F1 Briefings

Visa Cash App RB (V-CARB), previously known as AlphaTauri, has unveiled a significant overhaul of its senior management in a clear bid to enhance its competitive edge for the 2024 season. The team has announced three new recruitments from the FIA, Alpine, and Red Bull.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Reinforcement: The team has strategically bolstered its ranks by appointing Tim Goss as Chief Technical Officer, Alan Permane as Racing Director, and Guillaume Catellani as Deputy Technical Director. This trio is expected to be pivotal in driving forward the team's technical and operational ambitions.
• Expertise and Experience: The new leadership brings a wealth of experience from their previous stints within the sport. Goss' move from a strategic role at the FIA back into team operations, Permane's vast experience from Alpine, and Catellani's insights from Red Bull's senior team promise to inject new energy and direction into 'V-CARB'.
• Vision of Leadership: Laurent Mekies, who leads the team as principal after joining from Ferrari, expressed his confidence in the new lineup, stating, "The appointments of Tim, Guillaume and Alan add a vast amount of winning expertise to the team, and I have no doubt that they will help take the team to the next level in F1."

Red Bull Press Image

Tim Goss, stepping into the role of Chief Technical Officer, brings with him a wealth of knowledge from his extensive career, including a lengthy tenure at McLaren and a strategic position at the FIA. His appointment is seen as a cornerstone in the team's quest to revamp its engineering strategy. Goss himself commented on the challenge ahead, saying:

"There's an exciting challenge ahead of us but I think the team is well-equipped to meet that head-on."

Alan Permane, taking on the role of Racing Director, brings decades of Formula 1 operational experience to the table. After parting ways with Alpine during 2023, Permane shared his enthusiasm for his new role: 

"After a few months of downtime, it's great to return to racing again. From long experience, I know how professional, driven, and competitive the people within this race team are and I can't wait to see where that spirit can take the team in the future."

The recruitment of Guillaume Catellani as Deputy Technical Director from Red Bull's senior team creates an invaluable link, fostering a seamless flow of ideas and innovations that could significantly boost V-CARB's performance.

New team principal Laurent Mekies also commented on the new appointments, stating:

"The appointments of Tim, Guillaume and Alan add a vast amount of winning expertise to the team, and I have no doubt that they will help take the team to the next level in F1.

"We already have a very strong and hugely experienced group at the team and bringing onboard highly skilled individuals like Tim, Guillaume and Alan will boost our capability and help us meet the highest technical standards, both at the factory and at the track."

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Marianne Hinson, formerly of McLaren, has been appointed to lead the FIA’s technical auditing department. This appointment comes after multiple notable figures left the organisation.

Key Takeaways:

• Hinson's New Chapter: Marianne Hinson transitions from her aerodynamic role at McLaren to become the FIA’s Technical Head of Auditing. Her vast experience in F1 aerodynamics will be pivotal in monitoring teams' compliance with the sport's stringent aerodynamic development and testing regulations.
• Enforcement of Regulations: The FIA imposes strict limits on aerodynamic development activities, including wind tunnel usage and CFD work, with a sliding scale that allocates fewer hours to more successful teams. Hinson's role is crucial in ensuring that teams adhere to these allocations, thereby maintaining the competitive balance within the sport.
• Stepping Up Audits: The FIA is intensifying its audit strategy, including unannounced visits to team factories. This approach aims for immediate access to team facilities during audits to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory enforcement.

Mercedes F1 Press Image - Austin GP

Marianne Hinson's move to the FIA as the Head of Technical Audit marks a significant transition in her illustrious career in Formula 1. After nearly a decade at McLaren and a total of 23 years working with various F1 teams, Hinson brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the sport's technical nuances to her new role at the governing body.

Expressing her enthusiasm and a hint of nostalgia for her new position, Hinson shared her feelings on LinkedIn, saying:

"Well, this is going to be different… After nearly 10 years at McLaren and 23 years in F1 teams, I’m doing something different. I’ve done some consultancy and enjoyed a bit of a break over the summer. But I couldn’t stay away from F1 for long.

"I’m joining the FIA as Head of Technical Audit for F1. I keep hearing the phrase 'from poacher to gamekeeper' but that makes it sound like I was up to something dodgy before which I categorically wasn’t!

"Looking forward to getting stuck in, and to seeing some familiar faces on my visits. Though I’ll never be able to let you know in advance that I’m coming! Be kind to us, we are all in it for the sport…"

The FIA's auditing strategy, as outlined by Nikolas Tombazis, includes surprise visits to team facilities to ensure ongoing compliance with the sport's technical rules. This tactic aims to maintain a level of readiness among teams, with the expectation that they will grant access to auditors within a short window of their arrival.

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Recent reports have shed light on the intricacies of Charles Leclerc's new contract with Ferrari, hinting at a significant salary boost and a possible exit strategy. The details, emerging from Italian publication, Corriere della Sera, suggest a blend of commitment and flexibility for the Monegasque driver.

Key Takeaways:

• Extended Partnership: Charles Leclerc has committed to Ferrari with a four-year extension, ensuring his presence in the team until the 2028 season. This move solidifies his role as a central figure in Ferrari's future plans.
• Financial Upswing: The new agreement elevates Leclerc's annual earnings to $30 million, a notable increase from his previous $25 million. Additionally, performance bonuses could further augment his income by up to $5 million for achievements such as race victories and championships.
• Strategic Exit Clause: A pivotal aspect of Leclerc's contract is a break clause effective post-2026, coinciding with a major overhaul in F1 regulations. This clause provides Leclerc the option to part ways with Ferrari should the team fail to deliver a competitive car capable of contending for titles.

A report from Corriere della Sera reveals a contract that not only rewards Leclerc handsomely but also embeds a strategic escape hatch. This clause, aligning with the anticipated regulatory changes in 2026, underscores the importance of competitive performance in Leclerc's long-term commitment to Ferrari.

Leclerc's revised salary structure reflects his elevated status within the team and the sport at large. With an annual base salary jumping to $30 million, supplemented by potential bonuses for on-track successes, the financial terms underscore Ferrari's belief in Leclerc's pivotal role in their championship aspirations.

The contract's duration, extending Leclerc's stay until the 2028 season, signals a mutual commitment to continuity and success. However, the inclusion of a break clause post-2026 introduces an element of flexibility, allowing Leclerc to reassess his position based on the team's competitiveness in the wake of significant regulatory changes.

While Leclerc's future appears firmly anchored at Ferrari, the situation with teammate Carlos Sainz remains fluid. The Spanish driver's negotiations are ongoing, amidst speculations of a potential switch to Audi as the German manufacturer gears up for its F1 debut in 2026.

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In a significant change to his management team, Lewis Hamilton has welcomed old friend Marc Hynes, a former British Touring Car Championship racer and the 1999 British Formula 3 champion, to focus on his racing activities. This move follows the end of Hamilton's main management contract with Penni Thow and her company Copper in December 2023.

Key Takeaways:

• Marc Hynes, a long-time friend and associate of Hamilton since his early racing days, has joined Hamilton's team to concentrate on his racing career. Hynes has previously worked with Hamilton in the Manor team and has now left his role with Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu to rejoin Hamilton.
• Hamilton's management contract with Penni Thow and Copper concluded at the end of 2023. Thow and her team played a pivotal role in supporting Hamilton's entrepreneurial ventures, including Project 44, an Apple+ TV documentary, and the Apple-backed Brad Pitt F1 film.
• While the formal management agreement with Copper has ended, Hamilton will continue to collaborate with Thow on certain ongoing projects. Additionally, he is set to expand Project 44 and is expected to make significant appointments to bolster his management team, particularly for his off-track projects.

Lewis Hamilton is embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career with a notable change in his management team. Marc Hynes, who has a rich history in motor racing and a strong personal connection with Hamilton, is stepping in to focus on the racing aspect of Hamilton's career. Their relationship dates back to Hamilton's formative years in motor racing, where Hynes played a crucial role in his development as his coach under the Manor team.

Hamilton's partnership with Penni Thow and Copper, which began in 2021, has been instrumental in expanding his off-track ventures. Their collaboration brought to life several projects, including the Mission 44 charitable foundation and Hamilton's foray into film production alongside the likes of Brad Pitt. 

Despite the conclusion of their main management contract, Hamilton and Thow will maintain their working relationship on selected projects, like the upcoming Brad Pitt F1 movie.

The transition in Hamilton's management team signals a new era for the racing star, but his relationship with Copper won't be coming to an end completely. They will still be managing a number of his projects, such as Project 44 and the film, according to Autosport. 

But with the upcoming F1 season being the 7-time champion's main focus, his new partnership with Hynes will focus solely on this - "Lewis’s commitment to bringing the fight back to the top spot". 

In an interview with OLBG, former Mercedes CEO Nick Fry expressed concern over the uniformity of Formula 1 races, highlighting it as a significant issue for the sport's vitality. Fry drew parallels to football's unpredictability and its success in retaining viewer interest, emphasising the need for F1 to inject similar elements of surprise to maintain its audience.

Key Takeaways:

• Lack of Unpredictability: Fry pointed out the high level of proficiency among F1 teams, which has led to fewer unexpected outcomes in races, reducing the sport's unpredictability compared to other sports like football.
• Challenges in Introducing Variability: The difficulty in introducing randomness akin to the effects of wet weather conditions in races was discussed, with Fry noting the sport's ongoing struggle to find ways to enhance competition throughout the field without resorting to contrived excitement.
• The Need for Innovation: With a nod to the positive impact of Netflix on F1's popularity, Fry stressed the urgency for the sport to explore new avenues to maintain viewer interest, particularly in light of declining viewing figures, especially in the US.

Red Bull Press Image

Nick Fry, in his interview with OLBG, shared his candid views on the state of Formula 1, reflecting on the sport's challenges and the need for greater unpredictability to captivate audiences. He said:

"I have to sadly admit that the homogeneity of F1 races is unhealthy for the sport as a whole. I think it's a major issue.

"Football is the most successful sport because games can change in a matter of seconds. That's why people watch games right until the very end. It doesn't matter if your team is 2-1 down heading into extra-time, you've still got a chance of winning. That's what keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

"The teams, from top to bottom, are so good at what they do that it's difficult to see unexpected situations occur, apart from when it rains, as that throws a curveball that can produce unforeseen circumstances."

Fry continued:

"Formula One has constantly struggled with this issue. I can't begin to count the number of meetings I've sat in where we've been asked how we can introduce the type of randomness you get with wet weather! It can’t be contrived excitement so it's quite difficult to find mechanisms to introduce competition through the field.

"The teams are almost too good at what they do. When I started, you could almost rely on the fact that 20% of the field would drop out due to crashing or breaking down. Nobody does that anymore. It's very unusual to see cars stopped by the side of the track.

"Refuelling is dangerous for the people involved, but it did add another element of unpredictability."

Picking up on the huge growth the sport has seen in the past few years, Fry added:

"Formula One has had a great run over the last few years and Netflix has massively helped that. I do, however, think the sport needs to come up with more variations beyond the location. The viewing figures are going down without a doubt, especially in the US, and they need to figure out ways to restore them.

"People are hoping that someone can challenge Red Bull and Max Verstappen. It would be great for the sport if someone could, but if it doesn't, they'll have to find other ways of making it interesting.

"Formula One is trying to compete for the public's time on a Sunday afternoon and they have plenty of other things to do, particularly in the summer."

Fry's reflections bring to light the intricate balance Formula 1 must maintain between technological advancement and maintaining an element of unpredictability that makes sports compelling to watch. The comparison to football underscores the need for moments that can change the course of an event, keeping fans engaged until the very end.

The discussion touches on various aspects that have historically added layers of unpredictability to the sport, such as the impact of weather conditions and the strategic element of refuelling, which has been phased out due to safety concerns. Fry acknowledges the strides Formula 1 has made in terms of reliability and safety, which, while positive, have also led to a decrease in the unpredictability that can make races more exciting.

As Formula 1 continues to evolve, Fry's insights suggest that the sport must find new ways to introduce variability and excitement into races to maintain and grow its global fanbase. Whether through changes in regulations, formats, or the introduction of new technologies, the challenge will be to do so in a manner that respects the sport's heritage while ensuring its future relevance and appeal.

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In an interview with OLBG, former Mercedes CEO Nick Fry shared his perspective on the necessary steps to infuse Formula 1 with greater excitement, addressing the sport's predictability highlighted by the 2023 season's outcomes. Fry's insights suggest a shift in sporting regulations could be the key to a more competitive and thrilling Formula 1.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic Shifts Over Technical Tweaks: Fry argues against the efficacy of altering technical regulations to level the playing field, advocating instead for changes in sporting regulations to enhance race unpredictability.
• Learning from the Past: Highlighting the success of the knockout qualifying format, Fry points to the need for radical, innovative changes in the race formats and strategies, crediting the format's inception to Red Bull's marketing team and a Honda team member during the 2009 FIA dispute.
• Addressing Predictability: The 2023 season, dominated by Red Bull and Max Verstappen, serves as a case study for the type of predictability Fry believes needs to be addressed, with the team's near-complete dominance diluting the excitement for fans.

In the interview, Fry critically assessed the state of Formula 1, stating:

"There are two avenues F1 could explore if they're serious about making the sport more unpredictable. One would be to manoeuvre the technical regulations to provide a flatter playing field, but history shows that such strategies rarely work.

"That's been tried numerous times, and the reality is that a good big side will always beat a good little one and the teams with most or the best resource find the optimum solution first." 

He continued, emphasising the potential within sporting regulations: 

"My view is that F1 has to do it through the sporting regulations. That means the format of the race and the number of pit stops, the way you use your tyres, and so on. I don't know what the answer is, but I think it's in that area."

Fry highlighted the need for bold, innovative solutions, reminiscent of the changes seen with the knockout qualifying format, an idea born out of necessity during a tumultuous time for the sport. 

"The solutions have to be fairly radical. Think back to some of the interesting steps that have been made, like the knockout qualifying format. That was actually developed by the teams during the threatened breakaway in 2009. We were thinking about going our own way from the FIA. A lot of teams have taken credit for the qualifying process, but it was actually Red Bull's idea! It was the brainchild of Red Bull's marketing team and a person from the Honda team."

Dispelling common misconceptions, Fry clarified:

"I think Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore claimed credit for it, but it wasn't them at all! It came from working-level people! I'd say that F1 has to implement similar ideas, but they have to enact them during the races, not just in qualifying."

The 2023 season, with Red Bull and Max Verstappen's overwhelming dominance, underscored Fry's argument. Winning all but one race and Verstappen securing the podium 19 times, the season exemplified the predictability that many fans lamented, sparking debates on the need for changes to reinvigorate the sport's excitement and unpredictability.

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In a recent Forbes ranking, Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1, has been named the most valuable sports empire in 2024, despite experiencing a decrease in overall value. The media conglomerate's diverse portfolio, including significant stakes in ventures like Overtime Sports and Meyer Shank Racing, has solidified its position at the summit of the sports industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse Portfolio: Liberty Media's vast empire encompasses a range of sports-related ventures, including Formula 1, F1 Arcade, and the Drone Racing League, showcasing the company's expansive reach within the sports industry.
• Forbes Valuation: Forbes has placed Liberty Media at the pinnacle of its list, valuing the sports conglomerate at $18.22 billion, which, although a decrease from the previous year, still ranks it above competitors like Kroenke Sports and Entertainment and Fenway Sports Group.
• Year-on-Year Decrease: Despite retaining the top spot, Liberty Media's valuation saw a 12% decline from $20.8 billion in 2023, primarily due to the spin-off of assets, notably the Atlanta Braves.

Liberty Media's stronghold in the sports world remains unchallenged in 2024, according to the latest Forbes rankings, despite a noticeable dip in its overall valuation. The company's extensive portfolio, which includes Formula 1, the innovative Drone Racing League, and ventures like F1 Arcade, underscores its influential presence in the sports industry. With a current valuation pegged at $18.22 billion, Liberty Media outpaces rivals such as Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, owners of Arsenal FC and the LA Rams, and Fenway Sports Group, which holds Liverpool Football Club.

This year's valuation, however, marks a decrease from Liberty Media's previous $20.8 billion valuation in 2023. Forbes attributes this decline to the company's strategic decision to spin off certain assets, including the Atlanta Braves, which currently boasts an enterprise value of $2.6 billion. Despite this reduction, Liberty Media retains its crown as the premier sports empire, a testament to its diversified investments and strategic management.

A Forbes spokesperson highlighted the resilience and strategic acumen of Liberty Media, stating:

"The aggregate value of Liberty’s ownership stakes in its sports assets fell 12%, to $18.2 billion but it still maintains the top spot on our list. Liberty declined in value this year because it spun off the Atlanta Braves (current enterprise value: $2.6 billion) last July." 

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Alpine's preparation for the 2024 Formula 1 season has reportedly hit a snag as they cleared the frontal impact assessment but faltered at the lateral crash test. With the A524's debut set for February 7 and pre-season testing on February 21, the team is in a race against time to comply with FIA standards.

Key Takeaways:

• Lateral Test Hurdle: While Alpine managed to pass the frontal impact test, a challenge that even the likes of Red Bull Racing faced, they reportedly couldn't meet the criteria for the lateral crash test. This test is crucial for ensuring the car's sides can withstand a force of 300 kN, a key safety feature to protect drivers from side impacts.
• Chassis Certification Pending: Reports from Motorsport Italy indicate that the Alpine team is still awaiting official approval for their chassis design for the upcoming season. In response, Technical Director Matt Harman has made significant adjustments, including reengineering the integration of the Renault power unit with the chassis and modifying the placement of side-mounted components.
• Urgent Need for Remediation: With the unveiling of their new car imminent, Alpine is under significant pressure to correct the flaws identified in the lateral crash test. The schedule for a retest remains uncertain, adding to the challenges the team faces in ensuring their car is ready for the season start.

Alpine's path to the 2024 F1 season has reportedly been complicated by their inability to pass the FIA's critical lateral crash test. This particular assessment is pivotal for certifying the vehicle's capacity to safeguard drivers against side collisions, emphasising the importance of structural resilience. Despite successfully navigating the frontal crash test, a challenge that has tripped up teams as formidable as Red Bull Racing, Alpine finds itself grappling with this unexpected setback.

Under the guidance of Matt Harman, Alpine's technical director, the team has undertaken a thorough review and adaptation of their car's design. Harman's initiatives, focusing on enhancing the compatibility between the chassis and the Renault power unit, as well as optimising the layout of lateral accessories, demonstrate a concerted effort to align with FIA's rigorous safety protocols. Nevertheless, the failure in the lateral crash test casts a shadow over the team's preparations.

As Alpine works against the clock to secure FIA certification, the motorsport community watches closely. The uncertainty regarding their next steps and the timing for a subsequent crash test attempt adds an element of suspense to the pre-season preparations. The team's ability to quickly address and rectify these issues will be crucial in their quest to ensure the A524 meets the stringent safety and performance standards required for competition.

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Three decades have passed since Michael Schumacher clinched his inaugural Formula One world championship, an achievement now being celebrated with a hospitality concept at the Belgian Grand Prix. A collaboration between a renowned events agency and the Keep Fighting Foundation is set to pay homage to Schumacher's legacy at this iconic racing venue.

Key Insights:

• Launch of the Schumacher Legends Lounge: The 30th anniversary of Schumacher's first world championship victory is being commemorated with the establishment of the Schumacher Legends Lounge at the Spa-Francorchamps track. According to the circuit website, this initiative seeks to provide an immersive Schumacher experience for fans.
• Engaging Activities and Exclusive Displays: Attendees of the lounge will be treated to a range of engaging activities, including a special exhibition that features a selection of Schumacher's racing cars and rare personal memorabilia. The event will also feature "An Evening for Michael," offering fans a chance to engage with Schumacher's former colleagues and listen to intimate tales from his F1 days.
• Fundraising Auction for the Keep Fighting Foundation: A central feature of the event will be a charity auction, where fans can bid on Schumacher-related memorabilia. The proceeds from this auction will directly benefit the Keep Fighting Foundation, a charity founded by Schumacher's family to continue his legacy of perseverance and determination.

The introduction of the Schumacher Legends Lounge at the Belgian Grand Prix serves as a tribute not only to Michael Schumacher's first world title but to his remarkable career in Formula One. The lounge aims to offer fans a unique window into Schumacher's world, enriched by the personal stories of those who were closest to him on and off the track.

Sabine Kehm, who has been by Schumacher's side as his manager, shared her enthusiasm for the project: 

“This is the first time the Keep Fighting Foundation and Michael’s family has supported this type of experience. We are delighted that, 30 years on from his first World Drivers’ Championship, we can celebrate his racing career at Spa-Francorchamps, where it all started for him in Formula One. We are proud to be the launch event for Legends Lounge as we are always keen to celebrate Michael’s amazing career.”

This unique event is more than a remembrance of Schumacher's inaugural championship; it's a celebration of his enduring influence on the sport and the values he stood for. With the involvement of the Keep Fighting Foundation, the event underscores a commitment to continuing Schumacher's legacy.

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