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      Inside ‘magic’ F1 McLaren innovation that has flung team ahead of Red Bull but fans are calling it ‘illegal’

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      MCLAREN have raced to the front of the field in Formula One’s Constructors Championship for the first time in a decade.But some F1 fans have blasted the team after spotting a “magic” innovation at the weekend.McLarens Oscar Piastri benefitted from a ‘magic’ innovation to win the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCredit: RexLando Norris also had an impressive drive to get back up to P4 from starting P15Credit: RexMcLaren’s ‘flexi’ rear wing in Baku raised eyebrowsCredit: Sky Sports F1It gave him extra pace to keep in front of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc on the back straightCredit: RexThe Woking-based manufacturer have made a remarkable surge up the field since Bahrain 2023, when Lando Norris finished dead last and Oscar Piastri retired due to electrical failure.But on Sunday, at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, McLaren saw their Papaya reign supreme as Piastri won his second race of the season with some stoic defending against Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.Norris took P4 and the fastest lap after an impressive drive through the field having started P15 following some bad luck in qualifying. The Brit’s result saw him marginally cut Max Verstappen’s championship lead.READ MORE IN F1The Baku race confirmed the MCL38’s position as the fastest car in the field, with the British team now the only one with two drivers to have won multiple races this season.However, McLaren’s amazing surge threatens to be overshadowed.Fans of rival teams were left vexed at how they had pulled off such a strong result in Azerbaijan before one “magic” innovation of the McLaren car design was highlighted.Only last week McLaren and Mercedes were cleared of any wrongdoing over the legality of their front wing, but following Baku it was their rear wing which had fans up in arms on social media.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFootage shared on social media by one furious member of the Tifosi showed how the DRS (Drag Reduction System) flap of race leader Piastri tilted up when under aerodynamic load (wind resistance).This flexible wing created a “mini-DRS” effect, allowing for reduced drag and increased top speed down the straight – which can see drivers hit speeds of 217mph.Why snapping up Adrian Newey is such a coup for Aston MartinThe extra speed was key in helping Piastri fend off Leclerc, who had the advantage of a fully open DRS flap due to being one second behind him going into the last stretch of numerous laps.Taking to social media after the race, one fan said: “The entire DRS flap is rotating under load. You can see at the pivot points, the flap is not aligning with the wing tips. “The flap is backing off at high speed, shedding drag. How is this okay?”Another user pointed out gaps at the edge of the flap, and asked: “How is this allowed?”A ‘mini-DRS’ effect was seen on the wing under aerodynamic load to reduce dragCredit: X @justformulacarThe clever wing design has not been deemed illegal by the FIA despite a fan outcryA third said: “MCLAREN HAS DRS WITHOUT HAVING A CAR INFRONT OF THEM MAN THIS S*** IS NOT LEGAL.”Several fans also argued the other way by saying F1 should not punish the new interpretation of the rules, with one saying: “It’s called a loophole and that’s what makes Formula 1 great.”If you don’t like it, don’t watch a series like F1, where a regulation set is interpreted by different teams, in different ways.”Motorsport engineer Blake Hinsey added on social media: “If the technical regulations have specifications for rear wing deflection and this passes the tests, then it’s legal. “Every piece of bodywork moves in complex ways under aerodynamic load.”If McLaren have found a way to reduce the drag on their rear wing in a different way – congratulations – they’ve done a brilliant job engineering this system.”From 2021, rear wings have needed to have 12 target dots in specific locations on the main plane and upper flap to prevent over-rotation of the rear wing assemblies.However, it is not the first race this has been deployed in by McLaren, meaning the FIA are seemingly happy and satisfied the design is within the constraints currently posed by the regulations.Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has hinted that his team could look to follow McLaren’s example in a bid to catch up.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also admitted Red Bull had made a design error stunting their progress back in Barcelona 2023, but had not taken the warnings raised by Sergio Perez seriously due to Verstappen’s dominance.McLaren will be hoping their good form continues in next Sunday’s Singapore race, with their championship lead over Red Bull now at 20 points and Norris just 59 points behind Verstappen.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 More

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      F1 star Sergio Perez’s dad rushed to hospital after doctors found him unconscious in bathroom

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      SERGIO PEREZ’S father was rushed to hospital after being found unconscious on his bathroom floor.Antonio Pérez Garibay, the dad of Red Bull driver Checo, was hospitalised over a pre-heart attack after Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.The father of Red Bull driver Sergio Perez was rushed to hospital after the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCredit: GettyAntonio Perez Garibay was found unconscious on his bathroom floorCredit: GettyThe medical emergency came after Perez crashed out of Sunday’s raceCredit: GettyAccording to Mexican media, Perez Garibay suffered a pre-infarction, a condition that can present itself in the form of chest pain ahead of a heart attack.The medical emergency is said to have happened on Sunday morning immediately after his son was involved in a race-ending crash with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz in Baku.He is understood to have collapsed in the bathroom of his Mexico City home, with emergency services from the Mexican Red Cross quickly transporting him to receive urgent medical attention.A press release from his press office said: “The incident occurred following his son’s impact during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, in a collision with driver Carlos Sainz.READ MORE IN F1“Perez Garibay was found unconscious in the bathroom of his Mexico City home, where paramedics attended to provide immediate medical attention. “He was rushed to a hospital in the capital, where he is currently under medical observation and in stable condition. We thank you for your expressions of support and affection.”Pictures of the 65-year-old – who is also a popular local politician – were also released, showing him in a hospital bed as he recovers.He currently remains in hospital under observation, where it is understood he will remain for a few days while checks are carried out.Most read in MotorsportA statement from his racing organisation, Scuderia Perez, to Planet F1 said: “Mr. Perez Garibay is stable but remains in intensive care under constant medical review, focusing mainly on his heart and other vital organs. “The specialists in charge have indicated that his condition continues to be closely monitored.”In the meantime, Perez Garibay has been active on social media, posting pictures of his son with the caption “Viva Mexico” and sharing photos of the Grito de Independencia Ceremony.As quoted by Mexican outlet Medio Tiempo, Perez Garibay said: “Everything happened after the [Perez] accident. The shock of the accident may have caused it.“They are already checking my heart to see why I fainted.”Perez, 34, had been jostling for position with Sainz in the closing stages of the race when they had an unfortunate coming together when Perez’s front right wheel clipped the rear left of his rivals, causing the Ferrari to veer to the left and cause both to crash into the wall.Pictures released from his office release showed him receiving treatment in hospitalCredit: XNo further action was taken by race stewards for the incident, with onboard footage showing neither driver had turned their wheel in a way which could have caused the collision.Perez blasted Sainz, 30, as “an idiot” over the team radio before he was seen getting out of his car and going over to the Spaniard while he was still in his car to confront him about the crash.On the incident, a calmed down Perez later told reporters: “I felt that exiting Turn 2, there was plenty of room between both cars, and within a metre or two, we ended up making contact.”It’s very unfortunate. It all happened so quickly. I think Carlos was trying to follow the tow from Charles as he went to the inside and that really made things really hard.”Meanwhile, Sainz said: “I was attacking Charles into Turn 2 and then I exited Turn 2. Checo [Perez] was on my left. “We normally do a slight drift towards the left into the long straight, which I did like every other lap, and suddenly for some reason I don’t understand, Checo and I collided, which is unfortunate and also very disappointing.”He added: “We’ve spoken already. [But] we need to analyse. I’m not someone who wants to put blame on either an excuse or put blame on another driver. It’s racing, everything happens super-fast.“My feeling today is honestly I did nothing wrong, I didn’t do any erratic manoeuvre, put him against the wall or anything like that. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We were just, like every other lap, drifting a bit, a tiny, tiny little bit towards the left because that’s where the racing line is and we just touched. It is what it is.”F1 returns with another street circuit with the Singapore Grand Prix next weekend.Perez crashed with Carlos Sainz in Sunday’s raceCredit: X @SkySportsF1Race stewards did not punish either driver for the incidentCredit: X @SkySportsF1🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season so far:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Sergio PerezFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and TBCAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and TBCHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon More

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      Sky Sports F1 presenter forced to miss Azerbaijan GP coverage after undergoing emergency surgery in Baku

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      SKY SPORTS host Rachel Brookes missed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after being rushed to hospital for emergency surgery.McLaren’s Oscar Piastri won as Lando Norris came fourth and closed the gap on Max Verstappen at the top of the standings.Rachel Brookes missed the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCredit: GettyShe as absent due to undergoing emergency surgeryCredit: InstagramBrookes had appendicitis after initially fearing it was food poisoningCredit: InstagramShe has updated fans on her healthCredit: InstagramBrookes, 47, was set to be part of the team covering the race in Baku – but she was surprisingly absent from coverage.With fans wondering where the broadcaster was, she took to social media to explain that she had gone under the knife due to appendicitis.Brookes said on Instagram: “So I landed here Tuesday night and felt poorly. Thought it was just nasty food poisoning but yesterday found out that I had appendicitis and needed surgery.”I’ve had the appendectomy and all good. Just want to say a massive thanks to all my colleagues at Sky Sports F1 for stepping up, stepping in to cover and sending me so many messages. We really do have the best team.READ MORE IN F1″And also to Sky as a company for pulling out all the stops to get me the best care and flying out my sister for support. So, basically, that’s why I wasn’t on the coverage this weekend… see you all in Texas.”Brookes also thanked the medics for the care she received, saying: “And the hugest of thank yous to the amazing staff at Liv Bona Dea hospital in Baku. I could not have felt in safer hands. “From my surgeon, Elgun, to my anaesthetist, Madina, to all the nurses who downloaded Google Translate so we could communicate.”To Ayshan, Yazgul, Shovgia, Humay and Osman – you were more than any patient could wish for. Also to Formula Medicine and all the medical staff at the Baku Circuit, you were fantastic.”Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSF1 drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon have both missed races this year due to appendicitis, leading to Brookes joking: “What do I have in common with them?”She was not the only famous face missing from Sky Sports’ coverage in Baku over the weekend as commentator David Croft was also not there.His absence was due to him being on his honeymoon after recently tying the knot to Laura Bradley.F1 Driver Salaries in 2024: How Much Do They Make? Savage sackings in F1THE world of F1 can be savage, with employees discarded like used tea bags.Danish driver Kevin Magnussen was a rising star of the McLaren team when he made his debut in 2014 alongside Jensen Button.But when he finished the season trailing in eleventh place, he was swiftly replaced by two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso.Instead of breaking the bad news to him in a face-to-face meeting, boss Ron Dennis got his assistant to send Magnussen a short and impersonal email.Worst still, the curt message landed in Kevin’s inbox on his 23rd birthday.Read more tales of F1’s brutal world including one boss who was labelled an ‘executioner’ and a driver dumped by a brisk TEXT. More

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      Four F1 stars including Max Verstappen handed warnings for overtaking after race had FINISHED as fans left baffled

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN and three other drivers avoided punishment for overtaking after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix had finished.Verstappen, Esteban Ocon, Pierre Gasly and Nico Hulkenberg were all issued warnings after they were spotted overtaking under the Virtual Safety Car.Max Verstappen was issued a warning for overtaking after the Azerbaijan GP was overCredit: RexThe Dutchman overtook a number of cars after crossing the finish lineCredit: XA Virtual Safety Car was in place after a dramatic crash late in the raceCredit: X @SkySportsF1Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez both crashed out of contentionCredit: X @SkySportsF1Despite the race having already been won by Oscar Piastri by the time the overtaking was completed, drivers still have to avoid overtaking while the VSC is in place – which it was.The VSC had been brought in following an astonishing crash on the penultimate lap of the Baku City Circuit that saw podium chasers Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez crash out of contention.Fortunately for the four drivers caught overtaking, the decision was taken to issue warnings rather than offering up penalties.However, the stewards have warned that any repeat offending “may lead to significant penalties”.READ MORE IN F1A statement read: “While passing after the chequered flag is not unusual, it is prohibited in the case of yellows, Safety Car or Virtual Safety Car procedures.”While the drivers were aware of where the incident was, they could not have known if emergency equipment or marshals were being dispatched onto the track, and so have to proceed with caution. “The Stewards are aware that this has happened earlier this season and was not noticed at the time. “We are therefore warning the driver concerned, along with all other competitors. Further breaches may incur significant penalties.”Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFans were confused at first by the warnings and took to social media to react.One wrote: “But the race was over, right? I don’t understand where the infraction was committed there? Maybe I’m stupid, but I don’t understand…”Watch F1 star Lando Norris drive unique McLaren P1 car round Silverstone – but can you spot why it’s so incredible?While another added: “If Verstappen gets penalised for this I’m suing the FIA.”Others sided with the FIA, reiterating that rules are rules and the drivers need to follow them for everyone’s safety.One posted: “The point is, the hazard is still on the road. It is not a video game where you cross the finish line and all sudden the road is clean. There was still two cars crashed into each other.”And a second reiterated: “VSC is VSC.. rules still apply even if its after the race.”The chaos in Baku meant George Russell jumped into third place behind Charles Leclerc in second.While Oscar Piastri upstaged Lando Norris as McLaren soared into the lead of the Constructors’ Championship.The result means McLaren now boasts a 20-point lead in the constructors’ standings over Red Bull.Oscar Piastri was the winner in BakuCredit: Getty More

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      Watch astonishing crash at end of Azerbaijan Grand Prix as F1 star Carlos Sainz appears to run rival into barrier

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      CARLOS SAINZ and Sergio Perez were involved in an astonishing crash late in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.The Ferrari and Red Bull stars collided with one another on the penultimate lap of the Baku City Circuit.Carlos Sainz caused a bizarre crash late in the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCredit: SKY SPORTSHe sent Sergio Perez flying into the barrier in the penultimate lapCredit: SKY SPORTSRed Bull’s Sergio Perez fumed over his radio after the crashCredit: SKY SPORTSSainz, somehow, ended up pushing the Mexican into the barrier after returning to the track following a brief stint on the rumble stripes.Perez was left fuming, shouting, “What the f***” over his team radio while Sainz asked, “What happened?”F1 fans were dumbfounded by Sainz’s antics as he vied for third place with Perez.One wrote on X: “CARLOS SAINZ WHAT THE F**K WAS THAT???????”READ MORE F1 NEWSAnother said: “Carlos Sainz really said, ‘F**k Mexico… viva Espana!'”And another said: ” Carlos Sainz, what a ridiculous way to drive.”One remarked: ” Can’t handle the pressure, so you mess it all up.”The chaos between Perez and Sainz saw George Russell jump into third place behind Charles Leclerc in second.Most read in MotorsportOscar Piastri ended up staging Lando Norris as McLaren soared into the lead of the Constructors’ Championship.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe result means McLaren now boasts a 20-point lead in the constructors’ standings over Red Bull.Norris put the disappointment of qualifying behind him to soar from P16 into fourth place ahead of Max Verstappen in fifth.Watch F1 star Lando Norris drive unique McLaren P1 car round Silverstone – but can you spot why it’s so incredible?The Dutchman had another stinker, battling with grip problems and losing more faith in his Red Bull.Norris, meanwhile, clawed back some of Verstappen’s advantage and is now 59 points behind with seven races to go.It was a heart-in-mouth battle between Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who started on pole, and Aussie Piastri.By lap 20 Piastri was leading the race after lunging on the inside of Leclerc to steal the P1 position, forcing the Monegasque into second where he stayed put.Lewis Hamilton did well to finish in ninth after starting from the pit lane after taking a new engine in Baku.The seven-time world champion qualified in seventh for Mercedes but was penalised for exceeding his power unit allowance for the season.Carlos Sainz celebrates his stunning victory in BakuCredit: REUTERS More

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      Fans hail ‘miracle’ as sickening F2 crash totally destroys one car and leaves another on its side but drivers walk away

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      THIS is the horrifying moment a huge crash occurred during a Formula Two race.With all drivers on the grid at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the lights went out to signal the start of the race.Kush Maini’s car did not get off the line and Pepe Marti went into the back of himCredit: X @SkySportsF1Marti’s car slid across the track on its sideCredit: X @SkySportsF1Debris covered the trackCredit: GettyMaini’s car was taken away destroyedCredit: GettyBut disaster struck for Kush Maini as his car failed to start, leaving him stationary on the track.A couple of drivers were able to swerve the Invicta Racing driver – but Pepe Marti was unable to avoid a collision.He smashed into the back of Maini and destroyed the back of his car.Marti was sent flying, with his vehicle flipping onto its side and sliding across the tarmac.READ MORE IN F1Debris covered the track and Oliver Goethe was also unable to continue after he was knocked against the wall as he tried to avoid a dangerous pile up.Fellow driver Isack Hadjar was heard panicked on the team radio, saying: “Oh my God, that was really bad.”Thankfully, F2 confirmed all three drivers were OK.And Goethe was seen speaking to a marshal straight after he climbed out his car.Most read in MotorsportFans have hailed how all managed to escape without an injury as a “miracle”.Others commented: “Such a scary incident, so grateful everyone is okay.”Watch F1 star Lando Norris drive unique McLaren P1 car round Silverstone – but can you spot why it’s so incredible?And another added: “Thank goodness for the halo and a good chassis.”Analysing the crash, Sky Sports commentators said: “It is worst case scenario.”It’s always the drivers towards the rear of the field, they are doing a higher when you get there. Your reaction time is ever reduced as you go back through the rows of the grid.”Those in front use their great reaction times to dart out of the way. You’re unsighted until so late.”🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 More

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      Lando Norris suffers huge dent to F1 world championship dream after qualifying shocking 17th for Azerbaijan GP

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      LANDO NORRIS suffered a shock exit in Q1 to put a major dent in his title hopes in Azerbaijan.The 24-year-old had to settle for P17 after he was knocked out of the first qualifying session in Baku due to a yellow flag coming out before he could finish his lap.Lando Norris was booted out in Q1 for the Azerbaijan GPCredit: GettyCharles Leclerc will star on pole ahead of Oscar Piastri and Carlos SainzCredit: AFPThe Brit is 62 points behind leader Max Verstappen in the F1 drivers’ championship.Meanwhile, McLaren are only eight points away from Red Bull in the F1 constructors’ title race.Norris said: “The lap was easily good enough but it was a yellow flag so I had to back off.”On potentially making up positions, he added: “I don’t think it’s as easy as that.READ MORE ON F1″Honestly following is pretty much impossible around here and overtaking is a lot worse than what everyone thinks.”I hope I’m wrong and I hope there are plenty of chances but I’m not expecting so, there are a lot of cars behind.“It’s very low downforce which is pretty much impossible to overtake, I’m not expecting a lot from 17th.”But we will put in a good plan tonight and do our best.”Most read in MotorsportBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesCharles Leclerc secured pole position in his Ferrari, fresh off the back of his win two weeks ago in Monza.McLaren may be thinking twice about their decision to prioritise Norris in his title fight as his team-mate Oscar Piastri secured second.The most shocking Silverstone scandals from spying to cheating and X rated displays🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁Verstappen slumped into just sixth place, behind his team-mate Sergio Perez who came in fourth.Carlos Sainz finished third while George Russel was fifth and Lewis Hamilton came in seventh.It was a chaotic qualifying in Baku, with a member of the Williams pit crew leaving a cooling fan attached to Alex Albon’s car in Q3.Max Verstappen in conversation with Christian HornerCredit: ReutersLewis Hamilton works his way around the streets of BakuCredit: GettyWill Smith popped in to see the Ferrari teamCredit: EPA More

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      ‘Wow’ – Lewis Hamilton laughs at bizarre claim from F1 rival Max Verstappen as he says ‘I don’t really know what to say’

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      LEWIS HAMILTON must have heard almost everything in F1.But even the seven-time world champ couldn’t contain himself when told of Max Verstappen’s verdict on the upcoming final third of the season.Lewis Hamilton appeared surprised by the comments of Max Verstappen, who is well clear of McLaren’s Lando Norris in the title raceCredit: GettyHamilton’s reaction to Verstappen’s verdict was clear to seeCredit: GettyRed Bull ace Verstappen has won the last three titles and leads this year’s Championship by 62 points from McLaren’s Lando Norris.But RB have spluttered in recent races amid performance issues.And McLaren have been closing the gap – leaving them just eight points behind Red Bull in the duel for the Constructors’ crown.However, Mercedes’ British star Hamilton was amused and bemused by Verstappen’s assessment ahead of Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.READ MORE TOP STORIESLast time out, at the Italian GP two weeks ago, Norris was third and his team-mate Oscar Piastri second – behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.In contrast, Verstappen was sixth, with fellow RB driver Sergio Perez a further two spots below him.The Dutchman, 26, responded at the time by claiming Red Bull’s title hopes were now “unrealistic”.And far from now backing down in Baku, he said: “If we perform like Monza, it’s not realistic. Most read in MotorsportFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”So we definitely need to be better than what we have been delivering lately, we know that. “If we can find a better balance with the car, then actually we’ll be more competitive. But if more competitive is enough, I don’t know.”The richest Wags in F1 revealed with some earning thousands from InstagramThose comments were put to Hamilton, who is out of contention in sixth place before he switches to Ferrari for next year.And the 39-year-old was clearly reeling after hearing his old foe’s judgement.At first he said: “He said it’s unrealistic for him to get one of the two titles? Wow.” Hamilton then burst into laughter and added: “I mean, that’s his opinion, that’s obviously what he’s feeling in that moment, but he’s pretty far ahead! “I don’t really know what to say about it.”Verstappen, however, could yet have plenty to say after Sunday’s race – and for positive reasons.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s because, despite his downbeat appraisal, he also let slip that Red Bull have discovered why their car has encountered problems.So if the team can fix those issues, their double title challenge could be “Baku on track” this weekend.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 More