Max Verstappen emphasized that rumors about a lucrative offer do not serve as a driving force for his decision to join a different team.
Happy Friday, everybody. We made it. If you missed any of the key F1 news action from the day, we’ve got you covered right here.
Regrettably, we must endure another week of waiting until the action resumes at Imola. However, this does not imply that we have any shortage of exciting content to offer you – quite the opposite. So, without any more delay…
Max Verstappen responds to Zak Brown’s Adrian Newey talk
Max Verstappen has chosen to disregard the hype created by Zak Brown regarding the possibility of Adrian Newey being the first to leave Red Bull, as well as McLaren receiving numerous CVs from Red Bull staff members in Miami.
“Verstappen mentioned that he clearly intends to provoke or create controversy. As a team, we are unable to take any action based on such remarks,” stated Verstappen.
“From his perspective, I comprehend it naturally since enticing our audience is a common practice in the realm of Formula 1, just like anywhere else in the world.”
However, I lack genuine interest in those matters as well. I come across the headlines, yet I refrain from clicking on them.
Read more: Max Verstappen hits back at McLaren boss over Adrian Newey ‘first domino to fall’ talk
Kevin Magnussen not interested in helping Oliver Bearman
Although Kevin Magnussen’s contract for the upcoming year has not been finalized, it appears that Oliver Bearman is emerging as a promising contender to potentially join Haas next season.
He is scheduled to participate in six FP1 sessions for the team this year, and considering Nico Hulkenberg’s commitment to Sauber for 2025, there is a possibility of them becoming teammates.
However, if that is indeed the situation, the young driver should not anticipate a significant advantage – although it may be understandable considering the cutthroat environment of the race track.
“I’m here for something other than taking care of young kids, you know? I already do that at home,” Magnussen responded when questioned about his willingness to assist Bearman.
“With any luck, the individual accompanying us in the vehicle will possess the same level of competence, professionalism, and consistency as Nico has demonstrated. Only then will I consider being in the other car.”
Read more: ‘Not here to look after young kids’ – Kevin Magnussen’s firm warning to likely Haas driver in F1 2025
Martin Garrix sheds light on his perspective of Lando Norris’ ‘injury’
After Lando Norris’ nose gained significant attention last week, his buddy, DJ Martin Garrix, has come forward to share his side of the story. Initially concerned that people might believe he was responsible for breaking Norris’ nose, Garrix assures everyone that the situation was not as severe as it appeared.
During his interview with Virgin Radio Dubai, he expressed, “People exaggerated the situation beyond belief.”
On the boat, there was a broken glass. Throughout our partying, he had a sip from that glass, only to receive a small cut on his nose from the shattered upper part.
However, due to the location of his injury, it was bleeding profusely. This caused everyone to assume that I had broken his nose or inflicted a similar injury, despite that not being the case.
“We had bandaids ready to apply on his nose, but in no time, he transformed into a mummy-like figure. Suddenly, someone captured a photograph of him, which quickly gained worldwide attention. People everywhere perceived it as a shocking and severe injury, but fortunately, it was just a minor scratch.”
Read more: ‘Everyone thought I broke his nose’ – DJ Martin Garrix reveals story behind Lando Norris’ injury
Exclusive: Thierry Boutsen on Williams’ ‘big, big challenge’ to get back to top of F1
After being absent from Formula 1 for quite some time, we engaged in a conversation with Thierry Boutsen, a three-time Grand Prix winner, to shed light on the obstacles that Williams must overcome in order to regain their position at the forefront of the sport.
He referenced the changes McLaren have made in their quest to get back to race-winning form, and coming from the back of the field, Williams have a huge task ahead of them – even with the changes team principal James Vowles has already implemented.
“In an exclusive interview with PlanetF1.com, he expressed that it would be a challenging task that would require a significant amount of time.”
“In the world of Formula 1, mastery cannot be achieved overnight. It demands ample time and countless years to comprehend the intricacies of F1 and truly excel.”
This is an enormous challenge that becomes even more difficult if all 1000 people are not fully committed and giving their best.
“[Vowles] faces an immensely challenging task ahead, and I extend my best wishes for his success.”
Read more: F1’s newest ‘big team in crisis’ facing a ‘big, big challenge’ to return
Fred Vasseur asked about ‘more relaxed’ management style
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur was asked about the success of the Scuderia’s recruitment drive, suggesting that his more amicable management approach might be contributing to it. In his characteristic manner, Vasseur responded with a hearty laugh.
“It’s up to you to inquire about the friendliness of the management from the company’s employees!” he quipped.
However, I do not wish to expend energy on the wrong subject. Instead, I believe we have numerous internal matters to address and prioritize.
Our focus should be on improvement, recruitment, and car development. There is a significant amount of work ahead of us, and I am determined to avoid wasting my energy, time, and resources in conflicts with my colleagues. This is not the way I choose to approach the situation.
Read more: Ferrari boss quizzed on ‘less hostile’ management style compared to F1 rivals in recruitment drive
