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    Haas become first F1 team to launch 2022 car after major rule change sees larger wheels and new bodywork

    FORMULA ONE team Haas might have spent the last six seasons at the back of the grid – but they were on pole for their 2022 car launch.The American-owned Banbury-based team are the first to show off images of their challenger for this season.
    Haas have unveiled their new car for the 2022 seasonCredit: Uralkali Haas F1
    The American-owned team are the first to reveal their design for this yearCredit: Uralkali Haas F1
    A major new rule change for this season will see drastic changes to the cars’ bodywork and larger 18 inch wheels.
    F1 hopes the new cars will reduce the amount of turbulence for the cars behind, leading to closer racing and creating more opportunities for overtaking.
    Team boss Guenther Steiner said: “It’s exciting to be at the point where we know the VF-22 will be on-track shortly.
    “We all know what the team is capable of, we’ve proved that in the past, and with this new car — born out of a completely new set of regulations and with our new design team in place, I’m confident we can showcase once again that we can compete on weekends.
    “It’s been a tremendous effort by everyone involved and now comes the fun part of getting the new car to the circuit and dialing in all the elements.
    “Last season was a long one but I’m confident that 2022 will see us back in the mix with the VF-22.”
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    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    Haas are the first of the sport’s 10 teams to launch their car after Red Bull had hoped to be first off the line.
    F1 testing kicks off in Barcelona on February 23rd for three days before switching to Bahrain in March for a further three days.
    The first race of the 23-race record-breaking season is the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 20th.
    NEW FOR 2022

    Over-wheel winglets and wheel covers. The wheel covers prevent the cars from churning up turbulent air while the winglets will effectively iron-out the distorted air coming off the front tyres. Both of these reduce the air turbulence for the cars behind.
    New 18″ wheels with low-profile tyres. The bigger tyres are designed to reduce the amount they overheat – a primary aspect that should help with closer racing.
    New rear wing with ‘rolled tips’. Again, this is in line with the theory of causing less turbulent wake. The new rear wings force the expelled air upwards, rather than backwards.
    Engines will remain the same as this year’s power unit, however, the cars will now run on biofuel – known as ‘E10’.
    Safety improvements. The new chassis has been designed to absorb 48 per cent and 15 per cent more energy in the front and rear impact tests. The cars have also been designed in such a way that, in the event of a crash, the power unit will separate from the chassis without exposing the fuel tank.

    Guenther Steiner is hopeful that this year’s car can make Haas competitiveCredit: Uralkali Haas F1
    The car will be driven by Mick Schumacher and Nikita MazepinCredit: Uralkali Haas F1 More

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    F1 teams fighting off plans for more sprint races in 2022 season over costs amid budget cap being slashed

    FORMULA ONE’s plan to host more sprint races this season have got off to a false start.The 30-minute ‘sprint qualifying’ sessions were used to determine the grid for the British, Italian and Sao Paulo GPs last year – races which saw plenty of controversy.
    Lewis Hamilton smiles after finishing first in the sprint qualifying session at SilverstoneCredit: AFP
    While the Saturday sprint races were largely uneventful, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen collided on the Sunday GP at Silverstone and at Monza, while Hamilton battled back from a total of 25-grid penalties to win in Brazil.
    F1 quickly hailed the short races a success, with F1 boss Ross Brawn wanting a total of six in 2022.
    However, F1 teams are using the extra races as leverage to increase the budget cap.
    Some team bosses are arguing that the extra races, no matter how short, incur extra costs and risks.
    And with the budget cap reduced by an extra £3.7million this year to £103million, team’s are not willing to budge.
    It means that the discussions over the sprint qualifying for the season still remains unknown, while issues such as points and recognition of pole positions are still being thrashed out.

    🏁 F1 2022 calendar: practice times, dates and racetrack info
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    And with the new F1 season kicking off on March 20th in Bahrain, time is running out to get the rules finalised in time.
    Meanwhile, Hamilton has been accused of trying to get FIA race director Michael Masi sacked.
    Dutch sportscar driver Jeroen Bleekemolen said: “Hamilton is trying to increase the pressure on the FIA motorsport federation and is powerful.
    “I think he wants to get some people out of there, like race director Michael Masi.
    “Lewis wants to turn it upside down. He can do that. He has a lot of influence as the greatest of all. Some people will disappear.
    “His opinion is noticed and everyone is talking about it – that puts pressure on the FIA.
    “They have to intervene and make changes. The FIA has to come up with a good story, otherwise Hamilton’s first words will not be what the F1 leadership would like to hear.” More

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    Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen took ‘heavy risks’ during F1 title battle ahead of new 2022 season, says Mika Hakkinen

    MIKA HAKKINEN reckons Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton took “very heavy risks” during their recent title war.The F1 legend claimed Dutchman Verstappen and British star Hamilton relied too much on the safety of their cars and the track.
    Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen took heavy risks, according to Mika HakkinenCredit: Getty
    Max Verstappen beat Lewis Hamilton in a dramatic and controversial season-ending race in Abu DhabiCredit: AFP
    The two F1 superstars collided on multiple occasions during the 2021 season that saw Verstappen barely beating the Mercedes driver to the title following a dramatic and controversial final race in Abu Dhabi.
    The Red Bull champion was taken to hospital for concussion after his high-speed crash with Hamilton at Silverstone in July.
    The rivals also ran off the road together at Interlagos, while the Brit star had to take evasive action at the start at Imola.
    Hakkinen knows how bad it gets when a race goes wrong as he spent two months in hospital after a horrible crash in Adelaide in 1995.
    The Finn added that Verstappen and Hamilton took risks he wouldn’t have tried himself.
    The two-time world champion also argues that they have yet to find out the full pain they could experience.
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    Hakkinen said ahead of the World Sports Awards: “Is it my style to do things that those two drivers did?
    “Not really, it is not my style and that is because I had a very bad accident.
    “I spent a lot of time in hospital and I know the pain when things go wrong.
    “These two drivers, they don’t know that, so they do take risks, very heavy risks, and they rely a lot on the safety of the car and the safety of the track.” More

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    Lewis Hamilton accused of trying to get FIA chief Michael Masi sacked after F1 title loss

    LEWIS HAMILTON has been accused of trying to get FIA Race Director Michael Masi the sack.Hamilton has been silent since losing out on the F1 title in controversial circumstances after Masi failed to obey the correct safety car rules.
    Lewis Hamilton considered quitting but now it’s claimed he could influence whether FIA Race Director Michael Masi keeps his jobCredit: Reuters
    Michael Masi is still under pressure after his decision helped Max Verstappen dethrone Lewis Hamilton on the last lap of the last raceCredit: Getty
    It resulted in Max Verstappen passing Hamilton on the final lap to win the Abu Dhabi GP – and the F1 crown – much to the Brit’s frustration.
    Questions have been raised about Hamilton’s future in the sport while both he and his Mercedes team await the FIA’s report after their investigation into Masi’s actions in Abu Dhabi.
    However, Dutch sportscar driver Jeroen Bleekemolen says Hamilton’s influence could force through the changes.
    He said: “Hamilton is trying to increase the pressure on the FIA motorsport federation and is powerful.
    “I think he wants to get some people out of there, like race director Michael Masi.
    “Lewis wants to turn it upside down. He can do that. He has a lot of influence as the greatest of all. Some people will disappear.
    “His opinion is noticed and everyone is talking about it – that puts pressure on the FIA.
    “They have to intervene and make changes. The FIA has to come up with a good story, otherwise Hamilton’s first words will not be what the F1 leadership would like to hear.”
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    The FIA are weighing up plans that would see Masi have a deputy, shielding him from direct contact with the teams.
    However, Red Bull’s sporting director Jonathan Wheatley believes Masi is “more than capable” of emulating Charlie Whiting’s success in the role – providing he has the right support.
    Wheatley told The Jack Threlfall Show Podcast: “Charlie was your ultimate poacher-turned-gamekeeper.
    “He had the respect, he was consistent in his decision-making, consistent in the way he dealt with people across the board.
    “He knew when to tell you to shut up and when you needed an arm around you.
    “He was an extraordinary man in that respect and I think the FIA were slow to realise just what a big pair of shoes that would be to fill and I think Michael, with the right support, is more than capable of doing that.
    “On a personal level he is entirely a really, really nice guy with no edge to him at all. And he listens and tries to do the very best that he can.” More

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    Lewis Hamilton breaks social media silence for first time since losing F1 title – and unfollowing EVERYONE on Instagram

    LEWIS HAMILTON has finally broken his social media silence after unfollowing EVERYONE on Instagram last year.The British Formula One star, 37, has gone missing on social media since losing his world title to Max Verstappen at the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    Lewis Hamilton has finally broken his lengthy silence following December’s controversial Abu Dhabi GP
    Hamilton lost his F1 world title to Max Verstappen following a bizarre decision from race director Michael Masi, with rumours swirling that the Brit could quit the sportCredit: Reuters
    Rumours have been swirling ever since the December farce that Hamilton could QUIT F1.
    But ahead of the 2022 season, Hamilton joined new Mercedes team-mate George Russell in wishing his Weibo followers a Happy Chinese New Year.
    The Brit legend is yet to post on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook since early December and was only seen publicly for the first time over the weekend as he grabbed a coffee in California.
    In a short, five-second clip, Hamilton said: “I wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.
    “May the New Year bring you good luck and everything you wish for.”
    Russell added: “Hi guys. I’d like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    “I’m excited to join the AMG family and become part of the world’s fastest family.
    “See you soon and stay safe.”
    Hamilton was on the brink of securing an outright record EIGHTH F1 world title in December, only for a bizarre decision from race director Michael Masi to allow Verstappen to leapfrog him and snatch the 2021 crown.
    The BBC claim the Brit ace is still mulling over his options pending an FIA enquiry into the botched Abu Dhabi GP despite having two years left to run on his current contract.

    New FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed he has spoken to Hamilton since the contentious race.
    Ben Sulayem claimed: “I don’t think he’s 100 per cent ready to respond right now.
    “We don’t blame him. I understand his position.”
    Hamilton is due to report back to Mercedes duty on February 23 for pre-season testing.
    The opening race of the 2022 season will take place in Bahrain on March 20.
    Meanwhile, Mercedes have been forced to deny their 2022 car failed its crash tests.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More Sun Sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);} More

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    F1 could be forced to change driver line-up in 2022 as new Covid rules mean everybody in paddock must show vaccine proof

    FORMULA ONE chiefs could be looking for a new driver to line up on the grid in 2022 in the wake of their new covid rules.The F1 paddock will become a restricted zone that will require proof of a covid vaccination and that applies to all – drivers, team personnel, VIPs and media.
    New F1 rules mean all paddock staff have to show proof of a vaccinationCredit: AFP
    This rule change may cause the FIA an issue as their current medical driver Van der Merwe refuses to get jabbed for his ‘own health’Credit: AFP
    However, Alan Van der Merwe – who drives the FIA’s medical car – has previously stated on social media that he is unvaccinated for his “own health”.
    The 42-year-old was one of the heroes, along with Doctor Ian Roberts, who helped save Romain Grosjean from his fiery crash in Bahrain in 2020.
    Van der Merwe wrote on Twitter last year to explain his reasons for not taking the vaccine ahead of GPs in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
    He wrote: “In Switzerland (I’m half Swiss) and other developed countries, prior infection counts as much as a vaccine.
    “I trust that those countries know what they’re doing, and also respect countries’ more restrictive rules and not travel there.
    “I am fully aware that I will potentially be less employable or that my freedom of movement will be restricted based on my choices.
    “That I will not choose convenience over my own health does not mean I am making decisions out of selfishness. We all just want to be healthy.”
    It is believed that no F1 drivers will be impacted by the new rules as all are understood to be vaccinated.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    The plan for all personnel to be vaccinated was rubber-stamped at last month’s world council meeting.
    The FIA have yet to answer SunSport’s request for clarification over Van der Merwe’s position but paddock sources are adamant that vaccinations will be required.
    It comes as F1 plan to relax their covid protocols and will see the testing frequency reduced.
    Since the start of the pandemic, four drivers have had to miss races as a result of catching covid.
    Lewis Hamilton, Sergio Perez, Lance Stroll and Kimi Raikkonen were forced out of GPs.
    Another four – Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, Pierre Gasly and Nikita Mazepin – all picked up covid on non-race weekends. More

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    Lewis Hamilton breaks social media silence for first time since losing F1 title and unfollowing EVERYONE on Instagram

    LEWIS HAMILTON has finally broken his social media silence after unfollowing EVERYONE on Instagram last year.The British Formula One star, 37, has gone missing on social media since losing his world title to Max Verstappen at the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    Lewis Hamilton has finally broken his lengthy silence following December’s controversial Abu Dhabi GP
    Hamilton lost his F1 world title to Max Verstappen following a bizarre decision from race director Michael Masi, with rumours swirling that the Brit could quit the sportCredit: Reuters
    Rumours have been swirling ever since the December farce that Hamilton could QUIT F1.
    But ahead of the 2022 season, Hamilton joined new Mercedes team-mate George Russell in wishing his Weibo followers a Happy Chinese New Year.
    The Brit legend is yet to post on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook since early December and was only seen publicly for the first time over the weekend as he grabbed a coffee in California.
    In a short, five-second clip, Hamilton said: “I wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.
    “May the New Year bring you good luck and everything you wish for.”
    Russell added: “Hi guys. I’d like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.
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    “I’m excited to join the AMG family and become part of the world’s fastest family.
    “See you soon and stay safe.”
    Hamilton was on the brink of securing an outright record EIGHTH F1 world title in December, only for a bizarre decision from race director Michael Masi to allow Verstappen to leapfrog him and snatch the 2021 crown.
    The BBC claim the Brit ace is still mulling over his options pending an FIA enquiry into the botched Abu Dhabi GP despite having two years left to run on his current contract.
    New FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed he has spoken to Hamilton since the contentious race.
    Ben Sulayem claimed: “I don’t think he’s 100 per cent ready to respond right now.
    “We don’t blame him. I understand his position.”
    Hamilton is due to report back to Mercedes duty on February 23 for pre-season testing.
    The opening race of the 2022 season will take place in Bahrain on March 20.
    Meanwhile, Mercedes have been forced to deny their 2022 car failed its crash tests. More

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    Mercedes forced to release statement rubbishing claims Hamilton’s 2022 F1 car failed FIA’s crash tests ahead of season

    LEWIS HAMILTON’S Mercedes team have rubbished reports their 2022 F1 car failed the FIA’s crash tests.Merc issued a statement due to incorrect stories saying their W13 ‘completed its FIA homologation process on 13 January 2022′.
    There were claims Lewis Hamilton’s car failed FIA crash testingCredit: Getty
    Mercedes took to Twitter with the cheeky response over the reports
    All F1 teams are required to submit their cars to stringent safety checks, including side-impact stiffness.
    The new rules for this season mean the minimum weight of an F1 car has been increased to 795kg to allow for a stronger structure.
    Merc will launch their car on February 18, just five days before pre-season testing begins in Barcelona.
    The car will return to a traditional silver livery after two years of black, done to show support for diversity and a stand against racism and discrimination.
    And it will be used in a race for the first time on March 20 at the curtain-raiser in Bahrain.
    Hamilton will be in attendance at the virtual launch next month after the controversial end to the 2021 season.
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    He has been silent publicly since the Abu Dhabi finale which saw Max Verstappen steal the title from him on the final lap, not even posting on social media in that time.
    However, he was spotted in California grabbing a coffee over the weekend.
    The 37-year-old has been the subject of intense speculation regarding his position in the sport in recent weeks.
    Hamilton’s future hangs in the balance and is dependent on the outcome of an inquest into the title-deciding race, which is expected to be published TWO days before the start of next season.
    New Merc driver George Russell will also be present for his first day as a Mercedes driver after replacing Valteri Bottas, but all eyes will be on Hamilton.
    The new Mercedes car is yet to be released but is expected to revert back to the traditional silverCredit: AP More