Motorsports Racing News & Blog Articles

After returning from his hiatus to the Alpine team, it seemed like Fernando Alonso might be ready for retirement – but a move to Aston Martin might be the reinvigoration of a record-breaking career.

When it comes to the rest of the Formula One season, what can Alonso expect?

The Spanish driver had years of success and more than 365 starts in the Formula One World Championships, taking countless pole positions and podiums and winning the Championship 32 times.

After his sabbatical and concentrating on his various interests like poker gaming, the return of Alonso wasn’t really as exciting as he might have thought – but when the opportunity to transfer to Aston Martin came up in midseason last year (to replace Vettel), it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

Aston Martin in Formula One

Aston Martin, as a construction team, hasn’t really had it easy in Formula One, only returning to the race in 2021.

Logan Sargeant competes for Williams Racing in Formula 1 after he became Rookie of the Year in Formula 2 last year. Sargeant was born in Florida and is the only American driver in F1. We at Paddock Magazine had the opportunity to sit down and chat with the 22-year-old driver.

When and how did your racing journey start?

I started karting around 2006 or 2007 – I can’t remember. At that time, there was no motivation to get into this business. We got karts for Xmas as a gift, and we just wanted to enjoy ourselves during the weekends with my brother and dad. The motivation comes from there, and my interest has just grown. It all got a bit more serious in the last couple of years, and basically, that’s how it started.

Did you have an idol in racing?

Not in particular. I had some favourite drivers back then in the categories I followed. Jeff Gordon was one of them in NASCAR. I wouldn’t say there was anyone super in particular; it was like I wanted to be like him. It was more the journey rather than one person.

How was your transition from Formula 2 to Formula 1?

It’s always tough. There are many more variables in F1 compared to F2. The difference is enormous if you look at the steering wheel and the things we can change on the steering wheel. The cars are also much faster, and it’s more physically demanding. Everything gets more and more natural.

After diligently working to pay the bills and ensuring your family is cared for, and your children are looked after for more years than you care to count, retirement is finally here.

Now is the time to get out there and live every day to the maximum, enjoy time alone in the garden, and generally do what you want and when you want to do it. That said, here is how to make the most of your free time now you are retired.

Spend Time Discovering What Fulfilment Means to You 

First and foremost, now that you can enjoy things that provide you happiness and fulfilment, it becomes essential to ascertain what those terms mean to you. 

There is a wide plethora of ways to do this, with just some ideas and inspiration being:

In addition, take the time to look back on your life this far and try to pinpoint times when you felt truly connected to who you were and what you were doing. 

Max Verstappen stormed to victory over Lando Norris and Sergio Perez with another commanding performance in the 2023 Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix, giving the reigning double world champion his seventh straight triumph and Red Bull their 12th in a row – beating McLaren’s long-standing record.

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With a deep understanding of the iGaming industry and a passion for content creation, Dubravka, the Head of Content at AskGamblers, offers a fresh perspective on the industry’s progression.

As the iGaming world undergoes rapid changes, it’s not just about following trends but being part of those defining them. The advent of AI, in particular, is revolutionizing the sector in ways we’ve never seen before. From tailoring player experiences to managing complex data, using AI opens a whole new range of possibilities. To get critical insights about the career of an iGaming expert, we have conducted our exclusive feature on the iGaming expert at AskGamblers, Dubravka Davidovic. 

We explore Dubravka’s exciting journey, insights into the evolving industry, and how she and her team craft compelling narratives that resonate with players worldwide.

Q1: Dubravka, could you tell us about your role as the Head of Content at AskGamblers? 

Dubravka: Absolutely. My role as Head of Content involves overseeing the entire content creation and management process at AskGamblers. It’s a multifaceted role that requires a strategic vision and a deep understanding of our players’ interests and needs. We aim to deliver engaging, high-quality content that informs and entertains our readers.

Q2: What initially drew you to the iGaming industry?

Dubravka: The iGaming industry’s dynamism was what initially sparked my interest. It’s an industry that never remains stagnant – with new games being released constantly, technological advancements redefining how we play, and regulations that continue to evolve. 

As a connoisseur of both the exhilarating world of Formula 1 and the luxe art of thoughtful gifting, you understand the importance of merging the two appropriately. In the spirit of Eid, a significant celebration in Islamic culture, enhancing your F1 experience with the perfect floral arrangement isn’t just about aesthetics but also about displaying cultural appreciation and understanding.

You’re well aware that the right blooms can elevate any event from ordinary to extraordinary. Flowers, rich in symbolism and significance within Islamic culture, can transform your F1 festivities into a grand spectacle. With this guide, you’ll learn not only how to choose the best flowers for Eid but also how to incorporate them into your F1 celebrations seamlessly.

It’s about creating a memorable experience that resonates with the spirit of Eid while enjoying the thrilling speed and precision of Formula 1 racing. Let’s delve into the finer art of gifting, shall we?

Understanding the Importance of Gifting

It’s essential to comprehend that gifting isn’t merely about material exchange but rather a profound expression of appreciation and connection that can significantly enhance experiences, such as those at Formula 1 events. The art of gifting transcends the physical act of giving and receiving. It’s an unspoken language, a medium for conveying respect, gratitude, and even love.

In the luxury sphere, where experiences are as valued as tangible items, the right gift can elevate an experience from memorable to unforgettable. Consider the F1 experience. It’s packed with adrenaline, luxury, and exclusivity. But what could make it even more special? A carefully selected gift, chosen with knowledge and thought, can do just that. And when it comes to celebrations like Eid, a festival of gratitude and generosity, the gift becomes even more essential.

Do you have a passion for vintage automobiles? Whether you’re an aficionado of classic models or simply curious about the world of car collecting, there’s something truly special about the artistry and craftsmanship that went into building these iconic machines.

From Ford’s legendary Model-T to Jaguar’s breathtaking XKSS, each classic automobile model is unique in its way and has left a lasting impact on the auto industry. But beyond admiring and appreciating their complexities, if you want to delve into vintage autos, some fundamentals must be understood before taking your first plunge down memory lane — particularly when it comes to workflow background information. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore how the industry works and key facts one should know before beginning your journey as a collector of these unforgettable classics from days gone by.

The Vintage Automobile Market

The vintage automobile market is a fascinating industry that has captured the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world. With iconic models like the Ford Model T, the Volkswagen Beetle, and the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, there is no shortage of classic vehicles to admire. But the vintage automobile market is more than just a place to look at pretty cars; it is also a significant economic force. 

Every year, buyers and sellers from around the globe converge to buy and sell these rare and valuable vehicles, driving up prices and creating unique investment opportunities. Whether you are a collector, an investor, or simply a lover of classic cars, the vintage automobile market is a fascinating world that is well worth exploring. By going through a full inventory of classic cars, you will be able to find the perfect model for your needs and budget. Also, it is important to know the difference between cars in mint condition and those that are not, which can make a major difference when it comes time to buy.

Motorsports have always stood for excitement, daring, and the spirit of competition. But beyond the roar of engines, the squeal of tires, and the waving of chequered flags, there’s a deep and fascinating connection between the world of racing and the world of fashion. 

It’s an intricate dance of style, branding, and pop culture that helps shape our sartorial trends. In this exploration, we’ll delve into motorsports’ profound influence on contemporary fashion trends.

A Need for Speed and Style

Motorsports, in all their high-speed, high-octane glory, embody a sense of risk and adventure that translates seamlessly into the fashion industry. Bold, daring, and disruptive, racing influences fashion through its unique aesthetics, materials, and branding strategies. Moreover, the sense of exclusivity and luxury associated with prestigious racing events such as Formula 1 or Le Mans mirrors high fashion’s affinity for the elite and cutting-edge.

The Racetrack as a Runway

Just as racing drivers need functional yet fashionable gear, so do the fans. Motorsports clothing, often adorned with brand logos and bold colour schemes, has always had a foothold in the fashion world. Elements such as racing stripes, patches, and sponsor logos have found their way from the racetrack to the runway, becoming an integral part of high-street fashion.

But it’s not just apparel that the thrilling world of motorsports has influenced. Accessories, too, have found inspiration in the sport’s unique blend of style, performance, and culture. Case in point: the iconic Ray-Ban sunglasses, initially designed for U.S. pilots in the 1930s, has found a home in the world of motorsports. 

Sebastian Vettel was the star of his ‘Race without Trace’ drive at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed with his use of fossil-free P1 sustainable fuel. The fuel powered his 1992 Williams and 1993 McLaren F1 cars that took Nigel Mansell to the world championship and Ayrton Senna to his final Monaco race win, respectively.

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With no new CO2 emissions coming from the synthetic P1 fuel in the iconic race cars, the four-time F1 World Champion is proving on a world stage that any petrol-powered car can run on sustainable fuel. These cars can be driven without releasing any further CO2 into the atmosphere and without any modification to the engine.

Having won 53 Grands Prix with contemporary prototype cars, Vettel is now spearheading a new approach to saving the environment through his use of P1 Fuels both at Goodwood and at the Red Bull Formula Nurburgring in September. In front of a capacity crowd on Sunday, the German took people back in time to the early 1990s battles between Mansell and Senna with his immaculate cars and cool Senna replica crash helmet. After which, he spoke to the crowd on site and to the world through the live stream TV about how important it is that we all push for environmental change with synthetic fuels.

The jaw-dropping Fiat S70 ‘Beast of Turin’ from 1910, with its staggering 28-litre four-cylinder engine, also ran on P1 fuel. Together with a 1907 Mercedes Benz, this shows that a 21st-century pioneering fuel can be used in a car that’s 116 years old. Duncan Pittaway said at Goodwood, “We did a test with the Fiat before we got here to Goodwood, and what we’ve found is that it starts on the cranking handle easier, runs smoother, cooler and uses less fuel for the runs we’ve been doing here compared to previous years. It really is quite amazing.”

Sergio “Checo” Perez lit up the streets of the Spanish capital for a Red Bull Showrun on Saturday night. At the wheel of both the RB7 and RB8, Checo took the city by storm as the iconic sound of the V8 engine reverberated around several of Madrid’s historic landmarks. In his fifth show run for Oracle Red Bull Racing, the Mexican pulled out the doughnuts in front of the famous Cibeles Fountain as over 85,000 fans watched on in a celebration of Red Bull motorsport.

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Oracle Red Bull Racing continue to bring Formula One to new audiences, and this was no exception, as the Team ran two of Sebastian Vettel’s Championship-winning cars in a new city for F1. And in true Red Bull style, the show run began with a spectacular side act featuring Red Bull athlete paraglider Horacio Llorens, who descended with his parachute to land in the centre of Cibeles square and hand over Checo’s steering wheel to him!

Madrid is the fifth city in which the Team and Checo have hooked up to run the streets in a Red Bull Showrun. In 2021 he burnt rubber in the streets of Mexico City and, fresh from winning the Constructors’ title last season with the Team, Checo stopped traffic in his hometown of Guadalajara. He’s also taken to the tarmac of Oracle Red Bull Racing’s home city, Milton Keynes and Dallas, Texas.

Sergio “Checo” Perez commented:

“It was amazing to see the crowd here today and how passionate the people of Madrid are about Oracle Red Bull Racing and Formula One. People are super happy to see us. We are the only team who can make events like this possible, and only Red Bull can shut down the busiest streets of Spain’s capital city on a Saturday night! Not many people know, but Madrid is a second home to me. The vibe here is very unique and special; although I am not at home, I really feel like I am here. This was such a fun evening, and now I am looking forward to being back behind the wheel of the RB19 to get my season back on track, I want to get back to winning and scoring as many points as possible before the summer break, we have some important races coming up.”

Felipe Massa ended his F1 career in 2017 after 15 seasons, 269 races, 11 wins, 41 podiums, 16 pole positions and 1167 career points. An experienced driver like Felipe is undoubtedly missed because he is charismatic, especially about circuit and car safety. But Felipe’s motorsport career has not ended after he retired from Formula 1. Let’s find out when and where he performed throughout these years and in which projects he was involved.

FORMULA E

Felipe debuted in Formula E in 2018, signing a three–year deal with Venturi. The Brazilian driver expressed clearly his opinion about the new motorsport category.

“I think what makes things interesting in Formula E, and I hope it happens with me, is that many drivers can win the race. Many drivers can win the championship. It is a championship I can race not only for one year, and that’s it. I can race for a few years and still enjoy my career until I decide to stop. I want to keep having fun like I have done all my life.”

Team Massa was alongside Swiss Driver Edoardo Mortara in Venturi, and the team principal was Susie Wolff. In his first season, after a difficult beginning, he scored 36 points, getting, as best result, third place in Monaco. In his second season in this category, he scored only three points before parting ways with the team in August 2020.

This was his statement after leaving the team:”Leaving a team is never an easy decision,” said Massa. “We’ve made some good memories together, and it’s allowed me to learn something completely different from what I’m used to, so first of all, I want to thank [Venturi president] Gildo [Pastor] and [team principal] Susie [Wolff] for their faith in me”.

When it comes to shipping a car, choosing the right car shipping company is crucial to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. With so many car shipping companies available, knowing which one to trust with your valuable asset can be challenging. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of important questions to ask a car shipping company before hiring them.

What Services Do You Offer?

The first question to ask a car shipping company is what services they offer. Different car shipping companies offer various types of services, including open or enclosed carriers, door-to-door delivery, terminal-to-terminal transport, and more. Understanding the specific services offered by the car shipping company will help you determine which services are necessary for your shipment.

For example, if you need your car delivered to your doorstep, door-to-door delivery would be an essential service. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, you may opt for terminal-to-terminal transport to save on costs.

What Are Your Rates?

Understanding the pricing structure of the car shipping company is essential to avoid any surprises down the line. Inquire about the rates for the specific services you require and ask about any hidden fees or additional costs that may apply.

Some car shipping companies charge additional fees for oversized vehicles, pick-up or drop-off outside business hours, or expedited shipping. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the total cost of shipping your vehicle before hiring a car shipping company.

The luxury car market is a realm that caters to discerning customers seeking high-end vehicles equipped with premium features, superior comfort, advanced technology, and exceptional performance. When venturing into the world of luxury cars, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure you make the right choice.

This compact guide will help you navigate the luxury car market with ease, eliminating confusion and providing clarity on your journey to acquiring your dream vehicle.

1. Understanding Your Needs And Preferences

Your journey in the luxury car market begins with self-understanding. What exactly do you want in a luxury car? Are you seeking an exhilarating performance experience, an embodiment of tech-savvy features, a cocoon of comfort, or a distinctive design that makes a statement? Understanding your preferences is pivotal to narrowing your search. Also, think about practical aspects such as the number of passengers you generally accommodate, the driving you predominantly do, and the features that are non-negotiable for you.

2. Budgeting Your Luxury

Ferrari yesterday unveiled the latest addition to its One-Off series, the Ferrari KC23. One of the Prancing Horse’s leading collectors commissioned the latest in the marque’s Special Projects programme. The Ferrari KC23 one-off is a bold and extreme vision of what the closed-wheel racing of the future may look like. An excellent new take on the most successful track car in Maranello’s 76-year history, the 488 GT3 in its ‘Evo 2020’ version, it pulls off the incredible feat of exuding elegance when at a standstill and thrilling the viewer once on the move, thanks to ground-breaking aerodynamic solutions, such as motorised air intake vents and an imposing rear wing.

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Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre led by Flavio Manzoni, the KC23 is based on the 488 GT3 Evo 2020 platform from which it inherits its layout, chassis and engine. The base for the project was exceptional indeed: the 488 GT3 has been racing since 2016, and to date, it has triumphed in the world’s most prestigious endurance races, racking up over 530 victories and winning more than 119 championships, making it the most successful racing Ferrari in history.

Given the extreme nature of its engine, chassis and suspension set-up, the Ferrari KC23 was designed exclusively for non-competitive track use. Its most unusual feature is its dual configuration. At a standstill, the car’s layout showcases its clean, sleek, sinuous forms. However, once it is on track, its impressive air intakes open automatically, and its commanding rear wing dominates its visual stance.

From the very earliest days of the project and in agreement with the client, the Ferrari Styling Centre focused on creating a radical one-off car completely free of homologation constraints and clothed in the kind of timeless lines that would make an instant classic whilst also providing a tantalising glimpse of the future of supercars. That challenging goal demanded that all 488 GT3 Evo 2020’s lines be redesigned, glass surfaces and light clusters included.

Valour celebrates Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary by honouring its unique tradition of superlative special edition front-engined sportscars. Bespoke 6-speed manual transmission uniquely mated to a 5.2 litre Twin Turbo V12 for maximum driver engagement and timeless classic appeal. The last of an era, Valour fuses unmistakable looks, relentless performance and intense dynamic character to delight purists with the ultimate visceral driving experience. Production is limited to 110 units globally.

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In celebration of its 110th anniversary, Aston Martin is proud to reveal Valour – a spectacular, ultra-exclusive V12-engined, manual transmission special edition built to honour the marque’s long tradition of excellent front-engined sports cars and delight purists who crave undiluted and visceral driving experiences.

Aston Martin Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll said:

Valour is a celebration of Aston Martin’s passion for driving and extraordinary heritage, but it is also emblematic of today’s vibrant and revitalised brand. A modern icon that fuses classic character with contemporary execution, Valour captures the essence of excitement and exclusivity that defines this storied automotive marque. A showcase for our world-class design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities, Valour further proves Aston Martin’s position as the driver’s champion and maker of the world’s most exciting, exclusive and desirable ultra-luxury high-performance cars.

Aimed squarely at those who relish a truly involving driving experience, Valour’s commitment to era-defining performance and stimulation is second to none. The only front-engined V12 sports car available with a manual transmission, its purist approach is unique in 2023 and a thrilling tribute to a golden era of driving.