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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.
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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.
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    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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    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    “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.
    @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 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);}
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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

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    F1 world champion Max Verstappen reveals new gold helmet design for season ahead as he prepares for Lewis Hamilton fight

    MAX VERSTAPPEN has struck gold with his new helmet design for the 2022 season.The F1 world champion – who will race with the No.1 on his Red Bull car this season – has swapped his traditional red colour to reveal a new gold look across his crash helmet to reflect his championship success.
    Max Verstappen shows off his new gold helmet ahead of next season
    Max Verstappen won the title on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi GP – albeit a controversial end to the campaign with his intense battle with Lewis Hamilton.
    The sport’s governing body are still investigating what happened in the stewards’ room but the Dutchman is still Red Bull’s golden boy.
    The new colour scheme features his now trademark lion on the top plus the number “1” on the back along with a world championship star.
    In December, Verstappen left no doubt who was F1’s golden boy when he donned a pair of gold shoes.
    Back in Abu Dhabi, where he was triumphant, for a tyre test he showed of the fetching footwear while wearing a baseball hat saying ‘Champion’.
    Meanwhile, F1 bosses have confirmed that the Singapore Grand Prix will continue to be held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit for another seven years.
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    The contract extension is a huge boost to the sport and the city, which has been unable to host a race in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.
    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO, Formula One, said: “I am delighted that Formula One will continue to race in Singapore for another seven years.
    “The Marina Bay Street Circuit hosted the first night race in F1 history in 2008, and Singapore has continued to thrill fans, teams, and drivers ever since.
    “Singapore holds a special place on the F1 calendar, and this extension is part of our long-term commitment to continue to grow the sport in Asia.” More

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    Lewis Hamilton spotted for the first time ahead of 2022 F1 season as Mercedes driver grabs iced coffee in California

    LEWIS HAMILTON has been spotted out in public for the first time since his defeat to Max Verstappen in Abu Dhabi.The seven-time Formula One world champion was seen grabbing an iced coffee while out in California.
    Lewis Hamilton was seen grabbing an iced coffee in CaliforniaCredit: BackGrid
    It was the first time the F1 legend has been spotted out in public since last seasonCredit: BackGrid
    Hamilton, 37, has not officially confirmed whether or not he will be returning to the track this year after the fallout from last year’s final race in Abu Dhabi.
    The Brit lost out on the Driver’s Championship title to Verstappen after a controversial finale to the 2021 season.
    Rumours have since circulated suggesting that he may not return to the sport over frustrations about the FIA and Michael Masi.
    His decision will be dependent on the inquest into the title-deciding race, which will be published two days before the start of the season.
    However, it was recently revealed that he WILL be at the launch of Mercedes’ 2022 car.
    Totto Wolff and his team appear to be optimistic about his return, with Mercedes posting plenty of Hamilton content on their social media channels.
    @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);}
    Most Formula One drivers have returned to pre-season training, including George Russell.
    The young star is expected to go toe-to-toe with his new team-mate this year, which could make for an even more thrilling title race.
    Meanwhile, former Mercedes co-star Valtteri Bottas admits he was confused by his parting gift from the team.
    The German manufacturer gifted the Finn his 2017 car – the year he joined the team – and Bottas joked: “I don’t have room for it!” More