Four times world champion Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement from Formula One at the end of the season, saying on Thursday his goals had changed and he wanted to focus more on family and interests outside the sport.

The 35-year-old German, who drives for the Aston Martin team, won his titles with Red Bull from 2010-13 and also spent six seasons with Ferrari. He made the announcement ahead of this weekend`s Hungarian Grand Prix, the 13th round of the season and last race before the August break.

"I hereby announce my retirement from Formula One by the end of the 2022 season," he said in a video statement explaining his reasons on a newly-created Instagram page. "I love this sport. It has been central to my life since I can remember. But as much as there is life on track, there`s my life off track too. Being a racing driver has never been my sole identity.

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"Next to racing I have grown a family and I love being around them. I have grown other interests outside Formula One," he explained. Vettel, who has become increasingly outspoken on a range of topics from the environment to LGBTQ+ rights, said Formula One was increasingly in conflict with his personal life.

"My goals have shifted from winning races and fighting for championships to seeing my children grow, passing on my values, helping them up when they fall, listening to them when they need me, not having to say goodbye and, most importantly, being able to learn from them and let them inspire me," he said. "I feel we live in very decisive times and how we all shape these next years will determine our lives. 
"My passion comes with certain aspects that I`ve learned to dislike."

Vettel said in May that climate change made him question his job as a racing driver. Asked then whether his position on the environment and global warming made him a hypocrite, considering he was part of a "gas-guzzling" sport in a team sponsored by Saudi oil giant Aramco, he conceded that it did. 
"There`s questions I ask myself every day and I`m not a saint," he said then.

Vettel ranks third on the all-time race winners list, behind seven times champions Lewis Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91), with 53 victories. His last win was with Ferrari at Monza in 2019.&nbsp; He remains Formula One`s youngest world champion, taking his first crown at 23 years old, but lost his record as the youngest race winner to an 18-year-old Max Verstappen in 2016.

Vettel`s race debut was at the 2007 U.S. Grand Prix as a stand-in for Robert Kubica at BMW-Sauber. The following year he took his first pole position and first win in the wet with Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri) at their home Italian Grand Prix and became Red Bull`s first race winner in China in 2009. 
His last race, in Abu Dhabi in November, is set to be the 300th of his career.

"We made it clear to him that we wanted him to continue with us next year, but in the end he has done what he feels is right for himself and his family, and of course we respect that," said Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll. "He has driven some fantastic races for us and, behind the scenes, his experience and expertise with our engineers have been extremely valuable. He is one of the all-time greats of Formula One." 
Hamilton, 37, said it was an honour to call him a friend. "You`re leaving this sport better than you found it which is always the goal," said the Briton.

Four times world champion Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement from Formula One at the end of the season, saying on Thursday his goals had changed and he wanted to focus more on family and interests outside the sport.

Four times world champion Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement from Formula One at the end of the season, saying on Thursday his goals had changed and he wanted to focus more on family and interests outside the sport. The 35-year-old German, who drives for the Aston Martin team, won his titles with Red Bull from 2010-13 and also spent six seasons with Ferrari. He made the announcement ahead of this weekend`s Hungarian Grand Prix, the 13th round of the season and last race before the August break. "I hereby announce my retirement from Formula One by the end of the 2022 season," he said in a video statement explaining his reasons on a newly-created Instagram page. "I love this sport. It has been central to my life since I can remember. But as much as there is life on track, there`s my life off track too. Being a racing driver has never been my sole identity. ALSO READ | I've got plenty of fuel left in the tank: Lewis Hamilton opens up on Formula One future "Next to racing I have grown a family and I love being around them. I have grown other interests outside Formula One," he explained. Vettel, who has become increasingly outspoken on a range of topics from the environment to LGBTQ+ rights, said Formula One was increasingly in conflict with his personal life. "My goals have shifted from winning races and fighting for championships to seeing my children grow, passing on my values, helping them up when they fall, listening to them when they need me, not having to say goodbye and, most importantly, being able to learn from them and let them inspire me," he said. "I feel we live in very decisive times and how we all shape these next years will determine our lives. "My passion comes with certain aspects that I`ve learned to dislike." Vettel said in May that climate change made him question his job as a racing driver. Asked then whether his position on the environment and global warming made him a hypocrite, considering he was part of a "gas-guzzling" sport in a team sponsored by Saudi oil giant Aramco, he conceded that it did. "There`s questions I ask myself every day and I`m not a saint," he said then. Vettel ranks third on the all-time race winners list, behind seven times champions Lewis Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91), with 53 victories. His last win was with Ferrari at Monza in 2019. He remains Formula One`s youngest world champion, taking his first crown at 23 years old, but lost his record as the youngest race winner to an 18-year-old Max Verstappen in 2016. Vettel`s race debut was at the 2007 U.S. Grand Prix as a stand-in for Robert Kubica at BMW-Sauber. The following year he took his first pole position and first win in the wet with Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri) at their home Italian Grand Prix and became Red Bull`s first race winner in China in 2009. His last race, in Abu Dhabi in November, is set to be the 300th of his career. "We made it clear to him that we wanted him to continue with us next year, but in the end he has done what he feels is right for himself and his family, and of course we respect that," said Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll. "He has driven some fantastic races for us and, behind the scenes, his experience and expertise with our engineers have been extremely valuable. He is one of the all-time greats of Formula One." Hamilton, 37, said it was an honour to call him a friend. "You`re leaving this sport better than you found it which is always the goal," said the Briton.

Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel announces retirement, says his goals have shifted

Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou said Formula One`s halo head protection system had saved him after his crushed car was wedged sideways between a tyre wall and metal fence at the British Grand Prix on Sunday. 
The race was halted after the multi-car opening-lap collision. "I`m OK, all clear," Zhou said on Twitter after a trip to the medical centre. "Halo saved me today. Thanks everyone for your kind messages."

The titanium halo was introduced by Formula One in 2018, initially to some resistance from drivers who disliked the look of the protective ring around what had previously been a completely open cockpit. It has since been credited with saving a number of lives in serious incidents.

Emergency crews were quickly on the scene to extract the rookie, whose car skidded upside down along the track at speed before bouncing across gravel and flipping over the impact-absorbing tyre wall. 
Photographs showed it crumpled on its side, leaning at an angle in the space between the fence and barrier with the halo protecting the driver`s helmet.

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It was the second time on Sunday that the halo had saved a driver from serious injury, and probably worse. 
Roy Nissany was protected by it when Norwegian Dennis Hauger`s car flew and landed on the Israeli Formula Two driver`s halo during a morning race. Williams driver Alexander Albon was also caught up in the grand prix carnage and flown to hospital in Coventry by helicopter for precautionary checks.

Mercedes`s George Russell got out of his stricken car and ran across to check on Zhou. The Briton appeared to have been clipped from behind by AlphaTauri`s Pierre Gasly, the Mercedes` tyre then making contact with the Alfa.

"I got swamped by other cars and next thing I know I got touched, I was in the side of Zhou and that was it," said Russell. Television replays of the crash were not broadcast until it was clear Zhou had been removed safely and was conscious.

Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou said Formula One`s halo head protection system had saved him after his crushed car was wedged sideways between a tyre wall and metal fence at the British Grand Prix on Sunday.

Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou said Formula One`s halo head protection system had saved him after his crushed car was wedged sideways between a tyre wall and metal fence at the British Grand Prix on Sunday. The race was halted after the multi-car opening-lap collision. "I`m OK, all clear," Zhou said on Twitter after a trip to the medical centre. "Halo saved me today. Thanks everyone for your kind messages." The titanium halo was introduced by Formula One in 2018, initially to some resistance from drivers who disliked the look of the protective ring around what had previously been a completely open cockpit. It has since been credited with saving a number of lives in serious incidents. Emergency crews were quickly on the scene to extract the rookie, whose car skidded upside down along the track at speed before bouncing across gravel and flipping over the impact-absorbing tyre wall. Photographs showed it crumpled on its side, leaning at an angle in the space between the fence and barrier with the halo protecting the driver`s helmet. ALSO READ | Formula 1: Ferrari's Carlos Sainz converts pole into first-ever Grand Prix win at Silverstone It was the second time on Sunday that the halo had saved a driver from serious injury, and probably worse. Roy Nissany was protected by it when Norwegian Dennis Hauger`s car flew and landed on the Israeli Formula Two driver`s halo during a morning race. Williams driver Alexander Albon was also caught up in the grand prix carnage and flown to hospital in Coventry by helicopter for precautionary checks. Mercedes`s George Russell got out of his stricken car and ran across to check on Zhou. The Briton appeared to have been clipped from behind by AlphaTauri`s Pierre Gasly, the Mercedes` tyre then making contact with the Alfa. "I got swamped by other cars and next thing I know I got touched, I was in the side of Zhou and that was it," said Russell. Television replays of the crash were not broadcast until it was clear Zhou had been removed safely and was conscious.

Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou claims halo saved him in huge British GP crash

World championship leader Fabio Quartararo extended his lead in the standings with a dominant victory at the Catalunya Grand Prix on Sunday as home favourite Aleix Espargaro threw away a podium position with an embarrassing mistake on the final lap. Yamaha`s Quartararo, who started third on the grid behind pole-sitter Espargaro of Aprilia and Ducati`s Francesco Bagnaia, stormed into the lead after the lights went out, overtaking both riders by turn one.

Frenchman Quartararo had struggled for grip on his Yamaha during practice but once he took the lead, he made no mistakes as he pulled away and quickly built a big advantage, forcing Espargaro to focus on the battle for second with Jorge Martin. "I felt good from the beginning, I knew I wanted to be first on the first corner," said Quartararo, who has 147 points after nine races.

"Amazing race, I felt great. I was pushing from the beginning and I kept checking my rear tyre, which felt really good. So happy!" Espargaro looked set to finish runner-up but a premature celebration on the penultimate lap -- having thought the race was over -- dropped him down to fifth as Pramac Racing`s Martin came second and his team mate Johann Zarco third.

"It was good to keep pushing because when Aleix made the mistake on the last lap, I first thought it was a mechanical problem and then I understood he was celebrating," said Zarco. "So I say (to myself): `Finish your lap and get your podium`."

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Espargaro, a veteran of over 200 races and second in the riders` standings, held his head in his hands after the chequered flag as he fell 22 points behind Quartararo and he was inconsolable after returning to the paddock. Last year`s championship runner-up Bagnaia started second on the grid but was hit from behind by a falling Takaaki Nakagami on the opening lap, with the Japanese rider`s helmet clipping the rear wheel. 
Nakagami`s bike also took out Alex Rins as the three riders crashed at turn one. Nakagami and Rins were taken to the medical centre and will undergo further checks at hospital.

Ducati`s afternoon went from bad to worse when their two Gresini Racing riders -- Enea Bastianini and Fabio Di Giannantonio -- crashed within moments of each other with 17 laps to go. Bastianini, who has won three races this season, remained third in the standings but is now 53 points behind Quartararo after a second straight non-finish.

World championship leader Fabio Quartararo extended his lead in the standings with a dominant victory at the Catalunya Grand Prix on Sunday as home favourite Aleix Espargaro threw away a podium position with an embarrassing mistake on the final lap.

World championship leader Fabio Quartararo extended his lead in the standings with a dominant victory at the Catalunya Grand Prix on Sunday as home favourite Aleix Espargaro threw away a podium position with an embarrassing mistake on the final lap. Yamaha`s Quartararo, who started third on the grid behind pole-sitter Espargaro of Aprilia and Ducati`s Francesco Bagnaia, stormed into the lead after the lights went out, overtaking both riders by turn one. Frenchman Quartararo had struggled for grip on his Yamaha during practice but once he took the lead, he made no mistakes as he pulled away and quickly built a big advantage, forcing Espargaro to focus on the battle for second with Jorge Martin. "I felt good from the beginning, I knew I wanted to be first on the first corner," said Quartararo, who has 147 points after nine races. "Amazing race, I felt great. I was pushing from the beginning and I kept checking my rear tyre, which felt really good. So happy!" Espargaro looked set to finish runner-up but a premature celebration on the penultimate lap -- having thought the race was over -- dropped him down to fifth as Pramac Racing`s Martin came second and his team mate Johann Zarco third. "It was good to keep pushing because when Aleix made the mistake on the last lap, I first thought it was a mechanical problem and then I understood he was celebrating," said Zarco. "So I say (to myself): `Finish your lap and get your podium`." ALSO READ | Norway Chess: Viswanathan Anand registers another win over World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen to lead standings Espargaro, a veteran of over 200 races and second in the riders` standings, held his head in his hands after the chequered flag as he fell 22 points behind Quartararo and he was inconsolable after returning to the paddock. Last year`s championship runner-up Bagnaia started second on the grid but was hit from behind by a falling Takaaki Nakagami on the opening lap, with the Japanese rider`s helmet clipping the rear wheel. Nakagami`s bike also took out Alex Rins as the three riders crashed at turn one. Nakagami and Rins were taken to the medical centre and will undergo further checks at hospital. Ducati`s afternoon went from bad to worse when their two Gresini Racing riders -- Enea Bastianini and Fabio Di Giannantonio -- crashed within moments of each other with 17 laps to go. Bastianini, who has won three races this season, remained third in the standings but is now 53 points behind Quartararo after a second straight non-finish.

World c'ship leader Fabio Quartararo wins Catalunya GP after home favourite Aleix Espargaro's mistake

Mexican Sergio Perez won a rain-delayed, crash-halted and ultimately nail-biting Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen finished third to stretch his Formula One lead over Ferrari`s Charles Leclerc. Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz was second, for the second year in a row, with Leclerc an agonising fourth in his home race after starting on pole position but with his team outsmarted on strategy by Red Bull.

Mexican Sergio Perez won a rain-delayed, crash-halted and ultimately nail-biting Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen finished third to stretch his Formula One lead over Ferrari`s Charles Leclerc.

Mexican Sergio Perez won a rain-delayed, crash-halted and ultimately nail-biting Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday as Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen finished third to stretch his Formula One lead over Ferrari`s Charles Leclerc. Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz was second, for the second year in a row, with Leclerc an agonising fourth in his home race after starting on pole position but with his team outsmarted on strategy by Red Bull.

Motor racing: Mexican Sergio Perez wins rain-delayed and red-flagged Monaco GP

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone denied on Friday he had been arrested in Brazil and said an illegal gun found in his luggage before boarding a flight was never used and had no ammunition. 
The 91-year-old Briton, now in Portugal, told Reuters a "silly, tiny little incident" had caused a lot of aggravation as he and his family tried to leave Sao Paulo by private plane on Wednesday night.

"I haven`t had any publicity lately and I thought I ought to do something to get some," he joked in a telephone conversation. Sao Paulo state public security office confirmed in a statement to Reuters on Thursday that a businessman was arrested for possession of a firearm at Campinas` airport, but did not name him directly.

"I was never arrested," said Ecclestone, who does not speak Portuguese and confirmed that he had to pay 6,060 reais ($1,260) bail before being allowed to leave. "They wanted it in local currency which we never had," he added. "So there was another drama trying to find the money. I was leaving the country, I didn`t have any local money. "It was a bleeding drama, unnecessary, over a nothing."

Ecclestone said he had bought the handgun, a LW Seecamp .32, from a Formula One mechanic or tyre man in Brazil years ago without ammunition and for use purely as a deterrent. "They said you need something like this," he explained. "It might work if someone tried to mug you or something. So I bought it from the guy.

"I had it in the house and used to muck around with it if people came to visit me or something, we would joke around," he added. The billionaire has a coffee plantation near Sao Paulo where he regularly spends time when not in Europe.

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Ecclestone said he had been joking around with his son Ace and had left the gun in a shirt pocket and the people packing his luggage put it in a suitcase without being aware of the gun. An airport scan then revealed the firearm, which had not been registered.

"It was never going to be shot, it never had any bullets so I never bothered to register it. I didn`t know you had to," said Ecclestone. The billionaire said he then spent from 8pm until 5am at the airport making statements and completing paperwork before leaving in the morning. 
"It was good that they picked it up because if I`d come into Portugal and they`d found it, it would have been another mystery here," he said.

Ecclestone is married to Brazilian-born Fabiana Ecclestone, an FIA vice-president and member of the World Motor Sport Council. Her mother Aparecida Schunck was kidnapped in Sao Paulo in 2016, with criminals demanding 120 million reais ($25.07 million) in ransom before she was freed nine days later in a police raid without any money being paid.

The Ecclestones attended several events in the South American country in May, including a local Stock Car race in the countryside near Sao Paulo and a meeting with triple world champion Nelson Piquet in Brasilia.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone denied on Friday he had been arrested in Brazil and said an illegal gun found in his luggage before boarding a flight was never used and had no ammunition.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone denied on Friday he had been arrested in Brazil and said an illegal gun found in his luggage before boarding a flight was never used and had no ammunition. The 91-year-old Briton, now in Portugal, told Reuters a "silly, tiny little incident" had caused a lot of aggravation as he and his family tried to leave Sao Paulo by private plane on Wednesday night. "I haven`t had any publicity lately and I thought I ought to do something to get some," he joked in a telephone conversation. Sao Paulo state public security office confirmed in a statement to Reuters on Thursday that a businessman was arrested for possession of a firearm at Campinas` airport, but did not name him directly. "I was never arrested," said Ecclestone, who does not speak Portuguese and confirmed that he had to pay 6,060 reais ($1,260) bail before being allowed to leave. "They wanted it in local currency which we never had," he added. "So there was another drama trying to find the money. I was leaving the country, I didn`t have any local money. "It was a bleeding drama, unnecessary, over a nothing." Ecclestone said he had bought the handgun, a LW Seecamp .32, from a Formula One mechanic or tyre man in Brazil years ago without ammunition and for use purely as a deterrent. "They said you need something like this," he explained. "It might work if someone tried to mug you or something. So I bought it from the guy. "I had it in the house and used to muck around with it if people came to visit me or something, we would joke around," he added. The billionaire has a coffee plantation near Sao Paulo where he regularly spends time when not in Europe. ALSO READ | Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone arrested in Brazil for illegally carrying a gun Ecclestone said he had been joking around with his son Ace and had left the gun in a shirt pocket and the people packing his luggage put it in a suitcase without being aware of the gun. An airport scan then revealed the firearm, which had not been registered. "It was never going to be shot, it never had any bullets so I never bothered to register it. I didn`t know you had to," said Ecclestone. The billionaire said he then spent from 8pm until 5am at the airport making statements and completing paperwork before leaving in the morning. "It was good that they picked it up because if I`d come into Portugal and they`d found it, it would have been another mystery here," he said. Ecclestone is married to Brazilian-born Fabiana Ecclestone, an FIA vice-president and member of the World Motor Sport Council. Her mother Aparecida Schunck was kidnapped in Sao Paulo in 2016, with criminals demanding 120 million reais ($25.07 million) in ransom before she was freed nine days later in a police raid without any money being paid. The Ecclestones attended several events in the South American country in May, including a local Stock Car race in the countryside near Sao Paulo and a meeting with triple world champion Nelson Piquet in Brasilia.

Ex-F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone denies arrest, says gun had no bullets

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was arrested in Brazil late on Wednesday for illegally carrying a gun while boarding a private plane to Switzerland, local police said on Thursday. The Brazilian police found an undocumented LW Seecamp .32 gun in Ecclestone`s luggage during an X-ray screening, police said in a statement, adding that the 91-year-old was then arrested and taken to a facility at Viracopos airport in Campinas.

Ecclestone acknowledged owning the gun, but said he was unaware it was in his luggage at the time, police said. The Briton paid bail and was freed to travel to Switzerland. Asked about Ecclestone`s arrest, the Sao Paulo state public security office confirmed in a statement to Reuters that a businessman was arrested for possession of a firearm at Campinas` airport, but did not name him directly.

The office said the "small, silver colored pistol" was out of ammunition and that the arrestee had to pay 6,060 reais ($1,257.55) as bail. The handgun was seized, it added. Ecclestone was not immediately available for comment. He is married to Brazilian-born Fabiana Ecclestone, an FIA vice-president and member of the World Motor Sport Council.

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They attended several events in the South American country in May, including a local Stock Car race in the countryside near Sao Paulo and a meeting with triple world champion Nelson Piquet in Brasilia. The Ecclestones own a coffee plantation near Sao Paulo, which they bought in 2012 and where they regularly spend time when not in Europe. Piquet drove for Brabham when it was owned by Ecclestone in the 1970s and 80s.

For decades Ecclestone was Mr Formula One, the man who did the deals, turned the wheels and transformed the sport into today’s billion dollar business. He was moved aside in 2017 when U.S.-based Liberty Media took control of the commercial rights.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was arrested in Brazil late on Wednesday for illegally carrying a gun while boarding a private plane to Switzerland, local police said on Thursday.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was arrested in Brazil late on Wednesday for illegally carrying a gun while boarding a private plane to Switzerland, local police said on Thursday. The Brazilian police found an undocumented LW Seecamp .32 gun in Ecclestone`s luggage during an X-ray screening, police said in a statement, adding that the 91-year-old was then arrested and taken to a facility at Viracopos airport in Campinas. Ecclestone acknowledged owning the gun, but said he was unaware it was in his luggage at the time, police said. The Briton paid bail and was freed to travel to Switzerland. Asked about Ecclestone`s arrest, the Sao Paulo state public security office confirmed in a statement to Reuters that a businessman was arrested for possession of a firearm at Campinas` airport, but did not name him directly. The office said the "small, silver colored pistol" was out of ammunition and that the arrestee had to pay 6,060 reais ($1,257.55) as bail. The handgun was seized, it added. Ecclestone was not immediately available for comment. He is married to Brazilian-born Fabiana Ecclestone, an FIA vice-president and member of the World Motor Sport Council. ALSO READ | Wagatha Christie trial: England footballers' wives libel spat ends with judgment reserved They attended several events in the South American country in May, including a local Stock Car race in the countryside near Sao Paulo and a meeting with triple world champion Nelson Piquet in Brasilia. The Ecclestones own a coffee plantation near Sao Paulo, which they bought in 2012 and where they regularly spend time when not in Europe. Piquet drove for Brabham when it was owned by Ecclestone in the 1970s and 80s. For decades Ecclestone was Mr Formula One, the man who did the deals, turned the wheels and transformed the sport into today’s billion dollar business. He was moved aside in 2017 when U.S.-based Liberty Media took control of the commercial rights.

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone arrested in Brazil for illegally carrying a gun

Seven-time&nbsp;Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said on Friday he expects a fine for missing last year`s FIA gala awards ceremony to be put towards helping improve diversity in motorsport. The Briton skipped the governing body`s presentation after a controversial final race of the season in Abu Dhabi that&nbsp; denied him a record eighth title and handed it instead to Red Bull rival Max Verstappen. Attendance is mandatory to the top three in the championship.

Hamilton told reporters ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix that he had met new FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "There will be some sort of fine regarding the gala but we`ve worked together to make sure the money will be put towards youth from under-privileged backgrounds getting into motorsport," said the Mercedes driver.

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Hamilton, the sport`s only Black driver, has pushed hard for diversity and wider access to motorsport after emerging from an under-privileged background to become one of the world`s highest-paid athletes. He set up a commission in 2020 and last year made a personal pledge of 20 million pounds ($26.25 million) towards a new Mission 44 foundation supporting under-represented young people in Britain.

Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said on Friday he expects a fine for missing last year`s FIA gala awards ceremony to be put towards helping improve diversity in motorsport.

Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said on Friday he expects a fine for missing last year`s FIA gala awards ceremony to be put towards helping improve diversity in motorsport. The Briton skipped the governing body`s presentation after a controversial final race of the season in Abu Dhabi that denied him a record eighth title and handed it instead to Red Bull rival Max Verstappen. Attendance is mandatory to the top three in the championship. Hamilton told reporters ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix that he had met new FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "There will be some sort of fine regarding the gala but we`ve worked together to make sure the money will be put towards youth from under-privileged backgrounds getting into motorsport," said the Mercedes driver. ALSO READ | McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo fit to take part in Bahrain Grand Prix after negative COVID tests Hamilton, the sport`s only Black driver, has pushed hard for diversity and wider access to motorsport after emerging from an under-privileged background to become one of the world`s highest-paid athletes. He set up a commission in 2020 and last year made a personal pledge of 20 million pounds ($26.25 million) towards a new Mission 44 foundation supporting under-represented young people in Britain.

Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton says gala fine will help under-privileged youth

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) in relation to the Victorian Government and Formula 1 today declared the 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been called off because of limitations and logistical difficulties identifying with the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix was expected to be held at the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit from 18-21 November.&nbsp;

"We regret to announce that the 2021 Australian Grand Prix has been cancelled due to restrictions and logistical challenges relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," organizers said in a statement of the Nov. 21 race.

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The Australian round of the MotoGP world championship, scheduled for Phillip Island on Oct. 24, was also cancelled for the second successive year.

"The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and resulting travel complications and logistical restrictions mean it has not been possible to confirm the viability of the event at this time, and it will therefore not feature on the 2021 calendar," organisers said.

“We’re deeply disappointed that for a second consecutive year, both MotoGP™ and Formula 1&nbsp;fans won’t be able to see the world’s best riders and drivers compete at the wonderful Phillip Island and Albert Park Grand Prix Circuits. We appreciate the challenge Australia faces with current international travel restrictions and the importance of vaccinations. I would like to reassure our motivated and professional staff, suppliers, and partners, as well as the Victorian tourism and major events community that we will work tirelessly to deliver these iconic events in 2022,”&nbsp;Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman, Paul Little&nbsp;AO.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Andrew Westacott said:&nbsp;“We understand this is not the news MotoGP™ and Formula 1&nbsp;fans wanted to hear. I would like to extend my thanks to the Victorian Government, Formula 1, and Dorna Sports for their unwavering resilience and support during this challenging period, and for their ongoing commitment to these two great events.”

Daniel Ricciardo has shared his disappointment following affirmation that the 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been called off.&nbsp;Ricciardo's best outcome in the Australian Grand Prix stays two fourth places, scored in 2016 and 2018, while driving for Red Bull and Renault, separately.

"It's a huge disappointment for all of the drivers that we won't be coming down to Australia in November, but we understand the reasons.”

"For me personally, I can't wait to have the chance to race at home again, and it'll be even sweeter when we do because it's been so long. Fingers crossed things can change for 2022 and we get to see the awesome fans at Albert Park again and put on a good show for them."

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) in relation to the Victorian Government and Formula 1 today declared the 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been called off because of limitations and logistical difficulties identifying with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) in relation to the Victorian Government and Formula 1 today declared the 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been called off because of limitations and logistical difficulties identifying with the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix was expected to be held at the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit from 18-21 November. "We regret to announce that the 2021 Australian Grand Prix has been cancelled due to restrictions and logistical challenges relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," organizers said in a statement of the Nov. 21 race. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Possession will be first battle against Italy, says coach Luis Enrique The Australian round of the MotoGP world championship, scheduled for Phillip Island on Oct. 24, was also cancelled for the second successive year. "The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and resulting travel complications and logistical restrictions mean it has not been possible to confirm the viability of the event at this time, and it will therefore not feature on the 2021 calendar," organisers said. “We’re deeply disappointed that for a second consecutive year, both MotoGP™ and Formula 1 fans won’t be able to see the world’s best riders and drivers compete at the wonderful Phillip Island and Albert Park Grand Prix Circuits. We appreciate the challenge Australia faces with current international travel restrictions and the importance of vaccinations. I would like to reassure our motivated and professional staff, suppliers, and partners, as well as the Victorian tourism and major events community that we will work tirelessly to deliver these iconic events in 2022,” Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman, Paul Little AO. The Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Andrew Westacott said: “We understand this is not the news MotoGP™ and Formula 1 fans wanted to hear. I would like to extend my thanks to the Victorian Government, Formula 1, and Dorna Sports for their unwavering resilience and support during this challenging period, and for their ongoing commitment to these two great events.” Daniel Ricciardo has shared his disappointment following affirmation that the 2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been called off. Ricciardo's best outcome in the Australian Grand Prix stays two fourth places, scored in 2016 and 2018, while driving for Red Bull and Renault, separately. "It's a huge disappointment for all of the drivers that we won't be coming down to Australia in November, but we understand the reasons.” "For me personally, I can't wait to have the chance to race at home again, and it'll be even sweeter when we do because it's been so long. Fingers crossed things can change for 2022 and we get to see the awesome fans at Albert Park again and put on a good show for them."

Formula One: Australian F1 Grand Prix and MotoGP race cancelled

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-not-ruling-out-a-ferrari-switch-265758">Ferrari</a> have extended Charles Leclerc's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-ferrari-fined-50000-euros-for-fuel-irregularity-265674">Formula One</a> contract for five more years and to the end of the 2024 season, the Italian team announced on Monday.

The 22-year-old Monegasque won two races this year, his first season with Ferrari, and took more pole positions than any other driver.

Leclerc also finished fourth overall and above four-times world champion team mate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferraris-silly-crash-at-brazilian-grand-prix-leaves-team-with-big-consequences-263334">Sebastian Vettel</a>, whose contract expires at the end of 2020, in the season's standings.

"I am very happy to be staying on with Scuderia Ferrari. This past season, driving for the most illustrious team in Formula One has been a dream year for me," Leclerc said in a statement.

"I cannot wait to enjoy an even deeper relationship with the team after what has been an intense and exciting 2019. I’m keen to see what the future holds and I can’t wait to get going again next season."

The decision makes Leclerc central to the team's long-term plans, with Vettel's future far from certain after seeing his authority steadily eroded in a 2019 campaign clouded by mistakes.

It also means he will be a team mate to whoever succeeds Vettel, with six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton the subject of plenty of speculation about his plans after Mercedes. The Briton's contract also expires at the end of next year.

Team principal Mattia Binotto indicated the decision to commit to a graduate of the Ferrari Driver Academy, who made his F1 debut with Sauber (now competing as Alfa Romeo) in 2018, had been obvious.

"With each passing race this year, our wish to extend our contract with Charles became ever more self-evident and the decision means he will now be with us for the next five seasons," he said.

"It demonstrates that Charles and the Scuderia have a firm future together...I’m sure that together, we will write many new pages in the history of the Prancing Horse."

Ferrari have extended Charles Leclerc's Formula One contract for five more years and to the end of the 2024 season, the Italian team announced on Monday. The 22-year-old Monegasque won two races this year, his first season with Ferrari, and took more pole positions than any other driver.

Ferrari have extended Charles Leclerc's Formula One contract for five more years and to the end of the 2024 season, the Italian team announced on Monday. The 22-year-old Monegasque won two races this year, his first season with Ferrari, and took more pole positions than any other driver. Leclerc also finished fourth overall and above four-times world champion team mate Sebastian Vettel, whose contract expires at the end of 2020, in the season's standings. "I am very happy to be staying on with Scuderia Ferrari. This past season, driving for the most illustrious team in Formula One has been a dream year for me," Leclerc said in a statement. "I cannot wait to enjoy an even deeper relationship with the team after what has been an intense and exciting 2019. I’m keen to see what the future holds and I can’t wait to get going again next season." The decision makes Leclerc central to the team's long-term plans, with Vettel's future far from certain after seeing his authority steadily eroded in a 2019 campaign clouded by mistakes. It also means he will be a team mate to whoever succeeds Vettel, with six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton the subject of plenty of speculation about his plans after Mercedes. The Briton's contract also expires at the end of next year. Team principal Mattia Binotto indicated the decision to commit to a graduate of the Ferrari Driver Academy, who made his F1 debut with Sauber (now competing as Alfa Romeo) in 2018, had been obvious. "With each passing race this year, our wish to extend our contract with Charles became ever more self-evident and the decision means he will now be with us for the next five seasons," he said. "It demonstrates that Charles and the Scuderia have a firm future together...I’m sure that together, we will write many new pages in the history of the Prancing Horse."

Ferrari secure Charles Leclerc for the next five years

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-hit-by-pioneering-spirit-as-f1-charts-new-course-259219">Lewis Hamilton </a>delivered sumptuous confirmation of his title-winning supremacy on Sunday when he claimed his 84th career victory and 11th in 21 races this year by dominating the season-ending ‘twilight’ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Starting from a record 88th pole position, the 34-year-old Briton was unchallenged from lights to flag as he cruised to an untroubled triumph 16 seconds ahead of Red Bull's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-verstappen-wins-brazil-gp-thriller-as-ferraris-collide-262825">Max Verstappen</a> and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari, who faced a post-race investigation for fuel irregularities.

The six-times world champion’s success extended his points-scoring run to a record-equalling 33 races, levelling with his own record, and brought him his 50th victory from pole position.&nbsp;

"That was an absolute master-class," Hamilton's race engineer Peter Bonnington told him on team radio. "You didn’t even break into a sweat!"

The winner, who secured title number six with two races to go in Texas last month replied: "I can assure you, I am definitely sweating."&nbsp;

His fifth win at the Yas Marina circuit drew him level with Ayrton Senna in claiming a 19th start-to-finish triumph.

Hamilton’s Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who had started from the back of the grid after taking a new engine, came home fourth ahead of four-time champion Sebastian Vettel in the second Ferrari and Alex Albon in the second Red Bull.

It was a welcome morale boost for the competitive Finn, three days after announcing the end of his three-year marriage to Emilia.

Sergio Perez took seventh for Racing Point on the final lap, Lando Norris was eighth for McLaren, Daniil Kvyat of Toro Rosso ninth and Carlos Sainz, in the second McLaren, took 10th.

The race was preceded by drama for Ferrari when Leclerc’s car was discovered, during a pit-lane inspection, to have a fuel irregularity that revealed "significant discrepancies" and required a planned post-race stewards investigation.

Ferrari embarrassment&nbsp;

It was embarrassing for the team, in one of Ferrari's key markets and close to the Ferrari World theme park, but this seemed to have no effect on the Monegasque who made a strong start and passed Verstappen for second at Turn Eight on the opening lap.

Hamilton made a perfect start to his 250th F1 race and was 1.6 seconds clear after one lap and 3.3 by lap six as Leclerc launched his pursuit, moving two seconds clear of the Dutchman in a bid to overhaul him and take third in the drivers’ championship.

After a typically hot day, the sun went down and the floodlights came on around the track.

Verstappen pitted on lap 26, re-joining third behind Leclerc before, a lap later, Hamilton came in to take ‘hards’ in 3.2 seconds and retained his lead.&nbsp;

He was six seconds clear of Leclerc with Verstappen adrift by 4.6 and complaining of power problems.

Bottas came in on lap 30 for an impeccable stop, returning in sixth as Hamilton, in supreme form, clocked a fastest lap in 1:41.070 to go 12 seconds clear of Leclerc.

Despite his complaints, Verstappen had great speed and he passed Leclerc with a dazzling move at Turn Eight, which he defended stoutly, to take second and delight his ‘orange army’ in the grandstands.

Bottas then broke the track lap record, set by Vettel for Red Bull in 2009, with a 1:39.715. He was sixth and chasing down Albon with 19 laps to go.

On lap 39, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferraris-silly-crash-at-brazilian-grand-prix-leaves-team-with-big-consequences-263334">Leclerc and Vettel</a> pitted again, without problem this time, as Bottas took fourth from Albon. Verstappen, in radio conversation with his team, chuckled as he said: “Are both Ferraris on a two-stop? I can hear it behind you!”

The closing stages were punctuated by drama as Bottas closed down Leclerc to fight for third and Hamilton, on cue, clocked a new lap record in 1:39.283, setting himself up to claim another clean sweep of pole position, fastest lap and race victory.

It was the third time Hamilton had scored 11 wins in a season, equalling his records set in 2014 and last year.

Lewis Hamilton delivered sumptuous confirmation of his title-winning supremacy on Sunday when he claimed his 84th career victory and 11th in 21 races this year by dominating the season-ending ‘twilight’ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton delivered sumptuous confirmation of his title-winning supremacy on Sunday when he claimed his 84th career victory and 11th in 21 races this year by dominating the season-ending ‘twilight’ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Starting from a record 88th pole position, the 34-year-old Briton was unchallenged from lights to flag as he cruised to an untroubled triumph 16 seconds ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari, who faced a post-race investigation for fuel irregularities. The six-times world champion’s success extended his points-scoring run to a record-equalling 33 races, levelling with his own record, and brought him his 50th victory from pole position. "That was an absolute master-class," Hamilton's race engineer Peter Bonnington told him on team radio. "You didn’t even break into a sweat!" The winner, who secured title number six with two races to go in Texas last month replied: "I can assure you, I am definitely sweating." His fifth win at the Yas Marina circuit drew him level with Ayrton Senna in claiming a 19th start-to-finish triumph. Hamilton’s Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who had started from the back of the grid after taking a new engine, came home fourth ahead of four-time champion Sebastian Vettel in the second Ferrari and Alex Albon in the second Red Bull. It was a welcome morale boost for the competitive Finn, three days after announcing the end of his three-year marriage to Emilia. Sergio Perez took seventh for Racing Point on the final lap, Lando Norris was eighth for McLaren, Daniil Kvyat of Toro Rosso ninth and Carlos Sainz, in the second McLaren, took 10th. The race was preceded by drama for Ferrari when Leclerc’s car was discovered, during a pit-lane inspection, to have a fuel irregularity that revealed "significant discrepancies" and required a planned post-race stewards investigation. Ferrari embarrassment It was embarrassing for the team, in one of Ferrari's key markets and close to the Ferrari World theme park, but this seemed to have no effect on the Monegasque who made a strong start and passed Verstappen for second at Turn Eight on the opening lap. Hamilton made a perfect start to his 250th F1 race and was 1.6 seconds clear after one lap and 3.3 by lap six as Leclerc launched his pursuit, moving two seconds clear of the Dutchman in a bid to overhaul him and take third in the drivers’ championship. After a typically hot day, the sun went down and the floodlights came on around the track. Verstappen pitted on lap 26, re-joining third behind Leclerc before, a lap later, Hamilton came in to take ‘hards’ in 3.2 seconds and retained his lead. He was six seconds clear of Leclerc with Verstappen adrift by 4.6 and complaining of power problems. Bottas came in on lap 30 for an impeccable stop, returning in sixth as Hamilton, in supreme form, clocked a fastest lap in 1:41.070 to go 12 seconds clear of Leclerc. Despite his complaints, Verstappen had great speed and he passed Leclerc with a dazzling move at Turn Eight, which he defended stoutly, to take second and delight his ‘orange army’ in the grandstands. Bottas then broke the track lap record, set by Vettel for Red Bull in 2009, with a 1:39.715. He was sixth and chasing down Albon with 19 laps to go. On lap 39, Leclerc and Vettel pitted again, without problem this time, as Bottas took fourth from Albon. Verstappen, in radio conversation with his team, chuckled as he said: “Are both Ferraris on a two-stop? I can hear it behind you!” The closing stages were punctuated by drama as Bottas closed down Leclerc to fight for third and Hamilton, on cue, clocked a new lap record in 1:39.283, setting himself up to claim another clean sweep of pole position, fastest lap and race victory. It was the third time Hamilton had scored 11 wins in a season, equalling his records set in 2014 and last year.

Formula One: Lewis Hamilton wraps up season with 'master-class' in Abu Dhabi

Six times world champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-lewis-hamilton-wraps-up-season-with-master-class-in-abu-dhabi-265667">Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton</a>&nbsp;did not deny meeting Ferrari chairman John Elkann when asked on Sunday about speculation linking the Mercedes driver with a move to the Italian team in 2021.

The 34-year-old Briton will be out of contract at the end of next season.

The next deal will probably be&nbsp;Hamilton’s last in Formula One and he has said he is considering options outside of Mercedes, where team principal Toto Wolff’s future is also up in the air. &nbsp; &nbsp;

"What happens behind closed doors is always private with whoever it is you end up sitting with,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said in response to a question about Italian media reports that he had twice met Elkann.

"For many, many years I’ve never, ever sat down and considered other options because we’ve been just driving straight ahead into the path that we’ve been on...," added the Briton after winning the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"I know Toto is also looking at his options in terms of his future. So I’m waiting to see what he’s doing with that."

Hamilton&nbsp;joined Mercedes in 2013 as a one-time champion, replacing seven times title-holder Michael Schumacher, and with the British-based team still battling in the midfield.

He now has six titles and 84 wins, seven shy of Schumacher’s all-time record of 91, and has averaged 10 a year since 2014.

He can equal the German’s record title tally next season and the lure of going beyond that in one of the Italian team’s red cars could be too great to resist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-ferrari-fined-50000-euros-for-fuel-irregularity-265674">Ferrari</a> boss Mattia Binotto, whose four-time champion driver Sebastian Vettel is out of contract at the end of 2020,&nbsp;praised&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;on Friday and said he was happy the Briton could be available.

Wolff said there was a 75 per cent&nbsp;chance&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;would stay with Mercedes.

"But equally, there is a 25 per cent&nbsp;chance that we are not in control of," added the Austrian, who on Saturday said he was totally open to&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;speaking with Ferrari.

The Briton said any decision to leave would not be easy.

"I love where I am so it’s definitely not a quick decision to go do something else,” said&nbsp;Hamilton, who owns several Ferrari road cars.

"But of course it’s only smart and wise for me to sit and think of what I want, if it is the last period or stage in my career."

Six times world champion Lewis Hamilton did not deny meeting Ferrari chairman John Elkann when asked on Sunday about speculation linking the Mercedes driver with a move to the Italian team in 2021.

Six times world champion Lewis Hamilton did not deny meeting Ferrari chairman John Elkann when asked on Sunday about speculation linking the Mercedes driver with a move to the Italian team in 2021. The 34-year-old Briton will be out of contract at the end of next season. The next deal will probably be Hamilton’s last in Formula One and he has said he is considering options outside of Mercedes, where team principal Toto Wolff’s future is also up in the air. "What happens behind closed doors is always private with whoever it is you end up sitting with," Hamilton said in response to a question about Italian media reports that he had twice met Elkann. "For many, many years I’ve never, ever sat down and considered other options because we’ve been just driving straight ahead into the path that we’ve been on...," added the Briton after winning the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. "I know Toto is also looking at his options in terms of his future. So I’m waiting to see what he’s doing with that." Hamilton joined Mercedes in 2013 as a one-time champion, replacing seven times title-holder Michael Schumacher, and with the British-based team still battling in the midfield. He now has six titles and 84 wins, seven shy of Schumacher’s all-time record of 91, and has averaged 10 a year since 2014. He can equal the German’s record title tally next season and the lure of going beyond that in one of the Italian team’s red cars could be too great to resist. Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto, whose four-time champion driver Sebastian Vettel is out of contract at the end of 2020, praised Hamilton on Friday and said he was happy the Briton could be available. Wolff said there was a 75 per cent chance Hamilton would stay with Mercedes. "But equally, there is a 25 per cent chance that we are not in control of," added the Austrian, who on Saturday said he was totally open to Hamilton speaking with Ferrari. The Briton said any decision to leave would not be easy. "I love where I am so it’s definitely not a quick decision to go do something else,” said Hamilton, who owns several Ferrari road cars. "But of course it’s only smart and wise for me to sit and think of what I want, if it is the last period or stage in my career."

Lewis Hamilton not ruling out a Ferrari switch

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

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

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

MotoGP champion Marquez undergoes shoulder surgery

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;will be making a milestone 250th<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chadwick-feels-formula-one-is-further-away-the-closer-she-gets-260708"> Formula One</a> start as he seeks to&nbsp;sign&nbsp;off&nbsp;his championship-winning campaign in&nbsp;style&nbsp;in Sunday's&nbsp;Abu&nbsp;Dhabi&nbsp;season-ender.

The Briton, who became only the second driver to win a sixth title in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferraris-silly-crash-at-brazilian-grand-prix-leaves-team-with-big-consequences-263334">US&nbsp;Grand Prix</a> earlier this month, is already the most successful driver at the floodlit Yas Marina track with four wins.

Another triumph in the dusk-to-night race would be a perfect&nbsp;finale&nbsp;for the 34-year-old, who&nbsp;can&nbsp;expect a more hard-fought battle next year from a younger generation hungry for the limelight.

"It's inevitable that the youngsters are going to come through,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said after the last race in Brazil, where he finished third but ended up seventh after a post-race penalty for tangling with Red Bull’s Thai rookie Alexander Albon.

The average age of the top three at Interlagos&nbsp;Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and McLaren's Spaniard Carlos Sainz were 23 years, eight months and 23 days and the sport's youngest podium yet.

"I feel like I’m able to still kick it with these guys and so I’m excited about the future," said&nbsp;Hamilton, who&nbsp;can&nbsp;also equal his own record of 33 successive points finishes on Sunday.

"Hopefully next year we’re going to have a serious three-way, four-way battle and that’s great for Formula One."

Hamilton&nbsp;has won half of the season's 20 races so far, propelling his team to an unprecedented sixth successive title double, but Brazil was a disappointing weekend with Valtteri Bottas retiring.

"The underperformance in Brazil means we head to&nbsp;Abu&nbsp;Dhabi&nbsp;with a point to prove," said team boss Toto Wolff.

Ferrari's 22-year-old Charles Leclerc has made his mark since the August break, winning twice and is set to end the season as the driver with most pole positions (seven so far).

Verstappen, also 22, took his third win of the campaign in Brazil and is fighting Leclerc for third overall.

If there is to be a challenge to Mercedes, who have won every race in&nbsp;Abu&nbsp;Dhabi&nbsp;since 2014, it looks more likely to come from Ferrari.

The Italian team has already secured second in the constructors’ standings but has never won in&nbsp;Abu&nbsp;Dhabi, a track located right next to their Ferrari World theme park.

Even if they have cleared the air between their drivers after Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel collided in Brazil, there is still likely to be plenty of tension as they too seek to finish on a positive note.

Abu&nbsp;Dhabi&nbsp;is also the place for farewells.

Nico Hulkenberg is leaving, at least for a season, after losing his Renault seat to 23-year-old Frenchman Esteban Ocon and Robert Kubica will bring down the curtain on his comeback with Williams.

Canadian reserve Nicholas Latifi is favorite for the seat.

Lewis Hamilton will be making a milestone 250th Formula One start as he seeks to sign off his championship-winning campaign in style in Sunday's Abu Dhabi season-ender.

Lewis Hamilton will be making a milestone 250th Formula One start as he seeks to sign off his championship-winning campaign in style in Sunday's Abu Dhabi season-ender. The Briton, who became only the second driver to win a sixth title in the US Grand Prix earlier this month, is already the most successful driver at the floodlit Yas Marina track with four wins. Another triumph in the dusk-to-night race would be a perfect finale for the 34-year-old, who can expect a more hard-fought battle next year from a younger generation hungry for the limelight. "It's inevitable that the youngsters are going to come through," Hamilton said after the last race in Brazil, where he finished third but ended up seventh after a post-race penalty for tangling with Red Bull’s Thai rookie Alexander Albon. The average age of the top three at Interlagos Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and McLaren's Spaniard Carlos Sainz were 23 years, eight months and 23 days and the sport's youngest podium yet. "I feel like I’m able to still kick it with these guys and so I’m excited about the future," said Hamilton, who can also equal his own record of 33 successive points finishes on Sunday. "Hopefully next year we’re going to have a serious three-way, four-way battle and that’s great for Formula One." Hamilton has won half of the season's 20 races so far, propelling his team to an unprecedented sixth successive title double, but Brazil was a disappointing weekend with Valtteri Bottas retiring. "The underperformance in Brazil means we head to Abu Dhabi with a point to prove," said team boss Toto Wolff. Ferrari's 22-year-old Charles Leclerc has made his mark since the August break, winning twice and is set to end the season as the driver with most pole positions (seven so far). Verstappen, also 22, took his third win of the campaign in Brazil and is fighting Leclerc for third overall. If there is to be a challenge to Mercedes, who have won every race in Abu Dhabi since 2014, it looks more likely to come from Ferrari. The Italian team has already secured second in the constructors’ standings but has never won in Abu Dhabi, a track located right next to their Ferrari World theme park. Even if they have cleared the air between their drivers after Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel collided in Brazil, there is still likely to be plenty of tension as they too seek to finish on a positive note. Abu Dhabi is also the place for farewells. Nico Hulkenberg is leaving, at least for a season, after losing his Renault seat to 23-year-old Frenchman Esteban Ocon and Robert Kubica will bring down the curtain on his comeback with Williams. Canadian reserve Nicholas Latifi is favorite for the seat.

Motor racing: Hamilton can sign off in style at Abu Dhabi finale

Max Verstappen won a thrilling Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix for Red Bull on Sunday after the Ferraris collided and Mercedes' six-times world champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-hamilton-waiting-on-wolff-ahead-of-2021-contract-talks-262244">Lewis Hamilton</a> was demoted from third to seventh.

In a race of safety cars and surprises, Verstappen's former team mate Pierre Gasly made a first podium appearance in second place for Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso, a rare Honda-powered one-two.

Hamilton chased the Frenchman across the line for third but was handed a five-second penalty for tangling with Red Bull's Alex Albon in a frantic finale to the season's penultimate round.

"I fully accept responsibility," said Hamilton, who also collected two penalty points and apologised to Albon for costing the rookie a likely first podium and Red Bull a one-two.

The Thai, who replaced Gasly at Red Bull in a seat switch last August, finished 14th after being sent spinning in the penultimate lap collision.

Hamilton's demotion lifted Spaniard Carlos Sainz, who started last after an engine problem in qualifying, to third and McLaren's first podium since the 2014 season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

Both titles had already been won by Mercedes for an unprecedented sixth year in a row, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">Hamilton securing his sixth</a> in Texas two weeks ago.

Verstappen started from pole position, only the second of his career, but had to twice overtake Hamilton and avoid a near pitlane collision with Williams' Robert Kubica in a race he otherwise controlled.

The win was the eighth of his career, third of the season but first from pole.

It also made amends for last year's race at Interlagos where he was heading for victory before a coming together with French backmarker Esteban Ocon dropped him to second.

"Redemption Max, absolute redemption from last year," Red Bull principal Christian Horner told the 22-year-old over the team radio.

"The way we fought for it was even better," replied Verstappen, who led from the start while Hamilton passed Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel around the outside for second.

Victory lifted the Dutchman to third in the drivers' championship and best of the rest behind Hamilton and Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas,&nbsp;who suffered an engine-related retirement that brought out a first safety car.

Leclerc had started the day third overall, 14 points ahead of Verstappen, but a late duel with Vettel ended in recrimination.

The Monegasque passed the four times world champion, who was starting his 100th race for Ferrari, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/verstappens-comments-not-professional-or-mature-says-vettel-262261">Vettel</a> came back and the two banged wheels.

Vettel's rear tyre became a flailing carcass while Leclerc, who had climbed from 14th on the grid after an engine change, was hobbled by a smashed front suspension.

"What the hell?," shouted Leclerc while Vettel wondered what his team mate was doing. Both were summoned to see the stewards, who took no further action.

The first pitstop almost cost Verstappen dearly, with the Dutchman held up by Kubica exiting almost into him,&nbsp;an unsafe release that saw the Pole handed a five-second penalty.

Hamilton, who had pitted moments before on lap 20, was ahead but Verstappen swept past him after a brief duel.

The Mercedes driver pitted again on lap 44 for fresh tyres, but Verstappen countered with a faster stop of his own.

The Dutchman then pitted when Bottas pulled over and triggered the safety car on lap 53, with Hamilton, instructed to do the opposite to Verstappen, staying out to become a sitting target at the re-start.

The second safety car triggered by Ferrari offered Hamilton a chance to take on new tyres and he came back out for a final rush for the podium, with two laps of racing remaining.

Passing Gasly for third, he tried to pass Albon and collided.

Finland's 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen was fourth for Alfa Romeo with Italian team mate Antonio Giovinazzi fifth and Australian Daniel Ricciardo sixth for Renault.

McLaren's Lando Norris took eighth place ahead of Racing Point's Sergio Perez with Gasly's Russian team mate Daniil Kvyat completing the top 10.

Max Verstappen won a thrilling Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix for Red Bull on Sunday after the Ferraris collided and Mercedes' six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton was demoted from third to seventh.

Max Verstappen won a thrilling Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix for Red Bull on Sunday after the Ferraris collided and Mercedes' six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton was demoted from third to seventh. In a race of safety cars and surprises, Verstappen's former team mate Pierre Gasly made a first podium appearance in second place for Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso, a rare Honda-powered one-two. Hamilton chased the Frenchman across the line for third but was handed a five-second penalty for tangling with Red Bull's Alex Albon in a frantic finale to the season's penultimate round. "I fully accept responsibility," said Hamilton, who also collected two penalty points and apologised to Albon for costing the rookie a likely first podium and Red Bull a one-two. The Thai, who replaced Gasly at Red Bull in a seat switch last August, finished 14th after being sent spinning in the penultimate lap collision. Hamilton's demotion lifted Spaniard Carlos Sainz, who started last after an engine problem in qualifying, to third and McLaren's first podium since the 2014 season-opening Australian Grand Prix. Both titles had already been won by Mercedes for an unprecedented sixth year in a row, with Hamilton securing his sixth in Texas two weeks ago. Verstappen started from pole position, only the second of his career, but had to twice overtake Hamilton and avoid a near pitlane collision with Williams' Robert Kubica in a race he otherwise controlled. The win was the eighth of his career, third of the season but first from pole. It also made amends for last year's race at Interlagos where he was heading for victory before a coming together with French backmarker Esteban Ocon dropped him to second. "Redemption Max, absolute redemption from last year," Red Bull principal Christian Horner told the 22-year-old over the team radio. "The way we fought for it was even better," replied Verstappen, who led from the start while Hamilton passed Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel around the outside for second. Victory lifted the Dutchman to third in the drivers' championship and best of the rest behind Hamilton and Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas, who suffered an engine-related retirement that brought out a first safety car. Leclerc had started the day third overall, 14 points ahead of Verstappen, but a late duel with Vettel ended in recrimination. The Monegasque passed the four times world champion, who was starting his 100th race for Ferrari, but Vettel came back and the two banged wheels. Vettel's rear tyre became a flailing carcass while Leclerc, who had climbed from 14th on the grid after an engine change, was hobbled by a smashed front suspension. "What the hell?," shouted Leclerc while Vettel wondered what his team mate was doing. Both were summoned to see the stewards, who took no further action. The first pitstop almost cost Verstappen dearly, with the Dutchman held up by Kubica exiting almost into him, an unsafe release that saw the Pole handed a five-second penalty. Hamilton, who had pitted moments before on lap 20, was ahead but Verstappen swept past him after a brief duel. The Mercedes driver pitted again on lap 44 for fresh tyres, but Verstappen countered with a faster stop of his own. The Dutchman then pitted when Bottas pulled over and triggered the safety car on lap 53, with Hamilton, instructed to do the opposite to Verstappen, staying out to become a sitting target at the re-start. The second safety car triggered by Ferrari offered Hamilton a chance to take on new tyres and he came back out for a final rush for the podium, with two laps of racing remaining. Passing Gasly for third, he tried to pass Albon and collided. Finland's 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen was fourth for Alfa Romeo with Italian team mate Antonio Giovinazzi fifth and Australian Daniel Ricciardo sixth for Renault. McLaren's Lando Norris took eighth place ahead of Racing Point's Sergio Perez with Gasly's Russian team mate Daniil Kvyat completing the top 10.

Motor racing: Verstappen wins Brazil GP thriller as Ferraris collide

Lewis Hamilton intends to stay in Formula One beyond 2020 but he said on Thursday he wanted to know Mercedes team boss Toto <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-given-that-mercedes-will-stay-in-formula-one-says-wolff-261794">Wolff's personal plans </a>before agreeing any new deal.

The six times world champion, like most of his rivals, is out of contract after next season with a major shakeup of the sport scheduled for 2021.

He recognised at the Brazilian Grand Prix, however, that he was "kind of joined at the hip" with Mercedes after seven years together.

There could also be change at the helm of Formula One post-2020 and Austrian Wolff has been talked of as someone who could play such a role.

"I know that being stuck in any position for too long can also not always be a positive so I always want people to spread their wings and do what’s best for their careers," said Hamilton.

"I don’t know what that is for him (Wolff), only he will know," added the Briton, who said Wolf has been "the perfect match" for him and Mercedes.

"Naturally I don't want him to leave, particularly if I'm staying in the sport. It is important to me and I am waiting also to see where his head is at."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-mercedes-boss-wolff-to-skip-brazil-now-both-f1-titles-won-261555">Wolff is not in Brazil</a> for Sunday's penultimate race of the season, with Mercedes having already won both titles for an unprecedented sixth year in succession.

Hamilton clinched his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">sixth championship in Texas </a>this month and will be aiming to equal Michael Schumacher's record seven next year, when he will be 35 years old.

The Briton's last contract negotiations were protracted and fans still speculate on whether he might end his career at Ferrari.

"I’ve obviously considered the next couple of years. I know that I want to continue racing, I love what I’m doing. I see no reason for me to stop any time soon," Hamilton said.

"It's almost like I only just did this contract and I’ve already got to start talking about the potential of the next one.

"It’s another stressful moment where you have to... get into the ring and have a friendly yet intense conversation about terms and all those kind of things. But I’m used to it and like to think I’m a relatively good negotiator."

Hamilton also revealed he had received text messages from 2007 McLaren team mate Fernando Alonso and former McLaren boss Ron Dennis after Austin.

"Seeing Ron's text, it really touched me inside," said the champion, who first met Dennis as a 10-year-old go-karter.

"He saw something in me that no one else did except for my dad. He gave me an opportunity to showcase my abilities and to learn and to grow. Without him, I most likely wouldn't have made it to F1."

Lewis Hamilton intends to stay in Formula One beyond 2020 but he said on Thursday he wanted to know Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff's personal plans before agreeing any new deal.

Lewis Hamilton intends to stay in Formula One beyond 2020 but he said on Thursday he wanted to know Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff's personal plans before agreeing any new deal. The six times world champion, like most of his rivals, is out of contract after next season with a major shakeup of the sport scheduled for 2021. He recognised at the Brazilian Grand Prix, however, that he was "kind of joined at the hip" with Mercedes after seven years together. There could also be change at the helm of Formula One post-2020 and Austrian Wolff has been talked of as someone who could play such a role. "I know that being stuck in any position for too long can also not always be a positive so I always want people to spread their wings and do what’s best for their careers," said Hamilton. "I don’t know what that is for him (Wolff), only he will know," added the Briton, who said Wolf has been "the perfect match" for him and Mercedes. "Naturally I don't want him to leave, particularly if I'm staying in the sport. It is important to me and I am waiting also to see where his head is at." Wolff is not in Brazil for Sunday's penultimate race of the season, with Mercedes having already won both titles for an unprecedented sixth year in succession. Hamilton clinched his sixth championship in Texas this month and will be aiming to equal Michael Schumacher's record seven next year, when he will be 35 years old. The Briton's last contract negotiations were protracted and fans still speculate on whether he might end his career at Ferrari. "I’ve obviously considered the next couple of years. I know that I want to continue racing, I love what I’m doing. I see no reason for me to stop any time soon," Hamilton said. "It's almost like I only just did this contract and I’ve already got to start talking about the potential of the next one. "It’s another stressful moment where you have to... get into the ring and have a friendly yet intense conversation about terms and all those kind of things. But I’m used to it and like to think I’m a relatively good negotiator." Hamilton also revealed he had received text messages from 2007 McLaren team mate Fernando Alonso and former McLaren boss Ron Dennis after Austin. "Seeing Ron's text, it really touched me inside," said the champion, who first met Dennis as a 10-year-old go-karter. "He saw something in me that no one else did except for my dad. He gave me an opportunity to showcase my abilities and to learn and to grow. Without him, I most likely wouldn't have made it to F1."

Motor racing: Hamilton waiting on Wolff ahead of 2021 contract talks

Champions Mercedes are likely to stay in Formula One after major changes come into play in 2021 but that cannot be taken for granted, team principal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/motor-racing-mercedes-boss-wolff-to-skip-brazil-now-both-f1-titles-won-261555">Toto Wolff</a> said on Tuesday.

The German carmaker's factory team have won both the constructors' and drivers' championships for an unprecedented six years in a row, and next season is the last before a financial, technical and sporting shakeup.

The teams are still negotiating a new agreement with commercial rights holders Liberty Media to replace the one that expires at the end of 2020, and their positions are being staked out.

"Everything indicates that we will stay. But it's not a given," Wolff, who is missing this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix to deal with such commercial matters, told motorsport.com.

"We are in the middle of discussing the new Concorde Agreement. In connection with this, and independently of it, we are discussing the development of the automobile and its effects on sport," added the Austrian.

"In which direction is the automotive world developing? In what form is Formula One relevant as an entertainment and technology platform? As a brand whose first car was a racing car, do we want to stay on this platform in the long term?"

Mercedes are making their debut in the all-electric Formula E series this year.

The German luxury carmaker is also spending 10 billion euros ($11.02 billion) to develop a raft of electric cars so it can boast a carbon neutral car fleet by 2039 and to avoid hefty fines by regulators.

Wolff said that while the likes of Ferrari built their business on racing, there was another model that said: 'We had a very successful run. There's nothing more to prove. We're doing something else now'.

"Both are absolutely plausible strategies," he said.

Mercedes are also due to supply three other teams, McLaren, Williams and Racing Point, with engines from 2021 and Wolff said that too could be up in the air.

"You can be only pregnant or not pregnant, not half pregnant. So either we participate in the platform or we do not," he declared.

Champions Mercedes are likely to stay in Formula One after major changes come into play in 2021 but that cannot be taken for granted, team principal Toto Wolff said on Tuesday.

Champions Mercedes are likely to stay in Formula One after major changes come into play in 2021 but that cannot be taken for granted, team principal Toto Wolff said on Tuesday. The German carmaker's factory team have won both the constructors' and drivers' championships for an unprecedented six years in a row, and next season is the last before a financial, technical and sporting shakeup. The teams are still negotiating a new agreement with commercial rights holders Liberty Media to replace the one that expires at the end of 2020, and their positions are being staked out. "Everything indicates that we will stay. But it's not a given," Wolff, who is missing this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix to deal with such commercial matters, told motorsport.com. "We are in the middle of discussing the new Concorde Agreement. In connection with this, and independently of it, we are discussing the development of the automobile and its effects on sport," added the Austrian. "In which direction is the automotive world developing? In what form is Formula One relevant as an entertainment and technology platform? As a brand whose first car was a racing car, do we want to stay on this platform in the long term?" Mercedes are making their debut in the all-electric Formula E series this year. The German luxury carmaker is also spending 10 billion euros ($11.02 billion) to develop a raft of electric cars so it can boast a carbon neutral car fleet by 2039 and to avoid hefty fines by regulators. Wolff said that while the likes of Ferrari built their business on racing, there was another model that said: 'We had a very successful run. There's nothing more to prove. We're doing something else now'. "Both are absolutely plausible strategies," he said. Mercedes are also due to supply three other teams, McLaren, Williams and Racing Point, with engines from 2021 and Wolff said that too could be up in the air. "You can be only pregnant or not pregnant, not half pregnant. So either we participate in the platform or we do not," he declared.

Not a given that Mercedes will stay in Formula One, says Wolff

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chadwick-feels-formula-one-is-further-away-the-closer-she-gets-260708">Formula One</a> set out its first-ever sustainability plan on Tuesday with the aim of achieving a net zero-carbon footprint for the sport by 2030.

The Liberty Media-owned championship, which will have a record 22 grands prix next year with the 10 teams flown around the world, said carbon reduction projects would start immediately.

It also promised that all Formula One events would be sustainable by 2025.

"We recognise the critical role that all organisations must play in tackling this global issue," said chairman Chase Carey in a statement.

"By leveraging the immense talent, passion and drive for innovation held by all members of the F1 community, we hope to make a significant positive impact on the environment and communities in which we operate."

Carey said the current V6 turbo hybrid power engines, in use since 2014, were the most efficient in the world and delivered more power from less fuel than any other car.

"We believe F1 can continue to be a leader for the auto industry and work with the energy and automotive sector to deliver the world’s first net zero-carbon hybrid internal combustion engine," added the American.

Other initiatives include moving to ultra-efficient logistics and 100 per cent&nbsp;renewably powered offices, facilities and factories.

McLaren were certified as Formula One's first carbon-neutral team as long ago as 2011, but the sport has also struggled to shrug off a gas-guzzling reputation dating back to the long-gone days of V12 engines.

Unfavourable comparisons have been made to the all-electric Formula E series, which now has a significant manufacturer presence.

Formula One said sustainable materials will be used at all events, with all waste reused or recycled, and single-use plastics would be barred.

There would also be incentives offering fans a greener way to get to the races.

Six times Formula One world champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">Lewis Hamilton</a>, who has gone vegan, has spoken out this year about his own efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.

The Mercedes driver told reporters last month that he had sold his private jet and was flying less for pleasure, had banned single-use plastic from home and office and aimed to be carbon neutral by the end of 2019.

"It is not the easiest because, yes, we are travelling around the world and we are racing Formula One cars. Our carbon footprint for sure is higher than the average homeowner that lives in the same city," he said then.

"But it doesn’t mean you should be afraid to speak out about things that can be for a positive change."

Formula One set out its first-ever sustainability plan on Tuesday with the aim of achieving a net zero-carbon footprint for the sport by 2030. The Liberty Media-owned championship, which will have a record 22 grands prix next year with the 10 teams flown around the world, said carbon reduction projects would start immediately.

Formula One set out its first-ever sustainability plan on Tuesday with the aim of achieving a net zero-carbon footprint for the sport by 2030. The Liberty Media-owned championship, which will have a record 22 grands prix next year with the 10 teams flown around the world, said carbon reduction projects would start immediately. It also promised that all Formula One events would be sustainable by 2025. "We recognise the critical role that all organisations must play in tackling this global issue," said chairman Chase Carey in a statement. "By leveraging the immense talent, passion and drive for innovation held by all members of the F1 community, we hope to make a significant positive impact on the environment and communities in which we operate." Carey said the current V6 turbo hybrid power engines, in use since 2014, were the most efficient in the world and delivered more power from less fuel than any other car. "We believe F1 can continue to be a leader for the auto industry and work with the energy and automotive sector to deliver the world’s first net zero-carbon hybrid internal combustion engine," added the American. Other initiatives include moving to ultra-efficient logistics and 100 per cent renewably powered offices, facilities and factories. McLaren were certified as Formula One's first carbon-neutral team as long ago as 2011, but the sport has also struggled to shrug off a gas-guzzling reputation dating back to the long-gone days of V12 engines. Unfavourable comparisons have been made to the all-electric Formula E series, which now has a significant manufacturer presence. Formula One said sustainable materials will be used at all events, with all waste reused or recycled, and single-use plastics would be barred. There would also be incentives offering fans a greener way to get to the races. Six times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has gone vegan, has spoken out this year about his own efforts to reduce his carbon footprint. The Mercedes driver told reporters last month that he had sold his private jet and was flying less for pleasure, had banned single-use plastic from home and office and aimed to be carbon neutral by the end of 2019. "It is not the easiest because, yes, we are travelling around the world and we are racing Formula One cars. Our carbon footprint for sure is higher than the average homeowner that lives in the same city," he said then. "But it doesn’t mean you should be afraid to speak out about things that can be for a positive change."

Formula One aims for zero carbon footprint by 2030

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

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

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

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

W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has taken a step closer to Formula One this year but her dream of one day competing at the pinnacle of motor racing feels further away than ever.

The Briton, who collected $500,000 for winning the inaugural all-female single-seater title, celebrated her 21st birthday in May with a new role as a development driver for the Williams F1 team.

She is also one of four finalists for the BRDC Young Driver of the Year award, which is co-sponsored by Red Bull's title partners Aston Martin and whose main prize is a Formula One test.

The experience of being on the inside of the Grand Prix paddock has made her realise just how much more she has to do, however.

Asked whether she felt closer to becoming the first female Formula One driver since 1976, she replied: "To be completely honest, further away.

"Not in a bad way, in a really refreshing way, I feel I know what I need to now learn in the next few years. I’m not going to rush that. I’m not going to try and cheat it," Chadwick added.

Those who enquire on social media whether she might replace departing Williams driver Robert Kubica were living in a fantasy world, not only because Chadwick lacks a super licence but also because she is nowhere near ready.

Her world is very different to that of Mercedes' six times world champion Lewis Hamilton, an admired compatriot she has yet to meet.

"I need the time to develop and if I get to Formula One I want to be the best possible driver to make the mark I need to make," said Chadwick.

While the Williams role has been mostly simulator-based, her work has a direct correlation to what happens at the track.

Williams previously had Susie Wolff, now retired and a team principal in the all-electric Formula E series, in a similar role and gave the Scot track time in some Friday practice sessions.

Chadwick indicated she would be pushing for such an opportunity.

"In terms of getting in the car, that’s an ongoing discussion. We’re sort of pushing as hard as we can but we’ll see," she said.

"If we can continue the relationship into next year, and if I can continue to do the best possible job in the sim, then that hopefully gives me a justifiable reason to potentially test the car at a future date."

Chadwick will be back to defend her W Series title next year, hoping to then join the men climbing the motorsport ladder.

"At the moment although the first year and the exposure has been absolutely incredible, I haven’t quite managed to secure the (financial) support to go to, say, FIA F3," she said.

"Hopefully off the back of a strong second year’s campaign... that’s going to give me that opportunity."

W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has taken a step closer to Formula One this year but her dream of one day competing at the pinnacle of motor racing feels further away than ever.

W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has taken a step closer to Formula One this year but her dream of one day competing at the pinnacle of motor racing feels further away than ever. The Briton, who collected $500,000 for winning the inaugural all-female single-seater title, celebrated her 21st birthday in May with a new role as a development driver for the Williams F1 team. She is also one of four finalists for the BRDC Young Driver of the Year award, which is co-sponsored by Red Bull's title partners Aston Martin and whose main prize is a Formula One test. The experience of being on the inside of the Grand Prix paddock has made her realise just how much more she has to do, however. Asked whether she felt closer to becoming the first female Formula One driver since 1976, she replied: "To be completely honest, further away. "Not in a bad way, in a really refreshing way, I feel I know what I need to now learn in the next few years. I’m not going to rush that. I’m not going to try and cheat it," Chadwick added. Those who enquire on social media whether she might replace departing Williams driver Robert Kubica were living in a fantasy world, not only because Chadwick lacks a super licence but also because she is nowhere near ready. Her world is very different to that of Mercedes' six times world champion Lewis Hamilton, an admired compatriot she has yet to meet. "I need the time to develop and if I get to Formula One I want to be the best possible driver to make the mark I need to make," said Chadwick. While the Williams role has been mostly simulator-based, her work has a direct correlation to what happens at the track. Williams previously had Susie Wolff, now retired and a team principal in the all-electric Formula E series, in a similar role and gave the Scot track time in some Friday practice sessions. Chadwick indicated she would be pushing for such an opportunity. "In terms of getting in the car, that’s an ongoing discussion. We’re sort of pushing as hard as we can but we’ll see," she said. "If we can continue the relationship into next year, and if I can continue to do the best possible job in the sim, then that hopefully gives me a justifiable reason to potentially test the car at a future date." Chadwick will be back to defend her W Series title next year, hoping to then join the men climbing the motorsport ladder. "At the moment although the first year and the exposure has been absolutely incredible, I haven’t quite managed to secure the (financial) support to go to, say, FIA F3," she said. "Hopefully off the back of a strong second year’s campaign... that’s going to give me that opportunity."

Chadwick feels Formula One is further away the closer she gets

Formula E racer Sam Bird is hardly leaping into the unknown this season after five years in the all-electric series, but the Briton could be jumping into the River Thames come July.

The 32-year-old told reporters on Tuesday, as he looked forward to season six that starts in Saudi Arabia on November&nbsp;22-23, that he was prepared to take the plunge if he won his home London round.

If his Virgin Racing team have to throw him a lifeline, it would not be the first time.

Bird was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">Lewis Hamilton's</a> Mercedes Formula One teammate in 2013,&nbsp;living the dream as a test and reserve driver while also finishing runner-up in the GP2 support series.

And then it ended. Cut loose, he found himself in a single bedroom apartment with the electricity supply cut off and no money to pay the bills.

The Briton remembers calling his parents in tears, telling them he would have to give up and become a personal trainer, before Virgin called to offer a seat in the first all-electric series.

"I owe Formula E everything. It resurrected my career," he said.

Fast forward, and Bird is his country's top electric driver while Hamilton probes ever deeper into the realms of greatness with his sixth Formula One championship.

The contrast between their career paths is not lost on Bird, who is in no risk of being mobbed when he steps out into central London, but he has no doubt his compatriot deserves all the recognition.

"He has to be considered as the greatest ever now, surely?," he said.

"I’ve worked with him and seen what he can do, data-wise. I’ve never said it about any other driver, but he did things where you just think ‘I cannot do that. My skill level will just not allow me to do what he does’.

"I worked with two other incredible drivers at Mercedes but you always felt like you could do it. Given enough time in the car, I felt I could do what they did. But with him sometimes there’s things that you just think, well that’s not achievable."

Hamilton had arrived from McLaren to replace seven times champion Michael Schumacher alongside Nico Rosberg for the start of 2013 and would go on to win five of the next six championships.

As one Briton took off, the other fell to earth with a bump.

"I parted ways with Mercedes and all of a sudden I literally had nothing. I had no money and no income. I didn’t have any money that I’d saved up or anything like that," said Bird.

"My electricity got cut off. I couldn’t afford my council tax bill."

In Formula E, he has found a new life - a race winner in every season so far with a total of eight victories, Bird is third in the winners' list,&nbsp;and third overall in 2017-18.

This season he will be up against a works Mercedes team for the first time, with the German carmaker joining Porsche as debutants.

"I tend not to try and race with emotion. To me it’s just another team that I need to beat in order to be the best," said the Briton.

"It’s great to have them on the grid. But it would be nice to keep them behind me."

Formula E racer Sam Bird is hardly leaping into the unknown this season after five years in the all-electric series, but the Briton could be jumping into the River Thames come July.

Formula E racer Sam Bird is hardly leaping into the unknown this season after five years in the all-electric series, but the Briton could be jumping into the River Thames come July. The 32-year-old told reporters on Tuesday, as he looked forward to season six that starts in Saudi Arabia on November 22-23, that he was prepared to take the plunge if he won his home London round. If his Virgin Racing team have to throw him a lifeline, it would not be the first time. Bird was Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes Formula One teammate in 2013, living the dream as a test and reserve driver while also finishing runner-up in the GP2 support series. And then it ended. Cut loose, he found himself in a single bedroom apartment with the electricity supply cut off and no money to pay the bills. The Briton remembers calling his parents in tears, telling them he would have to give up and become a personal trainer, before Virgin called to offer a seat in the first all-electric series. "I owe Formula E everything. It resurrected my career," he said. Fast forward, and Bird is his country's top electric driver while Hamilton probes ever deeper into the realms of greatness with his sixth Formula One championship. The contrast between their career paths is not lost on Bird, who is in no risk of being mobbed when he steps out into central London, but he has no doubt his compatriot deserves all the recognition. "He has to be considered as the greatest ever now, surely?," he said. "I’ve worked with him and seen what he can do, data-wise. I’ve never said it about any other driver, but he did things where you just think ‘I cannot do that. My skill level will just not allow me to do what he does’. "I worked with two other incredible drivers at Mercedes but you always felt like you could do it. Given enough time in the car, I felt I could do what they did. But with him sometimes there’s things that you just think, well that’s not achievable." Hamilton had arrived from McLaren to replace seven times champion Michael Schumacher alongside Nico Rosberg for the start of 2013 and would go on to win five of the next six championships. As one Briton took off, the other fell to earth with a bump. "I parted ways with Mercedes and all of a sudden I literally had nothing. I had no money and no income. I didn’t have any money that I’d saved up or anything like that," said Bird. "My electricity got cut off. I couldn’t afford my council tax bill." In Formula E, he has found a new life - a race winner in every season so far with a total of eight victories, Bird is third in the winners' list, and third overall in 2017-18. This season he will be up against a works Mercedes team for the first time, with the German carmaker joining Porsche as debutants. "I tend not to try and race with emotion. To me it’s just another team that I need to beat in order to be the best," said the Briton. "It’s great to have them on the grid. But it would be nice to keep them behind me."

Sam Bird ready to take the plunge as Formula E turns six

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

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

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

F-1: Lewis Hamilton wins Mexico Grand Prix

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

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

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

Renault stripped of Japanese Grand Prix points

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

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

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

Marc Marquez wins Japan Moto Grand Prix

Former Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher was admitted to a Paris hospital for "secret treatment" earlier on Monday, Le Parisien newspaper reported.

Schumacher turned 50 on January&nbsp;3 but has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in the French Alps five years ago that left him with severe head injuries and in a medically-induced coma for several months.

Schumacher was taken to the Pompidou hospital in southwest Paris on Monday afternoon, Le Parisien said, without citing its sources.

The French newspaper said the former champion would undergo treatment based on stem-cell transfusion by French surgeon Philippe Menasche.

A spokeswoman for Schumacher did not immediately return a request for comment.

Schumacher remains motor racing's most successful driver, with a record 91 grand prix wins. He won his first two titles with Benetton in 1994 and 1995 before five in a row with Ferrari between 2000-2004.

In January his family released a statement saying he was in "the very best of hands".

Former Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher was admitted to a Paris hospital for "secret treatment" earlier on Monday, Le Parisien newspaper reported. Schumacher turned 50 on January 3 but has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in the French Alps five years ago that left him with severe head injuries and in a medically-induced coma for several months.

Former Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher was admitted to a Paris hospital for "secret treatment" earlier on Monday, Le Parisien newspaper reported. Schumacher turned 50 on January 3 but has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in the French Alps five years ago that left him with severe head injuries and in a medically-induced coma for several months. Schumacher was taken to the Pompidou hospital in southwest Paris on Monday afternoon, Le Parisien said, without citing its sources. The French newspaper said the former champion would undergo treatment based on stem-cell transfusion by French surgeon Philippe Menasche. A spokeswoman for Schumacher did not immediately return a request for comment. Schumacher remains motor racing's most successful driver, with a record 91 grand prix wins. He won his first two titles with Benetton in 1994 and 1995 before five in a row with Ferrari between 2000-2004. In January his family released a statement saying he was in "the very best of hands".

Michael Schumacher admitted to Paris hospital for 'secret treatment': Report

Charles Leclerc secured pole for Ferrari in the Italian Grand Prix in shambolic circumstances on Saturday when only two cars participated in the final qualifying showdown laps.

An unprecedented ‘cat-and-mouse’ procession as the teams crawled round the circuit, backing each other up to claim good slipstreaming positions, resulted in a farce that saw eight cars timed out by the chequered flag.

"A big mess," said Leclerc, who took pole ahead of defending five-time champion Lewis Hamilton.

The Monegasque and Carlos Sainz of McLaren were the only drivers to produce final qualifying runs after clocking lap-times on their first runs in Q3.&nbsp;

The stewards immediately declared that the shambolic failure at the end of the session was under investigation, the teams having failed to deliver a contest for the paying public.

"Today, to see so many people here feels amazing,” said a happy Leclerc, who claimed his maiden victory at last week’s tragic Belgian Grand Prix where he dedicated his win to the memory of his late friend Anthoine Hubert, who was killed in the previous day’s F2 race.

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1979 F1 world champion Jody Scheckter presents <a href="https://twitter.com/Charles_Leclerc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Charles_Leclerc</a> with his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PirelliPolePositionAward?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PirelliPolePositionAward</a> 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ItalianGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ItalianGP</a> 🇮🇹 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pirellisport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pirellisport</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBoGa9CZS">pic.twitter.com/gkBoGa9CZS</a>
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"I am happy with pole, but disappointed at the end.

"Honestly, I have to be grateful we're on the front row to have a fight with the Ferraris," said Hamilton.

"It’s a bit of an anti-climax, but we just timed out."

Valtteri Bottas qualified third in the second Mercedes ahead of Sebastian Vettel in the second Ferrari, the two Renaults of Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg and Sainz, who was seventh.

Red Bull new boy Alex Albon was eighth ahead of Lance Stroll of Racing Point and Kimi Raikkonen of Alfa Romeo, both of whom failed to clock a time in Q3 when Raikkonen crashed. He was uninjured.

Bottas said he and Mercedes had been unlucky to be trapped in the bunched traffic.

"The yellow flag in the last corner meant we probably missed the pole."

Charles Leclerc secured pole for Ferrari in the Italian Grand Prix in shambolic circumstances on Saturday when only two cars participated in the final qualifying showdown laps.

Charles Leclerc secured pole for Ferrari in the Italian Grand Prix in shambolic circumstances on Saturday when only two cars participated in the final qualifying showdown laps. An unprecedented ‘cat-and-mouse’ procession as the teams crawled round the circuit, backing each other up to claim good slipstreaming positions, resulted in a farce that saw eight cars timed out by the chequered flag. "A big mess," said Leclerc, who took pole ahead of defending five-time champion Lewis Hamilton. The Monegasque and Carlos Sainz of McLaren were the only drivers to produce final qualifying runs after clocking lap-times on their first runs in Q3. The stewards immediately declared that the shambolic failure at the end of the session was under investigation, the teams having failed to deliver a contest for the paying public. "Today, to see so many people here feels amazing,” said a happy Leclerc, who claimed his maiden victory at last week’s tragic Belgian Grand Prix where he dedicated his win to the memory of his late friend Anthoine Hubert, who was killed in the previous day’s F2 race. 1979 F1 world champion Jody Scheckter presents @Charles_Leclerc with his #PirelliPolePositionAward 👏#ItalianGP 🇮🇹 #F1 @pirellisport pic.twitter.com/gkBoGa9CZS — Formula 1 (@F1) September 7, 2019 × "I am happy with pole, but disappointed at the end. "Honestly, I have to be grateful we're on the front row to have a fight with the Ferraris," said Hamilton. "It’s a bit of an anti-climax, but we just timed out." Valtteri Bottas qualified third in the second Mercedes ahead of Sebastian Vettel in the second Ferrari, the two Renaults of Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg and Sainz, who was seventh. Red Bull new boy Alex Albon was eighth ahead of Lance Stroll of Racing Point and Kimi Raikkonen of Alfa Romeo, both of whom failed to clock a time in Q3 when Raikkonen crashed. He was uninjured. Bottas said he and Mercedes had been unlucky to be trapped in the bunched traffic. "The yellow flag in the last corner meant we probably missed the pole."

Italian Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc on Monza pole after qualifying 'mess'

Lewis Hamilton on Monday predicted more success for his triumphant Ferrari rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferraris-charles-leclerc-wins-belgian-gp-for-first-race-victory-247028">Charles Leclerc</a> and tipped the Monegasque driver as the favourite for this week's Italian Grand Prix at Monza. &nbsp;

After finishing second behind Leclerc at the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday, a race weekend overshadowed by the death of French Formula Two driver <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-and-motor-racing-teams-pay-tribute-to-anthoine-hubert-247020">Anthoine Hubert</a> a day earlier, Hamilton forecast that having finally secured his maiden win, Leclerc would now go on to claim more victories.&nbsp;

"Ferrari are going to have a happy weekend at Monza," said the defending five-time champion and current series leader.

"They are so much faster than us and Monza is all straights ... We will do our best, but it is going to be a tough job to match them."

Hamilton increased his lead in this year’s title race to 69 points ahead of re-signed Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who came home third, and was quick to praise 21-year-old Leclerc for his performance under pressure.

Leclerc, who started from pole and resisted intense Hamilton pressure as he chased him in the closing laps, dedicated his win to his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-and-motor-racing-teams-pay-tribute-to-anthoine-hubert-247020">late friend Hubert</a>.&nbsp;

"He did a great job," said Hamilton. "Even if we had different strategies, it would have been hard to have beaten him. He deserved to win."

Greatness

Leclerc, widely tipped as a future champion, performed with grace and humanity on and off the circuit during a stressful race weekend that saw him move within 12 points of his Ferrari team-mate and four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel in the drivers’ standings.

He has now out-qualified Vettel at six races in succession, leaving the German battling to retain his status as Ferrari’s lead driver.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Vettel was asked to pull over and allow Leclerc to pass mid-race on his way to finishing fourth. It is now more than a year since his last win, ironically at Belgium in 2018.&nbsp;

"I think his results speak for themselves really," added Hamilton, referring to Leclerc, who has delivered five podium finishes in his last seven outings.

"It's not easy for any driver to jump into a top team, let alone Ferrari... and then to be continuous from race one, out-perform, out-qualify and out-drive a four-time world champion is not easy to do.

"So I think that speaks for itself. He's been really unlucky in quite a few races this year. Could easily have been the third win today.&nbsp;

"So, there's a lot more greatness to come from him and I'm looking forward to seeing his growth and racing alongside him ... Today, it was fun, trying to chase him. He was just a little bit too quick."

While Leclerc finally seized a victory, another young driver impressed by finishing fifth —- Red Bull rookie Alex Albon climbing from 17th to secure a strong result in his first race with the team following promotion from Toro Rosso.&nbsp;

"I’ve been very impressed with Alex’s performance and he put in a great recovery drive in his first race," said Red Bull team chief Christian Horner of the London-born Thai racer.

His Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen made a poor start and retired after crashing on the opening lap.

"I had some good fun out there and I enjoyed this race a lot," said Albon. "I started off the weekend very nervous and if you had told me I’d finish the race fifth I’d be very happy, but I’m a bit more relaxed now."

Lewis Hamilton on Monday predicted more success for his triumphant Ferrari rival Charles Leclerc and tipped the Monegasque driver as the favourite for this week's Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

Lewis Hamilton on Monday predicted more success for his triumphant Ferrari rival Charles Leclerc and tipped the Monegasque driver as the favourite for this week's Italian Grand Prix at Monza. After finishing second behind Leclerc at the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday, a race weekend overshadowed by the death of French Formula Two driver Anthoine Hubert a day earlier, Hamilton forecast that having finally secured his maiden win, Leclerc would now go on to claim more victories. "Ferrari are going to have a happy weekend at Monza," said the defending five-time champion and current series leader. "They are so much faster than us and Monza is all straights ... We will do our best, but it is going to be a tough job to match them." Hamilton increased his lead in this year’s title race to 69 points ahead of re-signed Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who came home third, and was quick to praise 21-year-old Leclerc for his performance under pressure. Leclerc, who started from pole and resisted intense Hamilton pressure as he chased him in the closing laps, dedicated his win to his late friend Hubert. "He did a great job," said Hamilton. "Even if we had different strategies, it would have been hard to have beaten him. He deserved to win." Greatness Leclerc, widely tipped as a future champion, performed with grace and humanity on and off the circuit during a stressful race weekend that saw him move within 12 points of his Ferrari team-mate and four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel in the drivers’ standings. He has now out-qualified Vettel at six races in succession, leaving the German battling to retain his status as Ferrari’s lead driver. On Sunday, Vettel was asked to pull over and allow Leclerc to pass mid-race on his way to finishing fourth. It is now more than a year since his last win, ironically at Belgium in 2018. "I think his results speak for themselves really," added Hamilton, referring to Leclerc, who has delivered five podium finishes in his last seven outings. "It's not easy for any driver to jump into a top team, let alone Ferrari... and then to be continuous from race one, out-perform, out-qualify and out-drive a four-time world champion is not easy to do. "So I think that speaks for itself. He's been really unlucky in quite a few races this year. Could easily have been the third win today. "So, there's a lot more greatness to come from him and I'm looking forward to seeing his growth and racing alongside him ... Today, it was fun, trying to chase him. He was just a little bit too quick." While Leclerc finally seized a victory, another young driver impressed by finishing fifth —- Red Bull rookie Alex Albon climbing from 17th to secure a strong result in his first race with the team following promotion from Toro Rosso. "I’ve been very impressed with Alex’s performance and he put in a great recovery drive in his first race," said Red Bull team chief Christian Horner of the London-born Thai racer. His Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen made a poor start and retired after crashing on the opening lap. "I had some good fun out there and I enjoyed this race a lot," said Albon. "I started off the weekend very nervous and if you had told me I’d finish the race fifth I’d be very happy, but I’m a bit more relaxed now."

Charles Leclerc destined for greatness, says Lewis Hamilton

Sergio Perez will stay at Racing Point until at least 2022 after singing a fresh three-year deal, the Canadian Formula One team said on Friday.

The Mexican will partner Lance Stroll, son of team owner and Canadian billionaire Lawrence, in an unchanged line up for the Silverstone-based outfit.

The deal was announced after Friday's practice sessions for the Belgian Grand Prix.

"I've been working together with this group of people for a long time now and they have become my second family," Perez said in a statement.

"I have been impressed with the direction the team has taken over the last twelve months and that gives me confidence for the future.

"I believe the best times are still to come and I look forward to celebrating plenty of podiums in the years ahead."

Perez joined Racing Point when in 2014 when it was co-owned by troubled Indian magnate Vijay Mallya.

The team's assets were bought out of administration by a consortium led by Lawrence Stroll last July, with the squad starting over as Racing Point at last year's Belgian Grand Prix.

The change of ownership brought some much needed fresh investment to the team which is now in the process of building for the future.

"Over the last six years we have seen him (Perez) become a very complete driver with excellent qualifying speed and exceptional race craft," said team principal Otmar Szafnauer.

"Sergio believes in the long-term vision of this project and getting his commitment until the end of 2022 gives us valuable consistency going forward."

Perez, who brings important financial backing from Mexican sponsors, has scored five podiums for the team in his career and his confirmation was considered a formality.

The news is the latest in a flurry of announcements that kicked off Formula One's first weekend back after its annual mid-season break.

Mercedes on Thursday said it would keep Valtteri Bottas alongside Lewis Hamilton for another year while Renault said Frenchman Esteban Ocon had signed to drive alongside Daniel Ricciardo starting next season.

Sergio Perez will stay at Racing Point until at least 2022 after singing a fresh three-year deal, the Canadian Formula One team said on Friday. The Mexican will partner Lance Stroll, son of team owner and Canadian billionaire Lawrence, in an unchanged line up for the Silverstone-based outfit.

Sergio Perez will stay at Racing Point until at least 2022 after singing a fresh three-year deal, the Canadian Formula One team said on Friday. The Mexican will partner Lance Stroll, son of team owner and Canadian billionaire Lawrence, in an unchanged line up for the Silverstone-based outfit. The deal was announced after Friday's practice sessions for the Belgian Grand Prix. "I've been working together with this group of people for a long time now and they have become my second family," Perez said in a statement. "I have been impressed with the direction the team has taken over the last twelve months and that gives me confidence for the future. "I believe the best times are still to come and I look forward to celebrating plenty of podiums in the years ahead." Perez joined Racing Point when in 2014 when it was co-owned by troubled Indian magnate Vijay Mallya. The team's assets were bought out of administration by a consortium led by Lawrence Stroll last July, with the squad starting over as Racing Point at last year's Belgian Grand Prix. The change of ownership brought some much needed fresh investment to the team which is now in the process of building for the future. "Over the last six years we have seen him (Perez) become a very complete driver with excellent qualifying speed and exceptional race craft," said team principal Otmar Szafnauer. "Sergio believes in the long-term vision of this project and getting his commitment until the end of 2022 gives us valuable consistency going forward." Perez, who brings important financial backing from Mexican sponsors, has scored five podiums for the team in his career and his confirmation was considered a formality. The news is the latest in a flurry of announcements that kicked off Formula One's first weekend back after its annual mid-season break. Mercedes on Thursday said it would keep Valtteri Bottas alongside Lewis Hamilton for another year while Renault said Frenchman Esteban Ocon had signed to drive alongside Daniel Ricciardo starting next season.

Sergio Perez to stay with F1 team Racing Point for three more years

Racing driver Anthoine Hubert died on Saturday following a crash during the Formula Two race held before this weekend's F1 Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA announced.

In a statement, the auto racing governing body said that Hubert, 22, died following a "serious incident" at Spa-Francorchamps, a three-car pile-up in the second lap of the race.

"The scene was immediately attended by emergency and medical crews, and all drivers were taken to the medical centre," read the statement.

"As a result of the incident, the FIA regrets to inform that the driver of car number 19, Antoine Hubert (FRA), succumbed to his injuries, and passed away at 18:35."

Juan Manuel Correa is in a "stable condition" at the CHU hospital in Liege, the FIA said, after suffering leg fractures in the crash.

More to follow

Racing driver Anthoine Hubert died on Saturday following a crash during the Formula Two race held before this weekend's F1 Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA announced.

Racing driver Anthoine Hubert died on Saturday following a crash during the Formula Two race held before this weekend's F1 Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA announced. In a statement, the auto racing governing body said that Hubert, 22, died following a "serious incident" at Spa-Francorchamps, a three-car pile-up in the second lap of the race. "The scene was immediately attended by emergency and medical crews, and all drivers were taken to the medical centre," read the statement. "As a result of the incident, the FIA regrets to inform that the driver of car number 19, Antoine Hubert (FRA), succumbed to his injuries, and passed away at 18:35." Juan Manuel Correa is in a "stable condition" at the CHU hospital in Liege, the FIA said, after suffering leg fractures in the crash. More to follow

French racer Anthoine Hubert dies after Formula Two crash: Organisers

Birthday boy Valtteri Bottas did not need a reason to celebrate but confirmation he would be staying at Formula One champions Mercedes next season gave him another excuse to party.

The Finn turned 30 on Wednesday and had already marked the milestone with a party a day earlier.

Mercedes’ decision to retain him alongside five-time world champion Lewis Hamilton for another season, which was announced on Thursday but had been signed and sealed the weekend before, only made the celebrations sweeter.

“Obviously, 30, it happens only once in a lifetime,” the Finn told reporters at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit on Thursday shortly after the Mercedes announcement ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix.

“There is always a good excuse to throw a party, but that’s a good excuse, it was good, I enjoyed it.

“I knew by then, everything was done by then, so it was actually nice to celebrate with the closest people.

“Another good excuse.”

Bottas bounced back strongly from a winless 2018 campaign, opening this season with victory in the first race in Australia.

He has taken two wins and a further seven podiums from 12 races this season, though his last victory was at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in April and he has faded over recent races.

The Finn is second in the overall standings, 62 points adrift of Hamilton, who has won eight races, and facing a growing threat from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen who is seven points behind him in third.

Ocon Competition

Once considered a shoo-in for the Mercedes drive on the back of his early season form, Botttas faced competition from Mercedes-backed 22-year-old Esteban Ocon for his seat over recent weeks.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff told reporters at the Hungarian Grand Prix before the August shut down that they would choose either Bottas or Ocon to be Hamilton’s team mate next season.

Bottas' improved form convinced Mercedes to retain him, with Ocon signing to drive alongside Daniel Ricciardo for Renault.

Bottas said he had begun to put a back-up plan in place in case Mercedes chose not to retain him.

“To be honest, going to the summer break, and in this sport you know once you’ve not signed, anything can happen...

“So for sure I was trying to make a plan for something else but then things started to go the right way...”

Hamilton, who has enjoyed a far more harmonious relationship with Bottas compared to the bitter rivalry he was embroiled in with the Finn’s predecessor Nico Rosberg, said Mercedes had made the right decision.

“Continuity is always a great thing,” said the Briton. “I really enjoy working with him in general. We get on well both outside and on the track.”

Birthday boy Valtteri Bottas did not need a reason to celebrate but confirmation he would be staying at Formula One champions Mercedes next season gave him another excuse to party.

Birthday boy Valtteri Bottas did not need a reason to celebrate but confirmation he would be staying at Formula One champions Mercedes next season gave him another excuse to party. The Finn turned 30 on Wednesday and had already marked the milestone with a party a day earlier. Mercedes’ decision to retain him alongside five-time world champion Lewis Hamilton for another season, which was announced on Thursday but had been signed and sealed the weekend before, only made the celebrations sweeter. “Obviously, 30, it happens only once in a lifetime,” the Finn told reporters at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit on Thursday shortly after the Mercedes announcement ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. “There is always a good excuse to throw a party, but that’s a good excuse, it was good, I enjoyed it. “I knew by then, everything was done by then, so it was actually nice to celebrate with the closest people. “Another good excuse.” Bottas bounced back strongly from a winless 2018 campaign, opening this season with victory in the first race in Australia. He has taken two wins and a further seven podiums from 12 races this season, though his last victory was at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in April and he has faded over recent races. The Finn is second in the overall standings, 62 points adrift of Hamilton, who has won eight races, and facing a growing threat from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen who is seven points behind him in third. Ocon Competition Once considered a shoo-in for the Mercedes drive on the back of his early season form, Botttas faced competition from Mercedes-backed 22-year-old Esteban Ocon for his seat over recent weeks. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff told reporters at the Hungarian Grand Prix before the August shut down that they would choose either Bottas or Ocon to be Hamilton’s team mate next season. Bottas' improved form convinced Mercedes to retain him, with Ocon signing to drive alongside Daniel Ricciardo for Renault. Bottas said he had begun to put a back-up plan in place in case Mercedes chose not to retain him. “To be honest, going to the summer break, and in this sport you know once you’ve not signed, anything can happen... “So for sure I was trying to make a plan for something else but then things started to go the right way...” Hamilton, who has enjoyed a far more harmonious relationship with Bottas compared to the bitter rivalry he was embroiled in with the Finn’s predecessor Nico Rosberg, said Mercedes had made the right decision. “Continuity is always a great thing,” said the Briton. “I really enjoy working with him in general. We get on well both outside and on the track.”

Valtteri Bottas to remain at F1 champions Mercedes in 2020

Thai Formula One driver Alexander Albon was promoted Monday to race alongside Max Verstappen in the Red Bull team and has the rest of the season to make the move permanent. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The 23-year-old -- born in England of a Thai mother -- is promoted from Red Bull's sister team Toro Rosso whilst Frenchman Pierre&nbsp;Gasly&nbsp;will go in the opposite direction.

Albon's first drive for Red Bull will be the Belgian Grand Prix on September 1.

"Alexander Albon is being promoted to Aston Martin Red Bull Racing to drive alongside Max Verstappen, while Pierre&nbsp;Gasly&nbsp;will return to the Red Bull sister team, Scuderia Toro Rosso," read the team statement.

"The Team will use the next nine races to evaluate Alex’s performance in order to make an informed decision as to who will drive alongside Max in 2020."

Albon -- who was signed up to the Red Bull Junior Team in 2012 -- has accrued 16 points in his maiden season in the championship with a best-placed sixth in the German Grand Prix.

Gasly, also 23, is in his second full season in Formula One -- he competed in five Grand Prix in the 2017 campaign -- and has garnered 63 points thus far this term with fourth in the British Grand Prix his best performance.

Thai Formula One driver Alexander Albon was promoted Monday to race alongside Max Verstappen in the Red Bull team and has the rest of the season to make the move permanent.

Thai Formula One driver Alexander Albon was promoted Monday to race alongside Max Verstappen in the Red Bull team and has the rest of the season to make the move permanent. The 23-year-old -- born in England of a Thai mother -- is promoted from Red Bull's sister team Toro Rosso whilst Frenchman Pierre Gasly will go in the opposite direction. Albon's first drive for Red Bull will be the Belgian Grand Prix on September 1. "Alexander Albon is being promoted to Aston Martin Red Bull Racing to drive alongside Max Verstappen, while Pierre Gasly will return to the Red Bull sister team, Scuderia Toro Rosso," read the team statement. "The Team will use the next nine races to evaluate Alex’s performance in order to make an informed decision as to who will drive alongside Max in 2020." Albon -- who was signed up to the Red Bull Junior Team in 2012 -- has accrued 16 points in his maiden season in the championship with a best-placed sixth in the German Grand Prix. Gasly, also 23, is in his second full season in Formula One -- he competed in five Grand Prix in the 2017 campaign -- and has garnered 63 points thus far this term with fourth in the British Grand Prix his best performance.

Alexander Albon given chance to secure Red Bull drive permanently

Mexico will stay on the Formula One calendar for three more years after a new contract was signed on Thursday, with the sport set to expand to a record 22 races next season.

Formula One said the race would change its name to the Mexico City Grand Prix from 2020 to emphasise the support of the city authorities.

"It’s an honour to announce that we will carry out this event in Mexico City until 2022," Formula One chairman and CEO Chase Carey told a news conference.

Mexico City mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said in a statement that the agreement was based on a new financing model without the use of public resources.

"The Mexico City government will be an intermediary, creating a trust that will raise the private investment required to deliver this international event," she said. Ticket prices will remain unchanged.

Confirmation of Mexico means the 2020 calendar is set to expand from 21 races, with new ones in Vietnam and the Netherlands while only Germany is set to drop off.

Teams agreed to the extension at last weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.

Mexico's future had looked uncertain earlier in the year, with president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador saying in February that state funds would in future go towards a tourist train project being planned in the south of the country.

Mexico returned to the grand prix calendar in 2015 after a 23-year absence.

The race, scheduled for Oct. 27 this year at the Hermanos Rodriguez circuit and paired with the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, is organised by CIE and has won the governing FIA's award for best event for the past four seasons.

It was also the race where Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, now a five-times world champion, clinched the title in 2017 and 2018.

Mexico will stay on the Formula One calendar for three more years after a new contract was signed on Thursday, with the sport set to expand to a record 22 races next season.

Mexico will stay on the Formula One calendar for three more years after a new contract was signed on Thursday, with the sport set to expand to a record 22 races next season. Formula One said the race would change its name to the Mexico City Grand Prix from 2020 to emphasise the support of the city authorities. "It’s an honour to announce that we will carry out this event in Mexico City until 2022," Formula One chairman and CEO Chase Carey told a news conference. Mexico City mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said in a statement that the agreement was based on a new financing model without the use of public resources. "The Mexico City government will be an intermediary, creating a trust that will raise the private investment required to deliver this international event," she said. Ticket prices will remain unchanged. Confirmation of Mexico means the 2020 calendar is set to expand from 21 races, with new ones in Vietnam and the Netherlands while only Germany is set to drop off. Teams agreed to the extension at last weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix. Mexico's future had looked uncertain earlier in the year, with president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador saying in February that state funds would in future go towards a tourist train project being planned in the south of the country. Mexico returned to the grand prix calendar in 2015 after a 23-year absence. The race, scheduled for Oct. 27 this year at the Hermanos Rodriguez circuit and paired with the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, is organised by CIE and has won the governing FIA's award for best event for the past four seasons. It was also the race where Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, now a five-times world champion, clinched the title in 2017 and 2018.

Mexico staying on F1 calendar for three more years

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