Belgian GP: 5 big questions that need answers this weekend
The Belgian Grand Prix weekend is here, with F1’s summer break now in the rear-view mirror and the final charge towards the end of the season firmly on the horizon.
Sebastian Vettel Sport News
Alpine F1 Chief Says Oscar Piastri Lacks "Integrity" In Contract Row
Alpine team chief Otmar Szafnauer on Friday accused the team's reserve driver Oscar Piastri of lacking "integrity" as a row over his future continued to dominate paddock gossip at the Belgian Grand Prix. Piastri, a 21-year-old Australian who has won the Formula Three and Two titles in successive seasons en route to a F1 career, is at the centre of a contract dispute involving Alpine as he seeks to break free. Alpine claim that Piastri, managed by compatriot and former F1 driver Mark Webber, signed a contract with them for 2023, which he has rejected as he bids to move elsewhere.
Alpine team principal Otmar Szafnauer wishes Oscar Piastri 'had a bit more integrity' as contract dispute persists
Alpine team principal Otmar Szafnauer claims he wishes Oscar Piastri «had a bit more integrity» as their dispute rumbled on. The French team had hoped to bring Piastri, their reserve driver, into their line-up for the 2023 season after Fernando Alonso unexpectedly decided to leave the team for Aston Martin after he replaced Sebastian Vettel. Ad Alpine went as far as announcing Piastri’s promotion only for the Australian to deny any agreement, as he had signed up to race for McLaren given Daniel Ricciardo’s exit.
Sebastian Vettel Accuses F1 Boss Of Insensitive Language On Female Drivers
Sebastian Vettel accused Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali of being thoughtless and using insensitive language when he suggested there was little prospect for female drivers in the sport. Speaking to reporters at the Belgian Grand Prix, Aston Martin's retirement-bound four-time world champion said the Italian former Ferrari chief had used "a very unlucky choice of words". Domenicali told reporters on Wednesday that "realistically-speaking, unless there is something like a meteorite coming to Earth, I don't see a girl coming into F1 in the next five years."
Sebastian Vettel slams F1 chief for 'stereotypical' comments on female drivers
Sebastian Vettel has criticised Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali for claiming it is “very unlikely” a woman will be on the grid within five years.
Alonso explains Alpine switch, Ricciardo ponders F1 future
Fernando Alonso wanted a long-term deal at Alpine that the team was not offering. So when Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement and Aston Martin needed a new driver, the Spaniard made a quick decision to switch teams.
Fernando Alonso claims he’s joining Aston Martin because Alpine thought he was too old
Fernando Alonso has cited Alpine’s lack of faith in him as the reason why he decided to leave the team for Aston Martin.
'Never a discussion' to stop Ricciardo racing, say McLaren
SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium: McLaren boss Zak Brown quashed suggestions on Thursday (Aug 25) that the Formula 1 team were considering paying Daniel Ricciardo not to race in 2023.