Motorsport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Motorsport

      Inside ‘bizarre’ Las Vegas Grand Prix hit by crippling strikes, fans wanting refunds and it could be coldest in history

      by

      FORMULA ONE will take over Las Vegas for the first time in over four decades next week.Over half a billion dollars has already been spent in a bid to make it the most attractive race on the calendar.
      The Las Vegas Grand Prix is set to take place later this monthCredit: Getty
      Over half a billion dollars has already been spent on the eventCredit: PA
      However, the past few weeks and months have presented conflict and controversy.
      With a crippling strike threatened and many unhappy fans already requesting refunds, the event has been thrown into chaos.
      Even the drivers aren’t entirely enthused by the prospect of racing through the streets of Sin City.
      While the Las Vegas GP has the potential to be the most glamorous race of the year, there is a huge risk that fans could leave disappointed and out of pocket.
      Read More on F1
      And that may leave F1 in a whole heap of trouble.
      Strikes threatened
      Tens of thousands of hospitality workers in Vegas are said to be prepared to strike ahead of the race weekend.
      The Culinary and Bartenders Union have announced that 35,000 of its members across 18 local properties will initiate a strike if an adequate agreement is not reached with the casinos, hotels, and restaurants that employ them.
      The proposed strike by the state’s largest labour union would mark the first time in 10 years hospitality workers have gone on strike in Las Vegas.
      Most read in Motorsport
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Some hospitality workers are threatening to strikeCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      It could also become the largest hospitality strike in the history of the US.
      According to the Associated Press, a union spokesperson has said that workers currently have health insurance and earn $26 per hour, but didn’t specify their desired pay increase.
      Between 40,000 and 60,000 employee contracts have expired, but they are still working while negotiations continue.
      Although the union has been negotiating with MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment and Wynn Resorts for the past seven months, a deal is yet to be agreed.
      Furious fans
      Some F1 fans are said to be “disgruntled” after analysis revealed huge reductions in Las Vegas hotel prices ahead of the Grand Prix.
      Research by Oversteer48 looked at the 22 biggest hotels on the iconic Vegas strip – where the race is set to take place – and compared recent prices to those from last year when the event was announced.
      Some hotels have dramatically dropped in priceCredit: Getty
      While one hotel has stuck with the same rates, the other 21 have reduced them by an average of 58 per cent.
      Contrary to the expectations of F1 chiefs, tickets for the weekend are yet to sell out which is why hotel prices have been slashed.
      Oversteer48’s Alex Gassman also reports that some fans have managed to secure compensation or have rebooked hotels.
      However, others have been left stuck with non-refundable bookings.
      Schedule issues
      The scheduling of the Las Vegas GP has also come into question.
      For the first time since 1985, the race will take place on Saturday evening as opposed to the standard Sunday format.
      Qualifying is set to start at 12am local timeCredit: Getty
      However, due to the time difference fans in the UK will be able to watch on Sunday morning.
      Qualifying for the Las Vegas GP will take place from 12am until 1am local time on Saturday November 18, while the race will start at 10pm.
      That means in the UK qualifying will start at 8am on Saturday morning, with lights out at the early time of 6am the following day.
      Some fans on social media have branded the timings as “bizarre”.
      The coldest race ever?
      Traditionally, F1 races take place in warm climates – but that certainly won’t be the case in Vegas.
      Due to the season and the late start times, it is set to be one of the coldest races in F1 history.
      Tires could prove to be an issue for all teamsCredit: Reuters
      The temperature will likely drop to between five and 10º C which could present several issues – especially with tires.
      F1 tires are designed to offer optimum grip at high temperatures.
      That means low temperatures will lead to a lack of grip on track, which could see some minor individual errors punished.
      That could prove very costly on a tight street track.
      Mixed opinions
      Not everyone is overly thrilled about the prospect of driving in Las Vegas – especially in November.
      Discussing the race, reigning world champion Max Verstappen said: “A lot colder. Street circuit, new for everyone. I think it will be full of surprises for sure.”
      Read More on The Sun
      Meanwhile, former driver Bernie Ecclestone has heavily criticised the event.
      He said: “I’m not really looking forward to it. It has nothing to do with Formula One.”
      Max Verstappen isn’t too pleased about racing at night in VegasCredit: Getty More

    • 75 Shares129 Views

      in Motorsport

      What is Sergio Perez’s net worth?

      by

      SERGIO Perez is one of the biggest names in Formula One.And with sporting success comes fame and fortune – but what is Sergio’s salary and what is his estimated net worth? Here’s everything you need to know.
      Sergio Perez pictured with Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian HornerCredit: Getty
      Who is Sergio Perez?
      Sergio Perez, born January 26, 1990, in Guadalajara, Mexico, is a racing driver.
      He currently races in Formula One for Red Bull Racing.
      Fans of the F1 star will also know that Perez is affectionally known by the nickname ”Checo” in his home country.
      The sports star has previously driven for Sauber before making to move to McLaren.
      Read More on Sergio Perez
      However, his stay there was short with Perez switching to Force India – where he stayed for five years, taking five podiums before the team was sold and rebranded as Racing Point.
      And it was with Racing Point that he scored his first F1 victory.
      The next career move Perez made was to Red Bull Racing – signing on the dotted line in December for the 2021 season.
      His contract expires at the end of the 2024 season.
      Most read in Motorsport
      Aside from racing, the Red Bull driver’s has hinted at a career away from F1 after starring in a shock new music video.
      Perez starred as a taxi driver in ‘Por La Familia’ by Carin Leon and Borderkid, and was seen thrillingly driving Leon from an airport to a surrealist landscape.
      He eventually gets kitted out in Red Bull gear while the make-believe, flame-painted taxi travels to a pit stop at an isolated petrol station.
      Perez said: “Latin music is having a great time. People are enjoying it and it’s great to have our Latin music all around the world.
      “It’s great to have that in the F1 community and within the sport.”
      As of November 2023, Perez boasts a staggering 6.3million fans and followers on Instagram – where he shares smiling snaps from his latest sporting ventures.
      What is Sergio Perez’s salary at Red Bull?
      It’s the most expensive sport in the world – so it’s no surprise that Sergio Perez boasts an impressive bank balance.
      His net worth includes an eye-watering £8.3million salary.
      What is Sergio Perez’s net worth?
      In March 2023, we revealed the 10 drivers at the top of the Formula One rich list.
      Bagging a spot on the list thanks to his bank balance is Sergio Perez.
      Although he may not be the highest-paid driver on the grid, Perez has been amassing an impressive fortune since his debut in 2011.
      He has an estimated net worth of £62.4million – making him one of the richest athletes in the world.
      The Mexican also has investments and an incredible list of endorsement deals, including Ticel, Telmox, and Claro.
      Checo reportedly owns a multi-million dollar 15,000-square-foot mansion in Mexico and supercars including a Bugatti Chiron, which cost around £2million.
      Read More on The Sun
      As well as the driver’s rich list, we have also revealed the richest people at the helm of F1 teams. 
      You can get up to speed on the F1 bosses fortunes and finances right here. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Motorsport

      Max Verstappen predicts ‘a few surprises’ at Las Vegas Grand Prix with F1 stars taking on spectacular new circuit

      by

      THREE-TIME Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has predicted “a few surprises” at the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.The iconic strip is set to play host to F1 for the first time in its stunning new iteration from November 17-19.
      Max Verstappen has predicted “a few surprises” in Las VegasCredit: Splash
      Vegas’ iconic strip will play host to the second to last race of this seasonCredit: Getty
      Speaking to the media following his recent win at the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo, Verstappen admitted that “There’s still a lot to do,” before they made their way to Nevada.
      The Dutchman added: “I still need to go on the simulator. I still don’t even know the track, to be honest.
      “The last time I tried it on the F1 game, I think I hit more walls than I was going straight.
      “So, let’s hope that’s not the case when I start driving there.”
      Read More on Sport
      The 3.8-mile track is set to include seventeen corners and three straights.
      It will make its way down the legendary strip, past the Bellagio, Mirage, and Caesars Palace while also circling The MSG Sphere.
      The newly constructed street circuit could reportedly see average speeds of 212 mph.
      Verstappen explained: “It’s going to be very different to [Sao Paulo], very low temperatures, of course in the night there.
      Most read in Motorsport

      “[It’s a] street circuit, we have no experience there, we don’t know the track grip.
      “All new – so maybe it will give you a few surprises. I don’t know.”
      It would come as no surprise, however, if the Red Bull star clinched his seventeenth win of the season in Nevada given his dominant form this year.
      Downtown Las Vegas also has previously played host to F1 in 1981 and 1982.
      The 1981 Caesars Palace Grand Prix was the last of the season, taking place on a makeshift course in a car park.
      Alan Jones went on to claim the win for Williams, with Renault’s Alain Prost in second and Alfa Romeo’s Bruno Giacomelli in third.
      The following year, Tyrrell’s Michele Alboreto beat McLaren’s John Watson to the chequered flag, with Ligier’s Eddie Cheever rounding out the top three at his home race. More

    • 75 Shares179 Views

      in Motorsport

      What is Christian Horner’s net worth?

      by

      CHRISTIAN Horner has become a notable name in the world of Formula One.But who is he and has he always been involved in motorsports? From his impressive fortune to his family life – here’s everything you need to know.
      Christian Horner pictured in November 2023Credit: Getty
      Who is Christian Horner?
      Christian Horner, born November 16, 1973, in Leamington Spa, is a former British racing driver and the current Team Principal and CEO of the Red Bull Formula One team.
      Horner, who became the sports youngest Team Principal at just 31 years of age, has held this position since 2005.
      Principals are the face of their teams and the decision makers who come up with strategies to ensure the success of their drivers.
      He guided Red Bull to their first Constructors’ Championship in 2010 – the same season Sebastian Vettel won the Drivers’ Championship, becoming the youngest World Champion.
      Read More on Christian Horner
      In 2013, Horner received an OBE for services to motorsport in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, after guiding the Red Bull team to three drivers’ and constructors’ championships in a row.
      At the time, Horner said: “I just feel very honoured and privileged to receive it.
      “To be in the company of men and women who have achieved such great things for the country is something very, very special.”
      Has Christian Horner always been involved in motorsports?
      Prior to landing the Team Principal position, Horner began his motorsports career behind the wheel.
      Most read in Motorsport
      The former driver rose through the racing ranks in the late 1990s and enjoyed spells in Formula Renault, British F3 and Formula Two – and even founded his own team.
      However, at the end of 1998 Horner opted to focus on the management side of motorsport and hung up his helmet.
      He then worked in team management before joining Red Bull in 2004 and ascending to the top within a year. 
      In addition to his role as Team Principal and CEO of Oracle Red Bull Racing, Christian is also an Ambassador for the Wings for Life charity.
      Established by late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz and two-time motocross world champion Heinz Kinigadner, Wings for Life is dedicated to finding a cure for spinal cord injury.
      What is Christian Horner’s salary at Red Bull?
      As team principal of Red Bull since 2005, Christian Horner is the highest-paid team boss and has a salary of around £8.2million a year. 
      And he’s got the trophies to show for it, as he’s successfully led the team to nine world titles. 
      What is Christian Horner’s net worth?
      In March 2023, we took a look at the richest people at the helm of F1 teams – including Christian Horner.
      Horner is believed to be worth an estimated £41.4m.
      He has accumulated his fortune over the years through his motorsport career – providing him with fast cash to splash on impressive cars and luxury sun-soaked holidays.
      In February 2023, Horner was spotted eyeing up a a new model – a top-of-the-range £1.7m vintage Lamborghini.
      He was spotted checking out the 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400S RHD outside Fiskens historic car dealers in South Kensington, London.
      Just a couple of months prior, Horner shared a loved-up snap of himself and Geri soaking up some sun on the beach, looking back on 2022 and ahead to 2023.
      Is Christian Horner married?
      The Red Bull chief is used to living life in the fast lane when it comes to his career.
      But when it comes to his personal life, the Team Principal of the motorsport giants prefers a more quiet and slower existence away from the race track.
      He shares two stunning country homes with wife, Spice Girl Geri in Oxfordshire and Hertfordshire and their brood.
      The couple, who have been together since 2014, tied the knot on May 15, 2015, at St Mary’s Church in Woburn.
      The F1 boss bought his new wife Geri a £350,000 Aston Martin as a wedding gift.
      Does Christian Horner have any children?
      Christian Horner is stepdad to Geri’s daughter Bluebell Madonna.
      The couple also share a son together named Montague – who was born in January 2017.
      Read More on The Sun
      Their son was born on the same day as her Spice Girl’s bandmate Emma Bunton, ironically nicknamed Baby Spice, celebrates her birthday.
      He also has another daughter, Olivia, from a previous relationship with ex-partner Beverley Allen. More

    • 238 Shares199 Views

      in Motorsport

      Michael Schumacher’s health condition must be kept private – I never discuss it with his son, says F1 pal

      by

      MICHAEL Schumacher’s pal has said his health condition must be kept private and that he never discusses it with Mick, the F1 legend’s son.The racing icon has not been seen in public since his ski accident in the French Alps in 2013, and little is known about his condition.
      Timo Glock (pictured), former F1 driver and friend of Michael Schumacher’s, has said his health must remain privateCredit: Getty
      F1 legend Schumacher has not been seen in public since his shocking 2013 ski accidentCredit: Alamy
      Mick Schumacher, who is in touch with Timo Glock, followed his father onto the race trackCredit: PA
      Speaking to LuckyBlock, former F1 driver Timo Glock discussed his relationship with the Schumacher family.
      He said: ”I keep in contact with Mick Schumacher as he and I get along well.
      “I’ve also known other members of his family for a very long time, but I try not to impose on their privacy.
      “I respect their right to be private, and I don’t discuss Michael’s condition with them.”
      READ MORE ON SCHUMACHER
      Seven-time world champion Schumacher suffered catastrophic injuries in the devastating accident.
      Schumacher’s wife, Corinna, has protected the privacy of her husband to such an extent that only their immediate family, and closest of friends know any details.
      Mick, 24, has followed his father’s footsteps onto the F1 track.
      Glock said: ”I think Michael would have supported his son, Mick, in his career and he would’ve shown him around those F1 tracks!
      Most read in Motorsport
      “He was, and still is, a great supporter of his children, and he’s still a great ambassador of the sport.”
      Glock, who told of the parties he and Schumacher used to throw, said they had “such good fun” together.
      ”I spent a lot of time off-track with Michael, and it didn’t matter what we did.
      ”Michael kept himself to himself on the track, and he didn’t open up too much. It was, however, the opposite away from the track.
      “He was very open, super friendly, and a really nice guy. People thought he wasn’t!”
      Schumacher’s friend fondly described him as his “hero”.
      ”Micheal Schumacher is the greatest driver ever as far as I’m concerned. He was my hero.
      “He was so influential as I was growing up.”
      One of the racing pro’s former teammates revealed he is “not close” to his former self following the horror accident in 2013.
      Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, ex-Sky Sports pundit Johnny Herbert, who used to be the German’s teammate, hinted that even his friends are kept in the dark.
      He said: “There’s never any news. What we do know is we never hear any positive news.
      “That’s the horrible thought that he is still not able to be close to the Michael that we all remember. And that is very sad.”
      Read More on The Sun
      And just weeks ago Michael Schumacher’s family lawyer finally revealed why the Formula One legend never released a report on his health after his accident. More

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 star Sergio Perez hints at potential career change amid speculation over his Red Bull future

      by

      SERGIO PEREZ has hinted at a career away from F1 after starring in a shock new music video.The under-fire Red Bull driver is facing an uncertain future, having endured a difficult season on the grid.
      Sergio Perez featured in a music videoCredit: Rex
      The Mexican is second in the Drivers Championship but faces speculation about his future – even though the team are adamant he is staying for next season.
      Perez, 33, has struggled this term and is already 266 points behind team-mate, and runaway title leader, Max Verstappen in the standings.
      He was also recently criticised by Red Bull’s advisor Helmut Marko, who later apologised for his comments.
      But now, the F1 ace – who has long been in Verstappen’s shadow – has been raising his profile in the world of music.
      READ MORE F1 NEWS
      Perez starred as a taxi driver in ‘Por La Familia’ by Carin Leon and Borderkid, and was seen thrillingly driving Leon from an airport to a surrealist landscape.
      Perez eventually gets kitted out in Red Bull gear while the make-believe, flame-painted taxi travels to a pit stop at an isolated petrol station.
      Perez said: “Latin music is having a great time. People are enjoying it and it’s great to have our Latin music all around the world.
      “It’s great to have that in the F1 community and within the sport.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Meanwhile, when it comes to his day job, Perez is aiming to consolidate second place in the overall standings to give Red Bull a one-two finish.
      His contract expires at the end of the 2024 season.
      And to make matters worse for the man fighting for his future, he crashed out of his home Grand Prix following a collision with Charles Leclerc.
      But team boss Christian Horner has insisted that Perez is not going anywhere.
      Horner said: “We’re doing our best to support Checo and help him to find the form we know he is capable of and demonstrated earlier in the year.”
      The Red Bull driver suffered a nightmare start to the Mexican GPCredit: AP More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      Max Verstappen’s race engineer admits ‘biggest fear’ he’s ‘not looking forward to’ after Red Bull’s dominant F1 season

      by

      MAX VERSTAPPEN’S race engineer has revealed what his biggest fear is in Formula One.Gianpiero Lambiase has been the three-time F1 champion’s engineer since he arrived at Red Bull in 2016.
      Max Verstappen has been with Gianpiero Lambiase since arriving at Red Bull in 2016Credit: Reuters
      Lambiase has revealed his biggest fear about the future of F1Credit: Getty
      F1 viewers will recognise his voice whenever Verstappen communicates with the paddock.
      Lambiase, nicknamed “GP”, has overseen all of the Dutchman’s 52 career wins, including a record-breaking 17 this season with another two races to go.
      However, that has not stopped relentless Verstappen from snapping at Lambiase a couple of times.
      The Belgian Grand Prix earlier this season saw Verstappen launch an X-rated rant at his engineer before apologising after the race.
      READ MORE IN F1
      But with the rest of the field always trying to close the gap, Lambiase has revealed he is not looking forward to seeing how Verstappen treats him when the pressure is really on.
      Speaking on the Talking Bull podcast with Verstappen next to him, British-Italian Lambiase said: “My biggest fear is the moment that we do have increased competition and we’re not winning every race.
      “Because, you see how he’s treating me at the moment and he’s winning every race! I’m really not looking forward to it.”
      The joke prompted laughter from Verstappen, who had earlier explained how he does not get bored of winning.
      Most read in Motorsport
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      The 26-year-old said: “When do we get bored? Not winning. This motivates me every single day to come back here at the factory to prepare for the next races.
      “But also once you’re there, it’s the best feeling out there. So for me, it’s not boring at all.”
      With eight years under their belt together, they have a great working relationship and spend a lot of time together around the track.
      Indeed, in 2021 Verstappen threatened to quit the sport if Lambiase left F1.
      However, Lambiase explained that they do spend time away from one another in order to stay fresh.
      He said: “We’ve been together for eight seasons now. There are so many races and there’s so much time that you are forced to be together.
      “I think it would be unfair to expect Max to spend even more time with me or vice versa when he’s finally got a weekend off.”
      Verstappen added: “I come to the UK to do simulator stuff. Then I’m really happy to leave the UK to go back home.
      “Like GP says, we’re doing so many races together. It’s also nice to spend time with your close friends and family… when you have time.”
      Verstappen claimed another win at the Brazilian Grand Prix in what proved to be a nightmare weekend for 2021 title rival Lewis Hamilton.
      Hamilton has revealed he has given up booze in a bid to help him rediscover his race-winning form.
      Read More on The Sun
      Although, given the struggles of the Mercedes W14 car, he could be waiting until 2024.
      The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix in two weeks is not likely to provide a lot of joy for Mercedes either due to their slow straight-line speed.
      Verstappen and Lambiase have worked together for eight yearsCredit: Getty
      Complete F1 2023 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix this year More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton reveals he’s quit booze and ‘may never drink again’ as struggling F1 legend slams peer pressure

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has revealed he’s given up alcohol as he looks to transform his fortunes in Formula One.The seven-time world champion has criticised the peer pressure involved with booze despite his vast world experience.
      Lewis Hamilton has revealed he’s quit alcohol for goodCredit: Getty
      The seven-time world champion declared there’s too much pressure involvedCredit: Getty
      Hamilton recently launched a new non-alcoholic tequila drink, with the Brit expanding his empire off the track.
      The 38-year-old has now revealed he’s gone sober as he looks to get back to his best following Red Bull’s dominance over the past two seasons.
      Hamilton admitted he’s seeking “that extra one per cent”, as he continues to perform at the top level of the sport.
      The British legend told Vogue: “I don’t know if I’m going to drink again.
      MORE ON F1
      “Since I’ve stopped drinking, I’ve just been feeling so much better, so much more clarity.
      “There is pressure to drink within a social setting. You have one shot and feel like ‘Damn, why did I do that?’ when you get home.
      “I was like, wow, that’s kind of crazy how I’m feeling pressured.
      “And I realised, how can I be feeling pressure at 38? Imagine young 18 year olds.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Hamilton has endured another frustrating season with Mercedes, with the British star lying third in the World Championship standings.
      The Silver Arrows’ torrid time was epitomised at the Brazil GP last week, after Hamilton finished eighth and George Russell retired on lap 58 of 71.
      Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has cruised to the world title with the Dutchman leading on 524 points following 17 race wins.
      The penultimate race of the season will see Las Vegas’ debut in the sport on November 18, with the Abu Dhabi hosting the 2023 finale on November 26.
      Mercedes and Hamilton suffered another devastating weekend in Sao Paulo More