater diversity in the paddock, a push sparked by his vocal support for the Black Lives Matter movement. His own career and his quest for self-expression and freedom has shaped his advice for young drivers. "What I can definitely advise any kid that's out there trying to race is don't listen to people who tell you that you need a mental coach or you need someone to help control your mind," he said. "You need to let it run wild and free and discover yourself. It is all about discovery. And only you can do it." When Hamilton wrapped up his sixth world title in Texas last year, his father summed up his son's achievement: "It's absolutely amazing and not bad for a boy from a Stevenage council house."

Lewis Hamilton: 'Not bad for a boy from a council house'

Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races!

'World Record': Lewis Hamilton's 92nd career win Formula One

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/towering-hamilton-wins-eifel-grand-prix-equals-schumachers-record-334531" hreflang="en">Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record</a>

India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat.&nbsp;

He took to Twitter and wrote: "Since the time you've taken up the sport, you've been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher's record. Wishing you the very best for the future".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Since the time you’ve taken up the sport, you’ve been very special. 
I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the <a href="https://twitter.com/F1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@F1</a> car. 
 
Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher’s record. Wishing you the very best for the future. <a href="https://t.co/iPMKsiqshU">pic.twitter.com/iPMKsiqshU</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1315567774606004224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In 2002, Sachin was presented with a Ferrari by Michael Schumacher on behalf of Fiat.&nbsp;

In a touching tribute, Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets.

"Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins. Also read: Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins. Also read: Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Since the time you've taken up the sport, you've been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher's record. Wishing you the very best for the future". Since the time you’ve taken up the sport, you’ve been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher’s record. Wishing you the very best for the future. pic.twitter.com/iPMKsiqshU — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 12, 2020 × In 2002, Sachin was presented with a Ferrari by Michael Schumacher on behalf of Fiat. In a touching tribute, Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets. "Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton.

'You've been very ...': Sachin Tendulkar's special message to Lewis Hamilton

Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas has claimed the ninth victory of his career after winning the Russian Grand Prix making his teammate Lewis Hamilton wait to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Grand Prix triumphs.

The six-time champion took an extended pit-stop to serve two five-second penalties for irregular pre-race practice starts.

A disgruntled Hamilton, aiming to win and equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Grand Prix triumphs, re-joined in 11th place, but fought back to finish third behind Bottas and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

The three drivers have been on the podium for the sixth time this year. Bottas secured his second win in Russia and second this season.&nbsp;

Sergio Perez came home fourth for Racing Point ahead of Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo, who had to take a five second penalty for an infringement, and Charles Leclerc, who was sixth for Ferrari.

Esteban Ocon was seventh for Renault ahead of local hero Daniil Kvyat and his Alpha Tauri team-mate Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon, who was also given a five-second penalty, in the second Red Bull.

Hamilton did not want to talk about his penalty, instead thanking the Russian fans. "A big thank-you to the fans here this weekend – spasibo,” he said. "It’s not the greatest day, but it is what it is.”

Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas has claimed the ninth victory of his career after winning the Russian Grand Prix making his teammate Lewis Hamilton wait to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Grand Prix triumphs.

Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas has claimed the ninth victory of his career after winning the Russian Grand Prix making his teammate Lewis Hamilton wait to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Grand Prix triumphs. The six-time champion took an extended pit-stop to serve two five-second penalties for irregular pre-race practice starts. A disgruntled Hamilton, aiming to win and equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Grand Prix triumphs, re-joined in 11th place, but fought back to finish third behind Bottas and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. The three drivers have been on the podium for the sixth time this year. Bottas secured his second win in Russia and second this season. Sergio Perez came home fourth for Racing Point ahead of Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo, who had to take a five second penalty for an infringement, and Charles Leclerc, who was sixth for Ferrari. Esteban Ocon was seventh for Renault ahead of local hero Daniil Kvyat and his Alpha Tauri team-mate Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon, who was also given a five-second penalty, in the second Red Bull. Hamilton did not want to talk about his penalty, instead thanking the Russian fans. "A big thank-you to the fans here this weekend – spasibo,” he said. "It’s not the greatest day, but it is what it is.”

Formula One: Bottas exploits Hamilton's penalties in Russia to reignite title chances

Pride, pain and a Schumacher: Ferrari celebrate 1,000th Grand Prix race

They captured hearts around the world and on social media during lockdown, and now a group of musicians who kept spirits up by singing from the rooftops of Italian towns have been rewarded with a slot at one of sport's showpiece events.

Italian lockdown musical stars rewarded with Monza F1 slot

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory.

The series leader and six-time champion registered his 89th career win with another flawless drive to take his fourth Belgian triumph, finishing 8.448 seconds clear of his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas.

It was Hamilton's fifth win in seven races this year and extended his record run of points-scoring races to 40.

Max Verstappen came third for Red Bull, seven seconds further adrift, to claim his sixth podium finish in succession.

Hamilton, who had to nurse his car home on worn tyres, has 157 points in the title race, 47 clear of Verstappen. The 'black arrows' lead the constructors' championship with 264 points, well ahead of Red Bull on 158.

"It wasn't the easiest of races," said Hamilton. "It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless I think it was ok in the end."

At the British Grand Prix at the start of August, Hamilton had clung on to win after one of his tyres disintegrated.

"I was concerned that we'd have a scenario like Silverstone, but the tyre seemed to have quite a bit of rubber left on it at the finish."

Bottas admitted he could not match his team-mate's pace.

"The start was a good opportunity, but Lewis played it really well and I just couldn't catch him. In the same car, with Lewis driving a flawless race, it was really difficult."

Verstappen said he had a dull afternoon.&nbsp;

"It was pretty boring, not very interesting and not much to do," he said. "I ran out of tyre at the end so I was just stretching it out and saving the tyres."

Daniel Ricciardo produced the fastest lap on his final lap as he claimed fourth ahead of his Renault team-mate Esteban Ocon, and Alex Albon, in the second Red Bull.&nbsp;

Lando Norris was seventh in the sole McLaren.

Pierre Gasly finished eighth for Alpha Tauri ahead of the &nbsp;Racing Points of Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez. On a troubled weekend, last year's winner Charles Leclerc was 14th, one place behind outgoing Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel.

 
On a cool dry day in the Ardennes, the race was preceded by drama and ceremony with Carlos Sainz's McLaren suffering an exhaust failure that ruled him out and then a minute's silence, in memory of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert, and the now-familiar drivers' anti-racism demonstration before the national anthem.

Hamilton made a smooth start from his record 93rd pole position ahead of Bottas while Verstappen fought to defend third position against Ricciardo.

Bottas chased Hamilton in vain, the champion controlling his advantage with imperious speed in the early laps as they pulled clear of the rest.

"We have one push now?" asked Bottas.&nbsp;

"Yes, but we agreed not to use it against each other," replied Mercedes.

"I've never heard of that," replied the clearly miffed Finn, who had said on Saturday that he would attack his team-mate to keep alive his own title bid.

The safety car came out on lap 11 after &nbsp;a collision involving Alfa Romeo's Antonio Giovinazzi and George Russell of Williams. The Italian spun into the barriers in front of the Briton whose car was hit by an errant rear wheel as he took evasive action.

The damaged cars left debris strewn across the circuit, but the drivers walked away unhurt.&nbsp;

"I'm ok," said Russell on team radio. "Nowhere I could go, guys."

The leaders pitted immediately, Bottas only just returning ahead of Verstappen after a slow stop. Ferrari appeared unready when Leclerc pitted, another issue in a bleak weekend that saw their drivers bump wheels in a scrap for 12th.

After the re-start, Bottas closed to nine-tenths briefly, on lap 17, but Hamilton raised his pace and was gone.

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory.

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory. The series leader and six-time champion registered his 89th career win with another flawless drive to take his fourth Belgian triumph, finishing 8.448 seconds clear of his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas. It was Hamilton's fifth win in seven races this year and extended his record run of points-scoring races to 40. Max Verstappen came third for Red Bull, seven seconds further adrift, to claim his sixth podium finish in succession. Hamilton, who had to nurse his car home on worn tyres, has 157 points in the title race, 47 clear of Verstappen. The 'black arrows' lead the constructors' championship with 264 points, well ahead of Red Bull on 158. "It wasn't the easiest of races," said Hamilton. "It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless I think it was ok in the end." At the British Grand Prix at the start of August, Hamilton had clung on to win after one of his tyres disintegrated. "I was concerned that we'd have a scenario like Silverstone, but the tyre seemed to have quite a bit of rubber left on it at the finish." Bottas admitted he could not match his team-mate's pace. "The start was a good opportunity, but Lewis played it really well and I just couldn't catch him. In the same car, with Lewis driving a flawless race, it was really difficult." Verstappen said he had a dull afternoon. "It was pretty boring, not very interesting and not much to do," he said. "I ran out of tyre at the end so I was just stretching it out and saving the tyres." Daniel Ricciardo produced the fastest lap on his final lap as he claimed fourth ahead of his Renault team-mate Esteban Ocon, and Alex Albon, in the second Red Bull. Lando Norris was seventh in the sole McLaren. Pierre Gasly finished eighth for Alpha Tauri ahead of the Racing Points of Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez. On a troubled weekend, last year's winner Charles Leclerc was 14th, one place behind outgoing Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel. On a cool dry day in the Ardennes, the race was preceded by drama and ceremony with Carlos Sainz's McLaren suffering an exhaust failure that ruled him out and then a minute's silence, in memory of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert, and the now-familiar drivers' anti-racism demonstration before the national anthem. Hamilton made a smooth start from his record 93rd pole position ahead of Bottas while Verstappen fought to defend third position against Ricciardo. Bottas chased Hamilton in vain, the champion controlling his advantage with imperious speed in the early laps as they pulled clear of the rest. "We have one push now?" asked Bottas. "Yes, but we agreed not to use it against each other," replied Mercedes. "I've never heard of that," replied the clearly miffed Finn, who had said on Saturday that he would attack his team-mate to keep alive his own title bid. The safety car came out on lap 11 after a collision involving Alfa Romeo's Antonio Giovinazzi and George Russell of Williams. The Italian spun into the barriers in front of the Briton whose car was hit by an errant rear wheel as he took evasive action. The damaged cars left debris strewn across the circuit, but the drivers walked away unhurt. "I'm ok," said Russell on team radio. "Nowhere I could go, guys." The leaders pitted immediately, Bottas only just returning ahead of Verstappen after a slow stop. Ferrari appeared unready when Leclerc pitted, another issue in a bleak weekend that saw their drivers bump wheels in a scrap for 12th. After the re-start, Bottas closed to nine-tenths briefly, on lap 17, but Hamilton raised his pace and was gone.

Majestic Hamilton wins in Belgium to close in on Schumacher record

Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton's early season form has been great and many wonder if he could match or break Michael Schumacher's record of winning 91 Grand Prix.

Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton's early season form has been great and many wonder if he could match or break Michael Schumacher's record of winning 91 Grand Prix. Many predict this record could be broken on Ferrari's home soil in Italy in September. Hamilton has shown absolute class in previous two outings which includes his win at Hungary Grand Prix on Sunday. The race on Sunday marked his 86th win in Formula One. 2020's Formula One season was delayed due to coronavirus and will witness four races in August, with two at Hamilton's home circuit Silverstone, one in Spain and then the Belgian Grand Prix – before moving to Italy for two races. Formula One's most successful racer Micheal Schumacher won five of his seven titles and gained 72 of his 91 victories with Ferrari. If Hamilton keeps winning, he could be chasing the record at Monza on September 6 and Ferrari-owned Mugello a week later. Hamilton's win in Hungary matched Schumacher's record of winning eight races at a single venue. Schumacher won eight French Grands Prix. The defending champion has never won more than five races in succession in the past and will have to maintain his momentum at Silverstone in the two versions of the British Grand Prix without any support from a crowd. "I love Silverstone but I've got to say that's something that's bugging me a little bit," he said on Sunday after being reminded that the British races would be run behind closed doors. "It's the highlight of the year, the support is insane," he said. "It grows every year and I get to interact with the fans differently on that weekend and it's such an honour and privilege to be able to perform well and win a Grand Prix in your home country. "It feels great to be out there once you're in the zone, but I do miss the energy they bring. There's nothing like it. I don't have a lot of years left and that's going to be one year that I miss all the fans. "But I do want them to stay safe and we are in that period of time where safety is everything. So, I hope I can perform well for them there because I know they will be watching." (Inputs from AFP)

Lewis Hamilton 'on-track' to break Schumacher's record at Ferrari-owned Mugello

The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced.

"Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said.

The race at Le Castellet becomes the 10th leg of the decimated 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).

The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced. "Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said.

The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced. "Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said. The race at Le Castellet becomes the 10th leg of the decimated 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).

French Formula One Grand Prix cancelled over coronavirus - organisers

The principal of the Scuderia Ferrari Mattia Binotto has said the team will reconsider their availability in Formula One shortly if austere budget caps are imposed.&nbsp;

Formula One has come to a halt with no races conducted in this year's championship, thus leading to major hit in their finances. So the F1 authorities had decided in cutting down on team budget but Ferrari boss is against this decision as he feels cutting down the budget will risk depreciating F1 as the zenith of motorsport.

In 2019, before the pandemic hit the sport, teams had agreed to a budget cap of $175 million for 2021. But after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the sport has come to a halt. With nine races being cancelled, this year the championship is on the verge of being called off.&nbsp;

After the last week meeting between the FIA and the teams, a budget on $145 million was set for 2021 and $130 million for 2022 was proposed. But the teams did not agree with the budget scale. Binotto, who heads the oldest Formula One team threatened that Ferrari will walk away from the sport.&nbsp;

Mattia Binotto told the Guardian: “The $145m level is already a new and demanding request compared to what was set out last June. It cannot be attained without further significant sacrifices, especially in terms of our human resources. If it was to get even lower, we would not want to be put in a position of having to look at other further options for deploying our racing DNA.”

Ferrari is the oldest team in the sport, who has been competing in the sport since the first championship in 1950.&nbsp;

“F1, we have all sorts of teams with different characteristics,” Binotto said. “They operate in different countries, under different legislation and with their ways of working. Therefore it is not simple and straightforward to make structural changes simply by linearly cutting costs.

“We are well aware that F1 and indeed the whole world right now is going through a particularly difficult time because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this is not the time to react in a hurry as there’s a risk of making decisions on the back of this emergency without clearly evaluating all the consequences.”

Binotto said that Ferrari has represented the country (Italy, which is one of the worst-hit nations in terms of coronavirus pandemic) and it is their "ethical duty" to look after their personals and avoid large scale job losses. He even stressed that this company is way more than just making profits.&nbsp;

Team Red Bull's principal Christian Horner also did not agree to the new budget planned.&nbsp;

The principal of the Scuderia Ferrari Mattia Binotto has said the team will reconsider their availability in Formula One shortly if austere budget caps are imposed.

The principal of the Scuderia Ferrari Mattia Binotto has said the team will reconsider their availability in Formula One shortly if austere budget caps are imposed. Formula One has come to a halt with no races conducted in this year's championship, thus leading to major hit in their finances. So the F1 authorities had decided in cutting down on team budget but Ferrari boss is against this decision as he feels cutting down the budget will risk depreciating F1 as the zenith of motorsport. In 2019, before the pandemic hit the sport, teams had agreed to a budget cap of $175 million for 2021. But after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the sport has come to a halt. With nine races being cancelled, this year the championship is on the verge of being called off. After the last week meeting between the FIA and the teams, a budget on $145 million was set for 2021 and $130 million for 2022 was proposed. But the teams did not agree with the budget scale. Binotto, who heads the oldest Formula One team threatened that Ferrari will walk away from the sport. Mattia Binotto told the Guardian: “The $145m level is already a new and demanding request compared to what was set out last June. It cannot be attained without further significant sacrifices, especially in terms of our human resources. If it was to get even lower, we would not want to be put in a position of having to look at other further options for deploying our racing DNA.” Ferrari is the oldest team in the sport, who has been competing in the sport since the first championship in 1950. “F1, we have all sorts of teams with different characteristics,” Binotto said. “They operate in different countries, under different legislation and with their ways of working. Therefore it is not simple and straightforward to make structural changes simply by linearly cutting costs. “We are well aware that F1 and indeed the whole world right now is going through a particularly difficult time because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this is not the time to react in a hurry as there’s a risk of making decisions on the back of this emergency without clearly evaluating all the consequences.” Binotto said that Ferrari has represented the country (Italy, which is one of the worst-hit nations in terms of coronavirus pandemic) and it is their "ethical duty" to look after their personals and avoid large scale job losses. He even stressed that this company is way more than just making profits. Team Red Bull's principal Christian Horner also did not agree to the new budget planned.

Principal of Scuderia Mattia Binotto threatens Ferrari will quit Formula One over COVID-19 cancellations

The second round of the Formula One Championship is set to be hosted by Bahrain, the island kingdom has faced an outbreak of the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sporting-events-that-fell-victim-to-coronavirus-280070" hreflang="en">Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus!</a>

To cope up with the virus, the organizers have announced that the race will be conducted without any spectators. The announcement was made on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-all-systems-go-australia-bahrain-f1-race-to-go-ahead-despite-coronavirus-fears-283896">'We are all systems go': Australia, Bahrain F1 race to go ahead despite coronavirus fears</a>

"Convening a major sporting event, which is open to the public and allows thousands of international travellers and local fans to interact in close proximity would not be the right thing to do at the present time," they said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-f1-grand-prix-postponed-due-to-continued-spread-of-novel-coronavirus-280489">Chinese F1 Grand Prix postponed due to coronavirus</a>

The race, which will be held on March 22, will only be televised due to the announcement.&nbsp;

"But to ensure that neither the sport nor its global supporter base, is unduly impacted, the race weekend itself will still go ahead as a televised event."

The Middle East has been hit by the novel coronavirus ever since its origin in Wuhan. Total of 6,980 confirmed cases are seen in the whole of the Middle East out of which 6,566 are in Iran. Bahrain faces 80 cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chinese Grand Prix was postponed due to the virus outbreak, the Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on April 19 in the Shanghai International Circuit which is approximately 800 kilometres away from Wuhan (the epicentre of the outbreak). However, due to the outbreak, the governing body had decided to postpone the event. The new date is yet to be declared.&nbsp;

Australian Grand Prix will continue as per the schedule with no hindrance due to the virus.&nbsp;

The second round of the Formula One Championship is set to be hosted by Bahrain, the island kingdom has faced an outbreak of the novel coronavirus. In pics: Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus!

The second round of the Formula One Championship is set to be hosted by Bahrain, the island kingdom has faced an outbreak of the novel coronavirus. In pics: Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus! To cope up with the virus, the organizers have announced that the race will be conducted without any spectators. The announcement was made on Sunday. Also read: 'We are all systems go': Australia, Bahrain F1 race to go ahead despite coronavirus fears "Convening a major sporting event, which is open to the public and allows thousands of international travellers and local fans to interact in close proximity would not be the right thing to do at the present time," they said. Also read: Chinese F1 Grand Prix postponed due to coronavirus The race, which will be held on March 22, will only be televised due to the announcement. "But to ensure that neither the sport nor its global supporter base, is unduly impacted, the race weekend itself will still go ahead as a televised event." The Middle East has been hit by the novel coronavirus ever since its origin in Wuhan. Total of 6,980 confirmed cases are seen in the whole of the Middle East out of which 6,566 are in Iran. Bahrain faces 80 cases of COVID-19. Earlier, Chinese Grand Prix was postponed due to the virus outbreak, the Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on April 19 in the Shanghai International Circuit which is approximately 800 kilometres away from Wuhan (the epicentre of the outbreak). However, due to the outbreak, the governing body had decided to postpone the event. The new date is yet to be declared. Australian Grand Prix will continue as per the schedule with no hindrance due to the virus.

F1: Bahrain Grand Prix will be held with no spectators due to coronavirus fears

China's novel coronavirus has adversely affected sporting events in China. The latest victim is the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympic-ceo-calls-coronavirus-concern-irresponsible-rumours-280473" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics CEO calls coronavirus concern 'irresponsible rumours'</a>

The Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on April 19 in the&nbsp;Shanghai International Circuit&nbsp;which is approximately 800 kilometres away from Wuhan (the epicentre of the outbreak). However,&nbsp;due to the outbreak, the governing body has decided to postpone the event. The new date is still to be declared.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sporting-events-that-fell-victim-to-coronavirus-280070" hreflang="en">Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus!</a>

F1 and FIA made an announcement on Wednesday where they said that they have "accepted a request"&nbsp;from meeting promoters to postpone the race.&nbsp;

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The 2020 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChineseGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChineseGP</a> will be postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak 
 
F1 and the FIA have accepted a request from the promoter to postpone the event 
 
We will continue to monitor the situation and assess potential alternative dates<a href="https://t.co/0VImeMSxlV">https://t.co/0VImeMSxlV</a>
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The race was postponed "in view of the continued spread of novel coronavirus", which is now named COVID-19.

"The Chinese Grand Prix has always been a very important part of the F1 calendar and the fans are always incredible," Formula 1 management said in a statement.

"We all look forward to racing in China as soon as possible and wish everyone in the country the best during this difficult time," it added.

The postponing of Shanghai Grand Prix raises doubts over the inaugural F1 race in Vietnam, which is scheduled for two weeks before the race in Shanghai.&nbsp;The virus has entered Vietnam.&nbsp;

The Formula One championship will commence with Australian Grand Prix on March 15.&nbsp;

The death toll in China's coronavirus leapt to 242 in just one day with over 60,000 infected, China's health ministry said.

Hubei's health commission said another 14,840 new cases were reported in the area. The previous record rise in the toll was 103 on February 10.

At least 1,355 people have now died nationwide due to the virus. The virus has already spread to at least 27 countries with Singapore reporting 50 new cases.

China's novel coronavirus has adversely affected sporting events in China. The latest victim is the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix. Also read: Tokyo Olympics CEO calls coronavirus concern 'irresponsible rumours' The Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on April 19 in the Shanghai International Circuit which is approximately 800 kilometres away from Wuhan (the epicentre of the outbreak).

China's novel coronavirus has adversely affected sporting events in China. The latest victim is the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix. Also read: Tokyo Olympics CEO calls coronavirus concern 'irresponsible rumours' The Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on April 19 in the Shanghai International Circuit which is approximately 800 kilometres away from Wuhan (the epicentre of the outbreak). However, due to the outbreak, the governing body has decided to postpone the event. The new date is still to be declared. Also see: Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus! F1 and FIA made an announcement on Wednesday where they said that they have "accepted a request" from meeting promoters to postpone the race. The 2020 #ChineseGP will be postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak F1 and the FIA have accepted a request from the promoter to postpone the event We will continue to monitor the situation and assess potential alternative dateshttps://t.co/0VImeMSxlV — Formula 1 (@F1) February 12, 2020 × The race was postponed "in view of the continued spread of novel coronavirus", which is now named COVID-19. "The Chinese Grand Prix has always been a very important part of the F1 calendar and the fans are always incredible," Formula 1 management said in a statement. "We all look forward to racing in China as soon as possible and wish everyone in the country the best during this difficult time," it added. The postponing of Shanghai Grand Prix raises doubts over the inaugural F1 race in Vietnam, which is scheduled for two weeks before the race in Shanghai. The virus has entered Vietnam. The Formula One championship will commence with Australian Grand Prix on March 15. The death toll in China's coronavirus leapt to 242 in just one day with over 60,000 infected, China's health ministry said. Hubei's health commission said another 14,840 new cases were reported in the area. The previous record rise in the toll was 103 on February 10. At least 1,355 people have now died nationwide due to the virus. The virus has already spread to at least 27 countries with Singapore reporting 50 new cases.

Chinese F1 Grand Prix postponed due to coronavirus

Max Verstappen believes he can thwart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../lewis-hamilton-not-ruling-out-a-ferrari-switch- 265758">Lewis Hamilton</a>'s bid for a seventh Formula One title this season if Red Bull gives him the tools to do the job.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-kubica-opens-new-chapter-as-alfa-romeo-reserve-271570">Formula 1: Kubica opens new chapter as Alfa Romeo reserve</a>

The 22-year-old Dutch driver won three races last year, finishing third overall in the championship, and is not about to be awed by anyone's reputation -- even if that person is possibly the greatest driver of all time.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lareus-awards-2020-nominees-for-best-sportsperson-announced-274642">Laureus Awards 2020: Nominees for best Sportsperson announced</a>

"It's very car-dependent of course in Formula One," Verstappen told reporters at a Red Bull team media event on Monday.

"Lewis is very good. He is definitely one of the best out there, but he's not God. Maybe God is with him, but he is not God."

Hamilton, 35, is chasing several records this season including Michael Schumacher's 91 race wins and seven titles and has won five of the last six championships with dominant Mercedes.

"We really want to mount a challenge to especially Mercedes and I think we can do that," said Verstappen, who last month signed a contract extension to the end of 2023 and has a new English trainer and physio for 2020.

He said the new contract had taken away the hassle of being asked all the time about his future, removing another potential distraction.

Verstappen suggested Hamilton could be vulnerable if put under sustained pressure, with the Briton having singled out Verstappen already last year as someone he gave more space to because of his aggressive reputation.

"I'm very much looking forward to it, everybody's fired up and everybody's very motivated. Coming off last year, at the end, we were very competitive," said the Dutch driver.

Team boss Christian Horner said Red Bull, who use Honda engines, would be helped by stable regulations and were looking to apply the lessons learned from 2019 to take the fight to Mercedes and Ferrari.

The new car will have its first track shakedown behind closed doors at Silverstone on Feb 12, with Verstappen and Thai team mate Alexander Albon starting pre-season testing in Barcelona on Feb. 19.

"Honda did such a great job, each introduction of an engine last year brought more performance and more power and it feels we're getting very, very close now to Mercedes," said Horner, whose team were third overall in 2019.

"That therefore puts the emphasis on the chassis side of the team... going into this year we feel better prepared, earlier, than we have certainly in the last five years."

Max Verstappen believes he can thwart Lewis Hamilton's bid for a seventh Formula One title this season if Red Bull gives him the tools to do the job. Also read- Formula 1: Kubica opens new chapter as Alfa Romeo reserve The 22-year-old Dutch driver won three races last year, finishing third overall in the championship, and is not about to be awed by anyone's reputation -- even if that person is possibly the greatest driver of all time.

Max Verstappen believes he can thwart Lewis Hamilton's bid for a seventh Formula One title this season if Red Bull gives him the tools to do the job. Also read- Formula 1: Kubica opens new chapter as Alfa Romeo reserve The 22-year-old Dutch driver won three races last year, finishing third overall in the championship, and is not about to be awed by anyone's reputation -- even if that person is possibly the greatest driver of all time. Also read- Laureus Awards 2020: Nominees for best Sportsperson announced "It's very car-dependent of course in Formula One," Verstappen told reporters at a Red Bull team media event on Monday. "Lewis is very good. He is definitely one of the best out there, but he's not God. Maybe God is with him, but he is not God." Hamilton, 35, is chasing several records this season including Michael Schumacher's 91 race wins and seven titles and has won five of the last six championships with dominant Mercedes. "We really want to mount a challenge to especially Mercedes and I think we can do that," said Verstappen, who last month signed a contract extension to the end of 2023 and has a new English trainer and physio for 2020. He said the new contract had taken away the hassle of being asked all the time about his future, removing another potential distraction. Verstappen suggested Hamilton could be vulnerable if put under sustained pressure, with the Briton having singled out Verstappen already last year as someone he gave more space to because of his aggressive reputation. "I'm very much looking forward to it, everybody's fired up and everybody's very motivated. Coming off last year, at the end, we were very competitive," said the Dutch driver. Team boss Christian Horner said Red Bull, who use Honda engines, would be helped by stable regulations and were looking to apply the lessons learned from 2019 to take the fight to Mercedes and Ferrari. The new car will have its first track shakedown behind closed doors at Silverstone on Feb 12, with Verstappen and Thai team mate Alexander Albon starting pre-season testing in Barcelona on Feb. 19. "Honda did such a great job, each introduction of an engine last year brought more performance and more power and it feels we're getting very, very close now to Mercedes," said Horner, whose team were third overall in 2019. "That therefore puts the emphasis on the chassis side of the team... going into this year we feel better prepared, earlier, than we have certainly in the last five years."

Formula 1: Hamilton is good but he's not God, says Verstappen

Six times <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moto-gp-marc-marquez-triumphs-in-valencia-to-give-honda-triple-crown-262815">MotoGP champion</a> Marc Marquez underwent shoulder surgery in Barcelona on Wednesday, his Honda team said in a statement.

The MotoGP season finished at Spain's Valencia circuit on November&nbsp;17, with Marquez taking his 12th victory of a dominant campaign.

"After experiencing some discomfort with his right shoulder,&nbsp;and after his Monday crash at the Jerez Test,&nbsp;the Repsol Honda Team rider elected to have the operation as a preventative measure after medical consultation," the team said.

"The operation is&nbsp;similar&nbsp;to the one performed on his left shoulder at the end of 2018 but less aggressive in nature."

Marquez, who will be joined by younger brother Alex at the factory Honda team next season, will be discharged within the next 48 hours.

Six times MotoGP champion Marc Marquez underwent shoulder surgery in Barcelona on Wednesday, his Honda team said in a statement. The MotoGP season finished at Spain's Valencia circuit on November 17, with Marquez taking his 12th victory of a dominant campaign.

Six times MotoGP champion Marc Marquez underwent shoulder surgery in Barcelona on Wednesday, his Honda team said in a statement. The MotoGP season finished at Spain's Valencia circuit on November 17, with Marquez taking his 12th victory of a dominant campaign. "After experiencing some discomfort with his right shoulder, and after his Monday crash at the Jerez Test, the Repsol Honda Team rider elected to have the operation as a preventative measure after medical consultation," the team said. "The operation is similar to the one performed on his left shoulder at the end of 2018 but less aggressive in nature." Marquez, who will be joined by younger brother Alex at the factory Honda team next season, will be discharged within the next 48 hours.

MotoGP champion Marquez undergoes shoulder surgery

By Mallika Singh

Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto described the collision of Ferrari cars on Sunday’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-verstappen-wins-brazil-gp-thriller-as-ferraris-collide-262825">Brazillian Grand Prix</a> as “silly”. Their drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel collided in a small crash, taking them both out of the race and leaving the team with big consequences.&nbsp;

Binotto said that Sunday’s “mistakes were the mistakes of the drivers”, however, no fines or blame are to be handed out but the priority is going to be on making the drivers realise their mistakes and learning from them.&nbsp;

“I have heard from both drivers, but I will meet with them to discuss what happened. There will be time for the team to analyse the video and data. It is not a matter of fining or blaming,” Binotto said.&nbsp;

Ferrari is to launch an investigation into the conduct of Vettel and Leclerc, who have been summoned to the company’s Maranello headquarters, prior to the season-ending race in Abu Dhabi next week.&nbsp;

The crash comes after 20 races and has left Binotto to deal with the situation to make sure that the highly combustible pairing does not derail Ferrari from its 2020 campaign.&nbsp;

"What happened today, I would say it was even lucky it happened this season because there will be an opportunity to clarify with them for it not to happen next year," Binotto said.&nbsp;

The collision happened on lap 66 of the race, with five more left while the team was competing for the fourth place in a queue of cars being lined up behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-hamilton-waiting-on-wolff-ahead-of-2021-contract-talks-262244">Lewis Hamilton's</a> Mercedes and Red Bull's Alexander Albon.&nbsp;

Albon was trying to pass Hamilton, while Vettel was trying to cross him with Leclerc behind him.&nbsp;

Leclerc overtook Vettel through turn one and when the German came back at him, they clashed on the track, ripping Lecrec’s tyre off the rim and giving Vettel a right rear puncture, which put them both out of the race.&nbsp;

It is the first time the pair has hit another in this season, while Binotto has been trying to manage the inevitable situation which is stemmed in Lecrec outperforming Vettel’s superiority with seven wins and two poles.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/verstappens-comments-not-professional-or-mature-says-vettel-262261">Vettel</a> chose not to make public statements regarding the incident and answering questions by saying that "It doesn't matter now...we both didn't finish the race, which is bad for us as a team."

While Leclerc made the statement that “I was aware he was on the outside. I left little space but enough for him and then I think he tried to squeeze me a little bit towards the inside and we were very close so we touched straight away. Very disappointing to end a race like this."

Leclerc is currently in fourth place behind Verstappen and is leading Vettel by 19 points in the world championship and is set to beat the German if he finishes higher than the seventh place in Abu Dhabi

"Currently they have good relations and are going well together. Certainly what happened today may not help. But I don't think there is a drama at all and I see it more as an opportunity in view of next year to clarify what is needed," Binotto told reporters after the race.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

By Mallika Singh Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto described the collision of Ferrari cars on Sunday’s Brazillian Grand Prix as “silly”. Their drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel collided in a small crash, taking them both out of the race and leaving the team with big consequences.

By Mallika Singh Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto described the collision of Ferrari cars on Sunday’s Brazillian Grand Prix as “silly”. Their drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel collided in a small crash, taking them both out of the race and leaving the team with big consequences. Binotto said that Sunday’s “mistakes were the mistakes of the drivers”, however, no fines or blame are to be handed out but the priority is going to be on making the drivers realise their mistakes and learning from them. “I have heard from both drivers, but I will meet with them to discuss what happened. There will be time for the team to analyse the video and data. It is not a matter of fining or blaming,” Binotto said. Ferrari is to launch an investigation into the conduct of Vettel and Leclerc, who have been summoned to the company’s Maranello headquarters, prior to the season-ending race in Abu Dhabi next week. The crash comes after 20 races and has left Binotto to deal with the situation to make sure that the highly combustible pairing does not derail Ferrari from its 2020 campaign. "What happened today, I would say it was even lucky it happened this season because there will be an opportunity to clarify with them for it not to happen next year," Binotto said. The collision happened on lap 66 of the race, with five more left while the team was competing for the fourth place in a queue of cars being lined up behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes and Red Bull's Alexander Albon. Albon was trying to pass Hamilton, while Vettel was trying to cross him with Leclerc behind him. Leclerc overtook Vettel through turn one and when the German came back at him, they clashed on the track, ripping Lecrec’s tyre off the rim and giving Vettel a right rear puncture, which put them both out of the race. It is the first time the pair has hit another in this season, while Binotto has been trying to manage the inevitable situation which is stemmed in Lecrec outperforming Vettel’s superiority with seven wins and two poles. Vettel chose not to make public statements regarding the incident and answering questions by saying that "It doesn't matter now...we both didn't finish the race, which is bad for us as a team." While Leclerc made the statement that “I was aware he was on the outside. I left little space but enough for him and then I think he tried to squeeze me a little bit towards the inside and we were very close so we touched straight away. Very disappointing to end a race like this." Leclerc is currently in fourth place behind Verstappen and is leading Vettel by 19 points in the world championship and is set to beat the German if he finishes higher than the seventh place in Abu Dhabi "Currently they have good relations and are going well together. Certainly what happened today may not help. But I don't think there is a drama at all and I see it more as an opportunity in view of next year to clarify what is needed," Binotto told reporters after the race. (With inputs from Reuters)

Ferrari’s 'silly' crash at Brazilian Grand Prix leaves team with big consequences

Sebastian&nbsp;Vettel&nbsp;dismissed&nbsp;comments&nbsp;by Max Verstappen as immature&nbsp;and unprofessional&nbsp;on Thursday after the Red Bull driver suggested Ferrari had gained an unfair advantage with their engine.

The Dutch youngster suggested at this month's US&nbsp;Grand Prix that Ferrari's poor performance in Austin was linked to Formula One's governing body closing a potential engine loophole.

The 22-year-old used the word "cheating" in an interview with Dutch television.

"I think everybody is free to say what they want. I don’t think anybody in the team took it personally,"&nbsp;Vettel&nbsp;told reporters at the Brazilian Grand Prix, the penultimate race of the season when asked for a reaction.

"I think it’s not&nbsp;professional&nbsp;and not&nbsp;mature, but I can also see that you are probably interested in me answering back," added the Ferrari driver.

"I don’t have much interest in that, other than saying that for us, the best way to answer in a way is to probably just go back to normal.

"Calling it that far I think is not right. But again, live and let live. If that’s what he thinks, that’s what he thinks. If next week he thinks something different, then, in the end, we don’t care so much."

Verstappen drew a line under the episode when he met reporters at the Red Bull factory before flying to Sao Paulo, saying it was a "very sensitive subject".

"I try not to go there anymore," he added. "I prefer just to go ahead, leave everything behind...just focus on Brazil."

Vettel&nbsp;blamed setup problems for the drop in performance and expected the Italian team to be challenging for victory again at Interlagos on Sunday.

"Should we have the strongest engine... that’s a great achievement by us, by our engine department," said the German.

"For the last five years, we had Mercedes having the strongest engine so if ... for a couple of months we are ahead then hopefully it stays like that for the next five years and I don’t care what people think or say."

Vettel&nbsp;will be making his 100th start for Ferrari after winning his four titles with Red Bull and he said he hoped it was a good one.

"I'm looking forward to more...I guess the 102nd race will be more important," he added, referring to the first Grand Prix of 2020.

Mercedes have already won both 2019 titles for an unprecedented sixth successive season.

Sebastian Vettel dismissed comments by Max Verstappen as immature and unprofessional on Thursday after the Red Bull driver suggested Ferrari had gained an unfair advantage with their engine.

Sebastian Vettel dismissed comments by Max Verstappen as immature and unprofessional on Thursday after the Red Bull driver suggested Ferrari had gained an unfair advantage with their engine. The Dutch youngster suggested at this month's US Grand Prix that Ferrari's poor performance in Austin was linked to Formula One's governing body closing a potential engine loophole. The 22-year-old used the word "cheating" in an interview with Dutch television. "I think everybody is free to say what they want. I don’t think anybody in the team took it personally," Vettel told reporters at the Brazilian Grand Prix, the penultimate race of the season when asked for a reaction. "I think it’s not professional and not mature, but I can also see that you are probably interested in me answering back," added the Ferrari driver. "I don’t have much interest in that, other than saying that for us, the best way to answer in a way is to probably just go back to normal. "Calling it that far I think is not right. But again, live and let live. If that’s what he thinks, that’s what he thinks. If next week he thinks something different, then, in the end, we don’t care so much." Verstappen drew a line under the episode when he met reporters at the Red Bull factory before flying to Sao Paulo, saying it was a "very sensitive subject". "I try not to go there anymore," he added. "I prefer just to go ahead, leave everything behind...just focus on Brazil." Vettel blamed setup problems for the drop in performance and expected the Italian team to be challenging for victory again at Interlagos on Sunday. "Should we have the strongest engine... that’s a great achievement by us, by our engine department," said the German. "For the last five years, we had Mercedes having the strongest engine so if ... for a couple of months we are ahead then hopefully it stays like that for the next five years and I don’t care what people think or say." Vettel will be making his 100th start for Ferrari after winning his four titles with Red Bull and he said he hoped it was a good one. "I'm looking forward to more...I guess the 102nd race will be more important," he added, referring to the first Grand Prix of 2020. Mercedes have already won both 2019 titles for an unprecedented sixth successive season.

Verstappen's comments not professional or mature, says Vettel

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-aims-for-zero-carbon-footprint-by-2030-261543">Formula One</a> championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row.

A Mercedes spokesman said technical director James Allison will be the most senior team member at the track in the Austrian's absence.

"With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics," Wolff said in a team preview of the season's penultimate race at Sao Paulo's Interlagos track.

"It's great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">Lewis Hamilton </a>won his sixth world championship when he finished second to team mate Valtteri Bottas in Austin, Texas, on November&nbsp;3 after the team sealed the constructors' championship in Japan on October&nbsp;13.

Mercedes have dominated the V6 turbo-hybrid era that started in 2014 and have won 14 of this season's 19 races so far,&nbsp;Hamilton 10 of them.

The Briton has 83 career wins and is closing in on Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91. The 34-year-old won in Brazil last year, while Mercedes wrapped up the constructors' championship there.

With both titles secure, and the top three positions in the constructors' standings locked in, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull will also be using the last two races to test ideas for next season.

"Despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements," said Wolff.

"There's no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving... we have two races to go in the 2019 season and we want to end this season on a high."

The last race is in Abu Dhabi on December&nbsp;1

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both Formula One championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both Formula One championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row. A Mercedes spokesman said technical director James Allison will be the most senior team member at the track in the Austrian's absence. "With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics," Wolff said in a team preview of the season's penultimate race at Sao Paulo's Interlagos track. "It's great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track." Lewis Hamilton won his sixth world championship when he finished second to team mate Valtteri Bottas in Austin, Texas, on November 3 after the team sealed the constructors' championship in Japan on October 13. Mercedes have dominated the V6 turbo-hybrid era that started in 2014 and have won 14 of this season's 19 races so far, Hamilton 10 of them. The Briton has 83 career wins and is closing in on Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91. The 34-year-old won in Brazil last year, while Mercedes wrapped up the constructors' championship there. With both titles secure, and the top three positions in the constructors' standings locked in, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull will also be using the last two races to test ideas for next season. "Despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements," said Wolff. "There's no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving... we have two races to go in the 2019 season and we want to end this season on a high." The last race is in Abu Dhabi on December 1

Motor racing: Mercedes boss Wolff to skip Brazil now both F1 titles won

Back in the heart of Texas and a race track carved out of the scrubland, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-lewis-hamilton-wins-mexico-grand-prix-258410">Lewis Hamilton</a> was hit by the pioneering spirit on Thursday and declared that he wanted to be the man to lead Mercedes into uncharted territory.

Earlier, on a chilly day in the Texas capital, Formula One presented a dramatic overhaul of the sport by unveiling the car of the future along with regulations aimed at producing closer and cheaper competition from 2021.

While other drivers stared cautiously out into the unknown, Hamilton, who can clinch a sixth world driver's crown at the US&nbsp;Grand Prix on Sunday, sounded like he was ready to saddle up and get to work.

"I always love a challenge," Hamilton said. "This team has shown it is in the best position to react to changes.

"The team is approaching it in an exciting way as a challenge. It is going to be an interesting time.

"Sometime next year my mindset will be to switch into 2021 and wanting to be the pioneer in that era."

Of more immediate concern, Hamilton is focused on becoming only the second six-times Formula One world champion and may not need to score even a point in Austin to get the job done.

The Briton is the most successful driver in US&nbsp;Grand Prix history, his six wins including five in Texas, and he has every intention of adding to the tally after winning in Mexico last weekend.

If Hamilton finishes eighth on Sunday then the title is won regardless but he will not need to score any points at all to continue as champion if team mate and sole rival Valtteri Bottas does not win.

Austin is a favourite track for the 34-year-old and he will also be fancied to round up his Texan win tally to six on Sunday although he is taking nothing for granted.

"There's still three races and anything can happen so nothing is a given," said Hamilton. "It is a good hunting ground in general so I am going to be pushing very hard this weekend."

While winning driver's and constructors' titles have become old hat for Hamilton and Mercedes. the status quo is expected to be turned on its head when the new regulations come on line.

It will be uncharted territory for drivers and teams, who will be operating under a budget cap of $175 million, about half the amount that some of the top outfits such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-blames-mercedes-strategy-for-singapore-result-251434">Mercedes</a>, Ferrari and Red Bull spend at present.

"When there is a challenge such as a whole new massive change in the regulations that is a huge challenge for me to use my skills to help steer the team in the right direction," said Hamilton. "I don't particularly see myself going somewhere else.

"I love being part of Mercedes. I love being part of the brand. I love being part of the history."

Back in the heart of Texas and a race track carved out of the scrubland, Lewis Hamilton was hit by the pioneering spirit on Thursday and declared that he wanted to be the man to lead Mercedes into uncharted territory.

Back in the heart of Texas and a race track carved out of the scrubland, Lewis Hamilton was hit by the pioneering spirit on Thursday and declared that he wanted to be the man to lead Mercedes into uncharted territory. Earlier, on a chilly day in the Texas capital, Formula One presented a dramatic overhaul of the sport by unveiling the car of the future along with regulations aimed at producing closer and cheaper competition from 2021. While other drivers stared cautiously out into the unknown, Hamilton, who can clinch a sixth world driver's crown at the US Grand Prix on Sunday, sounded like he was ready to saddle up and get to work. "I always love a challenge," Hamilton said. "This team has shown it is in the best position to react to changes. "The team is approaching it in an exciting way as a challenge. It is going to be an interesting time. "Sometime next year my mindset will be to switch into 2021 and wanting to be the pioneer in that era." Of more immediate concern, Hamilton is focused on becoming only the second six-times Formula One world champion and may not need to score even a point in Austin to get the job done. The Briton is the most successful driver in US Grand Prix history, his six wins including five in Texas, and he has every intention of adding to the tally after winning in Mexico last weekend. If Hamilton finishes eighth on Sunday then the title is won regardless but he will not need to score any points at all to continue as champion if team mate and sole rival Valtteri Bottas does not win. Austin is a favourite track for the 34-year-old and he will also be fancied to round up his Texan win tally to six on Sunday although he is taking nothing for granted. "There's still three races and anything can happen so nothing is a given," said Hamilton. "It is a good hunting ground in general so I am going to be pushing very hard this weekend." While winning driver's and constructors' titles have become old hat for Hamilton and Mercedes. the status quo is expected to be turned on its head when the new regulations come on line. It will be uncharted territory for drivers and teams, who will be operating under a budget cap of $175 million, about half the amount that some of the top outfits such as Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull spend at present. "When there is a challenge such as a whole new massive change in the regulations that is a huge challenge for me to use my skills to help steer the team in the right direction," said Hamilton. "I don't particularly see myself going somewhere else. "I love being part of Mercedes. I love being part of the brand. I love being part of the history."

Hamilton hit by pioneering spirit as F1 charts new course

Lewis Hamilton won the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-in-no-hurry-to-win-formula-one-title-in-mexico-255719">Mexican Grand Prix </a>for Mercedes after a first-lap scare on Sunday but the Briton will have to wait another week to wrap up his sixth Formula One world championship.

Hamilton's 10th win of the season and 83rd of his career was also a 100th for Mercedes as a constructor.

The victory stretched his lead over third-placed Finnish teammate Valtteri Bottas to 74 points, making the title a mere formality that will surely be secured in Texas next weekend.

"We came here thinking we were on the back foot, knowing it was a difficult race for us, but we pulled through," said Hamilton, who had not finished on the podium in Mexico for the past two years despite taking his 2017 and 2018 titles there.

"I had quite a bit of damage on my car so the race was quite a bit of a struggle," said Hamilton, referring to the consequences of an opening lap clash with Red Bull's Max Verstappen that he described as 'hair-raising'.

"I don't mind (not taking the title in Mexico).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/valtteri-bottas-wins-japanese-grand-prix-for-mercedes-255605">Bottas</a> now has to win in Austin with the fastest lap to stay in the mathematical reckoning while Hamilton need score only four points, an eighth-place,&nbsp;&nbsp;to be sure of the title whatever his teammate does.

Ferrari's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-vettel-ends-long-wait-for-victory-with-singapore-triumph-251252">Sebastian Vettel </a>was a close second with team mate Charles Leclerc, who started from pole position and set the fastest lap but was undone by a two-stop strategy and a problem pitstop, fourth.

Hamilton made his car's hard tyres last for 48 laps to the finish on a one-stop strategy despite questioning the wisdom of that approach.

Without regular race engineer Peter 'Bono' Bonnington for the first time in seven years, Hamilton suggested he had pitted too early,&nbsp;&nbsp;with chief strategist James Vowles having to reassure him over the radio that the win was possible.

Bottas, who crashed heavily in qualifying and started sixth after a lengthy car rebuild, said he could not have done much more on a slow-burning afternoon that was all about tyre management.

"I enjoyed it, considering yesterday. It's a good result," he said.

Mercedes have already secured the constructors' title for the sixth year in a row, and are also sure of an unprecedented sixth successive championship double.

Both Mercedes drivers lost out at the start, with Vettel squeezing out Hamilton, who had lined up third behind the two Ferraris but had to take avoiding action.

Four-times champion Vettel apologised to Hamilton, saying he had not seen him in his mirrors and was trying to get into Leclerc's slipstream for a tow down the straight.

Hamilton tracked across the grass runoff, wrestling with the steering wheel to prevent a race-wrecking spin, and returned in fifth place with Bottas losing a place to seventh.

As Leclerc led Vettel away, Red Bull's British-born Thai rookie Alexander Albon made the most of the mayhem to catapult himself into third place.

Verstappen, who was stripped of a pole on Saturday after failing to slow for warning flags, dropped to the back after contact with Bottas left the 22-year-old limping back to the pits on a wheel rim after a right rear puncture.

The Dutchman, winner in Mexico for the past two years, carved his way back through the field to sixth at the chequered flag with Albon fifth.

"Lewis was just cruising for most of the second stint up to the point where the pack was arriving, and then I guess he had enough tyres left," said Vettel of an afternoon on which he overruled the team on strategy and stayed out.

"It was a good race, but here and there maybe with a strategy we could have been a bit sharper."

Mexican Sergio Perez was seventh for Racing Point, to cheers from the sellout crowd.

Australian Daniel Ricciardo was eighth for Renault with Frenchman Pierre Gasly ninth for Toro Rosso and German driver Nico Hulkenberg taking the final point for Renault.

Russian Daniil Kvyat finished ninth on the track but was handed a 10-second time penalty after colliding with Hulkenberg and sending him spinning into the wall.

Lewis Hamilton won the Mexican Grand Prix for Mercedes after a first-lap scare on Sunday but the Briton will have to wait another week to wrap up his sixth Formula One world championship.

Lewis Hamilton won the Mexican Grand Prix for Mercedes after a first-lap scare on Sunday but the Briton will have to wait another week to wrap up his sixth Formula One world championship. Hamilton's 10th win of the season and 83rd of his career was also a 100th for Mercedes as a constructor. The victory stretched his lead over third-placed Finnish teammate Valtteri Bottas to 74 points, making the title a mere formality that will surely be secured in Texas next weekend. "We came here thinking we were on the back foot, knowing it was a difficult race for us, but we pulled through," said Hamilton, who had not finished on the podium in Mexico for the past two years despite taking his 2017 and 2018 titles there. "I had quite a bit of damage on my car so the race was quite a bit of a struggle," said Hamilton, referring to the consequences of an opening lap clash with Red Bull's Max Verstappen that he described as 'hair-raising'. "I don't mind (not taking the title in Mexico). Bottas now has to win in Austin with the fastest lap to stay in the mathematical reckoning while Hamilton need score only four points, an eighth-place, to be sure of the title whatever his teammate does. Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel was a close second with team mate Charles Leclerc, who started from pole position and set the fastest lap but was undone by a two-stop strategy and a problem pitstop, fourth. Hamilton made his car's hard tyres last for 48 laps to the finish on a one-stop strategy despite questioning the wisdom of that approach. Without regular race engineer Peter 'Bono' Bonnington for the first time in seven years, Hamilton suggested he had pitted too early, with chief strategist James Vowles having to reassure him over the radio that the win was possible. Bottas, who crashed heavily in qualifying and started sixth after a lengthy car rebuild, said he could not have done much more on a slow-burning afternoon that was all about tyre management. "I enjoyed it, considering yesterday. It's a good result," he said. Mercedes have already secured the constructors' title for the sixth year in a row, and are also sure of an unprecedented sixth successive championship double. Both Mercedes drivers lost out at the start, with Vettel squeezing out Hamilton, who had lined up third behind the two Ferraris but had to take avoiding action. Four-times champion Vettel apologised to Hamilton, saying he had not seen him in his mirrors and was trying to get into Leclerc's slipstream for a tow down the straight. Hamilton tracked across the grass runoff, wrestling with the steering wheel to prevent a race-wrecking spin, and returned in fifth place with Bottas losing a place to seventh. As Leclerc led Vettel away, Red Bull's British-born Thai rookie Alexander Albon made the most of the mayhem to catapult himself into third place. Verstappen, who was stripped of a pole on Saturday after failing to slow for warning flags, dropped to the back after contact with Bottas left the 22-year-old limping back to the pits on a wheel rim after a right rear puncture. The Dutchman, winner in Mexico for the past two years, carved his way back through the field to sixth at the chequered flag with Albon fifth. "Lewis was just cruising for most of the second stint up to the point where the pack was arriving, and then I guess he had enough tyres left," said Vettel of an afternoon on which he overruled the team on strategy and stayed out. "It was a good race, but here and there maybe with a strategy we could have been a bit sharper." Mexican Sergio Perez was seventh for Racing Point, to cheers from the sellout crowd. Australian Daniel Ricciardo was eighth for Renault with Frenchman Pierre Gasly ninth for Toro Rosso and German driver Nico Hulkenberg taking the final point for Renault. Russian Daniil Kvyat finished ninth on the track but was handed a 10-second time penalty after colliding with Hulkenberg and sending him spinning into the wall.

F-1: Lewis Hamilton wins Mexico Grand Prix

Renault were&nbsp;stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer.

The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal.

Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal.

"Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said.

Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race.

The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations.

They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged.

The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations.

"The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said.

"The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added.

"Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes."

Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details.

The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth.

Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th.

Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids. Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer. The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal. Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal. "Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said. Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race. The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations. They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged. The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations. "The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said. "The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added. "Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes." Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details. The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth. Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th. Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault stripped of Japanese Grand Prix points

MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez won the Japan Grand Prix Sunday to notch his tenth victory of the season and third win on the circuit in four years.

The Honda rider finished ahead of&nbsp;French rookie Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha-SRT and Ducati's Andrea Dovizioso.

It was the Spaniard's first-ever pole start at the Honda home race, which he dominated from the second lap.&nbsp;

Quartararo managed to shoot ahead of Marquez for a brief moment at the start, but Marquez quickly regained the lead and shot ahead with a one-second gap early in the race.

Marquez had already secured his season victory by winning the race in Thailand earlier this month.

Quartararo, who finished 0.870sec behind the winner for his third narrow defeat to the championship winner in recent races, was awarded as the rookie of the year while Dovizioso celebrated his 100th career podium finish.

MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez won the Japan Grand Prix Sunday to notch his tenth victory of the season and third win on the circuit in four years. The Honda rider finished ahead of French rookie Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha-SRT and Ducati's Andrea Dovizioso.

MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez won the Japan Grand Prix Sunday to notch his tenth victory of the season and third win on the circuit in four years. The Honda rider finished ahead of French rookie Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha-SRT and Ducati's Andrea Dovizioso. It was the Spaniard's first-ever pole start at the Honda home race, which he dominated from the second lap. Quartararo managed to shoot ahead of Marquez for a brief moment at the start, but Marquez quickly regained the lead and shot ahead with a one-second gap early in the race. Marquez had already secured his season victory by winning the race in Thailand earlier this month. Quartararo, who finished 0.870sec behind the winner for his third narrow defeat to the championship winner in recent races, was awarded as the rookie of the year while Dovizioso celebrated his 100th career podium finish.

Marc Marquez wins Japan Moto Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton said he was in no hurry to win a sixth world championship after the title battle was reduced to a two-horse Mercedes race at the Japanese Grand Prix.

The Formula One circus moves on to Mexico in two weeks' time where Hamilton, enjoying a 64-point lead over Valtteri Bottas, can wrap up a third consecutive drivers' crown if he outscores his teammate by 14 points or more.

More likely is that the battle will be concluded at the subsequent race at the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

Bottas's victory at Suzuka and Hamilton's third-place clinched a sixth consecutive constructors' championship for Mercedes and left the Finn as the only driver who can catch Hamilton over the final four races of the campaign.

"I think for me it's never been a case of always wanting to rush things," Hamilton told reporters Sunday adding that he expected a tough battle from his teammate over the final few races.

"Valtteri's driven well all year long, he's done a great job today and he will most likely do a very, very solid job these next races, so we still have a battle, the fight continues," he added.

Hamilton is not expecting an easy time in the rarefied high-altitude air of Mexico which should suit Ferrari, who holds an obvious advantage in straight-line speed.

"I think Mexico is generally our worst race of the year because of the way our car is set up and it's going to be a tough one for us," said a downbeat Hamilton, who was quicker on fresher tyres than second-placed Sebastian Vettel in the closing stages at Suzuka but was unable to barge past.

"The last few (races) have been pretty shocking, even though we've won the title," he said after resurgent Ferrari won in three races out of four up to Japan and out qualified Mercedes comfortably at Suzuka.

"I'm hoping for a better weekend but I think it's going to be very hard to beat the Ferraris with those long straights.&nbsp;

"We have no hope of getting by on those straights, that's for sure but even if you look at the others, the McLarens are picking up some serious speeds on the straights, so are the Red Bulls so I think it will be a tricky one.&nbsp;

"I don't anticipate (the title win) will be Mexico. I think we will be battling for a good few races."

Bottas jumped from third to first with an electric start to win in Japan ahead of Vettel and Hamilton.

With only Bottas now able to overtake Hamilton in the standings, Mercedes clinched an unprecedented sixth successive world championship double of drivers and constructors titles.

Hamilton dedicated the achievement to the team's former non-executive director Niki Lauda, who died in May.

"It definitely feels a little bit different," Hamilton said of the three-time Formula One world champion.&nbsp;

"I wouldn't say as happy as previously because naturally we lost Niki this year and it doesn't feel the same without him.&nbsp;

"Every time I walk into the garage I see Niki's headphones and his cap. I sat and I looked at it today.

"I think the whole team and the whole of Mercedes will probably dedicate this to Niki. I definitely do."

Lewis Hamilton said he was in no hurry to win a sixth world championship after the title battle was reduced to a two-horse Mercedes race at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton said he was in no hurry to win a sixth world championship after the title battle was reduced to a two-horse Mercedes race at the Japanese Grand Prix. The Formula One circus moves on to Mexico in two weeks' time where Hamilton, enjoying a 64-point lead over Valtteri Bottas, can wrap up a third consecutive drivers' crown if he outscores his teammate by 14 points or more. More likely is that the battle will be concluded at the subsequent race at the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Bottas's victory at Suzuka and Hamilton's third-place clinched a sixth consecutive constructors' championship for Mercedes and left the Finn as the only driver who can catch Hamilton over the final four races of the campaign. "I think for me it's never been a case of always wanting to rush things," Hamilton told reporters Sunday adding that he expected a tough battle from his teammate over the final few races. "Valtteri's driven well all year long, he's done a great job today and he will most likely do a very, very solid job these next races, so we still have a battle, the fight continues," he added. Hamilton is not expecting an easy time in the rarefied high-altitude air of Mexico which should suit Ferrari, who holds an obvious advantage in straight-line speed. "I think Mexico is generally our worst race of the year because of the way our car is set up and it's going to be a tough one for us," said a downbeat Hamilton, who was quicker on fresher tyres than second-placed Sebastian Vettel in the closing stages at Suzuka but was unable to barge past. "The last few (races) have been pretty shocking, even though we've won the title," he said after resurgent Ferrari won in three races out of four up to Japan and out qualified Mercedes comfortably at Suzuka. "I'm hoping for a better weekend but I think it's going to be very hard to beat the Ferraris with those long straights. "We have no hope of getting by on those straights, that's for sure but even if you look at the others, the McLarens are picking up some serious speeds on the straights, so are the Red Bulls so I think it will be a tricky one. "I don't anticipate (the title win) will be Mexico. I think we will be battling for a good few races." Bottas jumped from third to first with an electric start to win in Japan ahead of Vettel and Hamilton. With only Bottas now able to overtake Hamilton in the standings, Mercedes clinched an unprecedented sixth successive world championship double of drivers and constructors titles. Hamilton dedicated the achievement to the team's former non-executive director Niki Lauda, who died in May. "It definitely feels a little bit different," Hamilton said of the three-time Formula One world champion. "I wouldn't say as happy as previously because naturally we lost Niki this year and it doesn't feel the same without him. "Every time I walk into the garage I see Niki's headphones and his cap. I sat and I looked at it today. "I think the whole team and the whole of Mercedes will probably dedicate this to Niki. I definitely do."

Lewis Hamilton in no hurry to win Formula One title in Mexico

The Japanese Grand Prix's entire Saturday track programme, including qualifying, has been cancelled as "violent" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-world-cup-games-axed-as-super-typhoon-bears-down-on-japan-254892">Typhoon Hagibis bears down</a> on the Suzuka circuit, race organisers announced Friday.

Qualifying will be rescheduled to 10am Sunday, with the race taking place at 2:10pm as originally planned, providing the weather improves.

The Suzuka circuit will be closed, with no public or media allowed in for safety reasons as Hagibis, packing heavy rain and winds in excess of 200 kilometres (125 miles) per hour is expected to make landfall on Saturday. &nbsp;

"As a result of the predicted impact of Typhoon Hagibis on the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix, Mobilityland and the Japanese Automobile Federation have decided to cancel all activities scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 12," said a statement issued Friday by the motorsport's governing body FIA.

"The FIA and Formula One support this decision in the interest of safety for the spectators, competitors and everyone at the Suzuka Circuit," it continued.

The decision means the teams and drivers will just have Friday's two practice sessions in which to prepare for Sunday morning's qualifying session because Saturday's third session will not be rescheduled.

Safety first

Formula One qualifying in Japan was also moved to Sunday in 2004 and in 2010 because of poor weather.&nbsp;

The typhoon has already claimed casualties at the Rugby World Cup in Japan, with Saturday's England-France clash in Yokohama and the New Zealand-Italy match in Toyota City cancelled.

The volatile nature of Hagibis -- classed as "violent" and the equivalent of a Category Five hurricane -- means even Sunday's race could be under threat, though the current forecast is for clearer weather.

A postponement of the grand prix to Monday is impossible, the FIA said.

The latest forecast predicts Hagibis to make landfall near Tokyo on Saturday with the Suzuka circuit, which lies near the Honshu coast about 300 kilometres (180 miles) southwest of the capital, being battered on the fringes.

The safety-first stance of organisers comes after the tail-end of a typhoon led to tragedy at the 2014 race at Suzuka.

French driver Jules Bianchi crashed after losing control in rain and poor visibility and died the following year from his injuries having never recovered from a coma.

Leading drivers backed changing the weekend timetable. "I don't think anybody wants to put anybody's life in danger," said Ferrari's four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel at Thursday's media day.

"The decision is not for us, necessarily, because for us it's nice and easy, cosy, in the garage. But for the people out there around the track, it is not nice to be sitting there with rain going sideways."

The blank Saturday will be a huge disappointment to thousands of fanatical supporters at one of the best-attended races on the circuit.

The Japanese Grand Prix's entire Saturday track programme, including qualifying, has been cancelled as "violent" Typhoon Hagibis bears down on the Suzuka circuit, race organisers announced Friday.

The Japanese Grand Prix's entire Saturday track programme, including qualifying, has been cancelled as "violent" Typhoon Hagibis bears down on the Suzuka circuit, race organisers announced Friday. Qualifying will be rescheduled to 10am Sunday, with the race taking place at 2:10pm as originally planned, providing the weather improves. The Suzuka circuit will be closed, with no public or media allowed in for safety reasons as Hagibis, packing heavy rain and winds in excess of 200 kilometres (125 miles) per hour is expected to make landfall on Saturday. "As a result of the predicted impact of Typhoon Hagibis on the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix, Mobilityland and the Japanese Automobile Federation have decided to cancel all activities scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 12," said a statement issued Friday by the motorsport's governing body FIA. "The FIA and Formula One support this decision in the interest of safety for the spectators, competitors and everyone at the Suzuka Circuit," it continued. The decision means the teams and drivers will just have Friday's two practice sessions in which to prepare for Sunday morning's qualifying session because Saturday's third session will not be rescheduled. Safety first Formula One qualifying in Japan was also moved to Sunday in 2004 and in 2010 because of poor weather. The typhoon has already claimed casualties at the Rugby World Cup in Japan, with Saturday's England-France clash in Yokohama and the New Zealand-Italy match in Toyota City cancelled. The volatile nature of Hagibis -- classed as "violent" and the equivalent of a Category Five hurricane -- means even Sunday's race could be under threat, though the current forecast is for clearer weather. A postponement of the grand prix to Monday is impossible, the FIA said. The latest forecast predicts Hagibis to make landfall near Tokyo on Saturday with the Suzuka circuit, which lies near the Honshu coast about 300 kilometres (180 miles) southwest of the capital, being battered on the fringes. The safety-first stance of organisers comes after the tail-end of a typhoon led to tragedy at the 2014 race at Suzuka. French driver Jules Bianchi crashed after losing control in rain and poor visibility and died the following year from his injuries having never recovered from a coma. Leading drivers backed changing the weekend timetable. "I don't think anybody wants to put anybody's life in danger," said Ferrari's four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel at Thursday's media day. "The decision is not for us, necessarily, because for us it's nice and easy, cosy, in the garage. But for the people out there around the track, it is not nice to be sitting there with rain going sideways." The blank Saturday will be a huge disappointment to thousands of fanatical supporters at one of the best-attended races on the circuit.

Japan Grand Prix cancelled as Typhoon Hagibis bears down on Suzuka circuit

World champion Lewis Hamilton felt Mercedes had the car to win the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday but strategic errors in the middle of the race cost him a chance of victory as the championship leader had to settle for a fourth-place finish.

Hamilton started alongside pole-sitter Charles Leclerc on the front row with the second Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull's Max Verstappen behind him.&nbsp;

After fighting off Vettel to slot in behind Leclerc on the opening lap, Mercedes opted to keep Hamilton out for longer than his rivals rather than attempt an undercut to claim the lead, but the plan backfired when he emerged from his pit stop behind the Ferraris and the Red Bull.

"It's not been the weekend we wanted at all. I was all over Charles in the first stint and I think we had the pace to win the race today," Hamilton told reporters after the Grand Prix finished with a Vettel-Leclerc Ferrari one-two and Verstappen completing the podium.

"We discussed the possibility of the undercut in the strategy meeting this morning and I wanted to take the risk but then Ferrari decided to box (pit), so we did the opposite and I stayed out.&nbsp;

"I pushed hard and the tyres were feeling good, but after a few laps they started to drop off real quick. We made mistakes tonight, but in this team, we win and we lose together.

"We don't point the finger at people, that's always been our philosophy and that won't change because of one race.&nbsp;

"We're fighting a Ferrari team who are super hungry and pushing very hard," he added of the Italian outfit, who have now won the last three races.&nbsp;

"It's on each one of us to do a better job. I believe we're the best team, but we've got to push on. We'll debrief tonight, put our heads back in the scrum, and then come back fighting at the next race."&nbsp;

Team principal Toto Wolff felt Mercedes could have made better calls during the race.

"The undercut was more powerful than everyone expected and it would have been the right strategy call for us," he said of the decision to keep Hamilton out for seven laps longer than the other front runners.&nbsp;

"Once we had missed the chance for the undercut, we were hoping to create some opportunities later in the race by offsetting our tyres, but that plan didn't work," he added.&nbsp;

"I think we had a car capable for pole yesterday and we had an opportunity to win today, but we made too many mistakes. We're aware that we didn't deliver to the standards that we set ourselves this weekend, so we will review it and see where we can improve for Russia."&nbsp;

Despite the disappointing result, Hamilton still extended his lead over Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas, who was fifth, to 65 points with six rounds remaining.

World champion Lewis Hamilton felt Mercedes had the car to win the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday but strategic errors in the middle of the race cost him a chance of victory as the championship leader had to settle for a fourth-place finish.

World champion Lewis Hamilton felt Mercedes had the car to win the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday but strategic errors in the middle of the race cost him a chance of victory as the championship leader had to settle for a fourth-place finish. Hamilton started alongside pole-sitter Charles Leclerc on the front row with the second Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull's Max Verstappen behind him. After fighting off Vettel to slot in behind Leclerc on the opening lap, Mercedes opted to keep Hamilton out for longer than his rivals rather than attempt an undercut to claim the lead, but the plan backfired when he emerged from his pit stop behind the Ferraris and the Red Bull. "It's not been the weekend we wanted at all. I was all over Charles in the first stint and I think we had the pace to win the race today," Hamilton told reporters after the Grand Prix finished with a Vettel-Leclerc Ferrari one-two and Verstappen completing the podium. "We discussed the possibility of the undercut in the strategy meeting this morning and I wanted to take the risk but then Ferrari decided to box (pit), so we did the opposite and I stayed out. "I pushed hard and the tyres were feeling good, but after a few laps they started to drop off real quick. We made mistakes tonight, but in this team, we win and we lose together. "We don't point the finger at people, that's always been our philosophy and that won't change because of one race. "We're fighting a Ferrari team who are super hungry and pushing very hard," he added of the Italian outfit, who have now won the last three races. "It's on each one of us to do a better job. I believe we're the best team, but we've got to push on. We'll debrief tonight, put our heads back in the scrum, and then come back fighting at the next race." Team principal Toto Wolff felt Mercedes could have made better calls during the race. "The undercut was more powerful than everyone expected and it would have been the right strategy call for us," he said of the decision to keep Hamilton out for seven laps longer than the other front runners. "Once we had missed the chance for the undercut, we were hoping to create some opportunities later in the race by offsetting our tyres, but that plan didn't work," he added. "I think we had a car capable for pole yesterday and we had an opportunity to win today, but we made too many mistakes. We're aware that we didn't deliver to the standards that we set ourselves this weekend, so we will review it and see where we can improve for Russia." Despite the disappointing result, Hamilton still extended his lead over Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas, who was fifth, to 65 points with six rounds remaining.

Lewis Hamilton blames Mercedes strategy for Singapore result

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