Hamilton hints at reluctance as F1 safety debate ignites in Saudi
Mar.17 - As Max Verstappen sat out Thursday's proceedings with a "stomach bug", other Formula 1 drivers hinted that are not overly thrilled to be back in Saudi Arabia.
Last year, the drivers' union GPDA threatened to boycott the Jeddah street race after nearby missile strikes.
When asked how he feels to be back in town, Valtteri Bottas answered: "I actually prefer not to answer that question."
Carlos Sainz says the FIA, Formula 1 and race organisers have given "reassurances" that Saudi Arabia is a "safe place right now" for a F1 race.
"Time will tell but I'm confident that they are not lying to us and they are putting together a safe event," said the Ferrari driver.
Kevin Magnussen said he has heard that a "ceasefire" is now in place between Saudi Arabian and Yemeni rebels, but he also insisted that F1 drivers simply need to go where F1 sends them.
"We go to these places and we just have to deal with it the best we can and get through it," he said.
Seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton, however, indicated that if he was to speak freely, he would make "opposite" comments to most of the other drivers.
When asked if that means he's in Saudi Arabia under duress, the Mercedes driver added: "Well, I didn't elaborate so it's open to interpretation.
"It's something I don't want to get into. So hopefully everyone has a safe weekend and hopefully everyone gets home safe afterwards. That's as much as we can do, right?" Hamilton said.
"The thing is, if I'm not here, Formula 1 will continue without me."
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ceasefire, oh good that's alright then
Loads a money, that’s the main thing. I hope the owners of Liberty will be there, how about a Grand Prix in Yemen, only fair.
Money is the root of all evil 😈
Saudi is a danger zone
Take care boys
Women's rights in Saudi Arabia are a topic of concern and controversy internationally. The FIA tells us on one hand that they want to see women racing in F1, although they patronise countries with a very poor record of women's rights and freedom. It is highly unlikely that there will ever be a woman from the Middle East in F1! The FIA needs to practise what they preach and boycott countries with such poor human rights records.
However, as has already been stated ~ money is the root of all evil, and Liberty are interested only in more and more money. Next thing will be a Syrian Grand Prix!
In a surprising turn of events, Afghanistan has been announced as the host of a Formula One race for the first time in history. The decision was made after a rigorous selection process that considered various factors, including the country's infrastructure, political stability, and economic potential for Liberty Media.
Afghanistan's bid was initially met with skepticism, given the country's history of conflict and instability. However, the government has made significant progress in recent years, investing heavily in infrastructure and promoting a stable business environment that has attracted foreign investment from countries including China, North Korea, Russia and Te Urewera in New Zealand which for those less traveled is a Māori phrase meaning "The Burnt Penis".
The decision to award the race to Afghanistan was met with excitement and anticipation from both local War Lord’s and and international racing fans. The race is set to take place in two years' time, with plans already underway for a state-of-the-art racetrack that will showcase the best of Afghanistan's engineering and architectural capabilities.
The race is expected to provide a significant boost to the Taliban regime and Liberty Media, with millions of dollars in revenue expected to flow in from international visitors, bribes, and media coverage. In addition, the race is expected to serve as a symbol of Afghanistan's progress and resilience, demonstrating to the world that the country is capable of hosting world-class events and attracting global attention.
As the countdown begins for Afghanistan's first-ever Formula One race, excitement is building among male racing fans and supporters around the world. With two years to go, Afghanistan has a lot of work to do, but the country is ready to rise to the challenge and make history.
At this stage it appears unlikely that the W Series will be held as women are not allowed to participate, a last minute compromise put forward by Lewis Hamilton that he would instead drive in the W Series was also knocked back as drag queens are also prohibited.
Time and effort , I Salute you , the G.o.a.t has been redefined, previously thought to mean greatest of all time , its now know to mean Getting Old And Tired, Rumours that Angela is moving to AM to be performance coach for Fernando, have been quashed by his team, A statement reads Fernando does not need anyone to hold a scrunchie for his locks, Further updates to follow after Qualifying
"It's quite easy and doesn't require a lot of effort. I drink myself under the table, then press the microphone 🎙️ button on my phone, and randomly go off topic until I faceplant on the decking. I get the dog to check my spelling, and then Elfo hits "done," we have another off-topic masterpiece."
Sounds familiar don’t you think so to STroppy girl?.
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