The Austrian GP came and went with a host of action that kept the audience captivated. Max Verstappen put a stamp on his mid-season renaissance after a torrid start to his 2018 campaign, and Mercedes experienced a double-DNF, which Ferrari gladly capitilised on with a P2-P3 finish. Here’s the fallout and news from behind the scenes in the F1 World:
- Lauda Confirms Future Mercedes Line-up
Nicki Lauda has confirmed on Austrian TV that Mercedes will not pursue Daniel Ricciardo to partner Hamilton next season, further revealing Hamilton will be paired with Bottas. The announcement will come as a blow to Ricciardo’s contract negotiations in the wake of news that Ferrari will look to focus their attention on Charles Leclerc rather than pursue the off-contract Australian
- Button Joins Sky F1 for British GP
Jensen Button is set to join Sky Sports F1 for the 2018 British Grand Prix in Silverstone. Button as said “The British Grand Prix is an iconic part of the sporting landscape in this country … I’m really looking forward to being part of the Sky Sports F1 team…”
- Hakkinen Praises Leclerc
Mika Hakkinen has expressed praise at the young Charles Leclerc who has had a great showing for Sauber thus far in 2018. Hakkinen stated Leclerc is showing he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Leclerc is slated to be promoted to Ferrari’s number 2 seat next season ahead of Daniel Ricciardo, and with the performances he has put in this season, it’s hard to disagree he doesn’t deserve a look.
And that wraps up everything in F1 for this week. Stay tuned next week for more from the F1 Weekly Roundup!