F1 news LIVE: Updates ahead of Emilia Romagna Grand Prix qualifying as Lewis Hamilton joins Chelsea bid

Follow all the latest news and reaction from the world of F1 as the teams prepare for practice and qualifying at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, which both take place on Friday afternoon.

The pressure remains on for several teams to get to grips with issues which have plagued them in the opening rounds. Red Bull have seen reigning champion Max Verstappen fail to finish twice in the first three races of the season, though the potential they retain was evident when he won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in round two. Either side of that triumph, it was Charles Leclerc who was the victor, while his Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz has signed a new contract with the team.

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are expected to “challenge for wins” again across the course of the season, though Toto Wolff has insisted it will “take time” for the team to fix the problems they have with porpoising and controlling the air flow under the new car. Hamilton is staying positive about getting in the mix, but he is trailing new teammate George Russell ahead of the fourth race of the season in Italy.

Away from the track, the seven-time champion Brit has joined a bid for Chelsea FC, alongside the likes of tennis star Serena Williams, with Max Verstappen gently teasing his rival in response.

Follow all the latest F1 news and reaction as the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix takes centre stage.

Formula One latest news

• Emilia Romagna Grand Prix practice starts at 12.30pm BST

• Qualifying is then at 4pm BST ahead of Saturday’s sprint race

• Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

• Lewis Hamilton joins bid to buy Chelsea Football Club

• Hamilton and Mercedes expected to ‘challenge for wins’ again

• Sergio Perez threatens to quit if F1 season expands further

What is an F1 sprint race and how does qualifying work?

11:18 , Michael Jones

Formula One’s sprint format returns for a second season at this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Here, we at the key questions surrounding the event.

What is the Sprint?

The shortened race takes place on Saturday afternoon and replaces traditional qualifying. The finishing order of the Sprint determines the grid for Sunday’s main event, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

The Sprint is one third distance of a traditional Grand Prix, or 62 miles. At Imola, that equates to 21 laps with the race set to take around 30 minutes.

How is the grid determined for the Sprint?

Qualifying will be brought forward from Saturday to Friday, replacing second practice. It will have a later start time of 5pm local (4pm UK) in a bid to generate a bigger television audience. The results of qualifying determine the starting grid positions for the Sprint on Saturday. For example the fastest driver in Friday’s qualifying will be on pole for Saturday’s Sprint.

What is an F1 sprint race and how does qualifying work?

Current driver and constructor standings

11:10 , Michael Jones

Here’s a reminder of how the standings look ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Charles Leclec leads the way in the driver’s championship after three podium finishes including two victories which also sees Ferrari in a commanding position in the team standings.

Leclerc and Verstappen ‘hated’ each other in karting days

11:00 , Michael Jones

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc says he and Max Verstappen ‘hated’ each other during their younger days when they raced karts which built up an intense rivalry between the two drivers.

That battle is back in the spotlight this season as Leclerc and Verstappen have come head-to-head in all three races of the 2022 season so far with the Ferrari driver winning two and Verstappen one. It looks set to be another close race for the world championship title but only if Verstappen’s Red Bull team fix his reliability issues.

Leclerc already has a significant lead in the championship - he is 34 points ahead of Mercedes driver George Russell, who is second in the championship, and 46 ahead of Verstappen, who has failed to finish two of the three races.

Leclerc said: “It is going to be very close. It has always been very close.

“In karting, it was either me or him and that’s why we hated each other at one point because very often it didn’t end in the best way possible.

“In which parts we are stronger or not [as drivers], I don’t know, we just have two very different styles of driving. In some days one will win, in some the other will. But I like it.”

The reigning world champion insisted he has not changed his approach this season saying: “I race exactly like I always race because that is how I am,

“Everyone is different in their defence and their attack, and so far Charles and I race very well together because we know where we want to place the car and how much room we need to leave for each other. That works out really well for both of us.

“Charles is aggressive, too, and you can clearly see that. We have nice battles, but we don’t touch.”

Wet weather at Imola

10:55 , Michael Jones

The rain is coming down in Italy ahead of the first practice session on the Imola Circuit this afternoon. The drivers are due on track at 12:30pm UK time for practice before qualifying begins around 4pm later today.

Sainz ‘lacked calmness to react properly’ to Australian GP issues

10:49 , Michael Jones

Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz says he “lacked calmness to react properly” to the various issues that struck him during the F1 Australian Grand Prix, which he called a “character-building weekend”.

Sainz looked strong in practice at Albert Park topping the leaderboard in the first practice session and in the early parts of qualifying but things began to go wrong in Q3.

His Ferrari team mate Charles Leclerc had just moved to the top of the times in the top 10 shootout when the session was halted due to Fernando Alonso’s crash, seconds before Sainz was able to cross the line and set his own banker time. When the session resumed an ignition problem on Sainz’s car meant he left the pits too late for a warm-up lap which led to a wild slide on the final lap of qualifying and his eventual ninth-place grid spot.

Things got worse on race day. Ferrari had to switch Sainz’s steering wheel and the replacement was not set with the correct torque map which meant he dropped five places in the first lap of the race. Doing his best to recover ground Sainz then had to retire after going off the track in a battle with Hass’ Mick Schumacher.

“One of my strengths as a driver is to stay calm in these sort of situations,” he said about the race in Melbourne. “This time, I lacked this calmness to react properly to the inconvenience that arrived to me at the time.

“And it wasn’t a great weekend because a lot of things happened, a lot of external factors happened, but at the same time I didn’t have the best reaction to this.

“At some point it had to happen – I’ve had [17], I don’t know how many, points finishes. I don’t know how many consecutive races I’ve been finishing without major mistakes.

“At some point this mistake had to happen. And it happened, which I’m sure I will learn from - like I’ve done previously in my career and it just me made me stronger. So, a character-building weekend for sure.”

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

10:41 , Michael Jones

Formula 1’s introduction of the sprint races were a new innovation brought in at the start of the 2021 season.

A handful of races were given the go-ahead so that qualifying would take place on the Friday rather than the Saturday.

The sprint race would then replace qualifying on the Saturday, before the race took place as usual on the Sunday.

Last season the sprint races were at the British Grand Prix, the Italian Grand Prix, and the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Here is all you need to know about the sprint races for 2022.

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

10:30 , Michael Jones

The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix will take place this Sunday with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc looking to extend his lead at the top of the driver standings.

So far the star has won two of the opening three races and is currently 34 points ahead of second place George Russell. Defending champion Max Verstappen will bid to get his season back on track after having to retire from two races. He did bag a win in Saudi Arabia but the disappointing ends in Bahrain and Australia sees him in fifth.

And though Leclerc holds a commanding lead, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto says they aren’t ready to give team orders to Carlos Sainz to play second fiddle.

“It’s only three races which have been done now,’ the Ferrari chief told AutoSport. “There are still 20 races left, hopefully 19 or 20. So the championship is still very long.

“Our drivers [Leclerc and Sainz] are free to fight, and I am really looking forward and enjoying that they are battling for a good place, and first place, if possible.”

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

George Russell lifts lid on working relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

10:19 , Michael Jones

George Russell maintains there will be “no hard feelings”, despite results, between himself and team-mate Lewis Hamilton due to the seven-time world champions status as “captain” of Mercedes .

In his first season racing for German manufacturers Mercedes, Russell sits nine points ahead of Hamilton in the Driver’s Championship after three races.

Russell, who spent three seasons with Williams, insists that his fellow Brits standing within the team leaves no doubt as to who is the leader, regardless of where the pair finish on race day.

“I think because we’re at just different stages of our career, there’s no hard feelings either way,” Russell told Sky Sports ahead of this weekend’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Italy.

“From my side, I’m 24 years old going up against the greatest of all time, if he were to finish ahead of me, obviously I don’t like it but I’m not going to cry and sulk about it.”

George Russell lifts lid on relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

Max Verstappen explains why Charles Leclerc rivalry feels ‘natural’

10:11 , Michael Jones

Max Verstappen admits that his rivalry with Charles Leclerc is “more natural” than that with Lewis Hamilton due to the history he has with the Ferrari driver.

The Dutchman competed against Leclerc as teenagers in karting before their battles in Formula One. The pair famously locked horns back in 2019 when at the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen stole the Monegasque’s first victory on the final lap.

Verstappen and Leclerc enjoyed clean duels for victory at the first two rounds of the 2022 season, with the Ferrari man coming out on top in Bahrain and the Red Bull driver fighting back in Saudi Arabia.

Max Verstappen explains why Charles Leclerc rivalry feels ‘natural’

‘I thought he was an Arsenal fan?’ Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

10:02 , Michael Jones

Max Verstappen has poked fun at rival Lewis Hamilton’s involvement in a Chelsea takeover bid by saying: “I thought he was an Arsenal fan”.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton has been named as part of Sir Martin Broughton’s consortium hoping to buy the west London club.

Hamilton, who is gearing up for Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, has declared himself as an Arsenal supporter on a number of occasions.

In an interview with the PA news agency, world champion Verstappen said: “I am a PSV fan and I would never buy Ajax.

“And if I was going to buy a football club I would want to be the full owner and to take the decisions myself, not own just a tiny percentage.”

Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

Max Verstappen desperate for ‘straightforward weekend’ in Italy

09:52 , Michael Jones

Reigning world champion Max Verstappen is eager for a “straightforward weekend” at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix after a difficult start to the 2022 season.

The 24-year-old Dutchman suffered reliability failures in both Bahrain and Melbourne, meaning he has only finished one of the first three races.

And while that finish did come in a victory in Saudi Arabia, the Red Bull man already finds himself a huge 46 points adrift of drivers’ championship leader Charles Leclerc.

As a result, Verstappen is simply looking for a smooth weekend of racing without any major issues.

Speaking ahead of the first European race of the season, he told Planet F1: “The team trackside and back at the factory in Milton Keynes are working incredibly hard. Hopefully we’ll have a straightforward weekend and that we score some good points as a team.”

Max Verstappen desperate for ‘straightforward weekend’ in Italy

Mick Schumacher ‘must be able to beat’ Kevin Magnussen to earn future Ferrari seat

09:40 , Michael Jones

Mick Schumacher needs to beat Haas teammate Kevin Magnussen if he is going to secure a Ferrari seat in the future, says former F1 driver Marc Surer.

Schumacher, 23, is the son of seven-time world champion Michael who won five titles in a row with the Scuderia between 2000 and 2004.

The Haas driver has struggled for results so far this season, finishing 11th in Bahrain, 13th in Melbourne, and not being able to start the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in between.

By contrast, his teammate Magnussen managed an incredibly impressive fifth place in the season opener, followed by ninth in Saudi and 14th in Australia.

As a result, Magnussen has so far outperformed Schumacher in two of the first three races and has 12 points in the drivers’ standings compared to the German’s none.

Mick Schumacher ‘must be able to beat’ Kevin Magnussen to earn future Ferrari seat

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

09:30 , Luke Baker

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has revealed he would consider quitting Formula One if even more races are added to the calendar.

The 2022 season will see the drivers navigate the most hectic schedule to date, with 23 races pencilled in between March and December.

There has been talk of even more races being added in the future, with F1 already announcing that they have secured a deal with Las Vegas to stage a weekend there from 2023.

But Mexican Perez, who has been a part of the grid since he made his debut with Sauber in 2011, insists he would back away from the sport if the calendar congestion became even greater.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “It’s great that Formula 1 continues to develop and grow. You can see it everywhere we go, people are starting to recognise you on the street more and more often. But if there are too many races, it will be bad. At least for me.

“Right now we are constantly immersed in work, because there are a lot of races. We simply don’t have enough time to spend time with our families.

“I personally have two children. I think if the calendar expands even more, I will definitely no longer compete in Formula 1.”

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

What is a sprint race in F1 and how does it work?

09:17 , Luke Baker

Following its success in 2021 Formula One season, the F1 Commission has approved plans to run the F1 sprint format at three Grand Prix weekends this season.

As it was last year, the F1 sprint is a 100km dash with no mandatory pit stops and drivers racing flat-out to the chequered flag.

F1 sprint was introduced last season with the result determining the grid for the weekend’s main event, the Grand Prix on Sunday.

For the 2022 season, the points system has been tweaked, with the top eight drivers scoring points, where previously it was just the top three finishers. It’s also now more lucrative as the driver who finishes P1 will receive eight points, rather than three last year.

There has also been a change to the location of the sprints, as this year they’re taking place at the Emilia Romagna, Austrian and Sao Paulo Grands Prix.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What is a sprint race in F1 and how does it work?

What time is F1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix qualifying today and how can I watch it?

09:08 , Luke Baker

Formula One arrives in Europe for the first time this season as the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix weekend kicks off in Italy.

The Imola circuit plays host to the paddock at a time when Italian favourites Ferrari are flying high at the top of the drivers’ and constructors standings.

The Emilia Romagna GP also welcomes back the sprint race as qualifying is pushed forward to Friday, with the sprint race on Saturday and the main race on Sunday.

It promises to be a thrilling weekend of action as the 20 drivers prepare to battle over the 63 laps. Can Charles Leclerc make it three wins from four at the beginning of the new campaign?

Here’s everything you need to know.

What time is F1 qualifying today and how can I watch it?

Lewis Hamilton joins bid to buy Chelsea

09:01 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton is among the high-profile sportspeople committing “millions” of pounds towards one of the three bids to buy out Chelsea.

The consortium he is reportedly involved with is that which is headed by former Liverpool chairman Sir Martin Broughton - and tennis star Serena Williams is another said to be investing.

Former British Airways chairman Broughton “believes his bid to buy Chelsea would offer the biggest immediate cash injection” into the club, PA news agency have reported.

Lord Sebastian Coe is also backing Broughton’s bid with Crystal Palace co-owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer also heavily linked with joining, with the pair reportedly set for a controlling stake if successful.

Sky News report that both Hamilton and Williams will pledge an estimated £10m to the cause, having both become “established investors” in different sporting areas in recent years.

Lewis Hamilton and Serena Williams join bid to buy Chelsea

08:55 , Luke Baker

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Ferrari have confirmed the signing of a new contract for driver Carlos Sainz, with the 27-year-old signing for two more years through to the end of the 2024 season.

The Spaniard has clocked up 33 points from the first three races of the season, in what has been a fantastic start for the team after years in the wilderness.

Sainz finished on the podium at both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, second and third respectively, before a DNF last time out in Australia.

After signing the extension, Sainz said:

“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari. I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

“My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far this season.

“I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can’t wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win.”

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Thursday 21 April 2022 19:45 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes will challenge for victories when they make ‘big updates’ to their cars ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, says Ferrari ambassador Marc Gene.

The seven-time world champion secured a podium finish in the first race of the season in Bahrain, but has struggled to find any pace in the car as he came tenth in Saudi Arabia and fourth in Australia.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has already confirmed that, with a lack of practice sessions at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend due to the return of the sprint race, they are not preparing to add many significant updates to the car.

But Gene believes the Silver Arrows will have major improvements in place for the following race in Barcelona and feels that then they will be able to compete for wins.

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Thursday 21 April 2022 19:28 , Luke Baker

Ferrari have confirmed the signing of a new contract for driver Carlos Sainz, with the 27-year-old signing for two more years through to the end of the 2024 season.

The Spaniard has clocked up 33 points from the first three races of the season, in what has been a fantastic start for the team after years in the wilderness.

Sainz finished on the podium at both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, second and third respectively, before a DNF last time out in Australia.

After signing the extension, Sainz said:

“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari. I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

“My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far this season.

“I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can’t wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win.”

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

Thursday 21 April 2022 19:13 , Luke Baker

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has revealed he would consider quitting Formula One if even more races are added to the calendar.

The 2022 season will see the drivers navigate the most hectic schedule to date, with 23 races pencilled in between March and December.

There has been talk of even more races being added in the future, with F1 already announcing that they have secured a deal with Las Vegas to stage a weekend there from 2023.

But Mexican Perez, who has been a part of the grid since he made his debut with Sauber in 2011, insists he would back away from the sport if the calendar congestion became even greater.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “It’s great that Formula 1 continues to develop and grow. You can see it everywhere we go, people are starting to recognise you on the street more and more often. But if there are too many races, it will be bad. At least for me.

“Right now we are constantly immersed in work, because there are a lot of races. We simply don’t have enough time to spend time with our families.

“I personally have two children. I think if the calendar expands even more, I will definitely no longer compete in Formula 1.”

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

Thursday 21 April 2022 19:00 , Luke Baker

Esteban Ocon has tipped fellow Alpine teammate and highly rated prospect Oscar Piastri to soon find a Formula One seat.

The 21-year-old looks to be one of the brightest talents to soon enter the pinnacle of the sport having won the Formula Three and Formula Two World Championships in consecutive years.

Piastri joined the Renault Sport Academy, which was later rebranded to the Alpine Academy, in 2020 and is currently spending the 2022 season as a reserve driver for both Alpine and McLaren as he was unable to secure his own seat.

His Alpine teammate Ocon said: “Oscar is a great guy. I mean, he’s very involved in the team, he’s going to have a great testing programme.

“He’s going to be probably the best-prepared driver ever, with the test programme that he’s got at Alpine.

“I’m very sure he’s going to have a seat in Formula One shortly. I don’t know where in the paddock, but opportunity comes for the ones who deserve it.”

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

F1 2022 game release date and updates revealed

Thursday 21 April 2022 18:45 , Luke Baker

The developers of the new Formula One game have announced the release date of this season’s game, which will feature the new era of F1 cars as well as the overhauled rules and racing regulations.

F1 2022 is the latest edition of the Codemasters and EA Sports game and will include the new circuit for the Miami Grand Prix, as well as updated race tracks in Australia and Abu Dhabi.

The game will also feature F1 Sprint for the first time as well as adapted AI, updated game modes and the return of a 10-year career mode.

It will be available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC - which features VR functionality via Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

F1 news LIVE: Latest updates ahead of Emilia Romagna GP practice

Max Verstappen explains why Charles Leclerc rivalry feels ‘natural’

Thursday 21 April 2022 18:31 , Luke Baker

Max Verstappen admits that his rivalry with Charles Leclerc is “more natural” than that with Lewis Hamilton due to the history he has with the Ferrari driver.

The Dutchman competed against Leclerc as teenagers in karting before their battles in Formula One. The pair famously locked horns back in 2019 when at the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen stole the Monegasque’s first victory on the final lap.

Verstappen and Leclerc enjoyed clean duels for victory at the first two rounds of the 2022 season, with the Ferrari man coming out on top in Bahrain and the Red Bull driver fighting back in Saudi Arabia.

Max Verstappen explains why Charles Leclerc rivalry feels ‘natural’

Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

Thursday 21 April 2022 18:20 , Luke Baker

Max Verstappen has poked fun at rival Lewis Hamilton’s involvement in a Chelsea takeover bid by saying: “I thought he was an Arsenal fan”.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton has been named as part of Sir Martin Broughton’s consortium hoping to buy the west London club.

Hamilton, who is gearing up for Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, has declared himself as an Arsenal supporter on a number of occasions.

In an interview with the PA news agency, world champion Verstappen said: “I am a PSV fan and I would never buy Ajax. And if I was going to buy a football club I would want to be the full owner and to take the decisions myself, not own just a tiny percentage.

“I thought he was an Arsenal fan? And if you are an Arsenal fan going for Chelsea, that it is quite interesting. But everyone does what they want with their money so let’s see what comes out of it.”

Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

George Russell lifts lid on working relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

Thursday 21 April 2022 18:05 , Luke Baker

George Russell maintains there will be “no hard feelings”, despite results, between himself and team-mate Lewis Hamilton due to the seven-time world champions status as “captain” of Mercedes .

In his first season racing for German manufacturers Mercedes, Russell sits nine points ahead of Hamilton in the Driver’s Championship after three races.

Russell, who spent three seasons with Williams, insists that his fellow Brit’s standing within the team leaves no doubt as to who is the leader, regardless of where the pair finish on race day.

“I think because we’re at just different stages of our career, there’s no hard feelings either way,” Russell told Sky Sports ahead of this weekend’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Italy.

“From my side, I’m 24 years old going up against the greatest of all time, if he were to finish ahead of me, obviously I don’t like it but I’m not going to cry and sulk about it.”

George Russell lifts lid on relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

Nikita Mazepin questions F1 ‘values’ and explains a potential return

Thursday 21 April 2022 17:53 , Luke Baker

Nikita Mazepin has questioned the ‘values’ of Formula One while discussing a potential return to the sport.

The Russian’s position became increasingly uncertain following his country’s continued invasion of Ukraine, even after the FIA ruled that the 23-year-old would be allowed to continue racing under a neutral flag.

Mazepin’s father, Dmitry, a Russian oligarch who is the majority shareholder in chemical company Uralchem and one of Haas’ major sponsors, was pictured with Vladimir Putin as recently as January.

Haas removed Uralkali branding from its car during pre-season testing in Barcelona as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine accelerated and the team then confirmed they had terminated its contract with Mazepin and the company.

Opening up about the situation, Mazepin told Motorsport.com: “Everybody has a right to speak or not to speak and the FIA, the highest governing body, has enabled me to compete as long as I’m neutral.

“But I would say the biggest issue here is coming back to the sport where teams are allowed to be keeping sponsorship money without fulfilling the contract. And even asking for more, even though they say they don’t want money from Russia. So I’m not sure, but the sport’s values need to be evaluated for me after this.”

Nikita Mazepin questions F1 ‘values’ and explains a potential return

‘Still unclear’ if Volkswagen brands including Porsche and Audi will join, says Toto Wolff

Thursday 21 April 2022 17:40 , Luke Baker

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says the “picture is still very unclear” regarding Volkswagen’s potential entry into Formula One.

There are suggestions that Porsche and Audi, both companies part of the VW group, are joining Formula One, with reports indicating Red Bull are looking to partner with Porsche and Audi potentially joining forces with McLaren in 2026.

However, Wolff currently thinks that the plan is far from agreed and there remains questions on what VW’s entry could potentially look like.

As quoted by Motorsport.com, Wolff said: “It’s great if the Volkswagen Group joins F1.

“Fantastic brand, it increases the credibility of what we do. And they are racers. But as far as I understand, there is no firm commitment yet.

“They’ve been sitting on the table for the regulations, but [while] that commitment isn’t actually confirmed, we can’t really know what the plans are.”

Wolff ‘unclear’ if Volkswagen brands Porsche and Audi will join F1

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

Thursday 21 April 2022 17:26 , Luke Baker

Turning attentions to Imola, while this is the first sprint race of the season, it’s worth a reminder there are several more to look forward to.

Formula 1’s introduction of the sprint races were a new innovation brought in at the start of the 2021 season.

A handful of races were given the go-ahead so that qualifying would take place on the Friday rather than the Saturday.

The sprint race would then replace qualifying on the Saturday, before the race took place as usual on the Sunday.

Last season the sprint races were at the British Grand Prix, the Italian Grand Prix, and the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Here is all you need to know about the sprint races for 2022 - with the rules, the number of them for the season and where they’ll be held.

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

Carlos Sainz ‘angry’ after Charles Leclerc becomes ‘established’ at the top of the Ferrari order

Thursday 21 April 2022 17:12 , Luke Baker

Carlos Sainz is “angry” about Ferrari prioritising Charles Leclerc ahead of him, according to former driver Ralf Schumacher.

Leclerc has won two of the first three races of the season in Bahrain and Australia and also came second to Max Verstappen in Saudi Arabia.

As a result of his impressive start to 2022, the Monegasque driver leads the championship by a huge 34 points from George Russell.

Meanwhile, Sainz is a further four points behind Russell after two podiums and a DNF last time out in Melbourne.

And Schumacher believes the Spaniard is not reacting well to Ferrari putting Leclerc’s interests ahead of his own.

Speaking to F1 Insider, he said: “The pecking order at Ferrari is already established. Carlos Sainz knows that too and is correspondingly angry.

“There was a time when someone [brother, Michael] was very successful and it was also the case that you knew relatively early on which driver you were concentrating on.”

However, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has denied there being any favouritism between the drivers.

“It’s only three races which have been done now,” he said when asked about the dynamic between Leclerc and Sainz.

“There are still 20 races left, hopefully 19 or 20. So the championship is still very long. Our drivers are free to fight, and I am really looking forward and enjoying that they are battling for a good place, and first place, if possible.”

Carlos Sainz ‘angry’ after Leclerc ‘established’ at the top of Ferrari order

Lewis Hamilton joins bid to buy Chelsea

Thursday 21 April 2022 16:57 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton is among the high-profile sportspeople committing “millions” of pounds towards one of the three bids to buy out Chelsea.

The consortium he is reportedly involved with is that which is headed by former Liverpool chairman Sir Martin Broughton - and tennis star Serena Williams is another said to be investing.

Former British Airways chairman Broughton “believes his bid to buy Chelsea would offer the biggest immediate cash injection” into the club, PA news agency have reported.

Lord Sebastian Coe is also backing Broughton’s bid with Crystal Palace co-owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer also heavily linked with joining, with the pair reportedly set for a controlling stake if successful.

Sky News report that both Hamilton and Williams will pledge an estimated £10m to the cause, having both become “established investors” in different sporting areas in recent years.

Lewis Hamilton and Serena Williams join bid to buy Chelsea

Red Bull chief makes admission about Max Verstappen’s suitability for 2022 cars

Thursday 21 April 2022 16:44 , Luke Baker

World champion Max Verstappen’s “aggressive driving style” is not suited to the new Formula One cars, according to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.

The 24-year-old Dutchman suffered reliability failures in Bahrain and Australia, with the only race he has managed to finish so far this season coming in his victory at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

His inability to manage the car also means his teammate Sergio Perez is currently ahead of him in the drivers’ standings and Marko believes Verstappen’s problems stem from how he treats the car with his full-throttle style.

Red Bull chief makes admission about Max Verstappen’s suitability for 2022 cars

Charles Leclerc reminding Red Bull chief of Max Verstappen

Thursday 21 April 2022 16:30 , Luke Baker

Red Bull chief Helmut Marko believes Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has similarities to Max Verstappen and predicts a shift at the top of Formula One over the coming years.

During the 2021 season, there was a generational clash between seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull’s Verstappen. The outcome of the season long battle ended in controversial fashion and Marko now believes there is a change in the guard in F1 with new drivers fighting for pole.

Ferrari pair Leclerc and Carlos Sainz lead the drivers’ championship and with Brit duo Lando Norris and George Russell also showing potential.

“With Verstappen, Leclerc, Norris and Russell you now have four drivers who will shape F1 in the coming years,” the Austrian told F1insider.com.

Charles Leclerc reminding Red Bull chief of Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

Thursday 21 April 2022 16:18 , Luke Baker

Max Verstappen has poked fun at rival Lewis Hamilton’s involvement in a Chelsea takeover bid by saying: “I thought he was an Arsenal fan”.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton has been named as part of Sir Martin Broughton’s consortium hoping to buy the west London club.

Hamilton, who is gearing up for Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, has declared himself as an Arsenal supporter on a number of occasions.

In an interview with the PA news agency, world champion Verstappen said: “I am a PSV fan and I would never buy Ajax. And if I was going to buy a football club I would want to be the full owner and to take the decisions myself, not own just a tiny percentage.

“I thought he was an Arsenal fan? And if you are an Arsenal fan going for Chelsea, that it is quite interesting. But everyone does what they want with their money so let’s see what comes out of it.”

Max Verstappen pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton’s role in Chelsea takeover bid

George Russell lifts lid on working relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

Thursday 21 April 2022 16:04 , Luke Baker

George Russell maintains there will be “no hard feelings”, despite results, between himself and team-mate Lewis Hamilton due to the seven-time world champions status as “captain” of Mercedes .

In his first season racing for German manufacturers Mercedes, Russell sits nine points ahead of Hamilton in the Driver’s Championship after three races.

Russell, who spent three seasons with Williams, insists that his fellow Brit’s standing within the team leaves no doubt as to who is the leader, regardless of where the pair finish on race day.

“I think because we’re at just different stages of our career, there’s no hard feelings either way,” Russell told Sky Sports ahead of this weekend’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Italy.

“From my side, I’m 24 years old going up against the greatest of all time, if he were to finish ahead of me, obviously I don’t like it but I’m not going to cry and sulk about it.”

George Russell lifts lid on relationship with Mercedes ‘captain’ Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Thursday 21 April 2022 15:53 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes will challenge for victories when they make ‘big updates’ to their cars ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, says Ferrari ambassador Marc Gene.

The seven-time world champion secured a podium finish in the first race of the season in Bahrain, but has struggled to find any pace in the car as he came tenth in Saudi Arabia and fourth in Australia.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has already confirmed that, with a lack of practice sessions at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend due to the return of the sprint race, they are not preparing to add many significant updates to the car.

But Gene believes the Silver Arrows will have major improvements in place for the following race in Barcelona and feels that then they will be able to compete for wins.

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

Thursday 21 April 2022 15:40 , Luke Baker

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has revealed he would consider quitting Formula One if even more races are added to the calendar.

The 2022 season will see the drivers navigate the most hectic schedule to date, with 23 races pencilled in between March and December.

There has been talk of even more races being added in the future, with F1 already announcing that they have secured a deal with Las Vegas to stage a weekend there from 2023.

But Mexican Perez, who has been a part of the grid since he made his debut with Sauber in 2011, insists he would back away from the sport if the calendar congestion became even greater.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “It’s great that Formula 1 continues to develop and grow. You can see it everywhere we go, people are starting to recognise you on the street more and more often. But if there are too many races, it will be bad. At least for me.

“Right now we are constantly immersed in work, because there are a lot of races. We simply don’t have enough time to spend time with our families.

“I personally have two children. I think if the calendar expands even more, I will definitely no longer compete in Formula 1.”

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

Thursday 21 April 2022 15:27 , Luke Baker

Esteban Ocon has tipped fellow Alpine teammate and highly rated prospect Oscar Piastri to soon find a Formula One seat.

The 21-year-old looks to be one of the brightest talents to soon enter the pinnacle of the sport having won the Formula Three and Formula Two World Championships in consecutive years.

Piastri joined the Renault Sport Academy, which was later rebranded to the Alpine Academy, in 2020 and is currently spending the 2022 season as a reserve driver for both Alpine and McLaren as he was unable to secure his own seat.

His Alpine teammate Ocon said: “Oscar is a great guy. I mean, he’s very involved in the team, he’s going to have a great testing programme.

“He’s going to be probably the best-prepared driver ever, with the test programme that he’s got at Alpine.

“I’m very sure he’s going to have a seat in Formula One shortly. I don’t know where in the paddock, but opportunity comes for the ones who deserve it.”

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Thursday 21 April 2022 15:15 , Luke Baker

Ferrari have confirmed the signing of a new contract for driver Carlos Sainz, with the 27-year-old signing for two more years through to the end of the 2024 season.

The Spaniard has clocked up 33 points from the first three races of the season, in what has been a fantastic start for the team after years in the wilderness.

Sainz finished on the podium at both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, second and third respectively, before a DNF last time out in Australia.

After signing the extension, Sainz said:

“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari. I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

“My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far this season.

“I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can’t wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win.”

Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

Thursday 21 April 2022 15:01 , Luke Baker

Ok, we know we’re just a day away from it all starting with the first practice session, but what about all the rest of the weekend?

There are a couple of practices, qualifying, the first sprint race of the 2022 season and the main event itself, the Grand Prix at Imola, all to get through.

Here are all the details of when everything is happening, where to watch and the latest odds - everything you need to know ahead of race 4 in the new F1 campaign.

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

Toto Wolff warns Mercedes ‘it will take time’ to turn early struggles around

Thursday 21 April 2022 14:48 , Luke Baker

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says his team are ready to bring “improvements” into the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola this weekend but has admitted it “will take time” for the team to turn their early season struggles around.

Although Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have both secured podium positions over the first three races of the season, Mercedes have been considerably off the early season pace set by Ferrari and Red Bull.

Reliability issues with the Red Bull, which again struck in Australia last time out, have allowed Mercedes to take second position in the constructors, as well as with Russell in the drivers’ standings.

But those results on their own rather cover the fact that Mercedes have found it difficult to adjust to the new racing regulations this season, with porpoising - the aerodynamics and air flow under their W13 car - being a particular issue.

Mercedes have had time to work at those issue since the race in Melbourne but Wolff says conceded the race in Imola this weekend - which will see the first Sprint qualifying session of the season - may have come too soon for those improvements to make a difference in closing the gap to Ferrari and Red Bull.

“We know we haven’t got the pace of the Ferrari and Red Bull right now,” Wolff told the Mercedes website. “But we’re working hard to reduce their advantage, and it’s been brilliant to see everyone across the factories pulling together to achieve this.”

Toto Wolff warns Mercedes ‘it will take time’ to turn early struggles around

Lewis Hamilton wants to ‘stay optimistic’ Mercedes can ‘get in the fight’ for F1 title

Thursday 21 April 2022 14:34 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton remains hopeful Mercedes can challenge for the drivers’ championship this season despite a difficult start to 2022.

The reigning constructors champions have been playing catch up behind pace setters Ferrari and Red Bull in the opening three races.

And while Red Bull’s reliability issues have left George Russell a surprising second in the standings, many feel Mercedes do not have the car to compete for the title.

However, Hamilton is still optimistic that they can improve and begin to fight for victories as the season progresses.

Speaking to GP Fans, the seven-time world champion said: “I prefer to stay optimistic. There are 20 races to go.

“If you think realistically in terms of the way the sport goes in terms of development, the top teams often develop at a similar pace. Will that be the case with this new car? Who knows.

“I’m really hopeful we can get in the fight but with every bit of improvement, Ferrari and Red Bull will probably make a similar sort of step so it’s not going to be easy.”

Lewis Hamilton wants to ‘stay optimistic’ Mercedes can ‘get in the title fight’

Toto Wolff reveals respect for ‘mature and intelligent’ Max Verstappen

Thursday 21 April 2022 14:21 , Luke Baker

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff insists he has a huge amount of respect for “mature and intelligent” Formula One world champion Max Verstappen.

Wolff and the rest of the Mercedes team were embroiled in a fierce battle with Verstappen last year as the Dutchman fought until the final lap of the season against seven-time winner Lewis Hamilton.

In one of the most dramatic scenes in the sport’s history, Verstappen passed Hamilton on the last lap of the season finale in Abu Dhabi as he claimed his first world championship in dramatic fashion.

Yet despite the incredible circumstances surrounding their 2021 rivalry, Wolff has now insisted he has a tremendous amount of admiration for Verstappen.

Speaking to De Telegraaf, he said: “[Last season’s success] was not Max’s last title. He is a brilliant driver. It’s completely normal that the battle was so intense last year. It’s part of racing.”

Toto Wolff reveals respect for ‘mature and intelligent’ Max Verstappen

Pierre Gasly says losing ‘iconic’ Monaco Grand Prix from F1 calendar would be a ‘shocker’

Thursday 21 April 2022 14:05 , Luke Baker

AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly would be shocked if the Monaco Grand Prix was removed from the Formula 1 calendar as it’s an “iconic” track.

The circuit has been a permanant fixture of the F1 season since 1955 but there have been calls to get rid of the street track as the qualifying order usually determines the race result. But Gasly has defended the circuit and wants it to remain on the billing.

“That would be a bit of a shocker if Monaco gets taken out of the calendar,” Gasly said as per Motorsport.com. “It’s probably the most iconic race in the world.

“Talking to non-F1 fans, everyone had heard about Monaco for various reasons, whether it’s racing, whether it’s party-related, whether it’s all of the action that happens around the grand prix. It’s a very iconic weekend.”

Pierre Gasly says losing ‘iconic’ Monaco GP from F1 calendar would be a ‘shocker’

Charles Leclerc excited by chance to fight for F1 title

Thursday 21 April 2022 13:53 , Luke Baker

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc is happy to be back fighting for the drivers’ championship after a sensational start to the 2022 season.

The Monegasque driver has already picked up victories in Bahrain and Australia to go with his second place in Saudi Arabia.

Leclerc’s impressive opening three races have left him with a huge 34-point lead in the standings as his title rivals have suffered various pace and reliability issues.

And the 24-year-old was in a positive headspace while discussing his championship credentials ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “Obviously we only had the third race, so it’s difficult to think about the championship, but to be honest, we’ve got a very strong car, a very reliable car too.

“We’ve always been there, so I hope it continues like this and if it does, then we probably have chances for the championship, which obviously makes me smile after the last two years that have been difficult for the team and obviously for myself. It’s great to be back in this position.”

Charles Leclerc excited by chance to fight for F1 title

Red Bull chief warns team over ‘time bomb’ Max Verstappen

Thursday 21 April 2022 13:40 , Luke Baker

Max Verstappen has been described as a “time bomb” by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko amid the team’s early-season problems.

The defending world champion has suffered reliability issues in two of the first three races which have seen him unable to finish the Bahrain and Australian Grands Prix.

And while he has kept a cool head during their frustrating results in the 2022 F1 season so far, Marko is aware Verstappen will not tolerate it for much longer.

Speaking to Austrian broadcaster ORF, he said: “He is a lot calmer [now than he used to be]. After his retirement [in Australia] he returned to the pit box and we discussed things calmly.

“However, in this case, we knew we could run into that problem, because we also had to deal with that in qualifying, so it didn’t come out of the blue in that regard. He is an emotional and passionate driver who will always give his opinion.

“But, in my view, he is a lot calmer, calmer than in the past. If we don’t win again soon, then he is indeed a time bomb!”

Red Bull chief warns team over ‘time bomb’ Max Verstappen

Charles Leclerc has €300,000 watch stolen in Italy after stopping for group photo

Thursday 21 April 2022 13:26 , Luke Baker

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc had his €300,000 watch stolen while posing for a group photo in Italy on Monday evening.

The 24-year-old Monegasque is currently in Italy preparing for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend as he bids to secure a third win in four races at the start of the 2022 Formula 1 season.

But Motorsport.com has reported that Leclerc was the victim of theft while on a night out in Tuscany earlier this week.

A group of individuals asked Leclerc for a picture and he was happy to oblige. But the F1 driver would later discover that his Richard Mille RM67 ‘Leclerc’ timepiece was taken off his wrist while the photo was being taken. The perpetrator managed to flee the scene before Leclerc realised what had happened.

Charles Leclerc has €300,000 watch stolen in Italy after stopping for group photo

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Thursday 21 April 2022 13:13 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes will challenge for victories when they make ‘big updates’ to their cars ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, says Ferrari ambassador Marc Gene.

The seven-time world champion secured a podium finish in the first race of the season in Bahrain, but has struggled to find any pace in the car as he came tenth in Saudi Arabia and fourth in Australia.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has already confirmed that, with a lack of practice sessions at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend due to the return of the sprint race, they are not preparing to add many significant updates to the car.

But Gene believes the Silver Arrows will have major improvements in place for the following race in Barcelona and feels that then they will be able to compete for wins.

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

Thursday 21 April 2022 13:00 , Karl Matchett

Turning attentions to Imola, while this is the first sprint race of the season, it’s worth a reminder there are several more to look forward to.

Formula 1’s introduction of the sprint races were a new innovation brought in at the start of the 2021 season.

A handful of races were given the go-ahead so that qualifying would take place on the Friday rather than the Saturday.

The sprint race would then replace qualifying on the Saturday, before the race took place as usual on the Sunday.

Last season the sprint races were at the British Grand Prix, the Italian Grand Prix, and the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Here is all you need to know about the sprint races for 2022 - with the rules, the number of them for the season and where they’ll be held.

When are the F1 sprint races in 2022?

Carlos Sainz ‘angry’ after Charles Leclerc becomes ‘established’ at the top of the Ferrari order

Thursday 21 April 2022 12:40 , Karl Matchett

Carlos Sainz is “angry” about Ferrari prioritising Charles Leclerc ahead of him, according to former driver Ralf Schumacher.

Leclerc has won two of the first three races of the season in Bahrain and Australia and also came second to Max Verstappen in Saudi Arabia.

As a result of his impressive start to 2022, the Monegasque driver leads the championship by a huge 34 points from George Russell.

Meanwhile, Sainz is a further four points behind Russell after two podiums and a DNF last time out in Melbourne.

And Schumacher believes the Spaniard is not reacting well to Ferrari putting Leclerc’s interests ahead of his own.

Speaking to F1 Insider, he said: “The pecking order at Ferrari is already established. Carlos Sainz knows that too and is correspondingly angry.

“There was a time when someone [brother, Michael] was very successful and it was also the case that you knew relatively early on which driver you were concentrating on.”

However, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has denied there being any favouritism between the drivers.

“It’s only three races which have been done now,” he said when asked about the dynamic between Leclerc and Sainz.

“There are still 20 races left, hopefully 19 or 20. So the championship is still very long. Our drivers are free to fight, and I am really looking forward and enjoying that they are battling for a good place, and first place, if possible.”

Lewis Hamilton joins bid to buy Chelsea

Thursday 21 April 2022 12:21 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton is among the high-profile sportspeople committing “millions” of pounds towards one of the three bids to buy out Chelsea.

The consortium he is reportedly involved with is that which is headed by former Liverpool chairman Sir Martin Broughton - and tennis star Serena Williams is another said to be investing.

Former British Airways chairman Broughton “believes his bid to buy Chelsea would offer the biggest immediate cash injection” into the club, PA news agency have reported.

Lord Sebastian Coe is also backing Broughton’s bid with Crystal Palace co-owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer also heavily linked with joining, with the pair reportedly set for a controlling stake if successful.

Sky News report that both Hamilton and Williams will pledge an estimated £10m to the cause, having both become “established investors” in different sporting areas in recent years.

Lewis Hamilton and Serena Williams join bid to buy Chelsea

Red Bull chief makes admission about Max Verstappen’s suitability for 2022 cars

Thursday 21 April 2022 12:10 , Luke Baker

World champion Max Verstappen’s “aggressive driving style” is not suited to the new Formula One cars, according to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.

The 24-year-old Dutchman suffered reliability failures in Bahrain and Australia, with the only race he has managed to finish so far this season coming in his victory at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

His inability to manage the car also means his teammate Sergio Perez is currently ahead of him in the drivers’ standings and Marko believes Verstappen’s problems stem from how he treats the car with his full-throttle style.

Red Bull chief makes admission about Max Verstappen’s suitability for 2022 cars

Charles Leclerc reminding Red Bull chief of Max Verstappen

Thursday 21 April 2022 11:54 , Luke Baker

Red Bull chief Helmut Marko believes Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has similarities to Max Verstappen and predicts a shift at the top of Formula One over the coming years.

During the 2021 season, there was a generational clash between seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull’s Verstappen. The outcome of the season long battle ended in controversial fashion and Marko now believes there is a change in the guard in F1 with new drivers fighting for pole.

Ferrari pair Leclerc and Carlos Sainz lead the drivers’ championship and with Brit duo Lando Norris and George Russell also showing potential.

“With Verstappen, Leclerc, Norris and Russell you now have four drivers who will shape F1 in the coming years,” the Austrian told F1insider.com.

Charles Leclerc reminding Red Bull chief of Max Verstappen

Nikita Mazepin questions F1 ‘values’ and explains a potential return

Thursday 21 April 2022 11:40 , Karl Matchett

Nikita Mazepin has questioned the ‘values’ of Formula One while discussing a potential return to the sport.

The Russian’s position became increasingly uncertain following his country’s continued invasion of Ukraine, even after the FIA ruled that the 23-year-old would be allowed to continue racing under a neutral flag.

Mazepin’s father, Dmitry, a Russian oligarch who is the majority shareholder in chemical company Uralchem and one of Haas’ major sponsors, was pictured with Vladimir Putin as recently as January.

Haas removed Uralkali branding from its car during pre-season testing in Barcelona as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine accelerated and the team then confirmed they had terminated its contract with Mazepin and the company.

Opening up about the situation, Mazepin told Motorsport.com: “Everybody has a right to speak or not to speak and the FIA, the highest governing body, has enabled me to compete as long as I’m neutral.

“But I would say the biggest issue here is coming back to the sport where teams are allowed to be keeping sponsorship money without fulfilling the contract. And even asking for more, even though they say they don’t want money from Russia. So I’m not sure, but the sport’s values need to be evaluated for me after this.”

Full report on Mazepin’s comments:

Nikita Mazepin questions F1 ‘values’ and explains a potential return

Hamilton ‘sulking’ after Mercedes poor start, claims Hakkinen

Thursday 21 April 2022 11:21 , Luke Baker

Ex-Formula 1 driver Mika Hakkinen believes Lewis Hamilton may be looking to leave Mercedes after a bad start to the 2022 season.

Hamilton has been on the podium once this campaign, a third place finish in Bahrain, leaving him in fifth in the driver standings. The British driver would have been targeting a record eighth title this season but he is currently 43 points behind leader Charles Leclerc.

The same can’t be said for Hamilton’s teammate George Russell who slid into second after a podium finish at the Australian Grand Prix.

“George comes from a team with little or no success. He had some good results in qualifying but not in races. All these achievements with Mercedes are new to him. Everything feels super-good,” Hakkinen said.

“For Lewis, this is a disaster. And with George being ahead, it’s even worse. I wonder how Lewis behaves in the team meetings – I bet he’s sulking. I can imagine the sulking. There’s lots of complaining and whining.

“And now starts the natural thought process of drivers. ‘Should I go somewhere else?’

“It’s a fact. He’s been at Mercedes for years and won multiple championships. Now that things are not going well, he’ll start thinking of switching teams.”

F1: ‘Still unclear’ if Volkswagen brands including Porsche and Audi will join, says Toto Wolff

Thursday 21 April 2022 11:00 , Karl Matchett

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says the “picture is still very unclear” regarding Volkswagen’s potential entry into Formula One.

There are suggestions that Porsche and Audi, both companies part of the VW group, are joining Formula One, with reports indicating Red Bull are looking to partner with Porsche and Audi potentially joining forces with McLaren in 2026.

However, Wolff currently thinks that the plan is far from agreed and there remains questions on what VW’s entry could potentially look like.

As quoted by Motorsport.com, Wolff said: “It’s great if the Volkswagen Group joins F1.

“Fantastic brand, it increases the credibility of what we do. And they are racers. But as far as I understand, there is no firm commitment yet.

“They’ve been sitting on the table for the regulations, but [while] that commitment isn’t actually confirmed, we can’t really know what the plans are.”

More on the potential for Audi, Porsche and VW brands in F1:

Wolff ‘unclear’ if Volkswagen brands Porsche and Audi will join F1

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Thursday 21 April 2022 10:51 , Luke Baker

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes will challenge for victories when they make ‘big updates’ to their cars ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, says Ferrari ambassador Marc Gene.

The seven-time world champion secured a podium finish in the first race of the season in Bahrain, but has struggled to find any pace in the car as he came tenth in Saudi Arabia and fourth in Australia.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has already confirmed that, with a lack of practice sessions at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend due to the return of the sprint race, they are not preparing to add many significant updates to the car.

But Gene believes the Silver Arrows will have major improvements in place for the following race in Barcelona and feels that then they will be able to compete for wins.

Lewis Hamilton expected to ‘challenge for wins’ after Mercedes’ ‘big updates’

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

Thursday 21 April 2022 10:40 , Karl Matchett

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has revealed he would consider quitting Formula One if even more races are added to the calendar.

The 2022 season will see the drivers navigate the most hectic schedule to date, with 23 races pencilled in between March and December.

There has been talk of even more races being added in the future, with F1 already announcing that they have secured a deal with Las Vegas to stage a weekend there from 2023.

But Mexican Perez, who has been a part of the grid since he made his debut with Sauber in 2011, insists he would back away from the sport if the calendar congestion became even greater.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “It’s great that Formula 1 continues to develop and grow. You can see it everywhere we go, people are starting to recognise you on the street more and more often. But if there are too many races, it will be bad. At least for me.

“Right now we are constantly immersed in work, because there are a lot of races. We simply don’t have enough time to spend time with our families.

“I personally have two children. I think if the calendar expands even more, I will definitely no longer compete in Formula 1.”

Sergio Perez could quit F1 if race calendar expands again

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

Thursday 21 April 2022 10:20 , Karl Matchett

Esteban Ocon has tipped fellow Alpine teammate and highly rated prospect Oscar Piastri to soon find a Formula One seat.

The 21-year-old looks to be one of the brightest talents to soon enter the pinnacle of the sport having won the Formula Three and Formula Two World Championships in consecutive years.

Piastri joined the Renault Sport Academy, which was later rebranded to the Alpine Academy, in 2020 and is currently spending the 2022 season as a reserve driver for both Alpine and McLaren as he was unable to secure his own seat.

His Alpine teammate Ocon said: “Oscar is a great guy. I mean, he’s very involved in the team, he’s going to have a great testing programme.

“He’s going to be probably the best-prepared driver ever, with the test programme that he’s got at Alpine.

“I’m very sure he’s going to have a seat in Formula One shortly. I don’t know where in the paddock, but opportunity comes for the ones who deserve it.”

More on the youngster who was tipped to snare a spot this year and will surely be in line for a promotion to F1 soon:

‘Very talented’ Oscar Piastri will find F1 seat ‘pretty soon’

F1: Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

Thursday 21 April 2022 10:00 , Alex Pattle

Ferrari have confirmed the signing of a new contract for driver Carlos Sainz, with the 27-year-old signing for two more years through to the end of the 2024 season.

The Spaniard has clocked up 33 points from the first three races of the season, in what has been a fantastic start for the team after years in the wilderness.

Sainz finished on the podium at both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, second and third respectively, before a DNF last time out in Australia.

After signing the extension, Sainz said:

“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari. I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

“My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far this season.

“I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can’t wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win.”

Full details on Sainz’s new deal and what it means for Ferrari here:

F1: Carlos Sainz signs new Ferrari contract until end of 2024

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

Thursday 21 April 2022 09:40 , Karl Matchett

Ok, we know we’re just a day away from it all starting with the first practice session, but what about all the rest of the weekend?

There are a couple of practices, qualifying, the first sprint race of the 2022 season and the main event itself, the Grand Prix at Imola, all to get through.

Here are all the details of when everything is happening, where to watch and the latest odds - everything you need to know ahead of race 4 in the new F1 campaign.

When is the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix? Race schedule, start times and how to watch

Toto Wolff warns Mercedes ‘it will take time’ to turn early struggles around

Thursday 21 April 2022 09:20 , Karl Matchett

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says his team are ready to bring “improvements” into the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola this weekend but has admitted it “will take time” for the team to turn their early season struggles around.

Although Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have both secured podium positions over the first three races of the season, Mercedes have been considerably off the early season pace set by Ferrari and Red Bull.

Reliability issues with the Red Bull, which again struck in Australia last time out, have allowed Mercedes to take second position in the constructors, as well as with Russell in the drivers’ standings.

But those results on their own rather cover the fact that Mercedes have found it difficult to adjust to the new racing regulations this season, with porpoising - the aerodynamics and air flow under their W13 car - being a particular issue.

Mercedes have had time to work at those issue since the race in Melbourne but Wolff says conceded the race in Imola this weekend - which will see the first Sprint qualifying session of the season - may have come too soon for those improvements to make a difference in closing the gap to Ferrari and Red Bull.

“We know we haven’t got the pace of the Ferrari and Red Bull right now,” Wolff told the Mercedes website. “But we’re working hard to reduce their advantage, and it’s been brilliant to see everyone across the factories pulling together to achieve this.”

More from the team boss here:

Toto Wolff warns Mercedes ‘it will take time’ to turn early struggles around

Lewis Hamilton wants to ‘stay optimistic’ Mercedes can ‘get in the fight’ for F1 title

Thursday 21 April 2022 09:05 , Karl Matchett

Lewis Hamilton remains hopeful Mercedes can challenge for the drivers’ championship this season despite a difficult start to 2022.

The reigning constructors champions have been playing catch up behind pace setters Ferrari and Red Bull in the opening three races.

And while Red Bull’s reliability issues have left George Russell a surprising second in the standings, many feel Mercedes do not have the car to compete for the title.

However, Hamilton is still optimistic that they can improve and begin to fight for victories as the season progresses.

Speaking to GP Fans, the seven-time world champion said: “I prefer to stay optimistic. There are 20 races to go.

“If you think realistically in terms of the way the sport goes in terms of development, the top teams often develop at a similar pace. Will that be the case with this new car? Who knows.

“I’m really hopeful we can get in the fight but with every bit of improvement, Ferrari and Red Bull will probably make a similar sort of step so it’s not going to be easy.”

Read more here:

Lewis Hamilton wants to ‘stay optimistic’ Mercedes can ‘get in the title fight’