Transfers, deals, backroom politics — behind the scenes of Formula 1, there’s a lot happening this month. It almost seems as if the quiet period in terms of races is being compensated by a loud buzz of activity. But what’s going on? And which stories should you take seriously? We’ll guide you through the seven rumors you should definitely follow this winter break.
1. Sergio Pérez as a WEC driver?
Now that Sergio Pérez has left Red Bull, rumors are flying in all directions. Will he stay in Formula 1, perhaps with a midfield team like Williams? The most striking rumor is that he might shift his focus to another racing class, the World Endurance Championship (WEC). His father, Antonio Pérez, recently suggested that Sergio is open to other racing classes if a top seat in F1 remains elusive. And after his dismissal from Red Bull due to disappointing results, this scenario seems plausible.
2. The love triangle that keeps the paddock busy
The Formula 1 world is relishing the drama between Oliver Bearman, Franco Colapinto, and Charles Leclerc. Bearman, who was appointed as a reserve driver for Ferrari in 2024, is seeing his star rise within Formula 1. Colapinto also made an impression: after a strong start in Formula 2, he was promoted to Formula 1 driver at Williams halfway through the season. Fans speculate that the rising status of these young talents not only affects their careers but also their personal lives. Will this drama take a new turn following the promotion of both drivers?
3. Daniel Ricciardo: A Future Celebrity?
Following his replacement by Liam Lawson at the Singapore Grand Prix and subsequent disappointing results, Daniel Ricciardo‘s position in the sport hangs by a thread. Ricciardo himself has hinted at a possible sabbatical or a focus on commercial activities, such as his brand DR3 and his growing media role. These developments fuel rumors that Ricciardo may have driven his last races in Formula 1. Will he shift his focus to his brand this year? Or will he capitalize on his celebrity status?
4. What is Flavio Briatore Planning?
Flavio Briatore, the architect behind many F1 successes, seems to be working on a quiet comeback despite his suspension. Insiders suggest that his role at Alpine goes far beyond mere advice. There is even speculation that Briatore is eyeing a new key position within a team, possibly as the driving force behind a future deal between Alpine and an engine manufacturer. Will 2025 bring Briatore’s definitive comeback as a team boss?
5. Will the F1 Race Calendar be Reshaped?
With 24 Grand Prix in 2024, Formula 1 is under pressure. In 2023, six sprint races were held, an increase from the three in 2022, but rumors suggest that this number will be reduced to just five in 2024. Team bosses like Toto Wolff are also advocating for a revision of the calendar to alleviate workload, with longer breaks between races and fewer back-to-back weekends. Has the current calendar become unsustainable? We will soon find out.
Conclusion
The winter break may seem like a quiet period, but nothing could be further from the truth in the world of Formula 1. From transfers and technical innovations to personal dramas, the rumors and developments already give a taste of what 2024 will bring. One thing is certain: Formula 1 continues to captivate, even when the cars are not racing.
