Lewis Hamilton’s handicap challenges at Ferrari in 2025 have raised concerns about his performance, with age cited as a growing obstacle in his first season with the Scuderia. Meanwhile, a criminal trial date has been set for William Oakes, brother of former Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes, adding tension off the track as the Formula 1 community navigates a period of uncertainty.

Lewis Hamilton’s Struggles Highlighted Amid Ferrari’s Troubles

Former Ferrari driver Rene Arnoux has identified age as a significant handicap for Lewis Hamilton during the 2025 Formula 1 season, suggesting the seven-time World Champion’s inability to match top performance without a dominant car is becoming evident. Hamilton’s high-profile transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari has not yielded the results expected, as the team continues to struggle under the leadership of team principal Fred Vasseur.

Despite Hamilton’s experience, his early outings with Ferrari have been disappointing, highlighting a broader challenge for the Italian outfit. According to Arnoux, Ferrari is “in a bad way” at present, struggling to provide the machinery Hamilton needs to compete at the front of the grid.

Alpine’s Flavio Briatore Condemns Media Coverage of Franco Colapinto

Alpine boss Flavio Briatore has criticized the negative media attention surrounding Franco Colapinto, blaming Argentine press for exaggerating the driver’s difficulties following his recent promotion. Colapinto, who replaced Jack Doohan before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, has faced a tough debut stretch and now approaches the Austrian Grand Prix as the final event of his initial five-race contract.

Briatore’s comments underscore the pressure on Colapinto, who has yet to establish himself firmly within the team while navigating heightened scrutiny from his home country’s media.

Criminal Trial Scheduled for Brother of Former Alpine Team Principal

William Oakes, brother of ex-Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes, has been scheduled for a criminal trial relating to the possession of what authorities allege is criminally-obtained cash. Oakes appeared twice before Northampton Crown Court, pleading not guilty to charges involving large sums of cash, including £831,885, €46,120, and $10,000. He has been granted bail pending further proceedings.

The case has attracted attention within the Formula 1 community given William Oakes’ connection to a prominent team leader, adding a layer of unease as the trial date approaches.

Brad Pitt Takes to the Track in McLaren Test Ahead of New F1 Film

Actor Brad Pitt undertook a private McLaren Formula 1 test at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, shortly before the upcoming release of a new racing movie. Pitt stars as Sonny Hayes, a veteran driver making a dramatic comeback, in a film set to debut soon. The test used McLaren’s previous-generation car as part of preparations and promotional activities surrounding the movie’s launch.

His involvement has generated buzz among fans, connecting the worlds of Hollywood and motorsport in anticipation of the film.

Daniel Ricciardo Rejects Retirement as He Embarks on New Business Venture

Daniel Ricciardo has openly dismissed the idea of retirement following his exit from the Formula 1 grid last September, when Racing Bulls replaced him on their roster. The Australian driver, who boasts eight Grand Prix wins from 257 starts since his 2011 debut, announced the launch of a new venture, signaling continued engagement in competitive or related activities despite stepping away from the cockpit.

Ricciardo, soon to turn 36, conveyed a clear reluctance to close the chapter on his racing career just yet, emphasizing that “retirement is not for me.”

Implications of Hamilton’s Challenges and Upcoming Trial for 2025 F1 Season

Lewis Hamilton’s ongoing handicap at Ferrari underscores the difficulties faced by even the most accomplished drivers when machinery and team performance falter, raising questions about Scuderia’s prospects in 2025. Hamilton’s ability to adapt to new team dynamics and overcome physical challenges will be crucial for Ferrari’s campaign.

Off the track, the forthcoming trial of William Oakes threatens to cast a shadow over the sport’s leadership circles, reflecting broader concerns about integrity and accountability within Formula 1’s extended community. As drivers like Daniel Ricciardo seek new paths and figures like Brad Pitt spotlight the sport in popular culture, the landscape remains in flux, driven by both on-track results and personal dramas behind the scenes.