Sports Mole rounds up all of the latest news regarding Formula 1 on Wednesday, October 28.
Wednesday morning's Formula 1 news roundup:
Ferrari not ready to discuss Red Bull engine 'freeze'
© Reuters
Red Bull's plans to run its own engine program from 2022 have hit a snag.
In a key meeting in Portimao early this week, the sport's stakeholders discussed Red Bull's request that engine performance be frozen from 2022 so that the energy drink company is able to run the Honda engines for itself.
Prior to the meeting, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said he backed the plan, which would only require a simple majority vote.
"That should work, even if Ferrari is against it," said the Austrian.
However, Ferrari has retained its unique power of veto, and according to team boss Mattia Binotto's latest comments, it may be used in this case.
"Before discussing the freeze, I think it is more important to start talking about other issues," he is quoted by La Repubblica newspaper.
"For example 2026, and the new technical architecture of the engines. How to deal with the costs and which technologies to employ," the Italian added.
"Then, having dealt with these issues, we can talk about freezes."
Toto Wolff defends F1's 'pay drivers'
© Reuters
Toto Wolff has defended some of F1's so-called 'pay drivers', insisting their disparaging image is unfair.
"Just name one driver who doesn't deserve to be here this season," the Mercedes team boss told motorsport-magazin.com.
It is no surprise that Wolff, a minor Aston Martin shareholder, is defending Lance Stroll, the son of Racing Point and Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll.
Pointing out Stroll's various junior titles, he said: "I don't think anyone can say that he doesn't deserve to be here just because his father is a billionaire.
"I think he actually suffers from that stigma and it's just not right," said Wolff.
"He's not responsible for the fact that his father is successful. It's actually impressive that a guy from that background chooses one of the toughest sports in the world.
"Honestly, it's not a discussion for me."
Wolff also defended Williams' Nicholas Latifi, another son of a very wealthy father who co-owns McLaren. Many believe Latifi has underperformed in 2020.
"It's his first season," Wolff insists, "and it's nothing like ten years ago. I can't even remember the guys who came into Formula 1 without winning a single race in the junior categories."
The next 'pay driver' in F1 is expected to be Nikita Mazepin - the son of a powerful Russian oligarch.
"I think Nikita has been at the front in this Formula 2 season. He's won a few races," said Wolff.
"I think we're in the best possible situation. Five or six years ago we had a lot more drivers who only drove because they paid. I don't want to name any names, but you probably know who I'm talking about."
More news from Formula 1:
Lando Norris apologises for "stupid" comments on Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton broke Michael Schumacher's record of 91 race victories at the Portuguese Grand Prix on Sunday. Read more.
Abiteboul denies Ocon-Gasly rumours
Cyril Abiteboul has denied rumours suggesting Renault might oust Esteban Ocon. Read more.
Binotto 'very happy' with Sainz for 2021
Mattia Binotto remains "very happy" with Ferrari's choice of successor for struggling quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel. Read more.
Rio de Janeiro F1 plans hit environmental snag
Rio de Janeiro's hopes of securing a Formula 1 race have been dealt a blow. Read more.
Ecclestone says drivers still call for advice
On the occasion of his 90th birthday, former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone still thinks the move to today's power unit regulations was "insane". Read more.
'Stupid' Norris apologises to Stroll, Hamilton
Lando Norris has issued an apology after making comments about rivals Lewis Hamilton and Lance Stroll in Portimao. Read more.
Mercedes ups Aston Martin stake to 20pc
The collaboration between Mercedes and Aston Martin is being expanded. Read more.
F1 plans 'normal' 23-race calendar for 2021
There could be as many as an unprecedented 23 races next year, as reports about the 2021 calendar emerge following a key meeting. Read more.
