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      Red Bull boss Christian Horner breaks silence after being cleared in sext scandal that rocked marriage to Geri Halliwell

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      RED Bull chief Christian Horner has broken his silence after being cleared for a second time over the sexting scandal.Horner, 50, told reporters today that he is “relieved” by the decision and now wants to fully “focus on track” after the allegations rocked his marriage to Geri Halliwell.Red Bull chief Christian Horner has broken his silence after being cleared for a second time over the sexting scandalCredit: GettyGeri Horner is said to be ‘very relieved’ that the employee’s appeal was thrown out, a source revealedCredit: GettyHorner says he wants to ‘focus on the track’ now as he looks to retain the constructors championship with Red BullCredit: EPAThe Red Bull F1 boss was accused by an employee of making  suggestive remarks earlier this year as alleged sexts were also leaked.An investigation was opened up at Red Bull which saw Horner grilled by an external barrister, his colleagues and even star driver Max Verstappen’s father Jos.Horner has consistently denied all the allegations against him and was later cleared in March of any wrongdoing.His accuser, who was suspended by Red Bull, then launched an appeal.read more in Christian HornerAfter four months, Red Bull announced on August 8 “the appeal is not upheld”.“The internal process has concluded,” they added in a statement. Horner spoke to Sky Sports News for the first time since the decision ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix this weekend.He said: “Obviously, it’s been a hugely thorough process and, of course, I was relieved with the appeal concluding and dismissing the claim.Most read in Motorsport”So, now It’s very much, as it has been all season, focus on track, here at Max’s home race and looking forward to these last 10 races.”It comes as a source revealed to The Sun that the drama had meant “weeks of hell” for the family, who added: “Geri is very relieved.“It has been a horrible process but she has loyally and staunchly stood by Christian throughout the entire ordeal.“This is vindication for them.”Inside Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen’s feudThe couple’s marriage had been put under pressure by the accusations of “inappropriate behaviour”.Despite the public scrutiny, Christian and Geri, 52, put on a united front as the initial complaint was dismissed less than 24 hours before the first practice session of the season.Soon after, a leaked document of alleged sexts were revealed, along with an email which was said to be between the woman and Horner.The scandal rocked the F1 world with interviews with team principals and prominent figures heavily focusing on the investigation. Verstappen’s father, Jos, was outspoken with his support for the accuser. He called for Horner to quit Red Bull in March to avoid the team being “torn apart”.Before saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”Red Bull director Helmut Marko also voiced his concerns over the allegations.His accuser is still suspended on full pay.Horner’s star driver and current world champion Max Verstappen leads the drivers championship by 78 points over Brit Lando Norris.READ MORE SUN STORIESRed Bull are also ahead in the hotly contested constructors title with McLaren and Ferrari sitting less than 65 points behind.Ten races are left in the F1 calendar which resumes following a four-week break in the Netherlands.SCANDAL… LAP BY LAPFEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job.But he denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends female employee.MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.MAR 17: Horner, Helmut Marko and Jos Verstappen agree to a ‘public ceasefire’.APR 23: Female accuser gets quizzed by investigators over claimsAUG 8: Horner is cleared for a second time over the sexting scandal Geri stood by her husband throughout the processCredit: ReutersThe Sun’s front page after Christian Horner was cleared the first time🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      F1 team could have cars SEIZED as Russian former sponsor demands £10million back after deal was terminated

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      AN F1 team could have their cars SEIZED as a Russian former sponsor demands £10million be paid back after their deal was terminated.Haas were ordered to pay back money to Uralkali earlier this year from funds transferred to the team in early 2022.Haas face having their cars seizedCredit: ReutersBut that became impossible following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Russian companies like Uralkali have been under economic sanctions meaning the likes of Haas have been unable to make transactions.It means returning the €12million (£10m) that a Swiss arbitrator ordered must be paid back has proven difficult. Haas have now sent out a statement to racingnews365 to indicate they do plan to pay the money back. READ MORE IN f1It read: “Haas intends to pay all amounts due to Uralkali pursuant to the arbitration award, and there is no dispute over the amounts due.”Haas has been working with its lawyers to ensure that the payment complies with all relevant US, EU, UK and Swiss sanctions laws and regulations.”We will continue to work with Uralkali in the coming days to definitively resolve this matter.”Uralkali hit back themselves, stating: “We are aware that Dutch bailiffs, accompanied by police, last night arrived at the Haas paddock and took an inventory of all racing equipment and other property.Most read in Motorsport”This is the expected consequence of Haas’ refusal to obey the ruling of arbitrage awarding payment and a race car to Uralkali.”The arbitral ruling was issued June 12th with immediate effect and has been ignored by Haas. Brad Pitt secretly invites Hans Zimmer to F1 race as legendary composer starts writing Apex score”Haas has had over two months to implement the ruling, and, as was reported previously, Uralkali reached out to Haas’ representatives with options about how to make payment and where to send the race car, without ever receiving a substantive answer.”There are not now and never have been any sanctions issues preventing Haas from fulfilling its obligations. Nevertheless, they have gone unfulfilled.”We are delighted to hear that, following last night’s visit from Dutch authorities, Haas is finally paying attention to the arbitral ruling.”Uralkali wants nothing more than to receive what it was awarded during a fair judicial process and hopes that Haas will move quickly to rectify the situation so that all sides can move on.” More

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      F1 team forced to CHANGE NAME for Dutch GP due to strict rules as government claims ‘it’s prohibited’

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      OFFICIALS have forced an F1 team to change their name for this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix.Strict rules in the Netherlands will prevent their usual name and branding from being displayed at Zandvoort.Officials have forced an F1 team to change their name ahead of the Dutch GPCredit: SplashStake F1 will be prohibited from using their name and branding at Zandvoort this weekendCredit: AlamyThe change will be apparent as the F1 season resumes following a four-week break.Even though betting advertising is not illegal in the Netherlands, Stake F1 will not be able to use their name this weekend.The gambling firm bought the naming rights to the Sauber team ahead of the current season after their previous deal with Alfa Romeo expired.However, Stake’s website is banned in the Netherlands as the company does not have a licence to operate in the country.READ MORE IN SPORTThe Kansspelautoriteit Dutch Gaming Authority (Ksa) confirmed they have ordered both the team and F1 not to use their branding.A statement read: “The Sauber Formula 1 team competes in most international races as ‘Stake F1 Team’.”Stake is an international gambling provider and main sponsor of the team. Stake does not have a licence from the Ksa and is therefore not allowed to offer gambling in the Netherlands.”According to the gambling legislation, it is prohibited to offer games of chance without a licence, to advertise these illegal games of chance or to promote participation in them.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Online gambling providers without a licence must therefore take measures to prevent participation from the Netherlands, for example by applying geoblocks. Dutch players will then not be able to reach the website.”Stake has applied such a geoblock. Despite the measures taken by Stake, the Ksa still sees participation by Dutch players.Watch Max Verstappen get slammed as ‘CHILDISH’ by his own team on radio after smashing into F1 rival Lewis Hamilton”The Ksa therefore finds it undesirable that illegal gambling is advertised at a Dutch event with the reach and size of Formula 1.”Also because the event attracts a lot of attention among vulnerable groups [minors and young adults].”The board of the Ksa has therefore urgently requested both Sauber and the organisation of the Dutch Grand Prix not to drive under the name Stake and not to advertise for this provider.”The team will instead run under their alternative Kick Sauber guise as they did in Australia, Spain and Belgium, where gambling firms are banned from advertising.They are set to be forced to do the same in December at the penultimate race weekend of the season in Qatar.Stake have a two-year deal with the Sauber team before it officially becomes the Audi works team in 2026.Zhou Guanyu and Valtteri Bottas are driving for the outfit this year but have yet to pick up a single point from the opening 14 races.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Glamorous Sky Sports presenter stuns in bridal bikini during her hen weekend with pals in Ibiza

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      SKY SPORTS presenter Naomi Schiff stunned in her bikini while away on her hen weekend.Naomi jetted off to Ibiza to celebrate with her friends after she got engaged in October of last year.Naomi Schiff showed off her engagement ring in a bridal bikini while on her hen weekendCredit: Instagram @sarahlangaThe Sky Sport presenter was celebrating in IbizaCredit: Instagram @sarahlangaShe posed in a bridal pyjama set during the tripCredit: Instagram @sarahlangaNaomi and her friends hung out by the poolCredit: Instagram @sarahlangaThe F1 expert showed off her engagement ring in a bridal themed bikini alongside her pals during her weekend away.While other snaps showed the group hanging by the pool, watching over some mega yachts and posing for pictures in their pyjamas.Naomi, 30, said yes to her fiancee in Paris last year with the pair setting off on a romantic boat trip down the River Seine.Her professional life is just as exciting as her personal life too, with Naomi travelling the world to bring Sky Sports viewers coverage of the Formula One.READ MORE IN SPORTAs well as being an expert on the sport, Naomi was once a driver herself.She started racing at just 16 in the Southern African Formula Volkswagen, finishing her opening season in 17th place.And has since won the 2014 Clio Cup China Series in 2014 with seven wins from 10 races.Up next for Naomi will be a trip to Zandvoort as she get back to work for the Dutch Grand Prix.Most read in MotorsportThe 15th GP of the F1 season takes place on Sunday as Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc try and catch up with Max Verstappen in the driver standings.Naomi, as she always does, will keep fans up to date with her glamorous job on social media.Cost of an F1 carHer Instagram exploits have earned her a whopping 254,000 followers on the social platform.And she is regularly blowing fans away with her snaps.Take a peek into Naomi Schiff’s glamorous lifestyle…Naomi lives a glamourous lifestyleCredit: Instagram @naomischiffShe is always travelling for business and pleasureCredit: Instagram @naomischiffThe 30-year-old is a Sky Sports F1 presenterCredit: Instagram @naomischiffHer jobs sees her thrown into the actionCredit: Instagram @naomischiffShe is always interviewing the starsCredit: Instagram @naomischiffAnd her role sees her mix it with plenty of celebsCredit: Instagram @naomischiffNaomi is an expert on Formula OneCredit: Instagram @naomischiffShe used to be a driver herselfCredit: Instagram @naomischiffNaomi has over 250,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @naomischiff More

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      Lewis Hamilton lifts lid on amazing behind-the-scenes role in Brad Pitt F1 movie & why he was forced to call ‘bulls***’

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      LEWIS HAMILTON has lifted the lid on his consultancy role in Brad Pitt’s new Formula One film.The movie – confusingly titled F1 – saw its first trailer released in July, but was divisive among motorsport fans.Lewis Hamilton has revealed his role in producing the new F1 filmCredit: RexThe movie is starring Brad PittCredit: GettyIt has a star-studded cast with Hollywood A-Lister Pitt starring with Damson Idris as the main cast, and has star power behind the scenes in the form of Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski.Producer Jerry Bruckheimer and composer Hans Zimmer are also playing roles to rev up the film, though it is the involvement of seven-time F1 champion Hamilton whose involvement could be most pivotal to whether it is a flop or bust.Speaking to Esquire, the 39-year-old explained his role as a producer and consultant for the movie and how he had licence to call “bull****” on some elements of the plot from screenwriter Ehren Kruger.He said: “Ehren basically did a ton of research, watched a lot of races, came to a bunch of races, and then went away and wrote up a script. But we would sit and talk about what racing is about.READ MORE IN F1″Then once he wrote the script, I would sit with him and call bulls***, basically, on the things that don’t seem real and are not what F1 is about and try to make sure that it’s as authentic as possible. “Then at the same time, I started a production company, so I’m a producer with these guys.”I’ve been able to be involved in all areas—so making sure the cast is diverse, making sure we’ve got a woman in a pit stop, which we never, ever had at the actual track. “Hans Zimmer was someone I wanted to have doing the [music for the] movie, so we have Hans Zimmer. Joe has been amazing at including me in everything.”Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhen asked specifically about what he has vetoed from the script, he added: “It would just be racing scenarios. Technical jargon engineers would talk.”But particularly racing scenarios and sequences between overtakes and pit stops and strategies and all those sorts of things. Watch moment distraught F1 star Lando Norris’ interview is interrupted by Hollywood stars filming ‘fake interviews'”There may have been a crash that was like the car hits the wall and flips and lands on the wheels and keeps going, and that doesn’t happen in Formula 1.”The film’s budget has reportedly swelled to a mega $300million due to delays.In a bid to add to its authenticity, footage from actual F1 weekends has been used, such as Pitt being seen in the media mixed zone following the race.Inside track on Hamilton’s lifeLEWIS HAMILTON has driven his way into pole position as Formula One’s most prolific winner.Real F1 returns following the mid-season break this Sunday, where championship leader Max Verstappen will be eager to get back on the top step of the podium at his home Dutch Grand Prix.Hamilton won at the most recent race in Belgium after team-mate George Russell was disqualified when his car was found to be underweight in post-race checks.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Ralf Schumacher brands ex-wife a ‘liar’ & leaks messages ‘showing she knew he was gay’ after she claimed she had no idea

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      FORMER F1 racer Ralf Schumacher has sparked a row after branding his ex-wife a “liar” and leaking WhatsApp messages that appear to show she knew he was gay.Cora Schumacher claimed she was blindsided when her ex-hubby came out as gay – and said she had “wasted” her years of marriage.German F1 racer Ralf Schumacher pictured with ex-wife CoraCredit: RexRalf revealed he is in a relationship with his French business manager Etienne (pictured right)Credit: InstagramAn alleged chat between Cora and Etienne that reportedly took place last yearCredit: Social MediaRalf Schumacher is the younger brother of seven-time world champion Michael SchumacherCredit: AP:Associated PressRalf revealed in an Instagram post last month that he is in a relationship with his French business manager Etienne.Cora, who married the former F1 driver in 2001 but called quits in 2015, suggested she had been completely unaware of Ralf’s homosexuality – and that he was dating a French guy. The former model said she felt “stabbed in her heart” after Ralf announced his relationship status.However, Ralf has now posted a screenshot of an alleged WhatsApp chat between his ex-wife and Etienne – indicating she knew about it all along. more on Ralf Schumacher In the chat, which reportedly dates back to last year, Cora appears to congratulate Etienne about his new relationship with Ralf and says “[I am] so happy for you both”. She even appears to say she was “told they were married”. Ralf posted the WhatsApp chat on his Instagram and wrote: “With all the back and forth, I would like to make it clear that Cora congratulated us in September 2023 because she thought we had gotten married. “I think it’s a shame for Etienne and me that she spreads so many lies. We both just want to be left in peace.”Most read in MotorsportCora was left raging after Ralf leaked the Whatsapp chat, branding the move as “pathetic” and illegal”. She wrote on a social media post: “How pathetic does a person have to be to illegally publish private WhatsApp messages to conceal the truth?”The former model claims that Ralf had introduced Etienne merely as a business associate – and not as his boyfriend.She added: “The WhatsApp was my last attempt to at least find out the truth from him.”A sobbing Cora told Der Spiegel that she had been “psychologically manipulated by Ralf”. “I wish Ralf had included me or at least let me be part of his decision. It would have been a sign of respect,’ she told Der Spiegel.”During his career in F1, there were many rumours in the paddock. I asked him to clarify if what was being said was true, but he always denied it, telling me that I was imagining everything and that maybe I needed psychological help. “When he announced it, it was like a stab in the heart. Coming out always affects those around you, including the ex-wife with whom you had a child.”Today I feel used during the marriage. I feel like I’ve wasted my best years. I ask myself many questions. Was he honest with me?”Speaking of the row with his ex-wife, Ralf said it did not bother him anyway – and it did not put a strain on him. He told RTL added: “‘Definitely not on me, no.”Ralf’s son Davis has previously shown support to his dad on his relationship with Etienne, DailyMail reports.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “I am very happy that you have finally found someone with whom you really feel that you feel very comfortable and secure, no matter if they are a man or a woman.”I am 100 per cent behind you Dad and wish you all the best and congratulations.”A sneak peek into Ralf Schumacher’s F1 careerRALF Schumacher is the younger brother of legenadry racer and seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher. Ralf stepped into the world of karting when he was just three years old and became quite successful at it. He then switched to motorsport racing and began competing in the German Formula Three Championship and the Formula Nippon series. The Jordan Grand Prix in 1997 marked his first race as an F1 driver. He then moved to the Williams team in 1999 and finished sixth in the Drivers’ Championship that year. The German racer won his first Grand Prix in 2001 and claimed fourth place in the Drivers’ championship. He went on to win five more races in the next two years. Schumacher left Williams at the end of 2004 and joined Toyota Racing in 2005.But his disastrous performance in the 2006 and 2007 season forced him to quit F1 racing. After leaving Formula One, Schumacher joined the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) in 2008 but retired from the world of racing four years later. He is now a co-commentator for Sky Sport in Germany.Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher and his wife Cora, leave the church after a wedding ceremony in Maria Plein near Salzburg, Austria in 2002Credit: AP:Associated PressRalf’s French partner Etienne is seen on a yacht in Monaco harbour over an F1 race weekendCredit: InstagramCora claims that Ralf had introduced Etienne merely as a business associate – and not as his boyfriendCredit: EPA More

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      Louis O’Regan dead at 43: Motorsport star dies after horror crash at Manx Grand Prix on Isle of Man

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      IRISH motorcyclist Louis O’Regan tragically passed away after a crash in qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix.The event is scheduled to resume this evening after yesterday’s incident.Louis O’Regan passed away after an accident on the Isle of ManCredit: Instagram @manxgrandprixThe Irishman was a veteran of the raceCredit: PACEMAKER PRESSO’Regan’s accident happened at the Kate’s Cottage corner – around 30 miles into the 37-mile circuit.The session was not restarted as organisers paid tribute to his family.A statement read: “With great sadness, the organisers of the Manx Grand Prix can confirm that Louis O’Regan, 43, has died following injuries sustained in an accident at Kate’s Cottage during the opening qualifying session of the 2024 event.“Louis, an Irishman who lived in Didcot, England, was an experienced competitor at the Manx Grand Prix having made his debut in the 2013 Newcomers A Race, finishing 12th.READ MORE IN SPORT“He recorded his personal best lap speed in the 2019 Junior Race, lapping at an average speed of 114.7mph. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Louis’s partner Sarah, his family, loved ones, and friends.”Fans took to social media to share their condolences.One wrote: “R.I.P mate. Our thoughts are with your family, friends and team.”Most read in MotorsportAnother added: “Ride in Peace Louis. Thoughts and prayers to all his family and friends and everyone involved.”A third said: “So sad. Deepest condolences to his family and friends and thoughts are with the marshals and medics who attended.”A fourth posted: “That’s dreadful news. My sincere condolences to the family and friends that Louis has so suddenly left behind. May he rest peacefully.”The Grand Prix is due to run until next Monday.Last year’s event was hit by two tragedies as Gary Vines, 33, and Ian Bainbridge, 69, passed away following separate crashes. More

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      Lewis Hamilton reveals F1 retirement plan as he admits ‘I don’t know how much longer I can go’ ahead of Ferrari move

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      LEWIS HAMILTON admits he cannot keep his pedal to the metal forever.The F1 great, 39, is set to join Ferrari next season.Lewis Hamilton admits he has a plan in place to call it a dayCredit: AFPThe Brit is joining Ferrari next seasonCredit: RexYet before making his debut for The Prancing Horse, he is already planning his dismount.Asked if he had a timeframe by Esquire, he said: “I definitely do.”There are days I’m like, shoot, I don’t know how much longer I can go. “There are days I’m like, shoot, I’d love a break, a proper break, because you don’t get a real big break in the season like other sports.READ MORE MOTORSPORT NEWS”You don’t finish until mid to late December, and then you’re back into training already in January, and that’s two times a day you’re training.”There are another couple of hours of therapy that you’re doing during that time as well. So you’re not really getting a huge amount of downtime.”And in February, you’re flat out running until December.”But I do have mentally a plan of where I would like to extend to.Most read in MotorsportFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSInside track on Hamilton’s lifeLEWIS HAMILTON has driven his way into pole position as Formula One’s most prolific winner.”I’ve just got to strategise and sequence things. I’m very much about sequencing, like looking at brands that I collaborate with, companies that I’m essentially starting, how I manage my time between all those, and how I’m able to dedicate myself to this job still.”Is there a time when I’m not all in and I’m just not in love with it anymore? Watch Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton’s tense exchange after Hungarian Grand Prix as fans hint at ‘underlying issue’ “That’s the moment that hopefully never happens, in the sense that I’ve fallen out of love with it.”But I will know when I need to stop.”Hamilton won the Belgian GP in dramatic style last month after team-mate George Russell was disqualified hours after the race had finished.The stewards found that Russell’s car – which ran a one-stop strategy – was underweight after it was drained of fuel during the usual post-race checks.It was Hamilton’s second victory in three races going into F1’s summer break, with Max Verstappen topping the standings.The Dutch Grand Prix will see the competition resume next weekend.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season so far:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Sergio PerezFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and TBCMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and TBCAlpine: Pierre Gasly and TBCRB: Yuki Tsunoda and TBCHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon More