Max Verstappen, known for his daring maneuvers, faced a setback at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix when telemetry revealed he overestimated the corner at Turn 1—without Oscar Piastri’s interference.
According to former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer, Verstappen’s aggressive attempt to maintain his lead was evident as he approached the first turn faster than during his pole lap. This “Hail Mary move” depicted Verstappen’s bold strategy, which ultimately didn’t pay off, as the data suggests he wouldn’t have successfully navigated the turn even if Piastri hadn’t been nearby.
Meanwhile, Lando Norris, the young and ambitious McLaren driver, has decided on a lifestyle change aimed at boosting his performance in the 2025 World Championship. Following an incident in Amsterdam that led to a facial injury just before his first F1 victory in Miami, Norris has opted to abstain from alcohol. This decision marks a significant shift in his approach as he eyes the championship title, showcasing his commitment to reaching peak performance under pressure.
In addition to these key driver stories, the Cadillac Formula 1 team, currently powered by Ferrari engines, is set for a significant transition. With the FIA approving General Motors’ Performance Power Units as a new engine manufacturer, Cadillac will begin utilizing these new power units in the 2029 season, indicating a strategic long-term plan for the team.
The FIA is also experiencing changes at the top. With the recent resignation of Robert Reid, the deputy president for sport, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has nominated Malcolm Wilson OBE as the successor. Malcolm, known for his role as managing director at M-Sport, brings a wealth of experience and is awaiting a consequential vote from FIA members to confirm his position.
As the F1 landscape evolves, drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris continue to adapt their strategies both on and off the track. Whether through data-driven insights or personal lifestyle changes, their efforts reflect the dynamic nature of the sport, where every decision can impact the championship chase.
