Team boss Fred Vasseur has recently disclosed additional details about Lewis Hamilton’s latest contract with Ferrari.
It is time for Thursday’s look back at all the main F1 news headlines, as we approach the first non-race weekend in a month.
Despite not yet being involved in the championship, Toyota continues to make headlines in the F1 world. Meanwhile, Fred Vasseur has shared more information about Lewis Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari.
Fred Vasseur reveals more details of Lewis Hamilton’s new Ferrari contract
According to Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur, Lewis Hamilton will be joining Scuderia for a period of at least three years.
Until now, the specific specifics of Hamilton’s contract have remained unknown; however, Vasseur divulged that the long-term agreement provides more than just driver stability.
“Lewis was an important symbol because it sends a positive message to the paddock for the future of the team,” Vasseur told the Financial Times of the seven-time World Champion’s signing.
He faced a decision: “In which team do I stand the greatest possibility of winning the World Championship in 2025, ’26, ’27?” His answer was clear: “Ferrari.”
“We believe that he is not only our best method of attracting exceptional individuals, but also a means to strengthen the presence of talented individuals within Ferrari.”
The majority of F1 technicians are based in the UK. When transitioning from Mercedes in Brackley to Red Bull in Milton Keynes, it is possible to ensure continuity for your children by keeping them in the same school, as well as maintaining your current residence. This seamless transition can take place over the span of a weekend, allowing you to switch from one team to another from Friday to Monday.
When it comes to Italy, the situation changes entirely. Moving the whole family becomes necessary, leading to a complete shift in our lives. Lewis’s relocation will be beneficial for us.
Read more – Fresh Lewis Hamilton contract details emerge ahead of mega Ferrari move
Why Lando Norris and Max Verstappen should take heed of Niki Lauda and James Hunt’s friendship
During the British Grand Prix weekend, Freddie Hunt, the son of 1976 F1 World Champion James Hunt, emphasized the importance of the enduring friendship between his father and title rival Niki Lauda. He suggested that Max Verstappen and Lando Norris should learn from this example as their own rivalry intensifies.
Hunt believes Norris and Verstappen will face a tough test in maintaining their friendship amidst potential moments of rivalry between Red Bull and McLaren.
“Perhaps,” he responded, acknowledging the potential challenges in maintaining the friendship.
Dad and Niki were successful in achieving their goal. Despite some people’s belief that they failed, this is solely due to the media misrepresenting their statements. However, once they resolved their differences during their phone conversation, they were able to reconcile and remain friends.
Even in the midst of fierce competition, wherein friendships are set aside, individuals still maintain a deep respect for their friends and strive to prevent harm to both themselves and their companions. However, if they continue to race in such close proximity, it may require some effort for them to avoid developing animosity towards one another.
In my opinion, both of them possess considerable wisdom. They seem capable enough to maintain the understanding that whatever occurs on the track should remain there. I have a hopeful belief, and I believe it is likely true.
Read more – The Hunt/Lauda friendship example Max Verstappen and Lando Norris need to emulate
Six F1 Sprint races confirmed for the 2025 season
For the 2025 season, F1 has not added more Sprint races to the calendar despite a controversial weekend format that will be used for a quarter of the championship.
F1 has confirmed the six races that will feature Sprints next year, acknowledging their popularity among larger audiences. However, a change has been made to the schedule, resulting in the removal of Austria.
Belgium is set to host a Sprint once again, after last serving as the host in 2023.
Read more – F1 unveil six hosts of sprint races for 2025 with iconic circuit added
Toyota to F1? The Japanese manufacturer responds following recent speculation
Following recent speculation suggesting that Toyota may be considering a potential partnership with Haas in Formula 1, rumors which emerged earlier this week, the Japanese car manufacturer has now addressed these claims. Toyota’s response comes amidst suggestions that the collaboration could potentially take place as soon as next season.
When PlanetF1.com asked Toyota about the rumors of a potential collaboration or a comeback to F1, the company chose not to completely dismiss the possibility.
“Regarding this matter, Toyota’s spokesperson informed PlanetF1.com that there is no additional information to provide, except for the fact that Toyota remains committed to manufacturing increasingly superior cars and nurturing individuals through their involvement in motorsport.”
Read more – Toyota issues response over F1 2025 rumours as Haas speculation swirls
Liam Lawson’s Red Bull test at Silverstone
On Thursday, Liam Lawson participated in a private test with Red Bull at Silverstone, conducting a filming day outing. This comes amidst ongoing speculation about a potential driver swap at Red Bull due to uncertainty surrounding Sergio Perez’s seat.
The test provided Red Bull with an opportunity to compare his performance to the established standards set by Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez. Therefore, here is PlanetF1.com’s evaluation of what may happen next…
Read more – Red Bull conduct private Silverstone test with three driver futures on the line
