LawVS - The Ladder Man

Former Red Bull special advisor Helmut Marko goes down swinging.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Dr Helmut Marko, having won out against Christian Horner for control of Red Bull Racing realised his influence was weaker than he thought...or was never there to begin with. Not one week since his departure from the F1 team, the Austrian rails against the nature of his leaving and produces one last diatribe against it and Christian Horner. One last case to paint the Formula 1 team in a negative light; and...

F1 2025 has had its highs and lows...and those who were so-so. But mostly hot and cold!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

How did Formula 1 drivers fare over the 2025 season? McLaren won out in both titles whilst rookies like Isack Hadjar and Oliver Bearman doing more than enough to showcase their future in Formula One is safe and bright. However, the likes of Lewis Hamilton came across a horse-shaped brick wall this year whilst Charles Leclerc kept the tifosi hoping for more...and Fernando Alonso? The old...

How are the F1 engine makers doing with just a few weeks left until their creations break cover?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Five companies are supplying power units to eleven teams. Which are of them are reaching their goals and which are frantically fixing glaring issues? How confident are they going into the first phase of the brand new Formula 1 regulations cycle coming in 2026? What is being touted as one of the largest overhauls in the sport's history? Could it be a Mercedes walkover...or could...

Honda Racing's president's desire for Aston Martin to dominante ASAP is bad news for Lance Stroll.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

HRC's lead Koji Watanabe spoke to Aston Martin's F1 website about his excitement in working with Adrian Newey and the AMR project going into 2026 and beyond. What is clear though is that the ambition of Honda has reached a whole other level...especially given Toyota's increased involvement in Formula 1 in its expanded work with Haas. Is there room for Lance Stroll in all of this or...

Helmut Marko is poised to be ousted from Red Bull. What does that mean for Max Verstappen?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In a surprise twist AFTER the 2025 F1 season was won by Lando Norris, Red Bull Racing's special advisor Helmut Marko is set to be removed from involvement with the Formula 1 team for its 2026 campaign. The specifics are not yet clear. Will he retire fully or be relegated into something far less frontline such as the Formula One paddock. What happened? Has Isack Hadjar been spared...

We have a new F1 champion. You may not like him, but he earned it.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Lando Norris secured his first ever Formula 1 world title by finishing P3 behind rivals Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen. The Abu Dhabi GP may not have been exciting but for some, that's fine by them! Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc signed off 2025 duties on a good note whilst Sauber scored in their last race as they did in their first race.

Who else won, lost or...

The intense FIA press conference before Abu Dhabi gave us a lot to work with.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Putting Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri was going to be interesting; and the world was not disappointed. Norris let his guard down with honest answers whilst Piastri and Verstappen were a lot more closed off. Was this a ploy by Lando to show his hand and clear the air or was this useful intel for his main rivals going into the 2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand...

In a shock move, Toyota's name shall grace an F1 team for the first since 2009.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Yes, it's not a full-on works team, but Toyota Gazoo Racing has stepped up its collaboration with Haas to transform Gene's team into TGR Haas F1 Team for the 2026 Formula One season. This is more than a simple increase in Toyota stickers on the car; but the pinnacle of what's been going on for the last 12 months or so. The realisation of a proper driver program in...

It's over. Yuki Tsunoda is out of Red Bull Racing...at least their main lineup.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In a surprise move, Yuki Tsunoda is NOT out of a job in F1, but has been moved off into a third driver, testing sort of a role. Part of the RB family, but not a main man. Meanwhile, the expected lineup of Isack Hadjar moving up to join Max Verstappen and Arvid Lindblad stepping into Racing Bulls played out as expected. As for Liam Lawson? He...

It's the final countdown. Lando Norris' to lose and Max Verstappen's to gain.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

And oh yes, Oscar Piastri is there too. With three men poised toward destiny, the Abu Dhabi GP is going to be a very tense act to follow the Qatari race. Just 12 points separate Max from an historic F1 moment. For Norris? Get on the podium and he will have his. Everyone else? It's all about going out on a high, a smooth operation.

Who could...

Max Verstappen cut the gap to Norris in half. AGAIN. We're going to Abu Dhabi.

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

What should've been a steady securing of his first world title, Lando Norris now finds himself HAVING to secure a top 3 finish next time out after the Qatar GP threw himself and Oscar Piastri a curveball...by their own team. For a second time in as many races. As that happened, Max Verstappen led seventeen drivers to an early stop behind the Safety Car with the...

McLaren are chasing the FIA to relax rules regarding technical breaches...that is sad.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Whilst team principal Andrea Stella discussed that no team orders would be in place for the rest of the F1 season, including Qatar, a quiet technical answer was given in the wake of the team's disqualification in Las Vegas for that grand prix. The McLaren team boss claimed to be in dicussion with the FIA, the sport's governing body, to perhaps relax sanctions regarding breaking of rules related...

Adrian Newey assumes EVEN MORE control of Aston Martin, now as their team principal. WHAT?!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In a surprise twist of fate, Aston Martin have announced that they've hired from within. That the legendary F1 designer has taken up the role of leading the team trackside as well as designing their future cars. What does this mean for the team amidst their fourth change of team boss in four years? Putting Alpine to shame right there! Will Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll seek...

Everyone's talking about Max and Lando...but what about Oscar Piastri?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Nobody is quite certain what exactly McLaren's Australian driver will do in the midst of pressure from both Norris and Verstappen...so I asked YOU to discuss it with me! With 6,000 votes cast, it's clear. YOU WANT CHAOS! However, I don't think it's as simple as that. Today I wish to discuss four possible scenarios which Piastri could deploy at a track which he historically has vibed with. The Qatar GP...

It was already gonna be tense here, but with Max where he is? Lando should be nervous.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

We knew the Qatar GP was gonna be something to keep an eye on, what with tyres expected to struggle and Pirelli mandating a 25 lap limit for them...but thanks to the McLaren double disqualification, Max Verstappen is closer than he has been since the start of the season to Lando Norris and is equal to Oscar Piastri. How will they stack up within the...

McLaren did not cheat in Las Vegas. They simply done goofed...and made Lando's life harder.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren said it was a mistake, but in reality, it was a greedy gamble in the midst of a lack of data due to practice being limited for the 2025 F1 Las Vegas GP. As a result, what became a smooth ride into the Middle Eastern races has become a more nervous siutation for Lando Norris with BOTH his title rivals still in contention. Not only that...

In a rather shocking twist, BOTH Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were disqualified from the Las Vegas GP for a technical fault, excess plank wear. The same thing that afflicted Ferrari back at the Chinese Grand Prix. A big loss, right there! All of this great news for Max Verstappen whose win brings just 24 points behind Norris with two rounds and a sprint to go.

Meanwhile, Mercedes secured another double podium at the track whilst many midfield runners like Sainz, Hulkenberg and Hadjar excelled in what is a crucial squabble there.

Who else...

Rain escaped us in Brazil...but came back STRONG in Vegas F1 quali!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

This was one of the most intense qualifying sessions of the F1 2025 season with Lewis Hamilton the biggest loser out of all the drivers tiptoeing around the famous landmark. The circuit didn't give us teammate Charles Leclerc much to smile about either! Meanwhile, both Racing Bulls once again nailed Q3 to cement P6 in the team title that little bit more whilst Lando Norris? He disspelled the notion McLaren...

Max Verstappen wants to call time on his famous number 33...and replace it with Ricciardo's. Oh dear.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Last week, the FIA approved relaxing rules regarding driver numbers; something which has been permanent since 2014. How? We do not know...but what we DO know is that Max Verstappen wants to get in on it and replace his number 33 with number three...which belonged to a certain proper Australian happy-man. That has now thrown the world into a tailspin and questions the value of...

Charles Leclerc has been ‘repeatedly contacted’ by Aston Martin...why?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari's golden boy Charles Leclerc has been ‘repeatedly contacted’ by Papa Stroll's F1 team, as said by a contact close to Nicholas Todt, the driver's manager. In a time where next year's drive market is expected to be EXTREMELY silly, these words carry extreme weight to them...and would the driver famously loyal to the Scuderia ACTUALLY bite? What would it take and, more importantly for some, who would he replace...Fernando Alonso o...

Audi has CEASED development on their 2026 power unit. That's a good thing.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In a rather surprising move, Mattia Binotto and Audi have made the decision to STOP work on adding performance and developing their first generation of F1 engine, instead focusing on just reliability. Is this a bad thing? Not so. This is all part of the plan and should give the team an edge over their fellow 2026 debut partners Cadillac. Can this genuinely lead to title challenges come the next decade?<...

Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri need to win BIG to keep Norris from securing the title.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The Las Vegas Grand Prix this year is expected to not only showcase special liveries, Williams starting off with a banger of one, but also reveal if McLaren have cured the glitches in their system which made last year's race easily their weakest of the bunch. Mercedes are angling for back-to-back victories with George Russell leading the charge whilst Williams seek for redemption after a strong...

McLaren’s “fair play” image is looking set to emulate Red Bull in 2018...and not in a good way.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

There’s a growing tension at McLaren, a mutual trust issue that may mirror Daniel Ricciardo’s fateful Red Bull exit in 2018 when Max Verstappen was set to take charge. How has Piastri’s 2025 season swing, plus the emotional weight of McLaren’s loyalty to Norris point toward a bigger problem? And how are McLaren fending off that looming possibility. Could the massive reduction of j...

Lando Norris could become one of F1’s most divisive champions. Why?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Lando Norris is winning races, comfortably too, but the reaction around him is STILL louder than ever. A single thumbs down from a Racing Bulls staffer has set off another wave of debate, adding fuel to a season already shaped by many other factors which include papaya rules. How has this driver on the edge of his first championship wound up become F1's latest villain superior?

Ge...

Toto Wolff is cashing in and Mercedes could be worth MORE without Lewis Hamilton.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Toto Wolff is reported to be selling part of his stake of Mercedes for just over $300 million which implies a team valuation near $6 billion. Just ahead of the 2026 rules shift and while F1 valuations run hot. Mercedes says governance stays the same, a likely passive buyer which fits the message of no power shuffle...but you never know. Keep an eye on how this capital refresh feeds into...

Ferrari’s biggest fight this season is with its own chairman.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari chairman John Elkann has lit up the paddock by praising mechanics and engineers...while pointing the finger at Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc; telling them to talk less. Him pinning the blame for Ferrari's woes on them. Both drivers pushed back with public unity and the world has sounded off AGAINST the lead of the road company.

Why does this “talk less” instruction feel especially off? It's weird...

Try Huel with 15% OFF today using my code LAW15 at us.huel.com/law15. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!

Minimum order value of $75.

The 2025 Sao Paulo Grand Prix delivered, despite there being no rain worth speaking of...and Lando Norris? He's locked in.

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Lando Norris’ commanding weekend tightened his grip on the championship whilst Kimi Antonelli’s fearless showing left Toto Wolff grinning. Not on;ly that, but Max Verstappen’s charge from the pit la...

Aston Martin's Newey just swung the axe within the team...and the fallout could impact Lance Stroll.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

A brutal reshuffle is underway at Aston Martin as Adrian Newey and Enrico Cardile remove several senior technical leaders. With Honda arriving for 2026 and a clean-sheet car in the works, authority now concentrates around Newey, with Fernando Alonso urging the factory to prioritize the reset. Another key sign that the copycat era of Team Silverstone is over. No more Pink Mercedes or Green Red Bull!<...

McLaren might have just handed Max Verstappen the psychological edge he needed to take another world title.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In a stunning twist ahead of the Brazil GP, McLaren CEO Zak Brown’s comments around 2007 and comparing it to Max Verstappen's tear in the title sent shockwaves through the paddock. What was meant as a message of unity between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri has instead comes off as McLaren conceding defeat before the fight is over.

Clearly, this message has no...

Despite losing the lead of the title, Oscar Piastri found a new gear as Lando Norris dominated.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

A single front suspension choice after Canada set Lando Norris up for qualifying dominance while Oscar Piastri arguably drifted out of the sweet spot. With Andrea Stella's support, Piastri's Mexico race was saved from abject disaster. What happened? Let's talk about it!

There’s bigger context too. Stella’s public framing of his drivers suggests different superpowers that could shape the team’s deve...

Rain on the radar, sprint on the schedule...yeeeeees!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In other news, Williams returns to its classic identity with the "Forward W", a clean signal of heritage with intent for 2026. Also, the Felipe Massa legal pause and uncertainty with Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari means that red-coloured teams are not having a good time. Naturally, Interlagos gets the spotlight for its classic status and a wet forecast that could make things well fun!

Who do I predict for this weekend's top 5?<...

Alpine F1 is on the brink of a move that could reset its future.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Alpine’s celebrity-backed investor Otro Capital is in early talks to offload its 24 percent stake bought in 2023 for about $218m. Now? A profit is to be had; and if Renault reclaims the shares it tightens control right before the 2026 rules shift. As a result, could this be a sign that Renault has accepted its failure with Alpine and is about to begin anew on its own...or is th...

The championship has a new leader...and it's its first one.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Lando Norris absolutely nailed this race weekend at a time when Oscar Piastri fumbled and lost his lead by just a single point. Charles Leclerc barely hung on to yet another podium whilst Max Verstappen was denied by a wild call regarding Carlos Sainz narrowly missing out escaping the track and causing a Virtual Safety Car. On top of that, Oliver Bearman gave his team Haas their equal best-ever result of...

Two drivers, one rule and a reset that HOPEFULLY makes things simple.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren’s Singapore flashpoint rolled into Austin and then into Mexico as Oscar Piastri accepted a "degree of responsibility" for his part in the Sprint crash with Lando Norris. But there's plenty of PR wizardry here to show how a quiet procedural edge for Oscar Piastri likely vanished and Lando Norris should be relieved. Have McLaren been able to masterfully negate the looming Max Verstappen by accepting his presence...or wi...

Red Bull is pressing pause on its 2026 driver call.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Get 15% off at the Castore Official website with my special link: https://glnk.io/ryj2p/lawrence #AdCastoreAff

Max Verstappen’s resurgence has shifted priorities, which means Helmut Marko’s once imminent meeting has cooled while the team chases points for both squads. That puts Yuki Tsunoda’s steady climb under a brighter light with Lawson and Hadjar still very much in frame. Corporate Austria has more say since the Horner...

Red Bull may have cracked it grip-wise...and McLaren aren't doing a thing about it.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Red Bull’s RB21 has gone from a pity case to a true contender, or even the fastest car on the grid right now. The clues and experts point to a smarter way of running the car lower without incurring the wrath of the FIA. As a result, Max Verstappen has cut Oscar Piastri’s lead by two thirds and outscored both McLaren drivers since August. Under Laur...

Altitude, politics and outright pace collide around Mexico's F1 race.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The Mexico City GP for 2025 sets the stage for a season-defining weekend with Red Bull weighing its 2026 seats and Yuki Tsunoda staking a stronger claim after a composed run last time out. FP1 will play host to many young hopefuls and test dirivers plus the Alpine team-order fallout that has fans aflutter continues. Who do I predict will maeke the top 5 this weekend?

#f1 #mexicangp #formula1 #f1news #f1...

Max Verstappen put the championship on notice at COTA as McLaren blinked and Ferrari bit back.

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The 2025 F1 United States Grand Prix at Austin was a heat-soaked pressure test that reset the title tone with Red Bull's Verstappen now just 40 points behind title-leader Oscar Piastri. Red Bull’s “strongest weekend in a long while,” was evident as Yuki Tsunoda scoring in both races showed. Ferrari looked composed as Charles Leclerc’s bold soft-tyre call earned a podium while Lando Norris salvaged big poin...

Lando Norris says there were 'repercussions' of his move on Oscar Piastri...could that change the course of the 2025 championship?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Norris confirms he was held accountable internally for the Singapore contact while Piastri backs that up. The FIA called it a racing incident. as did McLaren initially...but now no more. What could those 'repercussions' likely mean in practice for McLaren and Lando? Why were they not there at the Canadian Grand Prix moment which was more impactful for the championship at...

Mercedes just confirmed Russell and Antonelli for 2026 only.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Mercedes has locked in George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for 2026...but with no overt commitments beyond the regulation reset. The clearest signal yet that the 2027 driver market is wide open. Unlike other teams who proudly shout long-term deals, such as Pierre Gasly with his 2028 Alpine deal. The “pairing” language hints at stability without permanence, confidence theatre. Hedging seats rather than betting on the future. The messaging is unmistakable. If Max Verstappen moves, Mercedes will be r...

Mick Schumacher's F1 alternative test went well...in fact...it looks suspiciously good.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

After years of battling F1 politics and proving his talent in endurance racing, Mick Schumacher is now stepping into IndyCar. His recent test with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing may have been more than a simple publicity stunt a genuine audition, funded and supported by the team and Honda themselves. Mick’s performance has caught serious attention by Indycar's own marketing department themselves...the same series his father once dismissed mi...

McLaren head into Austin under a cloud whilst Haas are the literal stars of the sho.w

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Get 15% off at the Castore Official website with my special link: https://glnk.io/ryj2p/lawrence #AdCastoreAff

Haas’s Texas-themed livery is the star attraction as the latest chatter linking Christian Horner to Ferrari comes back around...and it's sticking more than ever. Who are my picks for the top 5 around the Circuit of the Americas as well as those touted for po...

McLaren might be walking straight into Max Verstappen's trap...and long-time supporter Mario Andretti did not help their cause.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Max Verstappen (and maybe George Russell) is turning the tables on McLaren’s title charge and Lando Norris suddenly finds himself under more pressure than ever. Perhaps left to his own destiny amidst massive scrutiny aimed at the McLaren pitwall. As Red Bull refines its car and Verstappen sharpens his focus, McLaren’s internal balance between Norris and Oscar Piastri is beginning to look...

Red Bull is playing the long game in F1 and it might keep Max Verstappen with them.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Get 15% off at the Castore Official website with my special link: https://glnk.io/ryj2p/lawrence #adcastoreaff

Laurent Mekies has Red Bull focusing on developing, not causing drama...or at least drama OFF-TRACK. The team is stacking targeted updates, front wing ones especially, to be ready in time for 2026 when it comes to the grind of developing future cars. I think...

Aston Martin slams the door on Christian Horner’s reported $100M bid for control.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Christian Horner’s most speculated path back to the pit wall hit a wall. Reports say he pitched a $100M package to Aston Martin for a stake and the CEO role, yet Andy Cowell said there are absolutely no plans for Horner in any capacity. Money wasn't the issue, it was perhaps the potential baggage that came with the man...or are Aston Martin happy with who they've got...

Ferrari and the Tifosi wants a louder leader and the paddock can feel it.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari’s season has turned into a hunt for authority as the SF-25’s China ousting regarding ride height exposed deeper problems which has now left Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton mere "passengers". Italy is aching for a modern Scuderia figurehead on the level of Schumacher or Lauda which has failed to materalise in 20 years in full force...Kimi Raikkonen continuing to be its last champion. Whispers around lead...

McLaren won the team title in Singapore...but the team looks fragile regardless.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren’s win came with fresh contact between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri which passed without issue and a mounting perception that the pit wall tilts toward Lando. The pattern from Hungary 2024 may show how “hard racing” and team unity may be masking deeper trust issues. Despite the team achieving a major milestone given their history, Piastri's championship bid is being constrained and his feeling unheeded...and whoever decided to all...

The gloves are off and McLaren might live to regret it.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

George Russell owned Singapore as Mercedes nailed a no Safety Car race while McLaren locked the 2025 constructors but lit a fuse within their own garage. Lando Norris went full send on Lap 1, clipped Verstappen then brushed Piastri and the stewards called it hard racing...and the papaya rulebook looked flimsy.

Momentum matters now. Mercedes trend up on warm up and straight line and McLaren has a title with...

Alex Dunne just walked away from McLaren...and it's made them mad!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren has parted ways with rookie standout Alex Dunne before the F2 season for 2025 is over. Huh? The fallout hits every corner of the grid. Dunne isn't a slowpoke either, he's in Formula 2's top 5 and ahead of all the Red Bull juniors. However, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri locked in for years, there was obviously no room upwards...and Dunne was done waiting. McLaren is a glass house.<...

The numbers are starting to say that Franco Colapinto deserves another go in 2026.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Franco Colapinto replaced Jack Doohan and sits last in the standings of active drivers, yet his head-to-head with Pierre Gasly tells a different story. Tighter than it was between Gasly and Doohan and it’s coming inside a chaotic Alpine setup which is only now starting to regain some stability.

There are reasons to maintain Colapinto alongside the Frenchman, including his Mercedes experience from the Williams pr...

Whilst Kimi Antonelli's future looks brighter, George Russell and Toto Wolff are locking horns...and neither one are backing down.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The Russell vs Mercedes saga is heating up and whilst there seemingly HAS been progress...it's gotten very technical. Yes, Toto Wolff has publicly promised Kimi Antonelli a seat for 2026...verbally. On Italian TV. For now, it's not signed, sealed and delivered. Meanwhile, George Russell has gone from pushing for a multi-year deal to being offered a single-season extension with no conditions...

Singapore is always pure theatre and the latest Leclerc-Ferrari rumours are a great opening act!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The 2025 Singapore Grand Prix is coming and the drama is already piling on DAYS before it. Rumours are swirling about Charles Leclerc potentially sounding out McLaren, Aston Martin and even Mercedes. With Ferrari’s performance under scrutiny, the barely mentioned condition to his contract extension is back in the news! Meanwhile, Max Verstappen has been speaking about Red Bull’s improved stability, which could mean that even if Y...

Max Verstappen just lit up this year's title race...even if he doesn't win it himself!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

A 22-second GT3 win in a Ferrari 296 has capped off a surging wave of fan momentum toward Max Verstappen. His recent triumph reads as pure racing freedom while McLaren’s “equal opportunity” script for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri looks corporate. Zak Brown wants a grandstand finale...but it is becoming less and less genuine-looking.

McLaren's boss is right. Max IS a disruptor.

Red Bull’s smartest play for 2026 might just be the move nobody expected...nothing!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Red Bull Racing has been at the center of constant speculation...but the truth is, stability could be their greatest weapon heading into 2026. With Max Verstappen back in winning form and finally praising the team’s effort, panicked changes risk undoing the progress that has brought them back within reach of second in the Constructors.

The bigger picture is all about timing. Rising stars like Arvi...

Sainz just lit the fuse on his Williams era with his podium. Safe to say it's on again!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Carlos Sainz’s return to the rostrum with Williams in Baku is proof that everything said up until now is REAL! He turned months of noise into a clean result. In his own words it wasn’t about anyone else. That mindset matches the team’s rise under James Vowles.

It also strengthens Sainz’s reputation as an adaptable driver, a real par...

Christian Horner's next 'possible destination' could be Haas.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Fresh off his departure from Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner has walked away with a $100 million settlement and the freedom to come back to F1 sometime next year. Now recent rumours suggest his next move could involve Haas, the most affordable team on the grid. There, Horner could finally secure the ownership stake he never had at Red Bull.

However, Gene Haas has fiercely resisted selling for years. There are plenty...

Max Verstappen is back in the hunt and F1 fans WANT it.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren may have dominated the season so far, but Baku changed everything. Both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris let valuable points slip away while Verstappen won AGAIN, backed by a revitalised Red Bull and a sharper-than-ever Yuki Tsunoda. With Max taking things one race at a time, he’s suddenly positioned as the outsider ready to steal the spotlight...and McLaren being compared to 2007 anyway despite being nicer and no Sp...

Baku 2025 delivered a statement win for Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz's revenge arc is back on!

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Max Verstappen controlled the 2025 Azerbaijan GP from the front on a bold hard-tyre start, banked a grand slam as he did so and now got people talking about him taking down at least one McLaren in the championship hunt. Mercedes made smart calls as Russell and Antonelli swooped ahead of Ferrari in the team standings!

However, Carlos Sainz delivered a composed P3...

Next-gen Formula 1 might NOT be about engines alone. Mercedes should be worried.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Pirelli’s Mario Isola dismisses Toto Wolff’s headline-grabbing 400 km/h claim and explains why wider performance gaps between compounds may force two-stop strategies. There seems to be far more to these new regulations than we thought! Including how narrower tyres and smaller diffusers will aim to cut spray...and that we could FINALLY see easier racing in the wet! Here are five things I have understood from Isola's interview abou...

George Russell is turning the screws on Mercedes and Helmut Marko is happy to point it out.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Helmut Marko’s latest comments slam the door on any Max Verstappen-to-Mercedes fantasy whilst also heaping praise on Russell and push Toto Wolff to pay up for the privilege. With Red Bull granting Max more freedoms and more control over the car's technical direction, Mercedes are left with one clear team leader choice...yet it can't seem to square itself away!

Russell’s Mo...

Ferrari needs a hero! No, they don't. They need to get their act together!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari’s badge still turns heads yet internal churn is costing them wins and is a dealbreaker in Max Verstappen's head...despite being tempted by the allure all the same. It's not enough though! Discarded former overseer of Ferrari Luca di Montezemolo says the team has “lost its soul” and how boardroom interference is unsettling Fred Vasseur, casting him a lonely figure amidst the F1 team burning through person...

Baku is braced for chaos and we have the full playbook.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren’s team-order fallou is still going but Piastri’s quiet steel and Norris’s tricky record set the stage for a must-watch Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2025. The C6 qualifying tyre matters, sadly, as well as how Red Bull’s straight-line speed returns Verstappen to the sharp end and why Mr Baku Charles Leclerc still fancies a podium even in a patchy Ferrari season.

Stick around for my top 5, featurin...

Red Bull just showed why Christian Horner had to go.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Helmut Marko’s Monza victory speech puts a spotlight on the new power triangle of himself, Max Verstappen and new team boss Laurent Mekies...while framing Christian Horner as the drag that held Red Bull back in recent years. Was this a necessary process or could Horner have marched on? In any case, Max is a happy camper!

#f1 #redbullracing #formula1 #maxverstappen #formulaone #f12025 #laurentmekies #christianhorner #helmutmarko #f1news #f1...

Gasly’s future with Alpine is not a love story. It's business.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Pierre Gasly has inked a fresh deal that keeps him in Enstone until 2028, locking himself to the grid’s current back-marker for the next three seasons after this one...and it's not as simple as wanting to stay. He HAD to stay! With new Renault boss François Provost pledging long-term backing and Flavio Briatore pulling the political strings, Alpine promises stability while rivals juggle musical chairs...after years of INSTA...

Ferrari just lost the brains behind some of their best engines of the last decade...to Audi!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Two of Maranello’s top power-unit gurus (Wolf Zimmermann and Lars Schmidt) are reportedly packing their bags for Audi ahead of the 2026 F1 season...oh goodie. More Ferrari departures. Now WHO are they exactly? Zimmermann masterminded Ferrari’s post-2014 engine revival and led the upcoming 2026 project...that's who he is! Schmidt follows as his trusted lieutenant meaning Audi now has a ready-made leadership duo under form...

Mercedes fans are starting to sweat with no signatures for Russell and Antonelli in sight.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Mercedes is past its usual August deadline...and yet George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli remain unsigned for 2026, sparking talk of friction inside Brackley. Team principal Toto Wolff insists on short 1-plus-1 deals but Russell surely wants better than that! With a major 2026 rules reset looming and lingering chatter about Max Verstappen, every delay fuels sponsor nerves and gives Aston Martin-Honda a chance to George Russell. What's...

2025 F1 title race may have just changed forever. McLaren’s dramatic team orders? Man, they used to be cool.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren’s bold call during the Italian Grand Prix has fans and pundits talking about whether the team crossed a line. The team’s controversial decision to swap positions with Oscar Piastri...it makes you wonder. What does it really mean to let drivers race?

How could this decision impact the title fight, fan trust and the future of Formula 1? Whethe...

Oh no. Not again. ANOTHER McLaren maladie at Monza?

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Max Verstappen was unstoppable...and whilst McLaren took a double podium, the day will be remembered for controversy instead of conslidation with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris ONCE AGAIN tangled up in team orders. Ferrari found quiet progress at their home race, Charles Leclerc’s electric start helping them tighten their grip on P2 in the championship. Meanwhile, standouts like Alex Albon and Gabriel Bortoleto pulled off impressive drives to shake up th...

Monza delivered with Max Verstappen ROARING back to the front.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lando Norris finally opens up with a raw confession at Monza regarding Oscar Piastri.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Lando Norris’ candid confession about his current situation matters for both his career and McLaren’s future. Norris admits that Oscar Piastri matches him in speed and composure, making him confront his own emotions and embrace experience as his only real advantage. With only nine races left and a tight points gap, Norris’ honest self-assessment signals a new level of maturity and sets the tone for one of F1’s m...

Reverse grids, sprint races and trimmed free‑practice sessions are suddenly center stage...and fans are divided.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

F1 is facing a dramatic and gimmicky future and I’m here to break down Stefano Domenicali’s push to reshape race weekends by expanding sprint formats, cutting back or cutting out free‑practice sessions, even testing reverse grids like in F2/F3...and hinting at shorter Grand Prix distances too. These moves are driven by a desire to hook new audiences and deliver more on‑track...

Mick Schumacher just turned down a fast-track return to Formula 1.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Mick Schumacher stunned the paddock (and me) by rejecting Cadillac’s reserve seat even though the offer promised strong pay podium-capable World Endurance machinery and a future path back to F1. Why would he choose the freedom of Alpine? And why McLaren’s 2027 hypercar project could be his smartest long game should Alpine not be his final port of call...Every detail here reshapes Mick’s quest to reclaim an F1 cockpit and bu...

Expect Oscar Piastri to go one better than last year's Italian GP.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari arrives at Monza under the loudest kind of home‑circuit pressure, battling low morale and a five‑place grid penalty for Lewis Hamilton. Meanwhile Red Bull is presenting a picture of stability with Max Verstappen committing his future from the new boss' first day in the office whilst McLaren charge full tilt with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in peak form...but the Aussie roaring louder.

It’s...

What a race at Zandvoort. One that had safety cars, heartbreak and quite a lot to process after a month away...

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The Dutch Grand Prix gave us Isack Hadjar’s standout podium as Oscar Piastri’s flawless grand slam became a reality and Max Verstappen rebounded after Hungary. Alex Albon, Haas and Aston Martin seized their chances while Yuki Tsunoda fought through adversity and Franco Colapinto nearly scored his first F1 points for Alpine. As for Lando Norris’s devastating mechanical failur...

The 2025 Dutch GP qualifying was one for the history books with Oscar Piastri edging Lando Norris for pole.

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The McLarens lock out the front row with Oscar Piastri snatching pole from Lando Norris by just one hundredth of a second. Max Verstappen’s strong comeback puts him in P3, while strategy and tire choices look set to play a huge role in Sunday’s race. Isaac Hadjar and Liam Lawson impress with standout performances for Racing Bulls right when the midfield pack...

McLaren is sitting on a powder keg of performance and politics.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

The orange squad’s constructors defense depends on a fragile peace between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri...and for it to last for YEARS. How? Equal-status team orders, a record-breaking Mastercard deal securing the team's future and the management's hands-off approach, THAT is what ideally keeps both drivers pushing flat out without taking each other out ALL the way to Abu Dhabi. The two-alpha gamble similar to historic partnerships like Senna an...

Sergio Perez is rewriting the story of his Formula 1 career.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Checo’s partnership with Valtteri Bottas is primarily about experience and goodwill for the Cadillac F1 project. Why DID Cadillac pick two of the paddock’s most seasoned drivers and how are this pairing set to transform the team’s reputation both on and off the track?

#f1 #sergioperez #checoperez #formula1 #formulaone #f12026 #f12025 #cadillacf1 #cadillac #valtteribottas #perez #bottas #redbullracing #f1news #f1latest #f1drama #f1updates #f1teams...

Front‑row urgency and high‑stakes drama are need for these five F1 drivers for the rest of the 2025 outing!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Front‑row urgency meets high‑stakes drama as we break down why Franco Colapinto, Carlos Sainz, Lewis Hamilton, Yuki Tsunoda and rookie Kimi Antonelli face a pivotal second half of 2025 that could define their careers in the short to medium term. Franco? Just one point could prove his worth in a struggling Alpine. Sainz? The pressure is intense to respond to Albon AND for...

F1 is back and the Dutch Grand Prix hosts its return...and another McLaren 1-2, perhaps?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

After a long break, Formula 1 returns to Zandvoort for the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix with major headlines shaking up the grid. Cadillac’s potential lineup with Perez and Bottas is one thing but IndyCar champion Alex Palou is reportedly being considered to join Red Bull in the near future. What could that mean for Red Bull’s future, including the ongoing legal fight with McLaren and how he s...

Now Valtteri Bottas is being linked with Cadillac’s 2026 F1 debut alongside Checo Perez, the deal supposedly almost done.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Cadillac F1 is lining up a veteran pairing as reports from Formula.hu and RacingNews365 point to Valtteri Bottas joining Sergio Perez. A safe lineup, of sorts, going against the previous thoughts regarding Mario Andretti's ideal, but it CAN be smart for a brand new team in a Netflix era that rewards familiarity and clean storylines.

#f1 #formula1 #valtteribottas #sergioperez #ch...

Hamilton sounds harsh on TV but inside Ferrari he is methodical and trusted.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur paints a different picture of Lewis Hamilton than the headlines do. The post-session quotes can spike the mood but the briefings are calm. Behind closed doors he is sending word across Maranello with lessons from Mercedes...but the media tend to focus on one thing.

This season is an integration job under a cost cap, not some kind of fancy magic switch...

Helmut Marko says Hulkenberg was THIS CLOSE to the 2021 Red Bull seat...until Sergio Perez changed everything.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Helmut Marko has finally said it on the record. Nico Hulkenberg was on the brink of partnering Max Verstappen in the RB16B for 2021, helped by his ServusTV link and a reputation as a safe bank for points to respond to Mercedes. Then Perez won in Bahrain, momentum swung and Red Bull chose recent proof at the sharp end. We all now wonder how close...

Max stays for now but Red Bull is changing fast and Alex Albon is suddenly part of the story.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

With Christian Horner out and Laurent Mekies running the shop while Helmut Marko steps into co-director, the tone inside Milton Keynes looks different. Verstappen calls this a slight rebuild, not a teardown but that shift, plus pressure and pride from Red Bull’s Thai side and a government keen on a Bangkok race, puts Albon back in the frame perhaps. Would he actually bi...

Liam Lawson’s turning things around...but the F1 fans don't seem to care.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Liam Lawson’s journey back to the Formula 1 spotlight is rewriting his reputation but the racing world has barely noticed. After a tough spell at Red Bull and a return to the junior ranks, Lawson has clawed his way into the conversation by consistently scoring points for Racing Bulls, keeping the team within the midfield battle for P6 alongside Sauber and Aston Martin. A breakthrough with new front susp...

The 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix turned the F1 world upside down with yet another Lando Norris twist AND some surprise winners...and big losers.

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

McLaren celebrated a landmark 200th victory in F1 as Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri delivered a commanding 1-2 finish, showing off perfect teamwork and strategy as Ferrari folded in awkward fashion. Gabriel Bortoleto stole the spotlight with a career-best drive to sixth holding off legends and proving he’s here to stay as a rapidly interesting rookie. Aston Ma...

Current F3 championship leader Rafael Camara opens up about his season and the mindset driving him toward the title...as well as a tasty snack idea!

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

In this exclusive interview, Brazil's Rafael Camara talks through the highs and lows of his rookie Formula 3 season with Trident. Rafael shares how he's stayed focused, consistent and motivated throughout. He also reflects on the emotional moments like his Monaco heartbreak, the support from his parents and his journey with the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy.

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix gave me a headache. Sure it was delayed a lot but McLaren kept me on edge!

Climb the ladder with me over on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Oscar Piastri stamped his authority at Spa with a telling response to Lando Norris on Sunday as well as a standout Sprint pole, leading McLaren to their first 1-2 at this track in over two decades. Leclerc struck back for Ferrari after a rough Silverstone, outpacing Verstappen in the main race, suggesting their upgrade might have potential in the second half...

F1’s silly season is not over! Red Bull is keeping its head down whilst Mercedes proves to be the loud ones for once.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Red Bull is in a state of quiet transformation, refocusing under new leadership and aiming to put the drama behind them. With Christian Horner gone and Laurent Mekies now leading the charge, Max Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull appears stronger than in a long time.

Meanwhile, Mercedes isn’t backing down from the headlines. Despit...

Aston Martin’s future in Formula 1 looked bleak...but then Adrian Newey turned up.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Aston Martin nearly missed the boat on the 2026 F1 regulations before legendary designer Adrian Newey arrived to overhaul the project. Newey’s arrival came just in time with the team WAY behind on development thanks to, perhaps, major crises the last two seasons. How IS he taking control of every aspect of the AMR26? Why do both Fernando Alonso and Andy Cowell believe this could be a turning poin...

A major Verstappen to Mercedes source backpedals his claims as the wider world turns back to Red Bull.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Nelson Piquet Jr, Max Verstappen’s brother-in-law, loudly claimed a Mercedes deal was done...only to now backpedalling his claim; his guess now as good as ours! As negotiations between Verstappen, Red Bull, and Mercedes heat up, the talk seems to be leaning back toward Max staying put. Red Bull is reshaping itself to be more to Max's liking and technical changes for 2026 make an...

Spa could be the turning point of the season as Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes are keen to stamp down the smack down before the summer.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

With Red Bull bringing crucial upgrades and new leadership to Spa, all eyes are on whether Max Verstappen can regain momentum at his home away from home or the team has continued its spiral. McLaren arrives as the team to beat, fresh off back-to-back wins, while Oscar Piastri looks to channel his frustration from Silverstone...

Esteban Ocon has quietly become one of the most compelling stories of the season.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Despite his low-key presence, Ocon has already matched his points tally from his last year with Alpine with races to spare, while settling into a much more supportive and responsive environment. This video breaks down why Ocon’s move to Haas could be the best decision of his career and how his partnership with race engineer Laura Mueller has become one of the most positive in the paddock. Al...

The F1 2025 season has delivered shock wins, heartbreaking losses and career-defining moments—and we're only halfway through.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Surprise podiums and unexpected championship leaders to teams struggling at the back of the grid, the first 12 races of the Formula 1 2025 season have given fans plenty to talk about. Oscar Piastri is leading the charge in only his third season, while George Russell’s leadership at Mercedes and Nico Hulkenberg’s long-awaited podium have turned heads across the paddock. Alex Albon’s comeback at Williams and Isac...

Mercedes is already ripe for speculation...but now are we witnessing a turning point for Kimi Antonelli? Why isn't Toto Wolff nipping the rumours in the bud amidst the Verstappen talk?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Toto Wolff’s long-term plan for Kimi Antonelli is being questioned as rumours swirl around 2026. After a string of tough DNFs and mounting speculation about a possible Max Verstappen move to the Mercedes team, talk is starting to grow around KIMI being moved out instead of George Russell; who had been th...

Max Verstappen’s wants and needs seem to already be realised if their new boss' first act is to be believed.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Red Bull Racing is in the middle of a major and perhaps long needed shakeup with Christian Horner sidelined and Laurent Mekies stepping up to lead. How does Mekies’ new approach potentially wind up being the turning point that finally gives Verstappen the car and support he’s been demanding for years now? Long-overdue simulator upgrades that could lead to smarter practi...

Toto Wolff is quietly shaping next year's season as Checo settles in with F1's newest team.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Silly season is coming, folks! With reports that Sergio Perez is set to join Cadillac and that Mick Schumacher and Valtteri Bottas are the two final candidates in the frame for the seat next to him, it’s clear Wolff’s influence could stretch to even more teams! As George Russell faces contract uncertainty and Kimi Antonelli navigates a shaky phase of his rookie year, the...

Christian Horner’s next move could be to save Alpine from its biggest crisis yet.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Pierre Gasly’s candid frustration has exposed just how deep Alpine’s problems run, with leadership chaos amidst an urgent need of direction. This video breaks down why Christian Horner, fresh from Red Bull and still at the center of the F1 world, might be the game-changer Alpine desperately needs. However, there are plenty of power plays to discuss involving Flavio Briatore, legal hurdles and the all-important 2026 regula...

The power at Red Bull Racing has shifted. Max Verstappen is now firmly in pole position. Both on AND off the track.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

With Christian Horner out, Red Bull Racing is undergoing its biggest transformation since it began. Hoping to perhaps place Max Verstappen at the center of the team’s future. The main political obstacle for the Dutchman is gone, giving him perhaps more influence than ever and a renewed sense of control over his career path. As Laurent Mekies takes over an...

Sauber’s transformation in its final season has set the stage for Audi’s ambitious F1 entry, turning heads across the paddock and reigniting fan excitement.

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Nico Hulkenberg’s podium at Silverstone signals a major shift for Sauber in their final year before Audi sticks its badge on it properly. Could you call 2025 its first season since they own this team 100%? Anyway! Jonathan Wheatley’s calm leadership and Mattia Binotto’s quiet oversight has clearly done something for the better after a year of mi...

Christian Horner has been fired from Red Bull! The team, as we knew it, is finished. What will come of it next?

Climb the ladder with me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/lawvs

Christian Horner’s exit from Red Bull is now official and the consequences for F1 are massive.Who stands to gain and who could lose the most from one of the sport’s biggest shakeups in recent years? With Laurent Mekies stepping up as the new team principal, everything is about to change, both for Red Bull’s senior team and fo...