George Russell sneaked in a top podium finish at the Austrian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris dramatically collided at the fag end of the race to gift the position to the Mercedes driver. McLaren's Oscar Piastri&nbsp;came in home P2 while Ferrari's Carlos Sainz held off Lewis Hamilton to secure the final podium position.&nbsp;

It was a disappointing home race for Red Bull and championship leader Verstappen who&nbsp;had to settle for the fifth position after being handed a 10-second penalty for allegedly making late moves under braking. Meanwhile, Norris was forced to retire after the back-and-forth battle with Verstappen led to a destroyed right rear for the McLaren car.&nbsp;

The incident transpired on uphill Turn 3 with seven laps to go in the 71-lap contest. Norris went to the left of Verstappen to take the racing line but the front right of Norris collided with the rear left of Verstappen. However, afterwards, the Dutch driver could be seen veering towards the left which caused significant damage to Norris' car.&nbsp;

Prior to the collision, Norris also received a five-second penalty for&nbsp;traversing track limits which ultimately counted for nothing as he had to retire the car.&nbsp;

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TeamLH has been talking about these antics since FOREVER 😭😭😭😭😭 excited to see the discourse today. <a href="https://t.co/nGKN4klI7q">pic.twitter.com/nGKN4klI7q</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-spanish-gp-max-verstappen-survives-mclaren-scare-to-finish-top-of-the-podium-734405">Also read |&nbsp;Spanish GP: Max Verstappen survives McLaren scare to finish top of the podium</a>

<h2>'Proud to be back'</h2>

Immediately after the collision, Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, could be heard telling Russell that he might just win the race, only to be shushed by the Briton, who dropped the 'F-bomb'.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A short 'Virtual Safety Car' ensured that Russell retained the leader despite a rampaging Piastri, attempting to cut the three-second deficit at the end of the race.&nbsp;

"Incredible, it was a tough fight, starting in third. I was watching on the big screen and knew Lando would try and get that race win, but the team has done a great job to get us in the fight," said Russell after the win.&nbsp;

"So proud to be back on the top step," added the British driver, who notched up Mercedes' last win in Brazil in 2022.

After Sunday's dramatic race, the action now moves to the crown jewel of the F1 circuit - the British Grand Prix at Silverstone next weekend. McLaren and Red Bull are expected to go toe-to-toe yet again as the gap has increasingly narrowed between Norris and Verstappen.&nbsp;

George Russell sneaked in a top podium finish at the Austrian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris dramatically collided at the fag end of the race to gift the position to the Mercedes driver.

George Russell sneaked in a top podium finish at the Austrian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris dramatically collided at the fag end of the race to gift the position to the Mercedes driver. McLaren's Oscar Piastri came in home P2 while Ferrari's Carlos Sainz held off Lewis Hamilton to secure the final podium position. It was a disappointing home race for Red Bull and championship leader Verstappen who had to settle for the fifth position after being handed a 10-second penalty for allegedly making late moves under braking. Meanwhile, Norris was forced to retire after the back-and-forth battle with Verstappen led to a destroyed right rear for the McLaren car. The incident transpired on uphill Turn 3 with seven laps to go in the 71-lap contest. Norris went to the left of Verstappen to take the racing line but the front right of Norris collided with the rear left of Verstappen. However, afterwards, the Dutch driver could be seen veering towards the left which caused significant damage to Norris' car. Prior to the collision, Norris also received a five-second penalty for traversing track limits which ultimately counted for nothing as he had to retire the car. TeamLH has been talking about these antics since FOREVER 😭😭😭😭😭 excited to see the discourse today. pic.twitter.com/nGKN4klI7q — deni (@fiagirly) June 30, 2024 × Also read | Spanish GP: Max Verstappen survives McLaren scare to finish top of the podium 'Proud to be back' Immediately after the collision, Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, could be heard telling Russell that he might just win the race, only to be shushed by the Briton, who dropped the 'F-bomb'. A short 'Virtual Safety Car' ensured that Russell retained the leader despite a rampaging Piastri, attempting to cut the three-second deficit at the end of the race. "Incredible, it was a tough fight, starting in third. I was watching on the big screen and knew Lando would try and get that race win, but the team has done a great job to get us in the fight," said Russell after the win. "So proud to be back on the top step," added the British driver, who notched up Mercedes' last win in Brazil in 2022. After Sunday's dramatic race, the action now moves to the crown jewel of the F1 circuit - the British Grand Prix at Silverstone next weekend. McLaren and Red Bull are expected to go toe-to-toe yet again as the gap has increasingly narrowed between Norris and Verstappen.

Austrian GP: George Russell secures surprise win after Norris, Verstappen collide

Max Verstappen resisted a spirited attack from Lando Norris on Saturday to claim victory for Red Bull in a feisty sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix.&nbsp;

The series leader and three-time world champion delivered a home win at the Red Bull Ring with a fighting response after being passed by McLaren's&nbsp;Norris in the opening laps.

His win was his third sprint triumph this year, his fifth in succession and his 10th&nbsp;in 15 contests&nbsp;as he came home 4.616 seconds ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri and 5.348 clear of Norris, who was unable to maintain his early speed.&nbsp;

"I had a good first lap," said Verstappen. "But once the DRS (Drag Reduction System) opened it took a few laps for me to get away and then I drove my own race. I had to work for it in that race and we have a few things to think about for tomorrow."

George Russell finished fourth for Mercedes ahead of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes. Charles Leclerc in the second Ferrari was seventh.&nbsp;

Sergio Perez came home eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Haas's Kevin Magnussen and Lance Stroll of Aston Martin.&nbsp;

Verstappen was given a rousing reception by the massed ranks of his 'orange army' in the grandstands, notably roaring with delight when he responded to snatch back his lead from Norris.&nbsp;

On a hot day in the Styrian Alps, Verstappen made a strong start from pole, after two formation laps, to lead through Turn One ahead of Norris with Piastri hustling his team-mate – and Sainz passing Russell for fourth.

The whole grid started on medium tyres, hoping to survive the rising temperatures and complete the distance of 24 laps, reduced to 23, without alarm.&nbsp;

The McLarens stayed in close proximity and threatened not only each other but the leader as they searched for space to pass, all three cars separated by less than six-tenths of a second.

Having made several moves, Norris finally found a way past the Dutchman at the top of the hill on lap five, but Verstappen responded immediately and regained the lead at the next corner allowing Piastri to use his momentum to take second.&nbsp;

Norris, who was feeling unwell before the race, was left struggling to resist the charging Sainz while Piastri set off in pursuit of Verstappen.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-massive-hunger-for-us-to-win-says-aiden-markram-on-facing-india-in-t20-world-cup-final-736195">‘There is a massive hunger for us to win’, says Aiden Markram on facing India in T20 World Cup Final</a>

By lap eight, the Mercedes were producing a measured helping of pace and this allowed Russell to pass Sainz on the outside of Turn Four for fourth with the help of Drag Reduction System (DRS).&nbsp;

Hamilton, in sixth, closed steadily on Sainz, who clung on while his Ferrari team-mate Leclerc rose from 10th&nbsp;to seventh, but was unable to make any further impression.&nbsp;

At the front, Verstappen relaxed after regaining control and moved out of DRS reach for Piastri who, by lap 15, was looking in his mirrors to see team-mate Norris closing in again. Verstappen led by two seconds.&nbsp;

As it unfolded, it was Verstappen controlling affairs and opening up a gap of more than four seconds as he cruised home before turning his attention to preparations for Grand Prix qualifying taking place later Saturday.

Max Verstappen resisted a spirited attack from Lando Norris on Saturday to claim victory for Red Bull in a feisty sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix. The series leader and three-time world champion delivered a home win at the Red Bull Ring with a fighting response after being passed by McLaren's Norris in the opening laps.

Max Verstappen resisted a spirited attack from Lando Norris on Saturday to claim victory for Red Bull in a feisty sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix. The series leader and three-time world champion delivered a home win at the Red Bull Ring with a fighting response after being passed by McLaren's Norris in the opening laps. His win was his third sprint triumph this year, his fifth in succession and his 10th in 15 contests as he came home 4.616 seconds ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri and 5.348 clear of Norris, who was unable to maintain his early speed. "I had a good first lap," said Verstappen. "But once the DRS (Drag Reduction System) opened it took a few laps for me to get away and then I drove my own race. I had to work for it in that race and we have a few things to think about for tomorrow." George Russell finished fourth for Mercedes ahead of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the second Mercedes. Charles Leclerc in the second Ferrari was seventh. Sergio Perez came home eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Haas's Kevin Magnussen and Lance Stroll of Aston Martin. Verstappen was given a rousing reception by the massed ranks of his 'orange army' in the grandstands, notably roaring with delight when he responded to snatch back his lead from Norris. On a hot day in the Styrian Alps, Verstappen made a strong start from pole, after two formation laps, to lead through Turn One ahead of Norris with Piastri hustling his team-mate – and Sainz passing Russell for fourth. The whole grid started on medium tyres, hoping to survive the rising temperatures and complete the distance of 24 laps, reduced to 23, without alarm. The McLarens stayed in close proximity and threatened not only each other but the leader as they searched for space to pass, all three cars separated by less than six-tenths of a second. Having made several moves, Norris finally found a way past the Dutchman at the top of the hill on lap five, but Verstappen responded immediately and regained the lead at the next corner allowing Piastri to use his momentum to take second. Norris, who was feeling unwell before the race, was left struggling to resist the charging Sainz while Piastri set off in pursuit of Verstappen. ALSO READ | ‘There is a massive hunger for us to win’, says Aiden Markram on facing India in T20 World Cup Final By lap eight, the Mercedes were producing a measured helping of pace and this allowed Russell to pass Sainz on the outside of Turn Four for fourth with the help of Drag Reduction System (DRS). Hamilton, in sixth, closed steadily on Sainz, who clung on while his Ferrari team-mate Leclerc rose from 10th to seventh, but was unable to make any further impression. At the front, Verstappen relaxed after regaining control and moved out of DRS reach for Piastri who, by lap 15, was looking in his mirrors to see team-mate Norris closing in again. Verstappen led by two seconds. As it unfolded, it was Verstappen controlling affairs and opening up a gap of more than four seconds as he cruised home before turning his attention to preparations for Grand Prix qualifying taking place later Saturday.

Austrian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen resists Lando Norris attack to win sprint race

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen delighted hordes of his vociferous supporters on Friday when he secured pole for Saturday's sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix.

The Red Bull driver clocked a best lap in one minute and 4.686 seconds to outpace nearest rival Lando Norris of McLaren by 0.093 seconds in hot conditions at the Red Bull Ring circuit, owned by Verstappen's team.&nbsp;

Oscar Piastri was third in the second McLaren ahead of George Russell of Mercedes, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, a disappointing sisth for Mercedes.&nbsp;

Sergio Perez was seventh for Red Bull ahead of Esteban Ocon and his Alpine team-mate Pierre Gasly.&nbsp;

"It’s good to be first here in front of all my home fans and in our home Grand Prix," said the 26-year-old Dutchman.

"It’s been a good day so far and it’s nice to drive the car. It feels well balanced and we only needed a few adjustments so all is going well.

"I’m not concerned about things and feel relaxed. Let’s see what happens tomorrow."

In a frantic, final few minutes, luckless Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc had a problem in the pit lane and was unable to cross the start line for his flying lap in time for it to count, leaving him down in 10th place.&nbsp;

"I don’t know what happened and the anti-stall switched off," said Leclerc. "I haven’t spoken to the team yet so I just don’t know."

On a hot afternoon in the Styrian Alps, with temperatures touching 28 degrees Celsius and rain threatening, Hamilton was first out on track ahead of Yuki Tsunoda and Valtteri Bottas, the Briton surviving a lurid slide at Turn One and an 'off' at Turn Six on his opening lap.&nbsp;

His time was disqualified for exceeding track limits before he resumed on his medium tyres after falling to 19th&nbsp;without a lap while Verstappen soared to the top ahead of Russell, the Dutchman clocking 1:05.690 to stay ahead of Russell by 0.074 seconds.

On his second run, Hamilton was 12th, barely comfortable, and he slipped to 13th&nbsp;as others improved, but enough to avoid joining both Saubers, Alex Albon of Williams, Nico Hulkenberg of Haas and Daniel Ricciardo of RB in taking an early exit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-final-warning-signs-for-team-india-as-richard-kettleborough-set-to-officiate-in-summit-clash-736042">T20 World Cup Final: Warning signs for Team India as Richard Kettleborough set to officiate in summit clash</a>

The SQ2 session saw Verstappen stay on top ahead of Russell and Hamilton taking sixth behind Piastri, Sainz, and Leclerc with Norris and Perez seventh and eighth.&nbsp;

Out this time went Kevin Magnussen in the second Haas ahead of Lance Stroll and two-time world champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin together with Yuki Tsunoda of RB and Logan Sargeant of Williams.&nbsp;

The top ten shootout began with Hamilton leading Russell down the pit-lane while late drama saw Leclerc halt before recovering in a race to join the fray within the time limit.&nbsp;

Leclerc failed to make it while on their flying laps, the Mercedes were outpaced by both McLarens with Verstappen claiming his eighth career sprint pole and second in succession in front of the adoring 'orange army'.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen delighted hordes of his vociferous supporters on Friday when he secured pole for Saturday's sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen delighted hordes of his vociferous supporters on Friday when he secured pole for Saturday's sprint race at the Austrian Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver clocked a best lap in one minute and 4.686 seconds to outpace nearest rival Lando Norris of McLaren by 0.093 seconds in hot conditions at the Red Bull Ring circuit, owned by Verstappen's team. Oscar Piastri was third in the second McLaren ahead of George Russell of Mercedes, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, a disappointing sisth for Mercedes. Sergio Perez was seventh for Red Bull ahead of Esteban Ocon and his Alpine team-mate Pierre Gasly. "It’s good to be first here in front of all my home fans and in our home Grand Prix," said the 26-year-old Dutchman. "It’s been a good day so far and it’s nice to drive the car. It feels well balanced and we only needed a few adjustments so all is going well. "I’m not concerned about things and feel relaxed. Let’s see what happens tomorrow." In a frantic, final few minutes, luckless Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc had a problem in the pit lane and was unable to cross the start line for his flying lap in time for it to count, leaving him down in 10th place. "I don’t know what happened and the anti-stall switched off," said Leclerc. "I haven’t spoken to the team yet so I just don’t know." On a hot afternoon in the Styrian Alps, with temperatures touching 28 degrees Celsius and rain threatening, Hamilton was first out on track ahead of Yuki Tsunoda and Valtteri Bottas, the Briton surviving a lurid slide at Turn One and an 'off' at Turn Six on his opening lap. His time was disqualified for exceeding track limits before he resumed on his medium tyres after falling to 19th without a lap while Verstappen soared to the top ahead of Russell, the Dutchman clocking 1:05.690 to stay ahead of Russell by 0.074 seconds. On his second run, Hamilton was 12th, barely comfortable, and he slipped to 13th as others improved, but enough to avoid joining both Saubers, Alex Albon of Williams, Nico Hulkenberg of Haas and Daniel Ricciardo of RB in taking an early exit. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup Final: Warning signs for Team India as Richard Kettleborough set to officiate in summit clash The SQ2 session saw Verstappen stay on top ahead of Russell and Hamilton taking sixth behind Piastri, Sainz, and Leclerc with Norris and Perez seventh and eighth. Out this time went Kevin Magnussen in the second Haas ahead of Lance Stroll and two-time world champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin together with Yuki Tsunoda of RB and Logan Sargeant of Williams. The top ten shootout began with Hamilton leading Russell down the pit-lane while late drama saw Leclerc halt before recovering in a race to join the fray within the time limit. Leclerc failed to make it while on their flying laps, the Mercedes were outpaced by both McLarens with Verstappen claiming his eighth career sprint pole and second in succession in front of the adoring 'orange army'.

Austrian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen on pole as Lando Norris takes second for Saturday's spirnt race

Amid Red Bull's waning domination in Formula 1 and the recent emergence of McLaren, speculations over Max Verstappen's future have gained pace. The Red Bull driver managed to win the Spanish Grand Prix by the skin of his teeth and if it wasn't for a slow start from Lando Norris, may have very well lost the race.

Amid Red Bull's waning domination in Formula 1 and the recent emergence of McLaren, speculations over Max Verstappen's future have gained pace. The Red Bull driver managed to win the Spanish Grand Prix by the skin of his teeth and if it wasn't for a slow start from Lando Norris, may have very well lost the race. Quizzed ahead of the Austrian grand Prix, Verstappen's home race, the three-time world champion said he intended to stay at Red Bull, despite overtures from Mercedes. "I think I've said this before. Naturally, of course, people are talking but it's most important just that we just have a very competitive car for the future," said Verstappen. "At the moment, of course, it is very tight but we are working very well as a team to try and improve more. For sure, I said this already with the team, we are working and focusing also on next year to try and be competitive again," he added. Pressed by the media if it meant that Red Bull was not the fastest car on the grid anymore, Verstappen clarified: "I don't think that's how Formula 1 works where then suddenly you could say 'well, bye guys!' It's not how it works." Verstappen added that he and the team had already started working on next year's car. "I've got a long contract with the team, I'm very happy where I'm at and, like I said before, we are focusing already on next year with things that we can implement on the car. So, I guess that should say enough of where I'm driving next year." Also read | Not Red Bull or Ferrari: Carlos Sainz reveals the fastest car in Formula 1 currently Red Bull's struggles While Red Bull and Ferrari struggled in certain sections of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya over the weekend, McLaren dominated the race and did not face any significant problems. Norris started the race at the front of the grid but could not get out of the blocks quickly as Mercedes' George Russell took the lead at Turn 1. Verstappen, however, kept up with the pace and managed to take the inside line to go past the British driver a few minutes later on lap 3. Norris lost the opportunity to win the race after the team took the gamble of staying out, behind Russell while the likes of Verstappen and Hamilton preferred to pit early. Norris lost nearly four seconds sitting behind Russell and later had to endure a slow pit exit, which contributed to a second-place finish. Despite the second-finish, experts are of the view that McLaren may have eclipsed Red Bull which has installed new upgrades in the car in recent months. The upgrades, however, have failed to provide any significant advantage to Verstappen or his teammate Sergio Perez. (With inputs from agencies)

'I don't think...': Max Verstappen on his potential switch to Mercedes from Red Bull

Red Bull will be wary of McLaren's Lando&nbsp;Norris&nbsp;at a home Austrian Grand Prix that Max Verstappen has dominated in the past but this time looks a tight battle between the two. The 11th round of the Formula One season is a sprint weekend, for the third time this year, with a 100km race at Spielberg's Red Bull Ring on Saturday before the main event on Sunday.

Red Bull's triple world champion, cheered on by his orange army of travelling fans, will hope to stretch the 69-point lead he enjoys over closest challenger&nbsp;Norris&nbsp;in the papaya-liveried McLaren. Norris&nbsp;has a point to make after taking pole in Spain last Sunday and finishing second. He was also runner-up in Canada -- both races the 24-year-old felt he should have won.

Spielberg is the shortest lap, in terms of time, on the calendar with Verstappen taking pole last year in just over 64 seconds. "On such a short lap it's going to be so tight," said Red Bull principal Christian Horner. "We expect Mclaren and Lando to be fast again. Ferrari, Mercedes, who knows? If you look at the gap to those guys after the (Spanish) race it was pretty similar to last year. The one who's stepped up is Lando. "We're having to fight really hard for the wins at the moment and we're having to be on the top of our game as a team ..., that's Formula One, that's as it should be."

Winner in Miami in May,&nbsp;Norris&nbsp;was also runner-up in Imola and China while last year's Austrian race won by Verstappen, for the fourth time in six years, was where McLaren brought breakthrough upgrades. The Briton has now finished second 10 times in 23 races. He was 2.2 seconds behind Verstappen in Barcelona and 3.8 adrift in Canada. The gap at Imola was 0.7 and he beat the Dutch driver by 7.6 in Miami.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-america-2024-lautaro-martinezs-late-strike-sends-argentina-into-quarterfinal-735153">Copa America 2024: Lautaro Martinez's late strike sends Argentina into quarterfinal</a>

Austria, and then Silverstone, are favourite circuits where he has gone well in the past. "We're on a good roll. We're doing well ... I need to just tidy up a few little bits and we'll be on top," he said in Spain. "I'm confident. Every weekend we go into now, the car's performing extremely well. We're always there or thereabouts within a couple of tenths of pole."

Verstappen and&nbsp;Norris's team mates, Sergio Perez and Oscar Piastri, will be hoping to get in on the act after disappointing results in Spain -- the Mexican only eighth and Australian seventh.

Mercedes and Ferrari should be in the mix, with seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton taking his first podium of the season with Mercedes in Spain and Ferrari's Carlos Sainz holding the race lap record at the Red Bull Ring, albeit from 2020.

"It is a very different circuit to last weekend," cautioned Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. "There is plenty of low to mid-speed content, punctuated by some longer straights. That will provide another challenge and reference point for our car."

The chaos of last year, with the results revised five hours after the finish following a flurry of penalties to nearly half the field for exceeding track limits, should no longer be a concern with a strip of gravel added to turns nine and 10.

Red Bull will be wary of McLaren's Lando Norris at a home Austrian Grand Prix that Max Verstappen has dominated in the past but this time looks a tight battle between the two.

Red Bull will be wary of McLaren's Lando Norris at a home Austrian Grand Prix that Max Verstappen has dominated in the past but this time looks a tight battle between the two. The 11th round of the Formula One season is a sprint weekend, for the third time this year, with a 100km race at Spielberg's Red Bull Ring on Saturday before the main event on Sunday. Red Bull's triple world champion, cheered on by his orange army of travelling fans, will hope to stretch the 69-point lead he enjoys over closest challenger Norris in the papaya-liveried McLaren. Norris has a point to make after taking pole in Spain last Sunday and finishing second. He was also runner-up in Canada -- both races the 24-year-old felt he should have won. Spielberg is the shortest lap, in terms of time, on the calendar with Verstappen taking pole last year in just over 64 seconds. "On such a short lap it's going to be so tight," said Red Bull principal Christian Horner. "We expect Mclaren and Lando to be fast again. Ferrari, Mercedes, who knows? If you look at the gap to those guys after the (Spanish) race it was pretty similar to last year. The one who's stepped up is Lando. "We're having to fight really hard for the wins at the moment and we're having to be on the top of our game as a team ..., that's Formula One, that's as it should be." Winner in Miami in May, Norris was also runner-up in Imola and China while last year's Austrian race won by Verstappen, for the fourth time in six years, was where McLaren brought breakthrough upgrades. The Briton has now finished second 10 times in 23 races. He was 2.2 seconds behind Verstappen in Barcelona and 3.8 adrift in Canada. The gap at Imola was 0.7 and he beat the Dutch driver by 7.6 in Miami. Also read: Copa America 2024: Lautaro Martinez's late strike sends Argentina into quarterfinal Austria, and then Silverstone, are favourite circuits where he has gone well in the past. "We're on a good roll. We're doing well ... I need to just tidy up a few little bits and we'll be on top," he said in Spain. "I'm confident. Every weekend we go into now, the car's performing extremely well. We're always there or thereabouts within a couple of tenths of pole." Verstappen and Norris's team mates, Sergio Perez and Oscar Piastri, will be hoping to get in on the act after disappointing results in Spain -- the Mexican only eighth and Australian seventh. Mercedes and Ferrari should be in the mix, with seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton taking his first podium of the season with Mercedes in Spain and Ferrari's Carlos Sainz holding the race lap record at the Red Bull Ring, albeit from 2020. "It is a very different circuit to last weekend," cautioned Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. "There is plenty of low to mid-speed content, punctuated by some longer straights. That will provide another challenge and reference point for our car." The chaos of last year, with the results revised five hours after the finish following a flurry of penalties to nearly half the field for exceeding track limits, should no longer be a concern with a strip of gravel added to turns nine and 10.

Red Bull wary of McLaren's Lando Norris ahead of home Austrian race

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen survived a close scare from McLaren's Lando Norris to secure the top podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix to extend his championship lead.&nbsp;

The race was special for Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton who returned to the podium for the first time this season, and the first time since the Mexican Grand Prix last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Red Bull had to dig deep and if it wasn't for Verstappen's opening lap push, the race could have gone the other way as Norris pushed for a dogfight till the very last lap of the race.&nbsp;

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<h2>Norris' opening lap woes</h2>

Norris started the race at the front of the grid but could not get out of the blocks quickly as Mercedes' George Russell took the lead at Turn 1. Verstappen, however, kept up with the pace and managed to take the inside line to go past the British driver a few minutes later on lap 3.&nbsp;

Norris lost the opportunity to win the race after the team took the gamble of staying out, behind Russell while the likes of Verstappen, and Hamilton preferred to pit early. Norris&nbsp;lost nearly four seconds sitting behind Russell and later had to endure a slow pit exit, which contributed to a second-place finish.&nbsp;

Despite the close nature of the finish, it was Verstappen's 61st career win, seventh of the season, and fourth at the track he first shot onto the F1 scene as a teenager in 2016.

"What made the race was the beginning, I took the lead on Lap 3, and then I had a buffer.&nbsp;That in that first stint, I could eke out the gap a little bit and after that, I had to drive a defensive race against Lando and McLaren," said Verstappen in the post-match interview.&nbsp;

"They were very quick today, and in the last few laps, they were very fast, but we did everything well.&nbsp;We drove quite an aggressive strategy, but luckily it played out in the end. It was quite close, but I am very happy to win," he added.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Norris, looking dejected by the result, conceded that it was the opening that cost him the race, akin to Imola and Canadian GP.&nbsp;

"I had to do a bit of rallying on the straight, I had to take to the grass a little bit, which lost me a bit of momentum, and then of course, we're braking quite late into Turn 1," he said.

McLaren and Norris would have the opportunity to get one better as the second of the triple-header race weekend moves to Red Bull Ring in Austria.

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen survived a close scare from McLaren's Lando Norris to secure the top podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix to extend his championship lead.

Three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen survived a close scare from McLaren's Lando Norris to secure the top podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix to extend his championship lead. The race was special for Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton who returned to the podium for the first time this season, and the first time since the Mexican Grand Prix last year. Red Bull had to dig deep and if it wasn't for Verstappen's opening lap push, the race could have gone the other way as Norris pushed for a dogfight till the very last lap of the race. Ice cold under the pressure 🥶#F1 #SpanishGP pic.twitter.com/3EaLi1hLIx — Formula 1 (@F1) June 23, 2024 × Norris' opening lap woes Norris started the race at the front of the grid but could not get out of the blocks quickly as Mercedes' George Russell took the lead at Turn 1. Verstappen, however, kept up with the pace and managed to take the inside line to go past the British driver a few minutes later on lap 3. Norris lost the opportunity to win the race after the team took the gamble of staying out, behind Russell while the likes of Verstappen, and Hamilton preferred to pit early. Norris lost nearly four seconds sitting behind Russell and later had to endure a slow pit exit, which contributed to a second-place finish. Despite the close nature of the finish, it was Verstappen's 61st career win, seventh of the season, and fourth at the track he first shot onto the F1 scene as a teenager in 2016. "What made the race was the beginning, I took the lead on Lap 3, and then I had a buffer. That in that first stint, I could eke out the gap a little bit and after that, I had to drive a defensive race against Lando and McLaren," said Verstappen in the post-match interview. "They were very quick today, and in the last few laps, they were very fast, but we did everything well. We drove quite an aggressive strategy, but luckily it played out in the end. It was quite close, but I am very happy to win," he added. Also read | Mercedes calls police to investigate 'email' accusing team of DELIBERATELY HARMING Lewis Hamilton Meanwhile, Norris, looking dejected by the result, conceded that it was the opening that cost him the race, akin to Imola and Canadian GP. "I had to do a bit of rallying on the straight, I had to take to the grass a little bit, which lost me a bit of momentum, and then of course, we're braking quite late into Turn 1," he said. McLaren and Norris would have the opportunity to get one better as the second of the triple-header race weekend moves to Red Bull Ring in Austria.

Spanish GP: Max Verstappen survives McLaren scare to finish top of the podium

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen is all geared up for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, to take place on June 23. After his sixth victory of the season from the action-packed Canadian GP, Verstappen is now focused on the Spanish challenge and reckoned that Red Bull is 'aiming to keep the momentum from Canada'. In his preparations, the Red Bull driver is working with the Milton Keynes-based squad to maximise the car's performance for the forthcoming event at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Ahead of the Spanish GP, Verstappen said in Red Bull preview, "We are back to the European races for a while now and I have been with the Team at the factory this week preparing for the Spanish Grand Prix, being the first race of a busy triple header. It has a good mix of high and low-speed corners and we have historically driven well there so hopefully we can maximize the performance of the car this weekend."

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The Dutchman, who won his maiden race in Spanish GP, hopes to continue the momentum from the recent win in Canada. Further, he also hopes for clear skies for the race weekend in Barcelona later this week.&nbsp;

In this regard, he added, "We are aiming to keep the momentum going from Canada, so we are looking forward to racing this weekend and hopefully have some good weather!"

Verstappen is heading into the forthcoming race as an overwhelming favourite, winning the last two editions in Barcelona. However, he is expected to face a stiff challenge for his third successive victory at the track.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen is all geared up for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, to take place on June 23. After his sixth victory of the season from the action-packed Canadian GP, Verstappen is now focused on the Spanish challenge and reckoned that Red Bull is 'aiming to keep the momentum from Canada'.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen is all geared up for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, to take place on June 23. After his sixth victory of the season from the action-packed Canadian GP, Verstappen is now focused on the Spanish challenge and reckoned that Red Bull is 'aiming to keep the momentum from Canada'. In his preparations, the Red Bull driver is working with the Milton Keynes-based squad to maximise the car's performance for the forthcoming event at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Ahead of the Spanish GP, Verstappen said in Red Bull preview, "We are back to the European races for a while now and I have been with the Team at the factory this week preparing for the Spanish Grand Prix, being the first race of a busy triple header. It has a good mix of high and low-speed corners and we have historically driven well there so hopefully we can maximize the performance of the car this weekend." Also read: Rory McIlroy to 'take time off' from golf after heartbreaking one-stroke loss at US Open The Dutchman, who won his maiden race in Spanish GP, hopes to continue the momentum from the recent win in Canada. Further, he also hopes for clear skies for the race weekend in Barcelona later this week. In this regard, he added, "We are aiming to keep the momentum going from Canada, so we are looking forward to racing this weekend and hopefully have some good weather!" Verstappen is heading into the forthcoming race as an overwhelming favourite, winning the last two editions in Barcelona. However, he is expected to face a stiff challenge for his third successive victory at the track.

'Aiming to keep the momentum from Canada': Red Bull's Max Verstappen ahead of Spanish Grand Prix

Max Verstappen eased the pressure on Sunday when he completed a hat-trick of victories at the Canadian Grand Prix to consolidate his early-season lead in the drivers' championship.

After being beaten in two of the previous three races, the series leader and three-time champion bounced back to his competitive best, with the aid of excellent calls from his team in a tactical race, to win by 3.879 seconds ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris.

Mercedes' George Russell, who started from pole position, finished third ahead of a fast, but frustrated team-mate in seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton.

Verstappen scored his third consecutive triumph at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and the 60th win of his career, having started second on the grid and, at times, riding his luck in a dramatic contest featuring two Safety Car interventions.

"That was a pretty crazy race and a lot of things were happening,"said Verstappen. "We had to keep on top of our calls and as a team we did really well today. We remained calm and we pitted at the right time."

With both Ferraris failing to finish – just two weeks after Charles Leclerc claimed an emotional win in his home Monaco Grand Prix – Verstappen's success lifted him 56 points clear of the Monegasque driver in the title race.

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"The safety cars worked out nicely for us this time," he added, referring to the Miami Grand Prix where he lost his advantage, allowing Norris to claim his maiden win. "But even after that we were managing the gaps quite well.

"I loved it. It was a lot of fun. These kind of races you need to have once in a while. The most important thing is that we won. The suspension problem is not particularly an issue."

"We know what it is, so we just need to work on it. We still have room to improve."

Hamilton, who was self-critical after the race, was passed by Russell in the closing laps, but finished ahead of fifth-placed Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and two-time champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin.

<h2>-'It was wild. It was chaotic' -</h2>

Local hope Lance Stroll was seventh in the second Aston Martin ahead of RB's Daniel Ricciardo and the two Alpines of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon.

"A lot of fun," said Norris, who, with Piastri, brought McLaren their first points in Canada since 2014 on the 56th anniversary of the team's first win, with Bruce McLaren, at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix.

"It was wild. It was chaotic. It was eventful. To be honest, I felt like I drove a good race, the whole time, from start to finish. These conditions are so stressful inside the car, but very enjoyable at the same time."

Russell said: "That was an ugly race on my behalf and I am sorry for that. It feels like a big missed opportunity to be honest. We had a fast car this weekend."

On a day of showers and sunshine, five cars -- Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull, both Ferraris and both Williams -- failed to finish in front of a big enthusiastic crowd who revelled in the changing conditions and race positions.

Verstappen's win carried him to 194 points in the drivers' championship ahead of Leclerc on 138 and Norris on 131.&nbsp; In the constructors' race Red Bull, in a troubled season by their standards, moved to 301 points ahead of Ferrari on 252.

Max Verstappen eased the pressure on Sunday when he completed a hat-trick of victories at the Canadian Grand Prix to consolidate his early-season lead in the drivers' championship.

Max Verstappen eased the pressure on Sunday when he completed a hat-trick of victories at the Canadian Grand Prix to consolidate his early-season lead in the drivers' championship. After being beaten in two of the previous three races, the series leader and three-time champion bounced back to his competitive best, with the aid of excellent calls from his team in a tactical race, to win by 3.879 seconds ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris. Mercedes' George Russell, who started from pole position, finished third ahead of a fast, but frustrated team-mate in seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. Verstappen scored his third consecutive triumph at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and the 60th win of his career, having started second on the grid and, at times, riding his luck in a dramatic contest featuring two Safety Car interventions. "That was a pretty crazy race and a lot of things were happening,"said Verstappen. "We had to keep on top of our calls and as a team we did really well today. We remained calm and we pitted at the right time." With both Ferraris failing to finish – just two weeks after Charles Leclerc claimed an emotional win in his home Monaco Grand Prix – Verstappen's success lifted him 56 points clear of the Monegasque driver in the title race. ALSO READ: French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris "The safety cars worked out nicely for us this time," he added, referring to the Miami Grand Prix where he lost his advantage, allowing Norris to claim his maiden win. "But even after that we were managing the gaps quite well. "I loved it. It was a lot of fun. These kind of races you need to have once in a while. The most important thing is that we won. The suspension problem is not particularly an issue." "We know what it is, so we just need to work on it. We still have room to improve." Hamilton, who was self-critical after the race, was passed by Russell in the closing laps, but finished ahead of fifth-placed Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and two-time champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin. -'It was wild. It was chaotic' - Local hope Lance Stroll was seventh in the second Aston Martin ahead of RB's Daniel Ricciardo and the two Alpines of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon. "A lot of fun," said Norris, who, with Piastri, brought McLaren their first points in Canada since 2014 on the 56th anniversary of the team's first win, with Bruce McLaren, at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix. "It was wild. It was chaotic. It was eventful. To be honest, I felt like I drove a good race, the whole time, from start to finish. These conditions are so stressful inside the car, but very enjoyable at the same time." Russell said: "That was an ugly race on my behalf and I am sorry for that. It feels like a big missed opportunity to be honest. We had a fast car this weekend." On a day of showers and sunshine, five cars -- Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull, both Ferraris and both Williams -- failed to finish in front of a big enthusiastic crowd who revelled in the changing conditions and race positions. Verstappen's win carried him to 194 points in the drivers' championship ahead of Leclerc on 138 and Norris on 131. In the constructors' race Red Bull, in a troubled season by their standards, moved to 301 points ahead of Ferrari on 252.

Formula 1: Max Verstappen gets back to winning ways at rain-hit Canadian Grand Prix

Triple World Champion Max Verstappen returns to winning ways in Formula 1. The Dutchman took the chequered flag in a chaotic Canadian Grand Prix for the third year in a row. Mclaren's Lando Norris came second while George Russell of Mercedes completed the podium.

F1: Max Verstappen completes a hat-trick in Canada

Mercedes driver George Russell secured the pole position at the Canadian Grand Prix on Saturday (Jun 8) despite Red Bull's Max Verstappen finishing Q3 with the same time. It was only the second instance in F1 history that two drivers could not be separated after finishing the session with identical timings upto three decimal&nbsp;points.&nbsp;

Russell was first out in the qualifying&nbsp;lap and set a time of 1:12:000 which was matched by Verstappen who took to the circuit after him. The rules dictate that the driver who sets the best lap time first, gets the honour of starting the race at the top of the grid.&nbsp;

"If two or more drivers set identical times during Q1, Q2 or Q3 or SQ1, SQ2 or SQ3, priority will be given to the driver who set it first," reads the&nbsp;fourth paragraph of Article 39.4 of the FIA F1 Sporting Regulations.&nbsp;

The last time such an unlikely coincidence took place was in Jerez 1997 when Michael Schumacher, Jacques Villenuve and Heinz-Herald Fretzen finished qualifying with identical timings of 1:21.072.

At the time,&nbsp;Villeneuve secured the pole position and the next day went on to win the world championship after the well-known controversy with Schumacher.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-formula-1-eat-st-daniel-ricciardo-hits-back-at-jacques-villeneuve-over-criticism-730159">Also read | Formula 1: 'Eat s**t!' Daniel Ricciardo hits back at Jacques Villeneuve over criticism</a>

<h2>'First step done'</h2>

Speaking after locking the front row position, an elated Russell said:&nbsp;"Amazing. It feels so good. So much hard work at the factory has gone into this and we said it in Monaco, we hope this is the start of something for our season, and I think it is. I've missed this feeling. Excited for tomorrow. First step done, but now obviously we've got our eyes on that win."

As for Red Bull, advisor Helmut Marko revealed that it was perhaps not warming up the tyres sufficiently that&nbsp;cost Verstappen the pole.&nbsp;

“I think we can be satisfied with this result, especially after the events in the second free practice.&nbsp;It was about how you warm up your tyres and I think the warm-up lap in Q3 was just too fast," said Marko.&nbsp;

The telemetry revealed that Russell was fast in straights and took the advantage in the third sector while Verstappen struggled on the kerbs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<table>
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="col">Position</th>
			<th scope="col">Driver Name</th>
			<th scope="col">Time</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>George Russell (Mercedes)</td>
			<td>1:12.000</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>Max Verstappen (Red Bull)</td>
			<td>1:12.000</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>Lando Norris (McLaren)</td>
			<td>1:12.021</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>Oscar Piastri (McLaren)</td>
			<td>1:12.103</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>Daniel Ricciardo (Visa Cash App RB)</td>
			<td>
			1:12.178
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

(With inputs from agencies)

Mercedes driver George Russell secured the pole position at the Canadian Grand Prix on Saturday (Jun 8) despite Red Bull's Max Verstappen finishing Q3 with the same time.

Mercedes driver George Russell secured the pole position at the Canadian Grand Prix on Saturday (Jun 8) despite Red Bull's Max Verstappen finishing Q3 with the same time. It was only the second instance in F1 history that two drivers could not be separated after finishing the session with identical timings upto three decimal points. Russell was first out in the qualifying lap and set a time of 1:12:000 which was matched by Verstappen who took to the circuit after him. The rules dictate that the driver who sets the best lap time first, gets the honour of starting the race at the top of the grid. "If two or more drivers set identical times during Q1, Q2 or Q3 or SQ1, SQ2 or SQ3, priority will be given to the driver who set it first," reads the fourth paragraph of Article 39.4 of the FIA F1 Sporting Regulations. The last time such an unlikely coincidence took place was in Jerez 1997 when Michael Schumacher, Jacques Villenuve and Heinz-Herald Fretzen finished qualifying with identical timings of 1:21.072. At the time, Villeneuve secured the pole position and the next day went on to win the world championship after the well-known controversy with Schumacher. Also read | Formula 1: 'Eat s**t!' Daniel Ricciardo hits back at Jacques Villeneuve over criticism 'First step done' Speaking after locking the front row position, an elated Russell said: "Amazing. It feels so good. So much hard work at the factory has gone into this and we said it in Monaco, we hope this is the start of something for our season, and I think it is. I've missed this feeling. Excited for tomorrow. First step done, but now obviously we've got our eyes on that win." As for Red Bull, advisor Helmut Marko revealed that it was perhaps not warming up the tyres sufficiently that cost Verstappen the pole. “I think we can be satisfied with this result, especially after the events in the second free practice. It was about how you warm up your tyres and I think the warm-up lap in Q3 was just too fast," said Marko. The telemetry revealed that Russell was fast in straights and took the advantage in the third sector while Verstappen struggled on the kerbs. Position Driver Name Time 1 George Russell (Mercedes) 1:12.000 2 Max Verstappen (Red Bull) 1:12.000 3 Lando Norris (McLaren) 1:12.021 4 Oscar Piastri (McLaren) 1:12.103 5 Daniel Ricciardo (Visa Cash App RB) 1:12.178 (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Forgotten F1 rule that gave pole to George Russell over Max Verstappen after both set the same time

With Sergio Perez signing a two-year extension this week to remain with Red Bull as wing man for three-time world champion Max Verstappen, who gave the decision two thumbs up, the Formula One leaders were all smiles on Thursday.

The future of the Red Bull driver lineup had been rich with speculation through the early part of the season with a number of names, including Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and RB's Daniel Ricciardo, rumoured to take over the coveted seat.

Red Bull put an end to that growing distraction on Tuesday with both Perez and Verstappen expressing their happiness in the outcome ahead of the weekend's Canada Grand Prix.

"Like every situation, you always have a process to go through which is not always really nice," said the 34-year-old Mexican. "So it's really nice to get this distraction for the team and for myself out of the way so that we can focus on performance. "I think, and that's the best thing for our team."

With challenges to their dominance coming from all directions Red Bull will try for a reset in Montreal as Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes look to make life miserable for them at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Verstappen was dominant in Montreal a year ago, leading every lap from pole, but he faces a fight for a third successive victory at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

There have been three different winners in the last three races and, after winning 19 of 22 in the most one-sided Formula One season last year, Verstappen has now failed to win three of the last six.

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Perez has proven to be the consummate domestic helping Verstappen to three drivers titles, sometimes grudgingly but always doing his duty and the team will be looking for that support on Sunday.

"Finally," said Verstappen. "It is great news that Checo has signed. "I'm happy that he's staying, we always worked well and it brings stability to the team."

Talk around the paddock was that Perez has Verstappen to thank for his extension with the Dutchman not wanting to break in a new team mate, who might not be as willing to defer to him.

"I think the best thing to do is just to close the visor and focus on my job, do the best for myself, for my career, said Perez. "At the end of the day, when my career is finished, it's the only thing that will matter to me. "What people have to say I appreciate that everyone has their opinion, but at the end of the day, I'm here to do the best for my career and I'm happy with what I have achieved."

With Sergio Perez signing a two-year extension this week to remain with Red Bull as wing man for three-time world champion Max Verstappen, who gave the decision two thumbs up, the Formula One leaders were all smiles on Thursday.

With Sergio Perez signing a two-year extension this week to remain with Red Bull as wing man for three-time world champion Max Verstappen, who gave the decision two thumbs up, the Formula One leaders were all smiles on Thursday. The future of the Red Bull driver lineup had been rich with speculation through the early part of the season with a number of names, including Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and RB's Daniel Ricciardo, rumoured to take over the coveted seat. Red Bull put an end to that growing distraction on Tuesday with both Perez and Verstappen expressing their happiness in the outcome ahead of the weekend's Canada Grand Prix. "Like every situation, you always have a process to go through which is not always really nice," said the 34-year-old Mexican. "So it's really nice to get this distraction for the team and for myself out of the way so that we can focus on performance. "I think, and that's the best thing for our team." With challenges to their dominance coming from all directions Red Bull will try for a reset in Montreal as Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes look to make life miserable for them at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Verstappen was dominant in Montreal a year ago, leading every lap from pole, but he faces a fight for a third successive victory at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. There have been three different winners in the last three races and, after winning 19 of 22 in the most one-sided Formula One season last year, Verstappen has now failed to win three of the last six. Also read: Sergio Perez leaving Red Bull 'one-legged' in battle with McLaren and Ferrari: Former F1 world champion Perez has proven to be the consummate domestic helping Verstappen to three drivers titles, sometimes grudgingly but always doing his duty and the team will be looking for that support on Sunday. "Finally," said Verstappen. "It is great news that Checo has signed. "I'm happy that he's staying, we always worked well and it brings stability to the team." Talk around the paddock was that Perez has Verstappen to thank for his extension with the Dutchman not wanting to break in a new team mate, who might not be as willing to defer to him. "I think the best thing to do is just to close the visor and focus on my job, do the best for myself, for my career, said Perez. "At the end of the day, when my career is finished, it's the only thing that will matter to me. "What people have to say I appreciate that everyone has their opinion, but at the end of the day, I'm here to do the best for my career and I'm happy with what I have achieved."

Canadian Grand Prix: With Sergio Perez signed, Max Verstappen and Red Bull look for Canada reset

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc snatched pole position at his home Monaco Grand Prix on Saturday as Max Verstappen could only finish sixth fastest.

The 26-year-old Monegasque driver, who has never managed a podium finish at his home race, clocked a best lap of one minute and 10.270 seconds to outpace Australian Oscar Piastri of McLaren&nbsp;by 0.154 seconds.

It brought Leclerc his third Monaco pole position and ended Verstappen's run of seven straight poles this year.

World championship leader Verstappen struggled for Red Bull.

Spaniard Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and British driver Lando Norris of McLaren are on the second row on the narrow streets of the Principality, where overtaking is difficult. &nbsp;

Grid for Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after qualifying on Saturday:

Front row

Charles Leclerc (MON/Ferrari)

Oscar Piastri (AUS/McLaren)

2nd row

Carlos Sainz (ESP/Ferrari)

Lando Norris (GBR/McLaren)

3rd row

George Russell (GBR/Mercedes)

Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull)

4th row

Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes)

Yuki Tsunoda (JPN/RB)

5th row

Alex Albon (THA/Williams)

Pierre Gasly (FRA/Alpine)

6th row

Esteban Ocon (FRA/Alpine)

Nico Hulkenberg (GER/Haas)

7th row

Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/RB)

Lance Stroll (CAN/Aston Martin)

8th row

Kevin Magnussen (DEN/Haas)

Fernando Alonso (ESP/Aston Martin)

9th row

Logan Sargeant (USA/Williams)

Sergio Perez (MEX/Red Bull)

10th row

Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Sauber)

Zhou Guanyu (CHN/Sauber)

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc snatched pole position at his home Monaco Grand Prix on Saturday as Max Verstappen could only finish sixth fastest. The 26-year-old Monegasque driver, who has never managed a podium finish at his home race, clocked a best lap of one minute and 10.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc snatched pole position at his home Monaco Grand Prix on Saturday as Max Verstappen could only finish sixth fastest. The 26-year-old Monegasque driver, who has never managed a podium finish at his home race, clocked a best lap of one minute and 10.270 seconds to outpace Australian Oscar Piastri of McLaren by 0.154 seconds. It brought Leclerc his third Monaco pole position and ended Verstappen's run of seven straight poles this year. World championship leader Verstappen struggled for Red Bull. Spaniard Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and British driver Lando Norris of McLaren are on the second row on the narrow streets of the Principality, where overtaking is difficult. Grid for Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after qualifying on Saturday: Front row Charles Leclerc (MON/Ferrari) Oscar Piastri (AUS/McLaren) 2nd row Carlos Sainz (ESP/Ferrari) Lando Norris (GBR/McLaren) 3rd row George Russell (GBR/Mercedes) Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull) 4th row Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) Yuki Tsunoda (JPN/RB) 5th row Alex Albon (THA/Williams) Pierre Gasly (FRA/Alpine) 6th row Esteban Ocon (FRA/Alpine) Nico Hulkenberg (GER/Haas) 7th row Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/RB) Lance Stroll (CAN/Aston Martin) 8th row Kevin Magnussen (DEN/Haas) Fernando Alonso (ESP/Aston Martin) 9th row Logan Sargeant (USA/Williams) Sergio Perez (MEX/Red Bull) 10th row Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Sauber) Zhou Guanyu (CHN/Sauber)

Monaco Grand Prix: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc takes pole ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri, Verstappen sixth

Defending Formula One champion Max Verstappen has backed McLaren to give a tough fight to Red Bull in the current season as the Dutchman searches for his fourth consecutive title. Ahead of the upcoming Grand Prix in Monaco, Verstappen thinks McLaren and&nbsp;in&nbsp;particular&nbsp;Lando Norris have the ability to dethrone Red Bull from the top, having&nbsp;recently won the Miami Grand Prix. While Verstappen still leads the path in the driver’s&nbsp;championship, Norris will try to claim his second win of the season on Sunday.&nbsp;

<h2>Verstappen backs McLaren</h2>

"After their last few&nbsp;races&nbsp;they [McLaren] are really in the mix," he told reporters. "Of course they are quite a few points down at the moment&nbsp;but&nbsp;if they suddenly start winning, that can turn around quite quickly.”

Despite Verstappen’s claim that McLaren is the closest rival to Red Bull, the current picture backs the defending champions to conquer another title.&nbsp;At the time of&nbsp;writing, Red Bull lead the Constructor’s Championship with 56 points over second-placed Ferrari&nbsp;while&nbsp;McLaren are third with 154 points.&nbsp;

In the Driver’s Championship, Verstappen&nbsp;is leading&nbsp;the chart with 161 points&nbsp;while&nbsp;Norris is fourth with 101 after seven races. However, he will be confident of his progress, having&nbsp;recently clinched his first win after finishing runner-up on 16 occasions. According to Norris, he and McLaren are not thinking about the&nbsp;Championship&nbsp;yet and will focus on giving the best shot for the team.&nbsp;

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"We have not thought about it [the&nbsp;championship]&nbsp;at all&nbsp;over the last four weeks. You concentrate on getting a good result&nbsp;and&nbsp;things&nbsp;just&nbsp;play out for themselves," said Norris separately.

"We have definitely put ourselves in there. We lost a lot [of points] over the first couple of weekends, so that's hurt us, but we are about a third of the way through, so there are plenty of opportunities for us."

While eyes will be on Verstappen in Sunday’s race, Norris will be eager to make his mark&nbsp;yet&nbsp;again in Monaco. The Briton has been on the podium in four of the last five races and has not finished lower than eighth.

Defending Formula One champion Max Verstappen has backed McLaren to give a tough fight to Red Bull in the current season as the Dutchman searches for his fourth consecutive title.

Defending Formula One champion Max Verstappen has backed McLaren to give a tough fight to Red Bull in the current season as the Dutchman searches for his fourth consecutive title. Ahead of the upcoming Grand Prix in Monaco, Verstappen thinks McLaren and in particular Lando Norris have the ability to dethrone Red Bull from the top, having recently won the Miami Grand Prix. While Verstappen still leads the path in the driver’s championship, Norris will try to claim his second win of the season on Sunday. Verstappen backs McLaren "After their last few races they [McLaren] are really in the mix," he told reporters. "Of course they are quite a few points down at the moment but if they suddenly start winning, that can turn around quite quickly.” Despite Verstappen’s claim that McLaren is the closest rival to Red Bull, the current picture backs the defending champions to conquer another title. At the time of writing, Red Bull lead the Constructor’s Championship with 56 points over second-placed Ferrari while McLaren are third with 154 points. In the Driver’s Championship, Verstappen is leading the chart with 161 points while Norris is fourth with 101 after seven races. However, he will be confident of his progress, having recently clinched his first win after finishing runner-up on 16 occasions. According to Norris, he and McLaren are not thinking about the Championship yet and will focus on giving the best shot for the team. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s stardom blows away Langer, says ‘the hero worship in India is unbelievable’ "We have not thought about it [the championship] at all over the last four weeks. You concentrate on getting a good result and things just play out for themselves," said Norris separately. "We have definitely put ourselves in there. We lost a lot [of points] over the first couple of weekends, so that's hurt us, but we are about a third of the way through, so there are plenty of opportunities for us." While eyes will be on Verstappen in Sunday’s race, Norris will be eager to make his mark yet again in Monaco. The Briton has been on the podium in four of the last five races and has not finished lower than eighth.

Max Verstappen reckons McLaren will challenge Red Bull's supremacy, says 'they are really in the mix'

Three-time world champion and series leader Max Verstappen returned to winning ways on Sunday when he resisted a late charge by Lando Norris to take a dramatic victory for Red Bull at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.&nbsp;

After being beaten in Miami, where friend and rival Norris claimed his maiden victory for McLaren, the Dutchman resisted him to come home 0.725 seconds ahead of the Briton who mounted a rousing final attack in vain.

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Charles Leclerc finished third for Ferrari ahead of Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren, Carlos Sainz in the second Ferrari and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate George Russell.&nbsp;

Sergio Perez was eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and RB's Yuki Tsunoda, in his Faenza-based team's home event.&nbsp;

Verstappen's hard-earned win, after a difficult two days of practice, was his third at Imola, his fifth of the season and the 59th&nbsp;of his career, lifting him 48 points clear of Leclerc in the drivers’ title race.&nbsp;

"We did a great race considering how it started and I had to work hard for that," admitted Verstappen. "The whole race I pushed flat out to make a gap.&nbsp;

"I felt quite strong on mediums, but on the hards, it was more difficult to manage and the last 15 laps I had no grip and I was sliding a lot.&nbsp;

"I could see him behind me and I am super-happy to win here today."

Norris said: "It's frustrating! This feels more painful. It hurts me to say so, but with one or two more laps I think I’d have had him."

Leclerc, whose podium finish for Ferrari in their heartland was acclaimed by masses of tifosi, said: "At least a podium! Of course, I wanted to win and I didn’t make it.

"They were incredibly quick at the end, but it’s looking good for us for the rest of the season. Monaco is going to be special."

<h2>'I'm pushing'</h2>

On a very warm Spring day all but Perez began on medium tyres, the Mexican choosing ‘hards’ to go long after a desultory qualifying left him 11th&nbsp;on the grid.&nbsp;

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso started from the pitlane after late suspension changes while Piastri was fifth, penalised from second for obstructing Kevin Magnussen on Saturday.&nbsp;

As the lights went out, Verstappen surged clear while behind him Hamilton and Perez made up places during an incident-free opening as the world champion built an early advantage.&nbsp;

Verstappen’s relentless pace took him five seconds clear by lap 16 ahead of Norris who led Leclerc by 1.3 with Sainz fourth, resisting Piastri. The Mercedes’ pair were sixth and seventh ahead of Perez.

Russell was the first of the leading group to pit after 21 laps, having complained his tyres were shot.

Norris was next in on lap 23, coming out behind Perez, followed by Piastri and then Verstappen, on lap 25, shortly after the Dutchman was shown a black-and-white flag for exceeding track limits. One more offence would bring a five second penalty.&nbsp;

Verstappen re-joined fourth behind Leclerc, Sainz and Hamilton with Norris behind him, having passed Perez, before Leclerc pitted and Sainz inherited the lead briefly before pitting with Hamilton, who had run off at Acque Minerali.&nbsp;

This left Verstappen back on top at half-distance with a lead of 6.2 seconds on Norris, Leclerc and Piastri.

Having eased off to preserve his tyres, Norris mounted a late charge and trimmed Verstappen’s lead on successive laps to put him under intense pressure.

With seven laps to go, he was only two seconds adrift and closing in.&nbsp;

"I'm pushing as hard as I can mate," said Norris on team radio when encouraged to hunt a second victory.

Hard as he tried to turn the screw Verstappen scraped home on the day Formula One remembered the late great Ayrton Senna, who died in a crash at the circuit three decades ago.

Three-time world champion and series leader Max Verstappen returned to winning ways on Sunday when he resisted a late charge by Lando Norris to take a dramatic victory for Red Bull at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Three-time world champion and series leader Max Verstappen returned to winning ways on Sunday when he resisted a late charge by Lando Norris to take a dramatic victory for Red Bull at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. After being beaten in Miami, where friend and rival Norris claimed his maiden victory for McLaren, the Dutchman resisted him to come home 0.725 seconds ahead of the Briton who mounted a rousing final attack in vain. Also Read: Preakness 2024: Seize the Grey wins after holding off Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan Charles Leclerc finished third for Ferrari ahead of Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren, Carlos Sainz in the second Ferrari and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate George Russell. Sergio Perez was eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and RB's Yuki Tsunoda, in his Faenza-based team's home event. Verstappen's hard-earned win, after a difficult two days of practice, was his third at Imola, his fifth of the season and the 59th of his career, lifting him 48 points clear of Leclerc in the drivers’ title race. "We did a great race considering how it started and I had to work hard for that," admitted Verstappen. "The whole race I pushed flat out to make a gap. "I felt quite strong on mediums, but on the hards, it was more difficult to manage and the last 15 laps I had no grip and I was sliding a lot. "I could see him behind me and I am super-happy to win here today." Norris said: "It's frustrating! This feels more painful. It hurts me to say so, but with one or two more laps I think I’d have had him." Leclerc, whose podium finish for Ferrari in their heartland was acclaimed by masses of tifosi, said: "At least a podium! Of course, I wanted to win and I didn’t make it. "They were incredibly quick at the end, but it’s looking good for us for the rest of the season. Monaco is going to be special." 'I'm pushing' On a very warm Spring day all but Perez began on medium tyres, the Mexican choosing ‘hards’ to go long after a desultory qualifying left him 11th on the grid. Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso started from the pitlane after late suspension changes while Piastri was fifth, penalised from second for obstructing Kevin Magnussen on Saturday. As the lights went out, Verstappen surged clear while behind him Hamilton and Perez made up places during an incident-free opening as the world champion built an early advantage. Verstappen’s relentless pace took him five seconds clear by lap 16 ahead of Norris who led Leclerc by 1.3 with Sainz fourth, resisting Piastri. The Mercedes’ pair were sixth and seventh ahead of Perez. Russell was the first of the leading group to pit after 21 laps, having complained his tyres were shot. Norris was next in on lap 23, coming out behind Perez, followed by Piastri and then Verstappen, on lap 25, shortly after the Dutchman was shown a black-and-white flag for exceeding track limits. One more offence would bring a five second penalty. Verstappen re-joined fourth behind Leclerc, Sainz and Hamilton with Norris behind him, having passed Perez, before Leclerc pitted and Sainz inherited the lead briefly before pitting with Hamilton, who had run off at Acque Minerali. This left Verstappen back on top at half-distance with a lead of 6.2 seconds on Norris, Leclerc and Piastri. Having eased off to preserve his tyres, Norris mounted a late charge and trimmed Verstappen’s lead on successive laps to put him under intense pressure. With seven laps to go, he was only two seconds adrift and closing in. "I'm pushing as hard as I can mate," said Norris on team radio when encouraged to hunt a second victory. Hard as he tried to turn the screw Verstappen scraped home on the day Formula One remembered the late great Ayrton Senna, who died in a crash at the circuit three decades ago.

Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win

Usually at each other's throats, Christian Horner and Toto Wolff on Sunday (May 19) agreed that the rise of Lando Norris and McLaren over the last year had put the Briton as a contender for the Formula 1 title against Max Verstappen.

Usually at each other's throats, Christian Horner and Toto Wolff on Sunday (May 19) agreed that the rise of Lando Norris and McLaren over the last year had put the Briton as a contender for the Formula 1 title against Max Verstappen. Norris followed up his maiden F1 victory in Miami a couple of weeks ago with an impressive second-place podium finish in Imola. Speaking after the race, the Red Bull team principal was all praise for Norris and admitted that McLaren were their leading rivals for the title. “Arguably over the last couple of races they have been the main competitor. They have definitely added performance to their car, they have made a step, so we expect them to be competitive at all circuits.” “You can’t take anything for granted, we certainly don’t, the margins are very fine,” said Horner. Though Verstappen won the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, he had a narrow escape as he was chased down in the final laps by Norris who finished only 0.7 second behind. The British driver could have won the race with one or two more laps. “In year three of these rules there is always going to be convergence. We are seeing exactly that. The look of the cars is converging, the performance is converging. We will see more races like Sundays with very fine margins," added Horner. Also read: Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win 'This is what we need' Mercedes team boss, Wolff, echoed similar sentiments and said he viewed the improvements made by McLaren, not from an 'envious' point of view. “It’s fantastic recovery story, when you look at where McLaren were 12 months ago. We have to have respect how they have done things and more competition at the front is good for the sport," said Wolff. “I’m not looking at that with envy, quite the contrary, I’m looking at that and saying this is what we need to achieve, because they’ve been able to do that. It’s just good engineering.” Wolff's statement is particularly important as Mercedes have been struggling to put up a car that can consistently deliver results. After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes were in 'no man's land' "We are in no-man’s land. There wasn’t much more for us to get today. He further stated, "It is where we are and we have to do the best we can and that is the best we could do today." (With inputs from agencies)

Bitter rivals Horner and Wolff deliver verdict on Max Verstappen’s F1 title challenger

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen. Teammate George Russell came seventh as Mercedes have fallen behind in the Formula One constructors' standings -- being at the fourth spot with 79 points while third-placed McLaren have 154.

After the result on Sunday in Italy, Great Britan driver said, "We are in no-man’s land. There wasn’t much more for us to get today. He further stated, "It is where we are and we have to do the best we can and that is the best we could do today."

Meanwhile, Russell also referred to 'no-man's land' but reaffirmed that the once-dominant Mercedes remain "super-motivated". "We have got to just keep pushing. The car was capable of P6 and P7 and that is where we finished."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-italian-grand-prix-red-bulls-max-verstappen-holds-off-mclarens-lando-norris-for-thrilling-win-723188">Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win</a>

Despite an unfavourable result, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff felt they had taken a small step forward. "Our closest competitors have also done&nbsp;so recently, but we have closed the gap to the front a little. We still have a lot of work to do and, of course, we are all frustrated finishing P6 and P7," The Austrian added. "There is more to come though, and it is all about making incremental gains."

Verstappen, on the other hand, won his fifth race, in seven, this season. In addition, he continues to dominant at Italy, having won the past three races in the country since 2021. Notably, the Italian GP in 2020 was cancelled due to heavy flooding.

After the race, Verstappen said, "I had no grip anymore. I was sliding a lot. I saw Lando (Norris, who finished second) closing in. The last 10 laps were flat out.&nbsp;It's difficult when the tyres were not working anymore and you have to go flat out. I couldn't afford to make too many mistakes. Luckily we didn't."

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen.

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen. Teammate George Russell came seventh as Mercedes have fallen behind in the Formula One constructors' standings -- being at the fourth spot with 79 points while third-placed McLaren have 154. After the result on Sunday in Italy, Great Britan driver said, "We are in no-man’s land. There wasn’t much more for us to get today. He further stated, "It is where we are and we have to do the best we can and that is the best we could do today." Meanwhile, Russell also referred to 'no-man's land' but reaffirmed that the once-dominant Mercedes remain "super-motivated". "We have got to just keep pushing. The car was capable of P6 and P7 and that is where we finished." Also read: Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win Despite an unfavourable result, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff felt they had taken a small step forward. "Our closest competitors have also done so recently, but we have closed the gap to the front a little. We still have a lot of work to do and, of course, we are all frustrated finishing P6 and P7," The Austrian added. "There is more to come though, and it is all about making incremental gains." Verstappen, on the other hand, won his fifth race, in seven, this season. In addition, he continues to dominant at Italy, having won the past three races in the country since 2021. Notably, the Italian GP in 2020 was cancelled due to heavy flooding. After the race, Verstappen said, "I had no grip anymore. I was sliding a lot. I saw Lando (Norris, who finished second) closing in. The last 10 laps were flat out. It's difficult when the tyres were not working anymore and you have to go flat out. I couldn't afford to make too many mistakes. Luckily we didn't."

Mercedes are in 'no-man's land', says Lewis Hamilton after finishing sixth at Italian Grand Prix

Amid constant speculations about his future at Red Bull, Max Verstappen has once again responded to all such claims and made it clear that he is 'very happy with where' he is. Recently, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff hinted about chasing Verstappen's signature -- after initially denying all such rumours -- as he searches for Lewis Hamilton's replacement, who will join Ferrari from 2025. Moreover, Silver Arrows' driver George Russell also welcomed the idea of having Verstappen at Mercedes.

However, Verstappen told Sky F1, "Well at the end of the day these kinds of decisions are not made very easily and I’m very happy with where I am. I want to be in the fastest car, that’s what I always said with the team. That’s what we have at the moment, and that’s what we try and have also next year."

“I don’t necessarily have the desire to suddenly build up something new or whatever. Because why would you want to leave when you are already in the best position and you think you can continue that for a long time?," he added.

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Early this month, Russell had stated, "I would be all for it." He added, "I think coming into Mercedes in 2022 was off the back of Lewis's legendary years and victories, and that was a huge task for anybody jumping into a team where he's been [dominating] for so long. I believe in myself, and you need to go up against the best in the same machinery and show what you've got."

Despite so much noise around his future, Verstappen’s message remains consistent with comments he made before the Miami Grand Prix. Ahead of the last race, the 26-year-old revealed that even sackfuls of cash wouldn’t be able to turn his head in the current F1 climate.

Amid constant speculations about his future at Red Bull, Max Verstappen has once again responded to all such claims and made it clear that he is 'very happy with where' he is.

Amid constant speculations about his future at Red Bull, Max Verstappen has once again responded to all such claims and made it clear that he is 'very happy with where' he is. Recently, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff hinted about chasing Verstappen's signature -- after initially denying all such rumours -- as he searches for Lewis Hamilton's replacement, who will join Ferrari from 2025. Moreover, Silver Arrows' driver George Russell also welcomed the idea of having Verstappen at Mercedes. However, Verstappen told Sky F1, "Well at the end of the day these kinds of decisions are not made very easily and I’m very happy with where I am. I want to be in the fastest car, that’s what I always said with the team. That’s what we have at the moment, and that’s what we try and have also next year." “I don’t necessarily have the desire to suddenly build up something new or whatever. Because why would you want to leave when you are already in the best position and you think you can continue that for a long time?," he added. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo tops Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes, arch-rival Lionel Messi third Early this month, Russell had stated, "I would be all for it." He added, "I think coming into Mercedes in 2022 was off the back of Lewis's legendary years and victories, and that was a huge task for anybody jumping into a team where he's been [dominating] for so long. I believe in myself, and you need to go up against the best in the same machinery and show what you've got." Despite so much noise around his future, Verstappen’s message remains consistent with comments he made before the Miami Grand Prix. Ahead of the last race, the 26-year-old revealed that even sackfuls of cash wouldn’t be able to turn his head in the current F1 climate.

'Very happy with where I am': Max Verstappen once again speaks about his links to Mercedes

George Russell has given a thumbs-up to the idea of having Max Verstappen as his teammate at Mercedes.&nbsp;In a recent interaction, the Briton was confident of being able to match with the Dutchman after being the teammate of Lewis Hamilton for two years. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari in 2025. Thus, the Brackley team need a replacement for Hamilton and many reports have suggested that Verstappen is being considered for 2025 and beyond (although the Dutch driver has denied leaving Red Bull).

<h2>'I'd be all for it'</h2>

At the moment, Mercedes has junior driver Kimi Antonelli and the Dutch champion Verstappen as possible replacement choices for Hamilton. Outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz has also reportedly received a short-term offer from the Silver Arrows squad. On being asked about the prospect of having Verstappen in Mercedes, Russell said as per Motorsport.com, "I'd be all for it".

He further opined, "You know, coming into Mercedes in 2022 off the back of Lewis's legendary years and victories, that was a huge task for anybody jumping into a team where he's been for so long. I believe in myself, and you need to go up against the best in the same machinery and show what you have got, so I feel that having Lewis as my team-mate for the past three years... He's been a hell of a team-mate, such a great driver. And we push each other every single week and I think it's fair to say that, so I will welcome Max, I want to go up against the best. Everybody wants to prove what they've got, so make it happen."

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Russell also opined on Adrian Newey who recently parted ways with Red Bull. He believes that Mercedes still have a lot of talented personnel despite many being poached by rival teams. While Russell supported the engineers in Mercedes, the 26-year-old also welcomed the idea of having an experienced and legendary engineer like Newey in his team.&nbsp;

In this regard, he said, "I mean, of course. You want to have the best engineers, the best drivers, the best mechanics, you want to have the best individuals [as] part of your team. But I think the team we have here, over the course of the last 12 years, the group of engineers that sit in the room next door are still the most successful engineers that Formula 1 has seen in the last 12 [or] 13 years."

Russell added, "Now we're going through a period where we're not achieving the success that the team once achieved a few years ago. But I have every faith in everybody, the people that won the championships, the new engineers and individuals who are part of this journey, to bring Mercedes back to the top."

George Russell has given a thumbs-up to the idea of having Max Verstappen as his teammate at Mercedes. In a recent interaction, the Briton was confident of being able to match with the Dutchman after being the teammate of Lewis Hamilton for two years.

George Russell has given a thumbs-up to the idea of having Max Verstappen as his teammate at Mercedes. In a recent interaction, the Briton was confident of being able to match with the Dutchman after being the teammate of Lewis Hamilton for two years. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari in 2025. Thus, the Brackley team need a replacement for Hamilton and many reports have suggested that Verstappen is being considered for 2025 and beyond (although the Dutch driver has denied leaving Red Bull). 'I'd be all for it' At the moment, Mercedes has junior driver Kimi Antonelli and the Dutch champion Verstappen as possible replacement choices for Hamilton. Outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz has also reportedly received a short-term offer from the Silver Arrows squad. On being asked about the prospect of having Verstappen in Mercedes, Russell said as per Motorsport.com, "I'd be all for it". He further opined, "You know, coming into Mercedes in 2022 off the back of Lewis's legendary years and victories, that was a huge task for anybody jumping into a team where he's been for so long. I believe in myself, and you need to go up against the best in the same machinery and show what you have got, so I feel that having Lewis as my team-mate for the past three years... He's been a hell of a team-mate, such a great driver. And we push each other every single week and I think it's fair to say that, so I will welcome Max, I want to go up against the best. Everybody wants to prove what they've got, so make it happen." Also read: McLaren boss makes big claim, says Lando Norris can beat Max Verstappen in a 'straight fight' Russell also opined on Adrian Newey who recently parted ways with Red Bull. He believes that Mercedes still have a lot of talented personnel despite many being poached by rival teams. While Russell supported the engineers in Mercedes, the 26-year-old also welcomed the idea of having an experienced and legendary engineer like Newey in his team. In this regard, he said, "I mean, of course. You want to have the best engineers, the best drivers, the best mechanics, you want to have the best individuals [as] part of your team. But I think the team we have here, over the course of the last 12 years, the group of engineers that sit in the room next door are still the most successful engineers that Formula 1 has seen in the last 12 [or] 13 years." Russell added, "Now we're going through a period where we're not achieving the success that the team once achieved a few years ago. But I have every faith in everybody, the people that won the championships, the new engineers and individuals who are part of this journey, to bring Mercedes back to the top."

'I'd be all for it': George Russell welcomes idea of having Max Verstappen in Mercedes

McLaren F1 boss Zak Brown has made a big claim ahead of the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, to be held this weekend in Italy. He believes Lando Norris, who won his first-ever F1 race in the Miami Grand Prix held early this month, would topple Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen in a 'straight fight' in upcoming times. Norris clinched a historic maiden victory in the Miami International Autodrome in Hard Rock Stadium in the first week of May, despite starting from fifth.&nbsp;

Thus, Norris will be in good head space entering the forthcoming race in Italy. Following the youngster's maiden F1 race win, McLaren CEO Brown has expressed his confidence in Norris' ability to challenge Verstappen. Brown believes Norris possesses the prowess to go head-to-head with the Dutchman.&nbsp;

<h2>I've not seen anyone faster than Lando:&nbsp;Zak Brown</h2>

In this regard, the CEO told Motorsport.com, "I do think Lando can beat Max in a straight fight. I think it would be an awesome fight, I think many races would end in tears – for one or the other, or both. But I think as far as raw talent can be, I've not seen someone faster than Lando."

Brown stressed that the Miami win would keep Norris in good stead and take him to greater heights in the near future. "For sure. There's something about when drivers get their first win. I remember from when I got my first win, now you know you've done it [the first win] just relaxes drivers and they don't have to try as hard. In anything, you can try too hard and that kind of works against you," he further opined.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Norris himself sounded optimistic about McLaren's prospects for the remainder of the season with a win in Miami. Talking to SkySports at the McLaren Technology Center in Woking, the 24-year-old opined that McLaren have it in them to challenge Red Bull&nbsp;and Ferrari for more race wins this year.&nbsp;

Norris said, "Absolutely, we can win more races this year. I think we can compete against Red Bull. I think we're looking at an exciting season between us, Red Bull and Ferrari. " He added, "I think we still have work to do and we're not at the level that they are just yet."

McLaren F1 boss Zak Brown has made a big claim ahead of the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, to be held this weekend in Italy. He believes Lando Norris, who won his first-ever F1 race in the Miami Grand Prix held early this month, would topple Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen in a 'straight fight' in upcoming times.

McLaren F1 boss Zak Brown has made a big claim ahead of the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, to be held this weekend in Italy. He believes Lando Norris, who won his first-ever F1 race in the Miami Grand Prix held early this month, would topple Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen in a 'straight fight' in upcoming times. Norris clinched a historic maiden victory in the Miami International Autodrome in Hard Rock Stadium in the first week of May, despite starting from fifth. Thus, Norris will be in good head space entering the forthcoming race in Italy. Following the youngster's maiden F1 race win, McLaren CEO Brown has expressed his confidence in Norris' ability to challenge Verstappen. Brown believes Norris possesses the prowess to go head-to-head with the Dutchman. I've not seen anyone faster than Lando: Zak Brown In this regard, the CEO told Motorsport.com, "I do think Lando can beat Max in a straight fight. I think it would be an awesome fight, I think many races would end in tears – for one or the other, or both. But I think as far as raw talent can be, I've not seen someone faster than Lando." Brown stressed that the Miami win would keep Norris in good stead and take him to greater heights in the near future. "For sure. There's something about when drivers get their first win. I remember from when I got my first win, now you know you've done it [the first win] just relaxes drivers and they don't have to try as hard. In anything, you can try too hard and that kind of works against you," he further opined. Also read: Max Verstappen's dad might be the reason if at all he decides to leave Red Bull: Ex-driver Meanwhile, Norris himself sounded optimistic about McLaren's prospects for the remainder of the season with a win in Miami. Talking to SkySports at the McLaren Technology Center in Woking, the 24-year-old opined that McLaren have it in them to challenge Red Bull and Ferrari for more race wins this year. Norris said, "Absolutely, we can win more races this year. I think we can compete against Red Bull. I think we're looking at an exciting season between us, Red Bull and Ferrari. " He added, "I think we still have work to do and we're not at the level that they are just yet."

McLaren boss makes big claim, says Lando Norris can beat Max Verstappen in a 'straight fight'

Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya opened up on the rumours of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull. While Verstappen has denied all such claims,&nbsp;rumours of his departure keep popping up from time to time amid a lot happening off the circuit in the Red Bull camp this season. The start of the 2024 F1 season saw an alleged sexual harassment case being filed against team principal Christian Horner, which made a lot of noise, and was soon followed by the exit of Adrian Newey -- their superstar engineer. Amid all this, news of Verstappen being eager to leave Red Bull continues to resurface.

Thus, Montoya believes Max has no reason to leave Red Bull, given he is winning almost every race. However, he opined that if the rumours come true, Max's father Jos Verstappen might have a role in his exit. When Horner was under the radar for sexual harassment accusation, by an unnamed female employee, it is believed that he was on one side whereas Verstappens and current director Helmet Marko were on the other. Since then, there are strong reports that suggest that Jos isn't happy with Red Bull's internal issues.&nbsp;

Thus, Montoya told RacingNews365, "I really don’t [see Verstappen leaving], I think he would be stupid if he did. Max has everybody talking: ‘Oh, he is going to leave Red Bull’, and you go, ‘Why would you leave Red Bull if they’re winning everything?’ Unless you are not there for the right reason, you will leave, but if you are there for the right reason, you wouldn’t touch it."

He added, "Maybe Jos is p*ssed and wants to drive Max away, it could be, but honestly, he is in the right situation right now, and it would be crazy to go."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-2024-gold-more-important-than-90m-throw-for-neeraj-chopra-says-javelin-stars-coach-720946">Paris 2024 gold more important than 90m throw for Neeraj Chopra, says javelin star's coach</a>

Meanwhile, Max -- ignoring his transfer rumours --&nbsp;reacted to Newey's departure, stating that the media had blown the whole situation out of proportion and reckoned that Red Bull still have a strong team in place.

The Dutchman stated that he would have loved to see Newey continue but understood the veteran's decision. He told, as quoted by PlanetF1, "I think people in the press, they’re making up a lot of things at the moment, because they don’t understand how the roles were in the team." He further added, "But of course, like I said before, I cannot deny that I would have preferred him to stay, just for how he is as a person, his knowledge. And of course, what he will bring to potentially another team if he wants to join."

Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya opened up on the rumours of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull. While Verstappen has denied all such claims, rumours of his departure keep popping up from time to time amid a lot happening off the circuit in the Red Bull camp this season.

Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya opened up on the rumours of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull. While Verstappen has denied all such claims, rumours of his departure keep popping up from time to time amid a lot happening off the circuit in the Red Bull camp this season. The start of the 2024 F1 season saw an alleged sexual harassment case being filed against team principal Christian Horner, which made a lot of noise, and was soon followed by the exit of Adrian Newey -- their superstar engineer. Amid all this, news of Verstappen being eager to leave Red Bull continues to resurface. Thus, Montoya believes Max has no reason to leave Red Bull, given he is winning almost every race. However, he opined that if the rumours come true, Max's father Jos Verstappen might have a role in his exit. When Horner was under the radar for sexual harassment accusation, by an unnamed female employee, it is believed that he was on one side whereas Verstappens and current director Helmet Marko were on the other. Since then, there are strong reports that suggest that Jos isn't happy with Red Bull's internal issues. Thus, Montoya told RacingNews365, "I really don’t [see Verstappen leaving], I think he would be stupid if he did. Max has everybody talking: ‘Oh, he is going to leave Red Bull’, and you go, ‘Why would you leave Red Bull if they’re winning everything?’ Unless you are not there for the right reason, you will leave, but if you are there for the right reason, you wouldn’t touch it." He added, "Maybe Jos is p*ssed and wants to drive Max away, it could be, but honestly, he is in the right situation right now, and it would be crazy to go." Also read: Paris 2024 gold more important than 90m throw for Neeraj Chopra, says javelin star's coach Meanwhile, Max -- ignoring his transfer rumours -- reacted to Newey's departure, stating that the media had blown the whole situation out of proportion and reckoned that Red Bull still have a strong team in place. The Dutchman stated that he would have loved to see Newey continue but understood the veteran's decision. He told, as quoted by PlanetF1, "I think people in the press, they’re making up a lot of things at the moment, because they don’t understand how the roles were in the team." He further added, "But of course, like I said before, I cannot deny that I would have preferred him to stay, just for how he is as a person, his knowledge. And of course, what he will bring to potentially another team if he wants to join."

Max Verstappen's dad might be the reason if at all he decides to leave Red Bull: Ex-driver

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has joked the only "good" thing about having Donald Trump on the Miami grid was&nbsp;that people were interested in the former US president and not him. Formula 1 was heavily criticised after pictures and videos emerged showing the&nbsp;Republican leader having a leisurely stroll across the pit lane with his 'Make America Great Again' cap, amid the plethora of court cases against him.&nbsp;

Speaking at a post-race press conference, Verstappen said he found a huge silver lining in Trump's Formula 1 outing.&nbsp;

“It’s good everyone looks at him, you know, and then they don’t bother me,” Verstappen told Canal+.

Trump, who lives in Florida, was among the several VIPs to descend to the race track and the paddock in Miami. He was seen interacting with McLaren's Lando Norris while posing for photos with team chief executive Zak Brown in the pit lane outside the garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nationality-bias-in-f1-fernando-alonso-levels-serious-allegation-following-miami-gp-sprint-incident-718233">Also read |&nbsp;Nationality bias in F1? Fernando Alonso levels serious allegation following Miami GP sprint incident</a>

<h2>McLaren issue statement</h2>

Amid the online criticism, McLaren issued a statement saying that the organisation was honoured to host Trump at the request of the FIA boss.

“McLaren is a non-political organisation, however, we recognise and respect the office of President of the United States so when the request was made to visit our garage on race day we accepted alongside the president of the FIA and the CEO’s of Liberty Media and Formula 1," read the statement.&nbsp;

“We were honoured that McLaren Racing was chosen as the representative of F1 which gave us the opportunity to showcase the world-class engineering that we bring to motorsport," it added.

Trump met Norris after the race and said he was the McLaren driver's 'lucky charm' as the Briton won his first Formula 1 race when he came to the paddock.&nbsp;

“He said he was my lucky charm because it’s my win, so I don’t know if he’s going to come to more races now. But there’s a lot of special people or cool people that have been here this weekend. Donald is someone that you got to have a lot of respect for in many ways," said Norris.&nbsp;

Trump, one of the most polarising figures in the US, has been on the campaign trail to secure a second term as the president. He is the presumptive&nbsp;GOP nominee and is set to go&nbsp;up against Joe Biden later this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has joked the only "good" thing about having Donald Trump on the Miami grid was that people were interested in the former US president and not him.

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has joked the only "good" thing about having Donald Trump on the Miami grid was that people were interested in the former US president and not him. Formula 1 was heavily criticised after pictures and videos emerged showing the Republican leader having a leisurely stroll across the pit lane with his 'Make America Great Again' cap, amid the plethora of court cases against him. Speaking at a post-race press conference, Verstappen said he found a huge silver lining in Trump's Formula 1 outing. “It’s good everyone looks at him, you know, and then they don’t bother me,” Verstappen told Canal+. Trump, who lives in Florida, was among the several VIPs to descend to the race track and the paddock in Miami. He was seen interacting with McLaren's Lando Norris while posing for photos with team chief executive Zak Brown in the pit lane outside the garage. Also read | Nationality bias in F1? Fernando Alonso levels serious allegation following Miami GP sprint incident McLaren issue statement Amid the online criticism, McLaren issued a statement saying that the organisation was honoured to host Trump at the request of the FIA boss. “McLaren is a non-political organisation, however, we recognise and respect the office of President of the United States so when the request was made to visit our garage on race day we accepted alongside the president of the FIA and the CEO’s of Liberty Media and Formula 1," read the statement. “We were honoured that McLaren Racing was chosen as the representative of F1 which gave us the opportunity to showcase the world-class engineering that we bring to motorsport," it added. Trump met Norris after the race and said he was the McLaren driver's 'lucky charm' as the Briton won his first Formula 1 race when he came to the paddock. “He said he was my lucky charm because it’s my win, so I don’t know if he’s going to come to more races now. But there’s a lot of special people or cool people that have been here this weekend. Donald is someone that you got to have a lot of respect for in many ways," said Norris. Trump, one of the most polarising figures in the US, has been on the campaign trail to secure a second term as the president. He is the presumptive GOP nominee and is set to go up against Joe Biden later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

'It’s good...': Max Verstappen on Donald Trump's presence at Miami Grand Prix

Max Verstappen was expected to keep his winning run intact in the just-concluded Miami Grand Prix on the weekend. However, the Dutchman lost as McLaren driver Lando Norris clinched his maiden win in F1. It was a sweet victory for the Briton after the 24-year-old held the record for most podiums without a win (15). Notably, he ended as runner-up on a&nbsp;staggering eight occasions in 110 grand prixs.

Verstappen, who was a favourite, was on&nbsp;course to claim a fifth win in six races until a midway crash led McLaren to cash in on a safety car period, with Norris eventually coming out with a win. Despite the loss, the Dutchman remains&nbsp;optimistic of a turnaround&nbsp;and lauded Norris for his first-ever race win.

After the race, Verstappen said, "You win, you lose. I think we’re all used to that in racing, right?" Today was just a bit tricky. If a bad day is P2, I take it. I’m very happy for Lando. It’s been a long time coming and it’s not going to be his last one, so he definitely deserves it today."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-new-zealand-touch-peak-form-with-twin-wins-at-singapore-7s-as-paris-games-looms-718342">Rugby: New Zealand touch peak form with twin wins at Singapore 7s as Paris Games looms</a>

Meanwhile, Norris was on cloud nine and stated, "About time! What a race. It's been a long time coming. Finally, I've managed to do it," Norris told Sky Sports. "I'm so happy for my whole team. I finally delivered for them."

He further opined, "Long day, tough race. Finally on top, so I'm over the moon. I'm just proud. A lot of people doubted me along the way."

"I've made a lot of mistakes over my last five years in my short career but today we put it all together," Norris added.

The win is&nbsp;huge for Norris given how Red Bull is dominating the ongoing season. Mercedes' seven-time&nbsp;world champion Lewis Hamilton settled for the sixth spot and RB's Yuki Tsunoda followed him in seventh. Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso claimed the ninth spot while Alpine's Esteban Ocon earned his struggling team their first point of the season crossing 10th.

The focus now moves to the Elimia Romagna GP, which is on May 19 in Italy.

Max Verstappen was expected to keep his winning run intact in the just-concluded Miami Grand Prix on the weekend. However, the Dutchman lost as McLaren driver Lando Norris clinched his maiden win in F1.

Max Verstappen was expected to keep his winning run intact in the just-concluded Miami Grand Prix on the weekend. However, the Dutchman lost as McLaren driver Lando Norris clinched his maiden win in F1. It was a sweet victory for the Briton after the 24-year-old held the record for most podiums without a win (15). Notably, he ended as runner-up on a staggering eight occasions in 110 grand prixs. Verstappen, who was a favourite, was on course to claim a fifth win in six races until a midway crash led McLaren to cash in on a safety car period, with Norris eventually coming out with a win. Despite the loss, the Dutchman remains optimistic of a turnaround and lauded Norris for his first-ever race win. After the race, Verstappen said, "You win, you lose. I think we’re all used to that in racing, right?" Today was just a bit tricky. If a bad day is P2, I take it. I’m very happy for Lando. It’s been a long time coming and it’s not going to be his last one, so he definitely deserves it today." Also read: Rugby: New Zealand touch peak form with twin wins at Singapore 7s as Paris Games looms Meanwhile, Norris was on cloud nine and stated, "About time! What a race. It's been a long time coming. Finally, I've managed to do it," Norris told Sky Sports. "I'm so happy for my whole team. I finally delivered for them." He further opined, "Long day, tough race. Finally on top, so I'm over the moon. I'm just proud. A lot of people doubted me along the way." "I've made a lot of mistakes over my last five years in my short career but today we put it all together," Norris added. The win is huge for Norris given how Red Bull is dominating the ongoing season. Mercedes' seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton settled for the sixth spot and RB's Yuki Tsunoda followed him in seventh. Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso claimed the ninth spot while Alpine's Esteban Ocon earned his struggling team their first point of the season crossing 10th. The focus now moves to the Elimia Romagna GP, which is on May 19 in Italy.

Very happy for Lando Norris, says Max Verstappen despite losing Miami GP to McLaren driver

Max Verstappen has opened up for the first time on his future at Red Bull after legendary car designer Adrian Newey announced he was leaving the team at the end of the season.

Max Verstappen has opened up for the first time on his future at Red Bull after legendary car designer Adrian Newey announced he was leaving the team at the end of the season. Verstappen has been on the fence about his contract with Red Bull that runs till 2028, ever since allegations of improper conduct surfaced against team principal Christian Horner. “At the end of the day, it’s not about money for me. I’m already very happy of course with what I’m having at the team," said Verstappen on the sidelines of the Miami Grand Prix when quizzed about his Red Bull plans. Verstappen admitted that he did not want Newey to leave but played down the impact that his departure had on the team's performance. “Adrian from when he started at Red Bull was incredibly important for the success that they had, over time his role has changed a bit and a lot of people don’t understand what he was actually doing,” he said. Also read | F1: Red Bull suspend woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour in shock twist “I’m not saying he was not doing anything but his role has evolved. A lot of good people came into the team which has strengthened that whole department. would have preferred him to stay for sure. I really trust the technical team we have is very strong and they have shown that in the last few years with how competitive the car is," he added. The three-time world champion further played down the impact saying Newey's departure may have looked "dramatic" from the outside but what was happening inside the team was "not as dramatic as it seems". Also read | Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull Helmut Marko to depart as well? While Verstappen looks to stay put at the moment, the departure of Red Bull Motorsport director Helmut Marko could accelerate the talks as the F1 driver has stated on multiple occasions that if Marko leaves the team, he might consider a switch. Meanwhile, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has openly said he would love to sign Verstappen if he decides to leave Red Bull. Current Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will be moving to Ferrari in the 2025-25 season which has led to Wolff looking for replacements. (With inputs from agencies)

Max Verstappen breaks silence on his future after Adrian Newey's departure

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru,&nbsp;Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull. Hamilton said he would 'love' to work alongside Newey as the British driver moves to Ferrari next year.

Newey departed Red Bull after a successful 20-year partnership where the team won as many as 12 F1 Constructors' and 13 Drivers' Championships.

“If I was to do a list of people I would love to work with, he would absolutely be at the top of it. Adrian has such a great history, track record he has done an amazing job through his career, engaging with teams, the knowledge that he has. It would be a privilege to work with him," said Hamilton on the sidelines of Miami Grand Prix," he said.

Ever since Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the end of the season, there have been rumors that Ferrari was on the prowl to secure services of Newey, especially in the backdrop of new regulations kicking in from the 2026 season.

“Racing against a team that he has been so heavily part of over the years has been a massive challenge,” he said. “But we need to remember there are a lot of people in the background. There is not one key person, it’s a whole team of people that do the job."

“I don’t anticipate Red Bull not continuing to build great cars moving forward but any team would be fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-is-in-danger-of-falling-apart-verstappens-father-hints-at-red-bull-drivers-future-after-neweys-exit-717334">Also read |&nbsp;'Team is in danger of falling apart': Verstappen's father hints at Red Bull driver's future after Newey's exit</a>

<h2>Why did Newey quit Red Bull?</h2>

Since the start of the new F1 season, there had been speculations that Newey was considering leaving Red Bull after accusations of inappropriate behaviour surfaced against team principal Christian Horner.&nbsp;

Although Newey did not cite any particular reason for his departure in the parting statement, experts are of the view that Red Bull's hierarchy and its support of Horner contributed to his exit.&nbsp;

"For almost two decades it has been my great honour to have played a key role in Red Bull Racing's progress from upstart newcomer to multiple title-winning Team. However, I feel now is an opportune moment to hand that baton over to others and to seek new challenges for myself," said Newey.

Meanwhile, Horner, after the major announcement paid flowing tribute to Newey, saying all of Red Bull's "greatest moments from the past 20 years" had come due to the British engineer's technical brilliance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru, Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru, Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull. Hamilton said he would 'love' to work alongside Newey as the British driver moves to Ferrari next year. Newey departed Red Bull after a successful 20-year partnership where the team won as many as 12 F1 Constructors' and 13 Drivers' Championships. “If I was to do a list of people I would love to work with, he would absolutely be at the top of it. Adrian has such a great history, track record he has done an amazing job through his career, engaging with teams, the knowledge that he has. It would be a privilege to work with him," said Hamilton on the sidelines of Miami Grand Prix," he said. Ever since Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the end of the season, there have been rumors that Ferrari was on the prowl to secure services of Newey, especially in the backdrop of new regulations kicking in from the 2026 season. “Racing against a team that he has been so heavily part of over the years has been a massive challenge,” he said. “But we need to remember there are a lot of people in the background. There is not one key person, it’s a whole team of people that do the job." “I don’t anticipate Red Bull not continuing to build great cars moving forward but any team would be fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him." Also read | 'Team is in danger of falling apart': Verstappen's father hints at Red Bull driver's future after Newey's exit Why did Newey quit Red Bull? Since the start of the new F1 season, there had been speculations that Newey was considering leaving Red Bull after accusations of inappropriate behaviour surfaced against team principal Christian Horner. Although Newey did not cite any particular reason for his departure in the parting statement, experts are of the view that Red Bull's hierarchy and its support of Horner contributed to his exit. "For almost two decades it has been my great honour to have played a key role in Red Bull Racing's progress from upstart newcomer to multiple title-winning Team. However, I feel now is an opportune moment to hand that baton over to others and to seek new challenges for myself," said Newey. Meanwhile, Horner, after the major announcement paid flowing tribute to Newey, saying all of Red Bull's "greatest moments from the past 20 years" had come due to the British engineer's technical brilliance. (With inputs from agencies)

'Would love to': Lewis Hamilton hints at working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide

On Wednesday (May 1), Adrian Newey -- the legendary designer -- announced his exit from the Red Bull team, after serving with them for 19 years. The move came ahead of the upcoming Miami Grand Prix and casts further shadows on the future of other top personnel in he team, including star driver Max Verstappen. It was speculated that Verstappen is looking for a switch, following allegations on team principal Christian Horner for sexual misconduct and&nbsp;the 2026 rule changes. However, the Dutchman revealed that he plans to fulfil his Red Bull contract -- until 2028. Nonetheless, following Newey's departure, his father made a bold claim.

It is to be noted that Verstappen has won three titles on the trot and is in line to match Sebastian Vettel's footsteps and win 4 successive races. However, the recent internal power struggle might prompt him to look elsewhere. Following Newey's latest move, Max's father Jos Verstappen expressed his concerns about the future of his son and Red Bull in general.

In an interview with De Telegraaf, Jos said, "The team is in danger of falling apart. I was afraid of that earlier this year. For internal peace, it is important that key people stay on board. That is not the case now. (Adrian) Newey is leaving and earlier this year it also looked like Helmut would be sent away. For the future, that is not good."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-great-honour-to-have-played-a-role-adrian-newey-to-leave-red-bull-in-2025-717003">‘My great honour to have played a role...’: Adrian Newey to leave Red Bull in 2025</a>

There have been reports of Verstappen looking to move to Mercedes and become Lewis Hamilton's replacement, who is going to Ferrari from 2025. Recently, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff denied having any talks, or being in discussions, with Verstappen's father -- with whom he shares good relations -- and his manager for a potential 2025 move.

Despite all the claims, there are strong speculations of a possible meet between Wolff and Verstappen's team. One might probably get a clear picture after this weekend's Miami Grand Prix.

On Wednesday (May 1), Adrian Newey -- the legendary designer -- announced his exit from the Red Bull team, after serving with them for 19 years. The move came ahead of the upcoming Miami Grand Prix and casts further shadows on the future of other top personnel in he team, including star driver Max Verstappen.

On Wednesday (May 1), Adrian Newey -- the legendary designer -- announced his exit from the Red Bull team, after serving with them for 19 years. The move came ahead of the upcoming Miami Grand Prix and casts further shadows on the future of other top personnel in he team, including star driver Max Verstappen. It was speculated that Verstappen is looking for a switch, following allegations on team principal Christian Horner for sexual misconduct and the 2026 rule changes. However, the Dutchman revealed that he plans to fulfil his Red Bull contract -- until 2028. Nonetheless, following Newey's departure, his father made a bold claim. It is to be noted that Verstappen has won three titles on the trot and is in line to match Sebastian Vettel's footsteps and win 4 successive races. However, the recent internal power struggle might prompt him to look elsewhere. Following Newey's latest move, Max's father Jos Verstappen expressed his concerns about the future of his son and Red Bull in general. In an interview with De Telegraaf, Jos said, "The team is in danger of falling apart. I was afraid of that earlier this year. For internal peace, it is important that key people stay on board. That is not the case now. (Adrian) Newey is leaving and earlier this year it also looked like Helmut would be sent away. For the future, that is not good." Also read: ‘My great honour to have played a role...’: Adrian Newey to leave Red Bull in 2025 There have been reports of Verstappen looking to move to Mercedes and become Lewis Hamilton's replacement, who is going to Ferrari from 2025. Recently, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff denied having any talks, or being in discussions, with Verstappen's father -- with whom he shares good relations -- and his manager for a potential 2025 move. Despite all the claims, there are strong speculations of a possible meet between Wolff and Verstappen's team. One might probably get a clear picture after this weekend's Miami Grand Prix.

'Team is in danger of falling apart': Verstappen's father hints at Red Bull driver's future after Newey's exit

Ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his move from Mercedes, to join Ferrari in 2025, Mercedes are searching for his replacement. Team principal Toto Wolff has openly courted Dutchman Max Verstappen, who is the reigning three-time champion, expressing regret over not signing him a decade ago. Thus, given Wolff's interest in Verstappen, there have been strong rumours of the latter being inclined to join Mercedes in 2025. However, Wolff has brushed aside all such rumours and confirmed that there no talks have been held with Verstappen's team during the Miami Grand Prix.

German media had reported that Wolff was scheduled to have a talk with Verstappen's father&nbsp;Jos and manager Raymond Vermeulen -- which&nbsp;Ineos boss Jim Ratcliffe and Mercedes Benz CEO Ola Kallenius were also supposed to join during the Miami GP. However, Wolff has confirmed&nbsp;no such meeting ever took place.&nbsp;

<h2>'People make up meetings'</h2>

He was quoted as saying by Reuters, "No, that’s one of the rumours. People make up meetings, make up what’s happening with the drivers but these things should be behind closed doors and everything that’s been out there was not really the right thing."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-staggering-contract-sum-offered-by-mercedes-to-lure-verstappen-from-red-bull-716710">Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull</a>

Although Wolff has dismissed all such rumours, he has a genuine interest in acquiring the services of Verstappen. He had previously suggested that the reigning champion was part of the driver market despite Verstappen's contract with Red Bull lasting until 2028.&nbsp;

The Mercedes team principal, like many, believes that Verstappen's decision about his future depends on the 2026 F1 regulations, which will be the most crucial factor in influencing his next move.

However, Red Bull's team principal Christian Horner has confirmed that Verstappen is not even considering a move and is content with his current team.&nbsp;

Ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his move from Mercedes, to join Ferrari in 2025, Mercedes are searching for his replacement. Team principal Toto Wolff has openly courted Dutchman Max Verstappen, who is the reigning three-time champion, expressing regret over not signing him a decade ago.

Ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his move from Mercedes, to join Ferrari in 2025, Mercedes are searching for his replacement. Team principal Toto Wolff has openly courted Dutchman Max Verstappen, who is the reigning three-time champion, expressing regret over not signing him a decade ago. Thus, given Wolff's interest in Verstappen, there have been strong rumours of the latter being inclined to join Mercedes in 2025. However, Wolff has brushed aside all such rumours and confirmed that there no talks have been held with Verstappen's team during the Miami Grand Prix. German media had reported that Wolff was scheduled to have a talk with Verstappen's father Jos and manager Raymond Vermeulen -- which Ineos boss Jim Ratcliffe and Mercedes Benz CEO Ola Kallenius were also supposed to join during the Miami GP. However, Wolff has confirmed no such meeting ever took place. 'People make up meetings' He was quoted as saying by Reuters, "No, that’s one of the rumours. People make up meetings, make up what’s happening with the drivers but these things should be behind closed doors and everything that’s been out there was not really the right thing." Also read: Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull Although Wolff has dismissed all such rumours, he has a genuine interest in acquiring the services of Verstappen. He had previously suggested that the reigning champion was part of the driver market despite Verstappen's contract with Red Bull lasting until 2028. The Mercedes team principal, like many, believes that Verstappen's decision about his future depends on the 2026 F1 regulations, which will be the most crucial factor in influencing his next move. However, Red Bull's team principal Christian Horner has confirmed that Verstappen is not even considering a move and is content with his current team.

People make up meetings: Wolff confirms Verstappen not in talks with Mercedes for a potential 2025 move

Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has been offered a staggering&nbsp;$160 million contract to make the switch to Mercedes from rival team Red Bull, next season, according to leading Austrian publication, OE24.

Verstappen's team is actively considering the proposal which would make him the highest-paid athlete in the world, the report added.&nbsp;The publication further claimed that Verstappen’s Mercedes salary would also include post-racing ambassador duties.

"The Dutchman is expected to earn 150 million euros per season. Including bonuses. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff really wants the 26-year-old to join the Silver Arrows."

Despite signing a long-time contract with Red Bull, Verstappen has remained somewhat hesitant about his future with the team after allegations of improper conduct surfaced against team principal Christian Horner, earlier this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-david-croft-reveals-reason-behind-christian-horners-beef-with-toto-wolff-714863">Also read |&nbsp;Formula 1: David Croft reveals reason behind Christian Horner's beef with Toto Wolff</a>

<h2>Red Bull key members likely leaving</h2>

Verstappen's departure from Red Bull is also being seen likely as design guru Adrian Newey looks set to leave the team, according to a recent BBC report. The final straw for Verstappen could be&nbsp;Red Bull Motorsport director Helmut Mark being poached by Mercedes, as the German motorsport team goes for the kill.&nbsp;

Verstappen has stated on multiple occasions that if Marko leaves the team, he might ponder his future with Red Bull.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Wolff has made it clear on multiple occasions that he would love to sign Verstappen&nbsp;if he decides to leave Red Bull.&nbsp;

“We have a slot free, the only one in the top teams, unless Max decides he goes, then the slot is not going to be free with us anymore. There are a few options that are really interesting for us, from the very young super-talent to some of the older ones who are very experienced," said&nbsp;Wolff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-on-earth-would-you-horner-attacks-wolff-over-verstappen-poaching-attempts-713948">Also read |&nbsp;'Why on earth would you...': Horner attacks Wolff over Verstappen poaching attempts</a>

After Verstappen won the Chinese Grand Prix, Horner hit back at Wolff for trying to persuade Verstappen to join the German outfit.&nbsp;

“Why would you want to leave this team [Red Bull]? I don’t think Toto’s problems are his drivers. He has other elements he needs to focus on, rather than focusing on drivers that are unavailable. Mercedes are behind their customer teams at the moment," said&nbsp;Horner.

"Today we moved ahead of Mercedes in terms of races won in the modern era. So, the team is in form. Why on earth would you want to leave?," he added.

Current Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will be moving to Ferrari in the 2025-25 season which has led to Wolff looking for replacements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has been offered a staggering $160 million contract to make the switch to Mercedes from rival team Red Bull, next season, according to leading Austrian publication, OE24.

Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has been offered a staggering $160 million contract to make the switch to Mercedes from rival team Red Bull, next season, according to leading Austrian publication, OE24. Verstappen's team is actively considering the proposal which would make him the highest-paid athlete in the world, the report added. The publication further claimed that Verstappen’s Mercedes salary would also include post-racing ambassador duties. "The Dutchman is expected to earn 150 million euros per season. Including bonuses. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff really wants the 26-year-old to join the Silver Arrows." Despite signing a long-time contract with Red Bull, Verstappen has remained somewhat hesitant about his future with the team after allegations of improper conduct surfaced against team principal Christian Horner, earlier this year. Also read | Formula 1: David Croft reveals reason behind Christian Horner's beef with Toto Wolff Red Bull key members likely leaving Verstappen's departure from Red Bull is also being seen likely as design guru Adrian Newey looks set to leave the team, according to a recent BBC report. The final straw for Verstappen could be Red Bull Motorsport director Helmut Mark being poached by Mercedes, as the German motorsport team goes for the kill. Verstappen has stated on multiple occasions that if Marko leaves the team, he might ponder his future with Red Bull. Meanwhile, Wolff has made it clear on multiple occasions that he would love to sign Verstappen if he decides to leave Red Bull. “We have a slot free, the only one in the top teams, unless Max decides he goes, then the slot is not going to be free with us anymore. There are a few options that are really interesting for us, from the very young super-talent to some of the older ones who are very experienced," said Wolff. Also read | 'Why on earth would you...': Horner attacks Wolff over Verstappen poaching attempts After Verstappen won the Chinese Grand Prix, Horner hit back at Wolff for trying to persuade Verstappen to join the German outfit. “Why would you want to leave this team [Red Bull]? I don’t think Toto’s problems are his drivers. He has other elements he needs to focus on, rather than focusing on drivers that are unavailable. Mercedes are behind their customer teams at the moment," said Horner. "Today we moved ahead of Mercedes in terms of races won in the modern era. So, the team is in form. Why on earth would you want to leave?," he added. Current Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will be moving to Ferrari in the 2025-25 season which has led to Wolff looking for replacements. (With inputs from agencies)

Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari from the 2025 season.

It is to be noted that Verstappen and Hamilton were involved in a bitter battle for the 2021 championship that continued throughout the season. Their relations were not the best due to multiple on-track collisions and were further complicated by a controversial end to the season finale, seeing Red Bull driver Verstappen crowned champion.

Nonetheless, seems like everything is now in the past and both Hamilton and Verstappen have moved on. During the China GP weekend, held on April 21, the Dutchman stated that he maintains a straightforward relationship with his arch-rival and there is mutual respect between them.

<h2>Hamilton&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;one of the greatest drivers ever: Verstappen</h2>

Talking to the Daily Mail, Verstappen said, "Of course, we had a big rivalry in 2021 but ultimately we do have a lot of respect for each other. He is definitely up there as one of the greatest drivers ever. I have no need or desire to deny that."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-role-of-driver-in-car-development-always-overestimated-wolff-downplays-hamiltons-exit-from-mercedes-714511">F1: ‘Role of driver in car development always overestimated’ - Wolff downplays Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes</a>

Further, 25-year-old Verstappen lauded Hamilton for his dominant run in the sport, wherein he racked up six championships between 2014 and 2020 before the former took over. The Red Bull driver further stated that Hamilton has made a difference in the sport courtesy of the high points in his career.

"Consistency is his key, and staying on top of his game. That is not so hard when you are so talented – it doesn’t take a lot of effort to do that. The way he has managed his championships is very impressive. He has stood up when he needed to and made the difference," he added.

The two recently shared the top two positions in the China GP at the Shanghai International Circuit with Verstappen ending at the top.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari from the 2025 season. It is to be noted that Verstappen and Hamilton were involved in a bitter battle for the 2021 championship that continued throughout the season. Their relations were not the best due to multiple on-track collisions and were further complicated by a controversial end to the season finale, seeing Red Bull driver Verstappen crowned champion. Nonetheless, seems like everything is now in the past and both Hamilton and Verstappen have moved on. During the China GP weekend, held on April 21, the Dutchman stated that he maintains a straightforward relationship with his arch-rival and there is mutual respect between them. Hamilton definitely one of the greatest drivers ever: Verstappen Talking to the Daily Mail, Verstappen said, "Of course, we had a big rivalry in 2021 but ultimately we do have a lot of respect for each other. He is definitely up there as one of the greatest drivers ever. I have no need or desire to deny that." Also read: F1: ‘Role of driver in car development always overestimated’ - Wolff downplays Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes Further, 25-year-old Verstappen lauded Hamilton for his dominant run in the sport, wherein he racked up six championships between 2014 and 2020 before the former took over. The Red Bull driver further stated that Hamilton has made a difference in the sport courtesy of the high points in his career. "Consistency is his key, and staying on top of his game. That is not so hard when you are so talented – it doesn’t take a lot of effort to do that. The way he has managed his championships is very impressive. He has stood up when he needed to and made the difference," he added. The two recently shared the top two positions in the China GP at the Shanghai International Circuit with Verstappen ending at the top.

'He is one of the greatest drivers': Max Verstappen on relations with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton

Red Bull F1 team principal Christian Horner has hit back at Toto Wolff for attempting to poach Max Verstappen to Red Bull. Speaking after the Chinese Grand Prix where Verstappen secured another win, Horner suggested Wolff focus on the issues plaguing his team.&nbsp;

Ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his departure from Mercedes to Ferrari, Wolff has been on the hunt for a driver to replace him. However, Horner was not having any of Wolff's tactics to lure his star driver.&nbsp;

“Why would you want to leave this team [Red Bull]? I don’t think Toto’s problems are his drivers. He has other elements he needs to focus on, rather than focusing on drivers that are unavailable. Mercedes are behind their customer teams at the moment," said&nbsp;Horner.

"His time would be better spent focusing on the team than the driver market. Sometimes it is just designed to create noise. I can assure you that there is no ambiguity about where Max Verstappen will be next year," he added.

"Today we moved ahead of Mercedes in terms of races won in the modern era. So, the team is in form. Why on earth would you want to leave?”

Despite signing a long-time contract with Red Bull, Verstappen has remained somewhat hesitant about his future with the team after allegations of improper conduct surfaced against Horner, earlier this year.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-max-verstappens-father-says-red-bull-in-danger-of-being-torn-apart-if-christian-horner-stays-696194">Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays</a>

<h2>Would love to sign him: Wolff&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Wolff has made it clear on multiple occasions that he would love to sign Verstappen&nbsp;if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season.&nbsp;

“We have a slot free, the only one in the top teams, unless Max decides he goes, then the slot is not going to be free with us anymore. There are a few options that are really interesting for us, from the very young super-talent to some of the older ones who are very experienced.”

Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said: "It doesn't have any impact on me on what I would do. It's always nice to hear that."

"Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything."

Apart from Verstappen, there have been rumours that Wolff was entertaining the noting of bringing four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel back to the paddock.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Red Bull F1 team principal Christian Horner has hit back at Toto Wolff for attempting to poach Max Verstappen to Red Bull. Speaking after the Chinese Grand Prix where Verstappen secured another win, Horner suggested Wolff focus on the issues plaguing his team.

Red Bull F1 team principal Christian Horner has hit back at Toto Wolff for attempting to poach Max Verstappen to Red Bull. Speaking after the Chinese Grand Prix where Verstappen secured another win, Horner suggested Wolff focus on the issues plaguing his team. Ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his departure from Mercedes to Ferrari, Wolff has been on the hunt for a driver to replace him. However, Horner was not having any of Wolff's tactics to lure his star driver. “Why would you want to leave this team [Red Bull]? I don’t think Toto’s problems are his drivers. He has other elements he needs to focus on, rather than focusing on drivers that are unavailable. Mercedes are behind their customer teams at the moment," said Horner. "His time would be better spent focusing on the team than the driver market. Sometimes it is just designed to create noise. I can assure you that there is no ambiguity about where Max Verstappen will be next year," he added. "Today we moved ahead of Mercedes in terms of races won in the modern era. So, the team is in form. Why on earth would you want to leave?” Despite signing a long-time contract with Red Bull, Verstappen has remained somewhat hesitant about his future with the team after allegations of improper conduct surfaced against Horner, earlier this year. Also read: Formula 1: Max Verstappen's father says Red Bull 'in danger of being torn apart' if Christian Horner stays Would love to sign him: Wolff Meanwhile, Wolff has made it clear on multiple occasions that he would love to sign Verstappen if he decides to leave Red Bull, come the next season. “We have a slot free, the only one in the top teams, unless Max decides he goes, then the slot is not going to be free with us anymore. There are a few options that are really interesting for us, from the very young super-talent to some of the older ones who are very experienced.” Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said: "It doesn't have any impact on me on what I would do. It's always nice to hear that." "Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything." Apart from Verstappen, there have been rumours that Wolff was entertaining the noting of bringing four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel back to the paddock. (With inputs from agencies)

'Why on earth would you...': Horner attacks Wolff over Verstappen poaching attempts

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite. Ahead of the Grand Prix, speculations have once again become rife that Verstappen is mulling a surprise move, and is in talks with Mercedes. Notably, the Dutchman's current contract with Red Bull extends up to the 2028 season. However, recent reports have hinted that he is contemplating a move to Mercedes soon.

Former Red Bull F1 driver Robert Doornbos has claimed that Verstappen is already in talks with Mercedes, who will bid farewell to Lewis Hamilton as the Great Britain driver will be a part of Ferrari from 2025. Doornbos explained that Verstappen, who has been on a winning spree since 2021, is enquiring about the power units which the Brackley-based squad will use in 2026, the season when the major power unit regulations changes will come into play.&nbsp;

The former Red Bull driver Doornbos told Ziggo Sport, "I have heard from my reliable bird that Max is already having conversations with Mercedes, purely to see one-on-one what the feeling is for the future. What is Mercedes going to do with the engine is one of the most important questions that would have been discussed."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-nikes-campaign-unveiling-athletes-apparel-brings-shacarri-richardson-into-limelight-710446">Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight</a>

He further opined, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."

It is to be noted that Red Bulls is building power units in-house, in collaboration with Ford, which will be introduced in 2026. On the other hand, Mercedes have a vast experience of building championship-winning engines, having switched to hybrid power units much earlier, i.e. a decade ago.

As the regulation&nbsp;changes are set to shake up the pecking order in the coming years, many teams are wisely preparing their engines. In this regard, Doornbos feels that Verstappen doesn't want to take any chances and end his dominance. Hence, the 26-year-old is closely monitoring his rivals and analysing his options.

Verstappen's compatriot Doornbos added, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."&nbsp;

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite.

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite. Ahead of the Grand Prix, speculations have once again become rife that Verstappen is mulling a surprise move, and is in talks with Mercedes. Notably, the Dutchman's current contract with Red Bull extends up to the 2028 season. However, recent reports have hinted that he is contemplating a move to Mercedes soon. Former Red Bull F1 driver Robert Doornbos has claimed that Verstappen is already in talks with Mercedes, who will bid farewell to Lewis Hamilton as the Great Britain driver will be a part of Ferrari from 2025. Doornbos explained that Verstappen, who has been on a winning spree since 2021, is enquiring about the power units which the Brackley-based squad will use in 2026, the season when the major power unit regulations changes will come into play. The former Red Bull driver Doornbos told Ziggo Sport, "I have heard from my reliable bird that Max is already having conversations with Mercedes, purely to see one-on-one what the feeling is for the future. What is Mercedes going to do with the engine is one of the most important questions that would have been discussed." Also read: Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight He further opined, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April." It is to be noted that Red Bulls is building power units in-house, in collaboration with Ford, which will be introduced in 2026. On the other hand, Mercedes have a vast experience of building championship-winning engines, having switched to hybrid power units much earlier, i.e. a decade ago. As the regulation changes are set to shake up the pecking order in the coming years, many teams are wisely preparing their engines. In this regard, Doornbos feels that Verstappen doesn't want to take any chances and end his dominance. Hence, the 26-year-old is closely monitoring his rivals and analysing his options. Verstappen's compatriot Doornbos added, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen in talks with Mercedes for a switch? Former F1 driver makes big remark

World champion Max Verstappen has questioned the wisdom of throwing&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;drivers into a sprint weekend on their return to Shanghai International Circuit for the first time since 2019 later this month. Verstappen restored normal service with a dominant pole to flag victory at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday, leading team mate Sergio Perez home for yet another Red Bull 1-2.

Next up in two weeks is the return to China, where&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;has been absent for five years as the country dealt with the threat of the COVID pandemic. The Chinese Grand Prix will include the first of six sprint rounds this season, offering points for the drivers in Saturday's standalone&nbsp;100km race, but only&nbsp;one&nbsp;free practice session to get used to the track.

"I think it's not great, let's say it like that, to do that," Verstappen told reporters after Sunday's race at Suzuka. "Because when you have been away from a track for quite a while, I think you never know what you're going to experience, right? So it would have been better to have a normal race weekend there.

"Purely from a driving perspective, performance perspective of the sport, I think it's not the smartest thing to do. But yeah, we'll see what we get there."

With Verstappen and Red Bull showing again on Sunday that they are all but untouchable when the car is reliable, the Dutchman did concede that a Shanghai sprint lottery might make things more interesting for fans.

"It probably spices things up a bit more, and that's maybe what they would like to see," he added. "I always loved driving there. So yeah, hopefully we can hit the ground running as well as we can, and hopefully we don't need to fine-tune too many things on the car."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-sails-through-as-alex-de-minaur-thrashes-stan-wawrinka-at-monte-carlo-709601">Tennis: Novak Djokovic sails through as Alex de Minaur thrashes Stan Wawrinka at Monte Carlo</a>

Carlos Sainz showed with third place in Suzuka after a win in Australia two weeks ago that Ferrari are firmly established at the front of the chasing pack behind Red Bull. The Spaniard was also cautious about the sprint element and said the matter had been raised in the drivers' briefing and with the governing FIA as well as&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One.

"With these kind of cars to go to a track with&nbsp;one&nbsp;hour of practice and straight into qualifying, with the regulations that they put on us ... and how tricky&nbsp;one&nbsp;bump could make the car, I think it's not a good choice to put the sprint after four or five years absence," he said. "Maybe for you guys at home it's exciting, but for engineers and drivers, it's something that for me, in my opinion, we shouldn't take the risk and have a normal weekend."

Sainz and Ferrari Team Principal Frederic Vasseur both suggested that any resurfacing work at the Hermann Tilke-designed circuit outside Shanghai would add another unknown into the equation.

"But it will be the same for everybody," Vasseur said. "It will be a matter of reactivity and being able to have a good setup from the beginning."

World champion Max Verstappen has questioned the wisdom of throwing Formula One drivers into a sprint weekend on their return to Shanghai International Circuit for the first time since 2019 later this month.

World champion Max Verstappen has questioned the wisdom of throwing Formula One drivers into a sprint weekend on their return to Shanghai International Circuit for the first time since 2019 later this month. Verstappen restored normal service with a dominant pole to flag victory at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday, leading team mate Sergio Perez home for yet another Red Bull 1-2. Next up in two weeks is the return to China, where Formula One has been absent for five years as the country dealt with the threat of the COVID pandemic. The Chinese Grand Prix will include the first of six sprint rounds this season, offering points for the drivers in Saturday's standalone 100km race, but only one free practice session to get used to the track. "I think it's not great, let's say it like that, to do that," Verstappen told reporters after Sunday's race at Suzuka. "Because when you have been away from a track for quite a while, I think you never know what you're going to experience, right? So it would have been better to have a normal race weekend there. "Purely from a driving perspective, performance perspective of the sport, I think it's not the smartest thing to do. But yeah, we'll see what we get there." With Verstappen and Red Bull showing again on Sunday that they are all but untouchable when the car is reliable, the Dutchman did concede that a Shanghai sprint lottery might make things more interesting for fans. "It probably spices things up a bit more, and that's maybe what they would like to see," he added. "I always loved driving there. So yeah, hopefully we can hit the ground running as well as we can, and hopefully we don't need to fine-tune too many things on the car." Also read: Tennis: Novak Djokovic sails through as Alex de Minaur thrashes Stan Wawrinka at Monte Carlo Carlos Sainz showed with third place in Suzuka after a win in Australia two weeks ago that Ferrari are firmly established at the front of the chasing pack behind Red Bull. The Spaniard was also cautious about the sprint element and said the matter had been raised in the drivers' briefing and with the governing FIA as well as Formula One. "With these kind of cars to go to a track with one hour of practice and straight into qualifying, with the regulations that they put on us ... and how tricky one bump could make the car, I think it's not a good choice to put the sprint after four or five years absence," he said. "Maybe for you guys at home it's exciting, but for engineers and drivers, it's something that for me, in my opinion, we shouldn't take the risk and have a normal weekend." Sainz and Ferrari Team Principal Frederic Vasseur both suggested that any resurfacing work at the Hermann Tilke-designed circuit outside Shanghai would add another unknown into the equation. "But it will be the same for everybody," Vasseur said. "It will be a matter of reactivity and being able to have a good setup from the beginning."

F1: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen questions wisdom of sprint race on China return

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