In his column forward of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, F1 correspondent Daniel Moxon displays on the conflict inside the paddock, Zhou Guanyu’s future and Pink Bull’s driver plans
Picture: AFP by way of Getty Photos)
There we have been, anticipating a pleasant, quiet finish to this lengthy season seeing as Max Verstappen is already champion.
After which George Russell walked into the Mercedes hospitality unit for his media session, a steely expression on his face. Earlier than he even opened his mouth we might see what was about to occur.
It’s been some time since F1 had some actual, correct beef. Verstappen and Lando Norris had their moments this yr, nevertheless it took solely days for all of it to be forgotten. That Russell and Verstappen arrived in Abu Dhabi per week after their argument in Qatar nonetheless gunning for one another reveals there’s a real subject there.
As for his or her allegations about each other, as entertaining because it was, it was all a bit ‘he mentioned, he mentioned’. The reality of what really occurred, as is commonly the case, in all probability lies someplace within the center.
However what we do know for positive is that Russell isn’t any pushover. Toto Wolff gatecrashed the media session to again his driver however he didn’t must – the Brit was standing up for himself simply wonderful. If we didn’t know earlier than whether or not Russell has that fireside in his stomach that’s usually wanted to succeed on the highest degree in sport, we do now.
And Norris, who was too meek in his strategy to his title combat with Verstappen this yr, would do properly to be taught a factor or two from his compatriot.
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Contemporary from his heroics in Qatar final weekend, Zhou Guanyu would possibly simply have been handed an F1 lifeline.
He’s bought no likelihood of beginning subsequent season on the grid, even after scoring minnows Sauber’s first and solely factors of the season. However his probabilities of becoming a member of Cadillac when the Normal Motors model joins F1 in 2026 have simply rocketed.
That’s as a result of Graeme Lowdon, the previous Manor and Virgin Racing boss, has been named as their staff principal. What’s he been doing since Manor went bust? Amongst different issues, he’s been a detailed a part of Zhou’s interior circle. China’s first ever F1 racer could have a future within the sport in spite of everything.
From the archive
Lewis Hamilton famously received the 2016 Abu Dhabi race however misplaced the title to team-mate Nico Rosberg, who promptly retired. It was the primary of two titles he has been cruelly denied at Yas Marina.
Quick reality
The Ferrari World theme park could also be subsequent to the Yas Marina observe however, in 15 makes an attempt, the Scuderia have by no means received an F1 race there.
Inside observe
Yuki Tsunoda could also be testing for Pink Bull in Abu Dhabi subsequent Tuesday, however Liam Lawson stays within the driving seat for a promotion if Sergio Perez is given the boot.
Be taught extra
Catch all of the motion from Method One on Sky Sports activities and get unique entry to races, qualifying and rather more for each Grand Prix. From Max Verstappen to Lewis Hamilton, you will not miss a lap on Sky Sports activities.
