Although we sincerely try to view the situation of F1 optimistically, there is no denying that there are some concerning indications regarding the direction of the top of motorsport in recent times. This includes a trend of holding races on artificial or street circuits, a strong push towards electrification regardless of its impact on racing, heavier cars, and an apparent obsession with money that seems to be driving the decision-making process.
While F1 is a business and not a charity organization, placing too much emphasis on financial issues at the expense of the quality of the races will certainly have a negative long-term effect. It has become increasingly challenging for talented drivers to enter F1 without significant financial support, which often surpasses their actual abilities. The example of Lance Stroll keeping his place in Aston Martin despite his questionable performance serves as a clear illustration of this problem.
Nearly a year ago, this writer expressed his belief in the potential of F1 in an Editor’s Desk article, and while these feelings remain unchanged, it is undeniable that not everyone is satisfied with the current state of the sport. Needell is one of the voices expressing concern about what F1 has become or is becoming, and it may be worth paying attention to his perspective.
During an interview on the Feulling Around podcast, Needell was asked about the likelihood of Oliver Bearman becoming a full-time F1 driver. This question provided an opportunity for the former driver to address several topics currently under debate, such as the controversy surrounding the Andretti Cadillac. The F1 continues to marginalize the American project, despite the FIA recognizing its potential benefits. Under the presidency of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA underwent a meticulous process of evaluating and selecting potential F1 teams to ensure that the Andretti Cadillac met the standards set by the governing body, which acts as the guardian of the sport.
Needell expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating: “Ollie Bearman is an exceptional British driver who is achieving remarkable results in Formula 2. However, it remains uncertain whether he will be able to secure a spot in a Grand Prix, especially considering the Formula 1 establishment’s refusal to allow another team to enter the sport and bring two additional cars due to the Andretti ban. The current state of Formula 1 is outrageous. I am becoming increasingly disillusioned with the sport because it seems to revolve only around money. They signed a contract for a race in Madrid, on a circuit where nobody has ever raced, for the next 10 years! I saw the computer simulation and it indicates a lack of overtaking opportunities. This decision was made just to allow more paying guests to spend £7,000 in the Paddock Club and further enrich Formula 1,” Needell added, referring to the newest addition to the F1 calendar.
The F1 is about to introduce a new set of regulations in 2026, which will include new power units that eliminate the MGU-H component. These power units will have a balanced distribution of electrical power and internal combustion energy, with a 50/50 ratio. Additionally, there will be new cars equipped with active aerodynamics technology.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, along with their star driver Max Verstappen, have expressed their concerns regarding the upcoming power unit regulations. They believe that the cars will face a lack of power on long straights of the track. In response, Toto Wolff criticized their opinions and cast doubts on Red Bull’s Powertrains project. F1’s technical director, Pat Symonds, also downplayed Red Bull’s concerns.
Despite F1’s promise to improve the cars and races through the implementation of the new regulations, there are skeptics like Needell. He voiced his doubts, stating: “The regulations for 2026 seem to be terrible. The 50% electrical energy and 50% car energy, along with adjustable aerodynamics to avoid power loss on straights, pose significant challenges. Additionally, the weight and size of the cars make overtaking opportunities difficult, turning them into heavy vessels.” Needell also criticized F1’s exclusion of Andretti and accused the sport of being controlled by a small group of teams prioritizing their own interests.
© 2024
The football star Cristiano Ronaldo is back at his former club, Manchester United. The news was announced today, leaving fans excited about the possibility of seeing the player in action once again. Ronaldo played for Manchester United from 2003 to 2009, winning several important titles during that period. His return to the club is considered a major boost for the team, which aims to achieve success in the upcoming season.
Ronaldo’s signing with Manchester United came as a surprise to many, as there were rumors that he could join another European club. However, the player decided to return to the club where he had great success early in his career. The news was received with enthusiasm by the fans, who hope that Ronaldo will bring his skill and experience to help the team win titles.
Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest football players of all time. His career includes stints at clubs like Sporting Lisbon, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He also had success with the Portuguese national team, winning the Eurocup title in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019. His signing with Manchester United is seen as a clear sign of ambition by the club, which hopes to dominate English and European football once again.
Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United also marks a reunion with coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who played alongside the player during his time at the club. Solskjaer expressed his happiness with the signing, stating that Ronaldo will bring a winning mentality to the team. Additionally, it is believed that Ronaldo’s presence in the squad could attract other high-level players to the club.
Manchester United fans are eager to see Ronaldo in action again. His skill, speed, and goal-scoring ability make him a feared player by opponents. With his return to the club, it is hoped that Manchester United can compete on equal terms with the best teams in Europe. The next season promises to be exciting for Manchester United fans and football fans in general.
