F1
Haas has rejected the demands of Uralkali, to not only refund them the $13 million they had already paid the team, but also pay $8.6 million worth of compensation for ‘loss of profits’. Given the company’s links to Putin, it was the logical decision for Haas to suspend their agreement, however, if Haas were paid money on the agreement of sponsorship for this season, a court might uphold Uralkali’s bid, at least for the money to be returned. The compensation is a ludicrous request in itself. I just hope that is sorted out quickly, so we can forget about them ever being in the sport.
The FIA has released a rather stern statement, off the back of widespread criticism of the Aston Martin Safety Car being slower than the Mercedes one. Basically, they set out that no two incidents are the same, and the Safety Car is not often driven at its limit, instead Race Control tells it how fast to go, to ensure a safe passage of the race. Personally, I am annoyed at how much drivers complain about the Safety Car being slow, that is its job, if it went fast, it would endanger the marshals.
Hamilton will defy the jewellery ban being reimposed in F1 from now on. Lewis has multiple piercings on his body, which break a rule which has been around for a while, but was reiterated at the Australian Grand Prix last weekend. If the FIA can set out proper reasons why a piercing will be dangerous that is fine, but otherwise it seems unnecessary to me.
IndyCar
The first Indy 500 test of the year will take place next week, with 32 entries confirmed for the test and the race itself. This is one short of the iconic number, although I am sure there will be a 33rd, which is rumoured to come from Juncos, possibly partnered with Paretta Autosport, who worked with Penske last year.
The future of Alexander Rossi is seemingly up in the air, as his contract runs out this year. At one time Penske had been the likely spot for him to move too, but with them having a superb 3 car team, and Rossi’s recent performances, it is unlikely to happen. If anything, he is more under threat, than seeing opportunity. Young stars like Kirkwood, who looked set to join Andretti before the F1 merger didn’t go through, have shone this year, and if Rossi can’t get it together, his dream could be over. This, for a driver who nearly won the titles in 2018 and 19 seems crazy, as he was the next big thing then, but that feels like a long time ago.
Formula E
Nissan has brought out the e-DAMS stake in their Formula E team. This is a big deal, as e-DAMS have been a part of the series since the beginning, first working with Renault, before then Nissan. What difference this will have on the team is unclear, but they clearly need to make some changes, as it isn’t working right now.
Other News
The final BTCC pre-season test ended with Sutton back on top, but with his new team. It was all change for the reigning champion over the off season, with a new car and team, a bold call given his dominance previously. That being said, the previous rules package clearly favoured them in the Infiniti’s. Hill and Rowbottom were also quick, but we saw a strange crash between Shedden and Jelley, who were both on out laps.
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Meaning of Motorsport 