P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Wolff lashes out at ‘maniac’ as Sainz issued Audi ‘ultimatum’ – RacingNews365 Review
Toto Wolff still holds a grudge against former race director Michael Masi for the controversial handling of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Masi’s human-error during the late race safety car allowed Max Verstappen to clinch the title from Lewis Hamilton in a last-lap drama, disregarding established safety car procedures. Despite leaving his role as race director following the race, Masi has returned to Australian Supercars and was present in the F1 paddock for the 2023 and 2024 Grands Prix. Wolff has not forgotten the incident, referring to Masi as an “utter pathological egomaniac.”
Carlos Sainz plays a pivotal role in the 2025 F1 driver market, with potential openings at top teams like Mercedes, Red Bull, Aston Martin, and Stake (soon to be Audi in 2026). Sainz is taking his time to evaluate the options before him, while Audi is eager to finalize its driver lineup soon. Incumbents Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu are options, but Andreas Seidl is pressing Sainz to make a decision promptly.
Turkey has been eager for a permanent return to the F1 calendar after stepping in for the COVID-19 affected 2020 and 2021 seasons. Istanbul Park couldn’t secure the necessary funds for a permanent spot, but aims for a comeback in 2026 with a new circuit owner working towards restoring Grand Prix racing.
The upcoming season of Drive to Survive will have to cover the ongoing investigation involving Christian Horner, as confirmed by the executive producer. Horner, CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull, was under investigation for conduct following a complaint from a staff member. The situation led to internal turmoil within Red Bull, with allegations and a suspension, while Horner maintains his stance against the claims.
