2022 - A Look Ahead

[Fortitude]

Toto Wolff surprisingly admits Mercedes gained ‘advantage’ by pressuring the FIA.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has admitted that putting pressure on the FIA often leads to the gaining of a “potential advantage.”
17 August 2022
by Finley Crebolder

Wolff and Mercedes have been calling for the governing body to change some rules to address the porpoising issues the German team have encountered this year. He denies that he and his team were putting pressure on the FIA for sporting reasons, but admits it can have his advantages.

“When you put pressure on the FIA there is always a potential advantage, in everything, and we have done that in the past,” he told the Italian branch of Motorsport.com. “I could also add that today we have understood the porpoising problems of our car, we got the pole position in the last race, but that doesn’t change anything,” he added.

“It is irrelevant, we are talking about something that damages the health of the drivers, from the outside we cannot understand what it means to be subjected to those particular stresses. I strongly believe that countermeasures must be taken to be sure that next year this problem will be a distant memory.”

‘Putting pressure on the FIA often leads to the gaining of a “potential advantage’!’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/toto-wolf...uring-the-fia/


FIA ignore Ferrari protest threats as rule changes approved in boost for Lewis Hamilton
THE FIA have approved a number of changes to the technical regulations which are set to come into effect at this month's Belgian Grand Prix.
22:22, Tue, Aug 16, 2022
By Archie Griggs

The FIA's World Motor Sport Council have given the green light to regulation changes for the rest of this season and in 2023 in a bid to combat the 'porpoising' issue that has plagued the efforts of Mercedes over the course of this year. The Silver Arrows led calls for alterations to be made before the summer break, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell having suffered from the violent bouncing of their cars on long straights since pre-season testing.

Mercedes have now seemingly got their wish, with the FIA approving the changes on Tuesday after several months of discussions behind closed doors. Not everybody is expected to be on board with the new measures, though, and Ferrari have already threatened to protest the ruling in the event of its approval as they believe it would serve to benefit Mercedes.

The changes are expected to mainly aid Mercedes, who have suffered with the issue of porpoising more than other teams. The safety of porpoising has however been called into question by a number of drivers since the start of this year. FIA president Mohamed Ben Sulayem has since reaffirmed that his main priority needs to be mitigating the health risks faced by those in the cockpit in order to reduce the risk of preventable injuries.

‘Mercedes have now seemingly got their wish, with the FIA approving the changes’;

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...milton-F1-news


FIA confirm details of clampdown on ‘flexi-floors’ from Belgian Grand Prix
Tuesday 16th August 2022 7:00 PM
Sam Cooper

The FIA have confirmed they are to monitor the stiffness of the planks under cars after some teams were accused of having ‘flexi-floors’.

FIA rules state the wooden plank which runs along the bottom of the car must have a limit of 2mm of flexibility, but there was suspicion some in the paddock had found a grey area which allowed them to hit up to 6mm of flexibility.

Mercedes’ Toto Wolff was the most vocal in his criticism of the FIA’s slowness to act, saying it should have been policed as soon the FIA had caught suspicion it was going on, but the Austrian now has his wish with the governing body set to inspect the cars more closely. The FIA have introduced the new measures alongside rules to combat porpoising and some of them will be in place for the next race in Belgium.

‘FIA confirm details of clampdown on ‘flexi-floors’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-cl...rs-belgian-gp/


Breaking: F1's new engine formula finally confirmed as FIA share full details
16/08/2022, ‎17‎:‎30
Author RacingNews365 Staff

F1's governing body, the FIA, have set out the much-anticipated 2026 power unit regulations following their approval by the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC).

As revealed by RacingNews365.com, a complete set of 2026-on PU rules was recently distributed to the sport's major players, with the WMSC now ratifying them.

Existing manufacturers, prospective manufacturers and the FIA have been involved in discussions over the final features of the regulations for many months.

‘F1's new engine formula’;

https://racingnews365.com/breaking-f...e-full-details


FIA confirms roll hoop design changes in wake of Zhou crash
RaceFans Round-up
Posted on 17th August 2022, 0:01
Written by Will Wood

In the round-up: The FIA have confirmed that the design of roll hoops on Formula 1 cars will be changed in a bid to avoid similar accidents to the one experienced by Zhou Guanyu at Silverstone. The FIA have confirmed that the design of roll hoops on Formula 1 cars will be changed in a bid to avoid similar accidents to the one experienced by Zhou Guanyu at Silverstone.

Alfa Romeo driver Zhou survived a frightening accident at the start of the British Grand Prix when he was pitched upside down by contact with his helmet millimetres from the track before his car dug into a gravel trap and rolled.

Despite his roll hoop breaking off his car after his half-roll, Alfa Romeo later confirmed that his roll hoop had not technically failed, but that the forces placed on the roll hoop in the accident exceeded the threshold they are tested for.

‘FIA confirms roll hoop design changes’;

https://www.racefans.net/2022/08/17/...nd-up-17-08-5/

[Fortitude]

DOMENICALI: “I’M NOT SELLING THE SOUL OF FORMULA 1.”
What's going on behind the scenes of the race calendar planning?

Lena Ferle

Domenicali seems surprised by the little interest from Germany, as some Formula 1 fans would like to see a race at the Hockenheimring or Nürburgring back – from all over the world. Formula 1 added Qatar and Saudi Arabia to the race calendar last year. Not all Formula 1 spectators saw this as progress; they criticised the fixation on the money that would come from the states.

Domenicali defends himself against this accusation: “I’m not selling the soul of Formula 1. I believe that this is the normal change. Money is important everywhere, also for us. But it’s not the only thing we look at. The whole package has to be right. If we only looked at the bank account, the race calendar would definitely look different.”

An example of this would be Russia. Despite good funding (the Russian GP reportedly brought Formula 1 up to $50 million a year), the Sochi circuit is no longer included in the planning: “I always say never say never, but in this case, I can promise: We will not have any more negotiations with them. There will be no more racing there.”

‘Soul Of Formula 1, Not For Sale’;

https://www.formulanerds.com/news/do.../?nowprocket=1


Briatore shares holiday snap chilling with Wolff and Domenicali
NewsDesk
11 August, 2022

Three of Formula 1‘s most powerful men past and present, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff and the sport’s number one scoundrel Flavio Briatore enjoying the sunshine on their summer break.

The trio popped up on Briatore’s Instagram feed post “On the boat with Stefano Domenicali and Toto Wolff.”

Briatore, once one of the most powerful men in F1, appears to be making a comeback in the wake of his role in the notorious Singapore Crashgat scandal, a scam seeing Nelson Piquet crash his Renault to favour Alonso’s bid for a win, Formula 1’s crime of the century.

COMMENTS SECTION:
• NeoGeoH
So yesterday this site ran an article titled: "QUESTION MARK: IS TOTO WOLFF TOO POWERFUL FOR F1?" and now we see him on a boat with the CEO of the F1 Group (and crash gate team boss Flav) during the summer break? If nothing else it is bad optics to me. Also, Briatore's presence is less scandalous as he isn't a team boss, owner, or F1 Group CEO.

‘Formula 1‘s most powerful men past and present’;

https://www.grandprix247.com/2022/08...nd-domenicali/


Domenicali: Audi and Porsche entering F1 gives it credibility
8 August, 2022
NewsDesk

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali claimed Volkswagen entering the sport through Audi and Porsche will give it credibility in terms of its relevance to the future of mobility.

The subject of Audi and Porsche entering F1 has been a long-discussed matter, with the latest report claiming Porsche will be entering the sport via a joint venture with Red Bull by which they take over a 50% stake in the team, while Audi is reportedly in talks with Sauber regarding a collaboration through Alfa Romeo.

Both companies, part of the Volkswagen group, are also awaiting the finalization of the 2026 new power unit regulations before putting pen to paper on their well advanced agreements.

‘F1 Credibility’;

https://www.grandprix247.com/2022/08...t-credibility/


F1 "no space for idiots" - Domenicali
Tuesday 2 August 2022 11:20
Ewan Gale

F1 is about competition not idiots Former FIA race director Michael Masi revealed in an interview with the Australian Daily Telegraph that he felt the most hated man in the world after his part in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix controversy last season.

Masi also revealed a number of death threats that were made online. "There is no space for idiots," added Domenicali. "We don't want to give any kind of room [to them]. This sport can show that it is a competition.

"In competition, you can do good, you can do well but you need to be respectful every time."

‘No Space For Idiots’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/88...no-domenicali/


Next year’s F1 calendar to be confirmed in October, 24 races likely – Domenicali
RaceFans Round-up
Posted on 6th August 2022, 0:015th August 2022, 23:11 |
Written by Will Wood

Maximum 24 race cap likely to be hit in 2023, suggests Domenicali. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expects to confirm details of next year’s schedule “around early October”, he told a call to Liberty Media investors yesterday.

Domenicali indicated the 2023 F1 calendar is likely to feature the maximum permitted 24 races. The series is endeavouring to reorganise some of its rounds to reduce the amount of travel and therefore cut costs and emissions. “We would like to keep the right flow in terms of efficiency around the world, to consider the needs of a calendar to be spread out from March to November all around the world,” he said.

“The demand is very, very high,” for races, he added. “We cannot [say] anything more than what we are saying because we are, of course, finalising all the details. But we for sure expect to have a couple of races more than this year, but less than 25, that’s for sure.”

‘F1 calendar 24 races likely’;

https://www.racefans.net/2022/08/06/...nd-up-06-08-5/

[Fortitude]

Sebastian Vettel warns Formula 1 it’s at risk of becoming ‘irrelevant’.
Sebastian Vettel admitted his increasing passion for environmental issues played a part in his decision to retire.
17 August 2022
by Finley Crebolder

Vettel has become an activist for environmental issues in recent years, repeatedly calling for the sport to become greener and admitting his passion for the cause played a part in his decision to retire from racing at the end of this season.

He has often stated that he doesn’t believe that F1 is doing enough in that area, and the Aston Martin man has warned that support and interest in it from those that aren’t already fans could wane as a result if that doesn’t change soon.

“And if we don’t find a way to really help shift change, and contribute to the fact everyone benefits from what we are doing for fun, and the innovation in engineering that comes with it, then I think very soon the question will come up ‘okay, what’s the point?’

‘F1 Irrelevant Risk’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/sebastian...ng-irrelevant/


‘Sebastian Vettel would find IndyCar tough as F1 is easiest car I’ve ever driven’
Wednesday 17th August 2022 1:15 PM
Michelle Foster

Former F1 hopeful Christian Lundgaard believes Sebastian Vettel would find a move to IndyCar difficult as “the car isn’t driving you, you are driving the car”.

The 21-year-old Dane knows both Formula 1 and IndyCar, swapping to the American series after his two seasons in Formula 2, during which he also tested with Alpine, did not yield a Formula 1 race seat.

“I think it would be cool for Sebastian to drive an IndyCar, honestly,” said Lundgaard, quoted by Motorsport.com. “I’ve driven Formula 1 cars. I’ve tested quite a few days with Renault. So for me, I’ll say it as it is – personally, that was the easiest car I’ve ever driven. It’s easy to drive to a certain extent.”

‘Vettel To Indy?’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/christ...indycar-tough/


F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali would welcome Sebastian Vettel on this condition
Sebastian Vettel announced at the Hungarian GP that he'll be retiring from Formula 1 at the end of the season.
9 August 2022
by Nick Golding

Since Vettel announced his retirement, F1 president Stefano Domenicali has revealed that he wants Vettel to “remain close” to the sport, especially with the sustainable approach F1 is taking over the next few years.

“Of course we want the link to remain close in the future,” Domenicali told Sport Bild. “If he is interested in becoming part of our system and the approaches fit, I would of course welcome him here.”

However, ex-F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes none of what Domenicali said, with the German convinced that many of the sport’s bosses will be “happy” the Aston Martin driver is going. Motorsport-Total.com quote him as having told Sky Germany “internally in Formula 1 some are now happy he’s gone, especially Domenicali and co, because he addressed all the problems directly, so in part was very uncomfortable, but rightly so”.

‘Welcomed or Uncomfortable?’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/f1-ceo-st...his-condition/


Helmut Marko: Sebastian Vettel could not see Aston Martin joining podium fight in 2023
Wednesday 17th August 2022 5:00 PM
Michelle Foster

Helmut Marko believes Sebastian Vettel chose retirement over another season of only squabbling for points, not podium finishes, at Aston Martin. Vettel surprised many in the paddock, but not Sky F1 broadcaster Ted Kravitz, when he announced ahead of the summer break this season would be his last in Formula 1.

While some have wondered why Vettel, only 35, did not push for a third season with Aston Martin, Marko reckons that is because he did not believe the team would make any progress next season.

“It’s becoming apparent,” he told motorsport-total.com. “He’s not in a competitive car and I don’t think he saw the prospect of the car being able to make a regular podium finish next year. And there’s no space in the top teams. The Austrian, who worked with Vettel at Toro Rosso and Red Bull, was asked whether he felt a comeback could be on the cards like Michael Schumacher with Mercedes. “No,” he replied. “I think this is final.”

‘Chosing Retirement Over Squabbling For Points’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/helmut...-2023-podiums/


Marc Surer regrets that Sebastian Vettel carries ‘shadow’ of no Ferrari title
Thursday 11th August 2022 11:00 AM
Michelle Foster

Marc Surer says it is a “shame” Sebastian Vettel never won a title with Ferrari as that’s a “shadow” over his legacy. Losing the World title to Lewis Hamilton in 2014, a season in which Vettel wasn’t able to win a single grand prix with Red Bull, the German jumped ship to Ferrari where he dreamt of following in Michael Schumacher’s footsteps and adding his four World titles. But it was not to be.

His six seasons with Ferrari yielded a best result of runner-up in the 2017 and 2018 championships, both years in which Vettel and Ferrari were, at times, their own worst enemies.

“Of course it’s a shame that he only won titles with Red Bull,” former Swiss racer turned pundit Surer said in an interview with Formel1.de. “It would have been nice if he had won another title with Ferrari, because that’s a bit of a shadow.”

‘Shadow Over His Legacy’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/marc-s...ferrari-title/


Jean Alesi tips Sebastian Vettel for racing return after F1 exit
Published: 16 Aug 2022, 13:00
By George Dagless

Jean Alesi believes it won’t be long until we see Sebastian Vettel back in a racing car after he completes his exit from Formula 1 at the end of the year.

Alesi believes that Vettel is leaving F1 at the right time for him, but that this might not be the end of his career as a racing driver: “He did it at a good time. He is a four-time world champion, he is very well respected in F1 by all the drivers and that means a lot you know,” Alesi said to Give Me Sport.

“But he’s quite young, so probably we will see him back in a racing car quite soon, I believe.” With series like Formula E and Extreme E promoting sustainability and environmental awareness – two issues close to Seb – you’d never be surprised to see him end up in such a championship.

‘Racing Return’;

https://www.givemesport.com/88048072...-after-f1-exit

[Fortitude]

Mekies says mood in Ferrari camp ‘as high as it gets’ despite 2022 setbacks.
With nine races to go in 2022, Ferrari currently sit second in the constructors’ championship – 97 points behind Red Bull. But the Prancing Horses’ Racing Director Laurent Mekies insists that the spirit within the team is still high, despite the large deficit to their rivals.
18 August 2022
Formula 1.

“The mood in the camp is as high as it gets, because people like Charles [Leclerc], Carlos [Sainz], Mattia [Binotto], these guys are driving the team in all situations,” said Mekies. “You have the good moments, you have the bad moments, and I think the difference comes from this sort of leadership.”

“They are able, whatever happens, to press the reset button, to bring everybody together, to look back at what happened, to learn from it and to go and look to the next race with a smile and with more motivation than the race before.”

“Let's start from the speed,” said Mekies of Leclerc’s 2022 performance. “He has been showing such outstanding speed this year again that you don't want to go and touch that aspect. Charles doesn't need us… as a great racing driver, to understand where he needs to go in terms of closeness to the limit. He is a master of that and, as we all do, mistakes can happen. I think we don't look at single mistakes, we look at the strike rate. We look at how extraordinarily you're able to do things compared to stuff that you do not as good, and I think his strike rate this year has been very, very impressive and we don't want him to change anything.”

‘Ferrari Look At Strike Rate’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...hvv1AVbeU.html


Mattia Binotto explains why he’s ‘not surprised’ by Ferrari’s engine failures
Ferrari have suffered a number of power unit failures in 2022.
18 August 2022
by Nick Golding

Scuderia Ferrari have arguably has the fastest car this season; however, it’s also been the most unreliable by a country mile. Whilst the failures have put a huge dent in Ferrari’s title hopes, Sainz admitted after Austria that he’d rather suffer the failures, than have an “underpowered engine”.

Binotto has explained that Ferrari’s desperation to build the most powerful PU on the grid meant that over the winter, reliability was somewhat forgotten about. The Ferrari boss knew that his team’s reliability situation “wasn’t ideal”, but that during the winter they discovered “no problems” with the PU’s reliability.

“That doesn’t mean we came to the first race and thought we were completely unreliable. It wasn’t like that,” said the team boss. There were no problems during the winter tests. But we knew our situation wasn’t ideal.”

‘No Surprise by Ferrari’s Engine Failures’;

‘Rather suffer failures than have an underpowered engine’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/mattia-bi...gine-failures/


Exclusive: The story behind one of F1's most important inventions
18/08/2022, ‎17‎:‎05
Author Dieter Rencken
Co-author Anna Francis

In an exclusive interview with RacingNews365.com, Ferrari's Racing Director, Laurent Mekies, has been reflecting on his involvement in the process of bringing the Halo to Formula 1. Four years on from its introduction into F1, Ferrari's Laurent Mekies has been recounting the efforts it took to bring the Halo to Formula 1.

Mekies – who holds the role of Racing Director for the Scuderia – was one of those involved in presenting the data behind the device ahead of it being brought into effect for the 2018 season. Looking back now, Mekies admits that there were some concerns about bringing a cockpit protection system to F1. "Everybody was against us," Mekies said. "Every single person was against us. That's how it started. Because of something very fair, because of the aesthetic – [people thought] the aesthetic was unpleasant.”

"There were these false feelings of high-enough safety, so [people asked], 'Why are you trying to push the boundaries?'" Despite the protests, boundaries continued to be pushed in the process of developing the Halo. "[We pushed the boundaries] because we wanted to be productive, we wanted to go to the next step," Mekies continued. Mekies credits Todt with crucial role in bringing Halo Mekies credits the influence of former FIA President Jean Todt in terms of pushing for the Halo to be introduced and encouraging the team behind it to "think outside of the box".

‘Every single person was against us’;

https://racingnews365.com/exclusive-...ant-inventions


Red Mist: What if Ferrari did get their Maths right?
18 August, 2022
Michele Lupini

What if Mattia Binotto and his Ferrari cronies did everything right this season, and never messed up the maths or strategy? Let’s play a game of Excel Formula 1.

Excel is a splendid computer program. It makes crunching numbers really easy. So, with all this speculation surrounding how exactly Ferrari has screwed its F1 campaign up this year, I thought it would be a good idea if we could work it out once and for all.

I love data and I love statistics, and being quite thorough, I worked a plan and set about it. Of course, if grandma had balls, I would not be here. None of us would. ‘If’ is one of those words that losers use. So I suppose it fits.

‘What If?’;

https://www.grandprix247.com/2022/08...t-f1-strategy/


Mattia Binotto responds to Ferrari ‘bad luck’ claim as Charles Leclerc’s frustration grows
Ferrari's title challenge has been unravelling lately.
17 August 2022
by James Clifford

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has indicated that it would not serve a purpose to make changes to his team at the moment after several calamitous moments in 2022.

“It’s not a matter of bad luck, and there is nothing to change as well,” he said. “It’s always a matter of continuous learning and building, building experience, building skills.

“Certainly there is something that you need to look at and understand why, but if I look again at the balance of the first half of the season, there is no reason why we should change. I think we simply need to address what was wrong today, we need to understand, and then to address and get back competitive at the 12 races so far [before Hungary] and the reason why it could not be the case at the next one.”

‘Not A Matter Of Bad Luck’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/mattia-bi...tration-grows/


Ferrari chief Mattia Binotto explains 'depression' after Charles Leclerc engine heartbreak
CHARLES LECLERC'S F1 title challenge has been derailed by a series of mishaps and engine failures.
14:07, Wed, Aug 17, 2022
By Fraser Watson

Mattia Binotto has admitted that the retirements of Charles Leclerc this season have left him feeling 'depressed' as Ferrari bid to address their erratic 2022 F1 campaign. The Monegasque man seemed set to launch a serious challenge for the title when he won the season opener in Bahrain, before notching second in Saudi Arabia and another victory in Australia.

But since then, his title aspirations have been derailed, with a power unit issue forcing his retirement whilst leading in Spain. And despite being on pole for his home race in Monaco, a questionable team strategy saw him end up fourth.

Further engine problems forced him to retire in Azerbaijan, and another pole position went to waste in France when Leclerc spun off early on. The series of mishaps have left him 80 points off leader Max Verstappen in the drivers' standings, and facing a nigh on impossible task to deliver the Scuderia a first title since Kimi Raikkonen triumphed in 2007.

‘Mattia Binotto Explains Depression';

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...eclerc-F1-news


Mattia Binotto admits Ferrari ‘prioritised performance over reliability’
Wednesday 17th August 2022 7:00 PM
Jon Wilde

Mattia Binotto has endorsed the comments of driver Carlos Sainz by admitting Ferrari have prioritised performance over reliability with their engine. Sainz has been the most expressive member of the Ferrari team from that perspective, as far back as February saying the Scuderia had aimed to have a “powerful engine – if not the most powerful” because with the development freeze they had “five years to work on reliability”.

Costly breakdowns, such as those that potentially stopped Charles Leclerc from winning in Spain and Azerbaijan, might have changed that mindset. But Sainz reiterated in July, after an engine failure of his own that set the car on fire in Austria, that “I’d rather take that step and get through that bump than have an under-powered engine that is more reliable”.

Binotto, the team principal, has now revealed his own view is very much aligned with that of the Spaniard. “I’m not completely surprised by what happened,” Binotto told the Italian edition of Motorsport.com. “I don’t think we pushed too hard [in developing the engine] because you can never have enough performance. But we certainly prioritised performance over reliability.”

‘Prioritised Performance Over Reliability’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/mattia...ormance-first/

[Fortitude]

‘We don’t have petrodollars’: Belgian GP organiser fires jibe as Spa faces axe.
A circuit war between Formula 1 owners Liberty Media and the drivers appears to be brewing, with the American company set to drop the legendary Belgian Grand Prix to open up a slot on the calendar for either another American or Middle Eastern race.
17 August 2022
by Nick Golding

Spa-Francorchamps is arguably one of the homes of F1, with the circuit in the Ardennes forest having hosted 55 Grand Prix’s since featuring on the first-ever F1 calendar back in 1950.

The venue is famous for incredible racing, unpredictable weather, and of course Eau Rouge. Yet it appears none of this will be enough to keep it on the calendar, with 2022 looking likely to be the circuit’s last dance at hosting the pinnacle of motorsport.

Drivers are furious with the owner’s position on ditching Spa and have shown vocal support for the one-of-a-kind venue. Circuit organisers have pleaded with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali that the circuit retains its place, with Spa having undergone changes to Eau Rouge as well as a full entertainment programme having been planned for the Belgian Grand Prix. Supposedly, the Belgian GP weekend isn’t entertaining enough, with the races in America having raised the bar on what is expected from an F1 weekend.

‘We don’t have petrodollars’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/we-dont-h...spa-faces-axe/


F1 drivers upset amid Belgian GP uncertainty: It's all about money
20/08/2022, ‎15‎:‎10
Author Luuk van Poppelen
Co-author Dieter Rencken

Established F1 drivers Sebastian Vettel and Sergio Perez have already expressed their disappointment at the prospect of losing the Belgian GP, and Lando Norris, who is half-Belgian, shared his concerns about F1 prioritising "business decisions". "I personally have a lot to do with Spa of course and I love the circuit. I went to Belgium for many years and spent a lot of time there with my family," Norris told media, including RacingNews365.com.

"I'm looking forward to experiencing the changes and the new tarmac, and a new grandstand at Raidillon. I always look forward to Spa. It's one of the coolest circuits all season.”

"It would be a shame to lose Spa. A lot of things these days are just about money, that's the problem. It's a business. It's a historic race for F1, the same as Monaco. As far as I know, they don't even pay in Monaco and it's still on the calendar – same with Monza. So I think Spa should always be there as long as Formula 1 exists."

‘It's all about money’;

https://racingnews365.com/f1-drivers...ll-about-money


Max Verstappen makes plea to Formula 1 ahead of 2022 Belgian Grand Prix
19 August 2022
by James Clifford

The future of the Belgian Grand Prix hangs in the balance after this year. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has warned Formula 1 that they cannot do away with tracks like Spa Francorchamps amid worldwide interest in hosting races.

Vegas is set to join Austin and Miami on the calendar next year, expanding American interest to three races, two of them being held on street circuits if Miami is to be counted as such.

Provided Monaco keeps its place for 2023, there will be seven street circuits on the calendar next season, although the Principality is also under threat. In years to come, it is possible that the likes of Silverstone and Monza, who both have deals until 2024, will also drop off, and this is all due to an influx of new demographics.

‘Belgian Grand Prix Track Loss Possibility’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/max-verst...an-grand-prix/


‘A shame’, ‘just about money’: F1 drivers fear Spa’s next grand prix will be its last
2022 Belgian Grand Prix
Posted on 5th August 2022, 8:145th August 2022, 10:09 |
Written by Ida Wood and Claire Cottingham

While the 2023 Formula 1 calendar has not yet been officially confirmed, many drivers have already expressed disappointment over the widely-expected loss of the Belgian Grand Prix.

Norris questions why a circuit so historically significant to Formula 1 as Spa has its place on the calendar under threat, while other venues with just as strong a heritage do not appear to be in question.

“It’s a shame,” he continued. “But it’s a historic race for F1. Same as Monaco – for what I know, they don’t even pay and it’s still on the calendar – same with like Monza and stuff. So I feel like it should always be on for as long as Formula 1’s around.”

‘Just about money’;

https://www.racefans.net/2022/08/05/...l-be-its-last/


F1 quiz: Guess the Grid for the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa
Sunday 21st August 2022 3:00 PM
Jamie Woodhouse

Your next F1 quiz has landed…can you name all of the drivers who formed the grid for the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix? The 2014 campaign was a season of great change in Formula 1 – just like 2022 – as the new turbo-hybrid V6 engines came into play.

Right now, Formula 1 is on its summer hiatus, reflecting on 13 rounds’ worth of action for the new regulations, but once the series returns Belgium will be its first stop as was the case in 2014.

Changeable weather conditions made for a very tricky qualifying session at Spa that year, with rain expected for the race but at a lighter intensity. As it turned out, while rain was not going to provide any drama on the track, the drivers certainly were. Two in particular. We won’t be naming any names though – that is your job!

‘F1 Quiz’;

https://www.planetf1.com/quizzes/f1-...an-grand-prix/

[Fortitude]

Domenicali denies selling F1's 'soul' amid call to protect historic races.
Stefano Domenicali denies "selling the soul" of Formula 1 as he is urged to "ringfence" four historic races, including the Belgian Grand Prix.
22 August 2022
Ben Issatt

This weekend's race at Spa-Francorchamps could be the last for the foreseeable future with its contract set to expire and F1 needing to make space for potentially four new or returning events in 2023.

Belgium isn't alone either in facing the axe with the French GP almost certain to be dropped and the 'Jewel in the Crown' at Monaco also still yet to officially sign a new deal for next year. Belgium isn't alone either in facing the axe with the French GP almost certain to be dropped and the 'Jewel in the Crown' at Monaco also still yet to officially sign a new deal for next year.

The assault on F1's foundational races has drawn criticism from drivers and fans alike, and Red Bull boss Christian Horner made it clear some circuits should be mainstays on the calendar. “Spa, for sure. It’s one of those historic races," he told Sky Sports. "There should be a few races – Monaco, Silverstone, Spa, Monza – they’re the big ones, the historic ones, and I think we should ringfence and really protect those.

‘Domenicali Denies Selling F1's 'Soul'!’;

https://www.insideracing.com/formula...historic-races


Christian Horner slams FIA approach as Belgian Grand Prix under threat
THE BELGIAN GRAND PRIX could be under threat with no deal in place from next season.
09:41, Mon, Aug 22, 2022
By Luke Chillingsworth

Christian Horner has slammed the FIA for not protecting F1’s historic races with the future of the Belgian Grand Prix at risk. Neither Monaco nor Belgium have a deal in place for next season despite their evocative status among fans.

His comments come after the Red Bull boss was asked whether team bosses would fight hard against losing the Belgian Grand Prix. Horner explained: “Spa, for sure. It’s one of those historic races.

"There should be a few races – Monaco, Silverstone, Spa, Monza – they’re the big ones, the historic ones, and I think we should ringfence and really protect those. It’s great that these new venues are coming in and that there is interest but you’ve got to have that history.”

‘FIA Approach Slammed’;

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...ian-grand-prix


Norris rues possible loss of Spa F1: "Things are just about money nowadays"
Aug 22, 2022, 6:37 PM
By: Luke Smith

McLaren driver Lando Norris would feel “sad” if Spa dropped off the Formula 1 calendar for 2023, saying that “things are just about money nowadays.”

This weekend's Belgian Grand Prix at Spa could be the last for the time being as F1 plots its calendar for next year that will reach the limit of 24 races. Spa is one of the most popular tracks on the F1 calendar thanks to its fast layout and iconic corners such as Eau Rouge, making it one of the most challenging for drivers to master.

Asked about the possibility of Spa falling off the calendar, Norris said: "I'll be sad. I guess a lot of things are just about money nowadays, which is the issue. It's a business. It's a shame," Norris said of the possible loss of Spa, which he called "one of the coolest circuits of the whole season."

‘Things are just about money nowadays’;

https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/n...days/10356180/


Belgian Grand Prix: Formula 1 drivers call for race to remain on calendar amid 2023 uncertainty
Last Updated: 22/08/22 2:00pm
By Matt Morlidge

Belgian GP does not have F1 contract for next year and calendar is expected to grow from 22 to 24 races; Christian Horner: "It's great that there's these new events coming in and there's interest. But you've got to have that history"

Formula 1 drivers have warned against losing the Belgian GP off the calendar, as the sport heads back to Spa-Francorchamps amid growing concerns this could be the last race at the circuit for some time.

Lando Norris, who is half Belgian from his mother's roots, added: "I think Spa should always be there as long as Formula 1 exists." The Belgian GP is all live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend, with practice starting on Friday and Sunday's race at 2pm.

‘Calls For Belgian Grand Prix To Remain On Calendar’;

https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12...23-uncertainty


Belgian GP rumours hinder F1 progress
Monday 22 August 2022 11:20
Sam Hall

Belgian Grand Prix promotor Vanessa Maes has conceded that rumours and speculation about the future of the event are hindering negotiations with F1. Alongside races in Monaco and France, the Belgian GP is out of contract after this weekend.

With an influx of races from America and the Middle East, it is expected a number of traditional European races will make way. Addressing the current situation, and speaking to HNL.de, Maes said: "We are in discussion with the promoter of F1, Formula 1, and those conversations are not easy. The ongoing rumours don't make it any easier.

"I assume that Formula 1 is really looking forward to a future with a GP in Belgium and more specifically in Spa. Also, in the political world, all forces are mobilised to keep Spa-Francorchamps on the F1 calendar."

‘Belgian Grand Prix promotor Vanessa Maes addressing the current situation’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/89...an-grand-prix/


Driver market dealings and a potential 3-way fight – 5 storylines we're excited for ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix
22 August 2022
Special contributor
Chris Medland
Formula 1.

After a well-earned few weeks off for all of the teams, it’s time to go racing once again, with the Belgian Grand Prix kicking off the second part of the season. Ahead of the resumption, here are some of the topics we expect to be hotly-discussed during this visit to Spa-Francorchamps.

1. Alpine's driver situation

2. The rest of the driver market

3. Another three-way fight?

4. How a technical directive might impact the field

5. The new generation of car on a special track

‘A Potential 3-way Fight – 5 Storylines’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...gt03NtVuS.html

[Fortitude]

Belgian Grand Prix official admits contract renewal talks are ‘not easy’.
Talks over a new contract for the Belgian Grand Prix are proving to be tricky, a Spa-Francorchamps official has admitted.
Monday 22nd August 2022 7:00 PM
Jon Wilde

A highly popular race with fans and drivers, the Belgian GP was on the very first Formula 1 World Championship calendar in 1950.

That was at its current home of Spa-Francorchamps and since then, there have been only six years when it was not held – none of those consecutively – with its other host venues having been Zolder and Nivelles.

But the race is reported to be in serious danger of being squeezed out of the calendar, due to the clamour for a grand prix in various other locations throughout the world.

‘Tricky Talks’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/belgia...tract-renewal/


Lando Norris issues stern response to claims F1 bosses could scrap Spa from calendar
LANDO NORRIS feels historic tracks like Spa should remain on the calendar regardless of finances as the championship returns in Belgium this weekend after a summer break
19:15, Mon, Aug 22, 2022
By Benjamin Goddard

McLaren driver Lando Norris believes that the Belgian GP deserves a place on the Formula 1 calendar regardless of what money other countries are offering championship organisers. Spa has been on the calendar since F1’s inception in 1950, missing just six seasons since but faces being left out of the 2023 championship schedule.

However, an influx of new venues backed by wealthy organisers and returning tracks has put its inclusion in doubt for next year. Norris, aged 22, whose mother is from the Flanders region in Belgium, believes that Spa should be a staple part of the F1 calendar along with Monaco.

“I’ll be sad (if it's missing next year),” said Norris talking to Autosport ahead of this weekend’s Belgium GP. “I guess a lot of things are just about money nowadays, which is the issue. It’s a business. It’s a shame, it’s one of the coolest circuits of the whole season. It’s a historic race for Formula 1. It’s the same as Monaco, from what I know they don’t even pay and it’s on the calendar.”

‘Lot of things are just about money nowadays’;

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...-from-calendar


Pirelli describe ‘epic’ Spa-Francorchamps changes for upcoming Belgian GP
Monday 22nd August 2022 9:00 PM
Henry Valantine

Pirelli motorsport director Mario Isola has said the changes made at Spa-Francorchamps ahead of this year’s Belgian Grand Prix are some of the biggest in the modern era. Circuit officials have worked to make significant adjustments to the circuit. Not in terms of its overall layout, which stays the same, but looking at improving circuit facilities alongside making life more challenging for the drivers.

Among the changes are the introduction of new gravel traps at four separate corners, to punish any mistakes drivers make in those parts of the circuit, as well as track resurfacing at five corners to bring the track up to date.

Pirelli have chosen the C2 (hard), C3 (medium) and C4 (soft) tyres, in the middle of their compound range, for the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, and they have already gained a significant bank of data on how the tyres react to the new surface, thanks to a recent endurance race at the revamped circuit.

‘Epic’ Spa-Francorchamps changes’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/pirell...hamps-changes/


F1 drivers upset amid Belgian GP uncertainty: It's all about money
‎20‎ ‎August‎ ‎15‎:‎10
Author Luuk van Poppelen
Co-author Dieter Rencken

Formula 1 drivers have expressed their concern about the unclear future of the Belgian Grand Prix's place on the calendar. With the F1 2023 schedule expected to be confirmed in the near future, there are growing threats that the fan-favourite Spa-Francorchamps will be missing from the line-up.

Next year's calendar will see an additional event in Las Vegas, as well as the return of the Chinese and Qatar Grands Prix, and a South African GP is rumoured, but not yet confirmed. The 2022 schedule is 22 races long and, with the current Concorde Agreement limiting the schedule to 24 races, Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps Circuit is one of the venues at risk of losing out, as their contract expires this year.

Established F1 drivers Sebastian Vettel and Sergio Perez have already expressed their disappointment at the prospect of losing the Belgian GP, and Lando Norris, who is half-Belgian, shared his concerns about F1 prioritising "business decisions".

‘It's all about money’;

https://racingnews365.com/f1-drivers...ll-about-money


Max Verstappen makes plea to Formula 1 ahead of 2022 Belgian Grand Prix
The future of the Belgian Grand Prix hangs in the balance after this year.
19 August 2022
by James Clifford

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has warned Formula 1 that they cannot do away with tracks like Spa Francorchamps amid worldwide interest in hosting races. Vegas is set to join Austin and Miami on the calendar next year, expanding American interest to three races, two of them being held on street circuits if Miami is to be counted as such.

Provided Monaco keeps its place for 2023, there will be seven street circuits on the calendar next season, although the Principality is also under threat.

“It’s sad, first of all, [Spa] is my favourite track and I think it is just a great track to drive,” he told RacingNews365.com. I understand that to get there compared to other tracks it’s probably a little more difficult sometimes with the traffic, but it’s a very iconic track.”

‘Max Plea’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/max-verst...an-grand-prix/

[Fortitude]

'All forces are mobilised' to save Belgian GP but F1 talks 'not easy'.
"All forces are mobilised" to save the Belgian Grand Prix but talks with Formula 1 are "not easy", race boss Vanessa Maes says.
23 August 2022
Ben Issatt
Formula 1

“I don’t participate in these speculations, but I am convinced Formula 1 has a real appetite for a future with a Grand Prix in Belgium, and more specifically at Spa.”

“Also, in the political world, all forces are mobilised to keep Spa Francorchamps on the F1 calendar. This is no more than logical given the incredible history and mythical aura of this race.”

If F1 needed proof of the Belgian GP's appeal, tickets for this weekend sold out within three days despite last year's washout on Sunday that prevented any green flag racing at all.”

'All forces are mobilised';

https://www.insideracing.com/formula...talks-not-easy


Christian Horner insists historic races like Spa should be ‘ringfenced’ in F1 calendar
23/08/2022, 14:57
Kieran Jackson
Formula 1 Correspondent

The future of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is uncertain with the race in the final year of its current contract.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner insists big and historic races should remain on the Formula 1 calendar with the future of the Belgian Grand Prix uncertain.

Formula 1 returns after the summer break this weekend at Spa-Francorchamps, but the future of the race is not clear as it enters the final year of its current contract.

‘Spa should be ‘ringfenced’ ‘;

https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/f1-...-b2150859.html


Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and more lead calls for Belgium to stay on the Formula 1 calendar
Tuesday 23 Aug 2022 2:36 pm
Callum McAvoy

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris have led the calls for the Belgian Grand Prix to remain on the Formula 1 calendar.

F1 returns to the world-famous Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium this week, a track hugely popular with drivers and fans that the sport has visited since its inaugural season in 1950.

However, it may be the last race to be held at the venue, with Spa’s contract up after this weekend and looking increasingly unlikely to be renewed given that there limited space left on the 2023 calendar.

‘Calls for Belgian Grand Prix to kept on the 2023 calendar’;

https://metro.co.uk/2022/08/23/max-v...o=newsnow-feed


Does the Belgian GP deserve a place on the F1 calendar?
Tuesday 23 August 2022 13:55
Ian Parkes

The future of the Belgian Grand Prix has attracted considerable headlines of late due to the fact this weekend's race is the last of its existing contract with F1.

Spa-Francorchamps circuit officials remain in talks with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali over a new deal, with suggestions being the race may alternate in the coming years with the French GP given the heavy financial demands these days for a long-term agreement.

Drivers certainly do not want to lose what remains one of the most iconic venues in the sport even if the challenge of old may have been tempered by the performance of today's cars.

‘Belgian GP deserves a place’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/89...x-f1-calendar/


The extensive changes made to Spa ahead of the 2022 F1 Belgian GP
23/08/2022, ‎14‎:‎20
Author Jake Nichol

Spa-Francorchamps recently underwent some renovation work, but what has actually happened to the Belgian Grand Prix venue? Following the fatal accident of Anthoine Hubert in the 2019 Formula 2 feature race, drivers reiterated calls for this section of the track to be changed. They did not want the essence of Eau Rouge/Raidillon to change, but for more room on the inside in case something went wrong.

This has happened over the winter of 2021/22, with the famed corner finally undergoing some major renovation work. In part, this was made necessary by floods that heavily damaged the track during the 2021/22 winter. Resurfacing work was carried out, with Spa also then taking the opportunity to address some of the safety concerns about the Eau Rouge/Raidillon sequence.

Some slight tweaks have been made to the radius of Eau Rouge itself, but there is now far greater run-off on either side of Raidillon. The barrier has been moved further back, creating lots more run-off for drivers in case they need to use it.

‘Extensive changes made to Spa’;

https://racingnews365.com/the-extens...-f1-belgian-gp


WATCH: Webber vs Alonso, and Schumacher’s fury – 5 dramatic moments from Spa's F1 history
23 August 2022
Formula 1.

After the summer break it's almost time to go racing again as we get set for this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix. But before we get stuck into this weekend's action, we decided to have a look back at some of the most dramatic moments at Spa-Francorchamps from the Formula 1 archive.

The famous old circuit has produced some memorable moments from some of F1’s all time greats, including the collision between Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell in 1987.

Perhaps the most unforgettable moment came in 1998 as Michael Schumacher hit the back of David Coulthard as he attempted to lap the McLaren driver, which resulted in quite the scene in the pit lane.

‘5 dramatic moments from Spa's F1 history’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...8r33mcU83.html

[Fortitude]

Ferrari chief risks upsetting Charles Leclerc with comments ahead of Belgian Grand Prix.
Ferrari chief Laurent Mekies has risked upsetting Charles Leclerc after revealing that his team have no intentions of putting their focus on the Monegasque ace at the expense of his team-mate Carlos Sainz just yet.
15:17, Tue, Aug 23, 2022
By Tom Parsons

FERRARI ace Charles Leclerc is currently second in this year's F1 Drivers' Championship standings.

“It is more discussed outside Ferrari than inside Ferrari (the topic of team orders),” insisted Mekies. “But more seriously again, we have always been very clear. We target to have the best result for the team - Ferrari comes first.”

Ahead of last month’s Hungarian Grand Prix, Mekies was asked whether Sainz’ improved form had resulted in him becoming the team leader. But the Ferrari chief says his team just want to make both of their drivers as fast as possible.

‘Ferrari chief risks upsetting Charles’;

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...appen-Red-Bull


‘Ferrari comes first’ – We’ll impose team orders ‘when it’s the right time’ says Mekies
23 August 2022
Formula 1.

With Formula 1 returning this weekend with the Belgian Grand Prix, Ferrari will be looking to make inroads on Red Bull’s 97-point gap at the top of the constructors’ championship. And to help them do that the Scuderia’s Race Director Laurent Mekies says the team could employ team orders this season, if it gives them “the best result for the team".

Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix – where Sainz finished in P4 – Mekies was also asked whether the Spaniard's improved form heading into the summer break had seen him become team leader. But he says Ferrari are not concerned about leadership positions, insisting the sole focus of the team is making both drivers as fast as possible.

“So, at first you are very right in saying that Carlos has had three extremely strong weekends: Silverstone, Austria, France. We are very, very happy with that,” said Mekies. “It did not show up so much on the final race classifications besides Silverstone because we had other things to deal with. But you are very right in saying that he has made great progress since the start of the season.”

‘Ferrari comes first’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...s0igdQVIz.html


BINOTTO: CLAIMS ABOUT FERRARI’S HEAD START ARE “WRONG”
Mattia Binotto has revealed his thoughts on suggestions about the team's early development
23/08/2022
Abby Bathurst

Mattia Binotto disagrees with claims that Ferrari’s charge at the front is due to a head start on developing the new cars. 2022 has seen the resurgence of Scuderia Ferrari as the team broke their two-year streak of not having a race victory. As Formula 1 heads into the second half of the season with Spa this weekend, Ferrari are currently second in both championships.

There have been some suggestions as to how Ferrari have made such a competitive car and many suggested that it was down to the team starting work earlier on it. This early development has allowed Ferrari to fight Red Bull and Mercedes, both of whom started development later due to the 2021 title fight. But, Mattia Binotto has disagreed with these claims. Instead he has put it down to doing a better job generally, not having a head start.

Binotto continued saying that Ferrari “started exactly at the same time” as the other teams. He said “it’s a matter of how much resources and priority you could put on the project. Maybe the two cars which were fighting for the 2021 championship had to put some more developments into 2021, but I think we did it as well ourselves, because we were in the fight with McLaren.”

‘CLAIMS ABOUT FERRARI’S HEAD START ARE “WRONG”!’;

https://www.formulanerds.com/news/bi.../?nowprocket=1


Ferrari ‘paying the price’, could have won ‘8 out of 13 races’ so far
Tuesday 23rd August 2022 8:00 PM
Jamie Woodhouse


Ferrari principal Mattia Binotto feels the team are “paying the price” for the leap in engine development which they needed compared to Red Bull. After spending two seasons battling in the midfield, Ferrari looked to use the new regulations for 2022 to bring themselves back into the fight at the front, coming armed with not only a new-look challenger, but also an all-new power unit.

Both have combined to make Ferrari a leading force once again, but it is Red Bull who lead the way comfortably, Max Verstappen 80 points clear of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in the Drivers’ Championship, while Ferrari trail Red Bull by 97 in the Constructors’.

In this respect, reliability of the power unit has let Ferrari down in a major way on several occasions, Leclerc retiring from the lead in Spain and Baku, while Carlos Sainz looked a good bet to finish at least P2 in Austria before his PU let go.

‘Ferrari could have won ‘8 out of 13 races’!’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/ferrar...e-development/


Sainz: Binotto leading us in the right direction
23 August, 2022
Jad Mallak

Carlos Sainz heaped praise on his boss Mattia Binotto, claiming he is leading Ferrari in the right direction despite the team’s numerous “faux pas” this season.

Despite having arguably the fastest car on the grid this season, Ferrari are lagging 97 points behind Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship, while Charles Leclerc is 80 points behind Max Verstappen who leads the Drivers’ Standings, as the team suffered from reliability problems as well as their infamous strategy decisions that saw them shoot themselves in the foot on various occasions.

That has put the spotlight on Ferrari chief Mattia Binotto as his ability to steer the fabled team towards Title glory again has been put to question. Carlos Sainz however has faith the Binotto is the right man of the job, even saying he was one reason he finds himself at Ferrari.

‘Binotto leading us in the right direction’;

https://www.grandprix247.com/2022/08...ght-direction/

[Fortitude]

Toto Wolff sends warning to Lewis Hamilton and George Russell ahead of Belgian GP.
Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff doesn’t see his side winning races anytime soon, with the Austrian warning his team to “be careful” and not become disillusioned with their incredible performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
23 August 2022
by Nick Golding

Mercedes are certainly getting closer to having race-winning pace; however, Wolff remains convinced that his side have catching up to do still. “I think we need to be careful it’s not specific to Budapest that we just landed in the perfect window,” Wolff warned.

“The other teams, Ferrari especially in qualifying, complained about the tyres not being where they should have been. So in my personal opinion, we are still lacking to the front-runners. “But at least we were in the same race,” he noted. “I don’t want to say now suddenly we are right bang into the game and we can win races because I don’t think that’s the case.”

“Our biggest weakness from the get-go was that our car was bouncing, the famous porpoising,” Wolff said. “And it meant that this was overshadowing all our development. We couldn’t really develop the car aerodynamically and put good updates on because the more downforce we had on the car, the worse the bouncing was.”

‘We need to be careful’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/toto-wolf...of-belgian-gp/


Mercedes need to be 'careful' about expectations after Hungarian GP - Wolff
21 August 2022
Ben Issatt

Toto Wolff says Mercedes need to be "careful" about setting expectations after the Hungarian Grand Prix. “I think we need to be careful it’s not specific to Budapest that we just landed in the perfect window,” Wolff warned.

Mercedes are also eagerly awaiting to see the impact of a technical directive at the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix, aimed at prohibiting floor tricks Red Bull and Ferrari were thought to be using to gain downforce.”

“It will be very interesting to see what we see at Spa,” said Wolff. “Let’s see if the difference in ride height makes a difference for the teams that ride so low. But I no longer believe in the ‘silver bullet’, as they say, that we will then suddenly be three tenths faster than everyone else, but in any case it will be interesting.”

‘Very interesting to see what we see at Spa’;

https://www.insideracing.com/formula...arian-gp-wolff


Wolff warns against Mercedes "entitlement"
Sunday 21 August 2022 07:00
Sam Hall

Toto Wolff has warned Mercedes against believing it is 'entitled' to be winning races as the team continues to recover from a difficult start to the season.

“We haven’t met our expectations so far," conceded Wolff in a Mercedes video. "We are strong and solid third on the road but that is not our aim. But in the same sense, we can’t feel any sense of entitlement because the moment you think you should be winning, this is really the downfall.”

“So we are humble about our expectations, we are humble about our competitors – they have done a great job, there are a lot of good people [at those teams] but we are also clear about our objectives, and this is to be back at the front, fight for race victories and eventually be back in a position to fight for a world championship.”

‘Wolff warns against Mercedes entitlement’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/89...s-entitlement/


‘Breaking the rules on technical stuff’: Toto Wolff fires warning about budget cap breaches
Formula 1 teams are following a strict budget cap in 2022.
23 August 2022
by Nick Golding

With costs so difficult to manage, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that the Silver Arrows have financial engineers. According to the team boss, their role is to assess every upgrade produced by Mercedes and determine whether it’s financially beneficial.

If they predict it’ll improve the W13’s performance, then it gets fitted, otherwise it doesn’t. “So we have a tracker with financial engineers that track every single process and every single part that comes into the car,” Wolff told Motorsport.com.

“So when we take things out of the truck, the financial engineer notes, the value. When you utilise it’s being counted for. You are following this trend, like we have planned. We didn’t bring a lot at the beginning but it’s coming steady now.”

‘Financial engineers’;

https://formula1news.co.uk/breaking-...-cap-breaches/


The reason behind Wolff's early-season radio apologies to Hamilton
24/08/2022, ‎08‎:‎50
Author Luke Murphy

Toto Wolff has explained the reasoning behind his public apologies to Lewis Hamilton during a difficult 2022 season. In some of Mercedes' tougher events, Mercedes Team Principal Wolff felt the need to apologise to Hamilton over the team radio on more than one occasion. Wolff explained that Hamilton's early struggles were emphasised by bad luck, and his teammate George Russell's ability to deal with difficult cars.

"I need to protect him, because people have started to hit out at him, which is not right," Wolff commented to Square Mile. "It's complete nonsense: he's the greatest driver of all-time. The car is just sub par.”

"George has sometimes struggled a bit less because he's maybe used to driving difficult cars at the back of the grid, but Lewis was unlucky on many occasions. He could have scored another two podiums and then the pendulum would have swung. So, it [the apology] is to make sure that everybody comprehends that the car is not performing, and not that the driver is at fault."

‘Wolff: The problems are with the car, not the drivers’;

https://racingnews365.com/the-reason...es-to-hamilton