Ocon tops F1’s Abu Dhabi post-season test as Russell crashes

Abu Dhabi’s one-day test is a combined exercise to hand Pirelli extra tyre data while also providing a chance to rookie drivers to gather valuable miles. All teams ran two cars, one for each assignment.Russell caused the most notable incident by crashing in Turn 6 four hours into the session after a suspected technical failure punted the Mercedes driver into the barriers.The incident, which caused …Keep reading

How F1’s impending engine revamp puts new emphasis on electrical power

With a freeze on power units until new rules arrive in 2026 and its emphasis on aerodynamics, Formula 1 is almost the exact inverse of the electric series I’ve raced in for the past decade.Formula E is all about powertrain efficiency, optimising a spec chassis with standard aerodynamics and none of the underfloor black arts. It’s not perfect, but Formula E has shown that investing in …Keep reading

Sainz: “Dramatic” issues in final races put “dark patch” on 2023 F1 season

The Spaniard’s Las Vegas weekend was compromised by the water valve incident in practice, and after a 10-place grid penalty he was only able to secure sixth place on a day when team-mate Charles Leclerc fought for victory.In Abu Dhabi he had a big crash in FP2 and, after a poor Q1 saw him start only 16th, Sainz gambled on two stints with the hard tyres waiting for a safety car. But this failed …Keep reading

Ocon: Abu Dhabi F1 tyre test “super important” to iron out weakness

The Enstone outfit has suffered from inconsistent form this year, with a strong race in Las Vegas – where Ocon finished fourth – followed by a disappointing weekend at the Yas Marina track that saw both cars outside the points.Ocon says that going straight into a test at a venue where the team struggled will help the team learn some lessons, with reserve driver Jack Doohan also providing input …Keep reading

Vowles wants final Williams data check before Sargeant F1 2024 call

Sargeant is the favourite to secure the final spot on the 2024 F1 grid with Williams despite a mixed rookie campaign.  While he showed signs of improving form throughout the year and scored a point at the United States GP, there were also some notable errors that resulted in big crashes. But Williams has been consistent in feeling that Sargeant needed time to prove himself, so would be given …Keep reading

F1 set for emergency driver cooling rule to help in extreme conditions

In response to the investigation that motor racing’s governing body launched as a consequence of the physical troubles drivers faced at this year’s Qatar Grand Prix, solutions are now being put in place. At last week’s meeting of the F1 Commission, plans for a small scoop – with the opening likely to be fitted underneath the car to help direct cool air into the cockpit – were approved …Keep reading