Express Sport is on hand to keep you updated with the latest F1 news (Image: GETTY)
Formula One will remain on standby for another three weeks but plenty of developments are taking place away from the track. Last week, it was confirmed that Liam Lawson would be replacing Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB for the final six races of the season.
It came after a lengthy period of speculation over Ricciardo’s future, with senior figures at Red Bull split over whether to give him the boot. The manner of his exit has prompted a backlash from fans, many of whom believe he was denied the send-off he deserved.
Lewis Hamilton, meanwhile, will be hoping to finish his time at Mercedes on a positive note ahead of his move to Ferrari next year. The 39-year-old has endured a tough campaign but will have the opportunity to give a good account of himself in the final weeks of the season.
ICYMI: Renault to stop making F1 engines
Renault have confirmed the cancellation of their plans to supply engines to Alpine from the 2026 season.
It was announced on Monday that Renault’s engine factory would be transformed into ‘an engineering centre of excellence’ by the end of this year.
Alpine are widely expected to use Mercedes power units from 2026, though this is yet to be confirmed.
Renault will stop making power units for Alpine from 2026 onwards (Image: GETTY)
Jos Verstappen twists knife into Red Bull
Jos Verstappen has claimed that he knew Red Bull would lose senior members of staff if Christian Horner stayed at the team.
Last week, it was confirmed that Red Bull’s head of race strategy Will Courtenay will be joining McLaren as their new sporting director.
It follows the exits of Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley to Aston Martin and Audi respectively.
Speaking at the East Belgian Rally last weekend, Verstappen said: “Yes, this is what I warned about.
“The team then says: ‘Oh, it doesn’t matter, we have someone else [who we can put in that position]’.”
Christian Horner opens up on Red Bull split
Christian Horner has revealed that senior figures at Red Bull were split over whether to axe Daniel Ricciardo.
“Even around Barcelona, Helmut [Marko] wanted him out of the car,” said Horner.
“I’ve done my very best to buy him as much time in the car to allow him to deliver, so otherwise he would have been out of the car after Barcelona.
“All the drivers are under pressure to deliver but the reason that Daniel was in that car was to get himself back into a position to ultimately be there to pick up the pieces if Checo didn’t deliver.
“The problem was, they both had issues with form at varying times. Checo started the season very well, very strongly, and Daniel was struggling.
“Then, as Checo lost form, Daniel found a bit of form but it was never compelling enough to say, okay, we should switch the two drivers.”
Lewis Hamilton makes debut in new role
Lewis Hamilton has appeared in his debut campaign for Dior after taking up a new role with the luxury fashion house.
Earlier this year, the Mercedes driver inked a deal to become their latest brand ambassador.
Dior’s new lifestyle collection, designed by Kim Jones in collaboration with Hamilton, offers a first glimpse into his high-fashion era.
It features wide-leg trousers, knit sweaters and oversized jackets and is made with 80 per cent sustainable materials.
The collection will be available to purchase in-store and online later this month.
