Max Verstappen takes the lead over Lando Norris in Austria, moments before unfortunate events unfold.
Wednesday’s fast-paced F1 news roundup features McLaren boss Zak Brown reopening his war of words with Red Bull ahead of this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix, the 13th round of the F1 2024 season.
How about: “Let’s zoom through today’s top headlines at lightning speed…”
F1 news: McLaren vs Red Bull, FIA complaint raised
McLaren reopen war of words with Red Bull and Max Verstappen
In the ongoing verbal exchange between McLaren and the Formula 1 champions, Red Bull, Zak Brown has leveled an accusation against the latter, suggesting they are fearful of Max Verstappen. This clash of words persists as the teams prepare for the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix.
McLaren expressed their criticism towards Red Bull and Verstappen following the intense collision between the reigning World Champion and Lando Norris in Austria. Brown and team principal Andrea Stella raised concerns about the Dutchman’s management within the team.
Ahead of the Hungarian GP, Brown has reignited the discussion by suggesting that Red Bull is fearful of Verstappen. This assertion stems from his discontent with a team radio message conveyed by Christian Horner.
Read more: Red Bull running ‘scared of Max Verstappen’ in fresh McLaren boss accusation
Red Bull reportedly alarm FIA to ‘additional hole’ on McLaren MCL38
According to reports, Red Bull informed the FIA about an extra opening present on the McLaren MCL38 car, which should be sealed following the free practice sessions.
According to a report from Germany, Red Bull has allegedly lodged a complaint with the FIA regarding a cavity found in McLaren’s brake drum. It is speculated that these cavities contain sensors for data collection during practice sessions, and are subsequently covered with tape for competitive running during a grand prix weekend.
Read more: Red Bull discover ‘additional hole that shouldn’t be there’ on McLaren brake linings
New-look VCARB lineup for 2025 with Yuki Tsunoda replacing Sergio Perez?
It has been claimed that Red Bull’s junior team VCARB is considering a completely new driver lineup consisting of Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar for the F1 2025 season.
According to reports, there is a potential scenario where Yuki Tsunoda could be promoted to Red Bull Racing as a replacement for Sergio Perez. Red Bull is apparently interested in securing a place for Daniel Ricciardo on the F1 2025 grid.
Amid growing speculation, it is being suggested that Sergio Perez might face the possibility of being dropped by Red Bull. This could occur during the upcoming summer break if he fails to improve his performance in Hungary and Belgium, as his recent form has been disappointing.
Read more: Potential all-new Red Bull junior team line-up rumoured for F1 2025 – report
Helmut Marko confirms Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez contract clauses
Helmut Marko, a seasoned adviser for Red Bull, has verified that Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez possess contract clauses enabling them to depart from the team, albeit for distinct reasons.
Marko has admitted that Verstappen could potentially leave at any time if certain conditions are met, as the driver continues to be linked with a move to Mercedes.
According to PlanetF1.com, it is understood that Red Bull has the option to replace Perez if he falls behind Verstappen by a margin of 100 points in the Drivers’ Championship.
With two races left before the summer break, he is currently trailing his team-mate by a margin of 137 points.
Read more: Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez contract clauses in double Helmut Marko reveal
Ferrari’s Adrian Newey hopes fading amid huge salary demands
According to reports, Ferrari’s chances of securing the services of Adrian Newey, the departing technical chief of Red Bull, are diminishing due to his high salary demands, which have become a significant obstacle.
Since May, when Newey announced his departure from Red Bull in early 2025, there have been strong rumors connecting him to a potential move to Ferrari.
However, as Ferrari refuses to meet Newey’s salary expectations and expresses concerns about his potential influence within the team, it appears that they are lagging behind Aston Martin and McLaren in the competition to sign him.
Read more: Adrian Newey’s ‘most likely destination’ uncovered after ‘salary demand’ reveal – report
