Motorsports Racing News & Blog Articles

The work of a fleet manager is never done. You have to manage your drivers and look after your vehicles daily. You purchase fleet insurance because it gives both your most essential assets full protection, but that has to be managed as well. Of course, you can always just “get and forget” your fleet insurance, but that is only applicable if you have money to burn and you can afford every coverage and inclusion you set your eyes on.

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Choosing the right fleet insurance and managing it to give you maximum protection for a reasonable price is essential, especially for newer fleets.

Choosing the Right Vehicle Insurance for Your Fleet

When it comes to choosing the best insurance for your fleet, here are the things you need to consider:

How Much Should You Spend on Insurance?

Introduction

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton has closed the gap to title rival Max Verstappen following a dominant victory in the inaugural 2021 Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix at the Losail International Circuit, with Verstappen recovering from a grid drop that saw him start P7 to finish second, as Alpine’s Fernando Alonso took the final podium position.

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After a clinical start from pole position, Hamilton was able to control the pace at the front of the field with an indomitable lights-to-flag win, his second in a row after Brazil. But while Hamilton was impressive, so too was Verstappen, who was dropped from P2 to seventh on the grid for failing to respect double waved yellow flags in qualifying.

Verstappen shrugged off the disappointment, though, jumping to P4 at the start before quickly making his way up to second, before following Hamilton home to limit the damage to his title lead, which now stands at eight points as Verstappen claimed the fastest lap bonus point.

McLaren Racing announced this week a new partnership with AI Cloud platform leader, DataRobot, as an Official Partner of the McLaren Formula 1 team, which will start at the inaugural Qatar Grand Prix.

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DataRobot delivers a unified platform for organisations across industries to unlock the full potential of AI and deliver a clear impact for their business goals, powering over a trillion predictions for leading companies around the world.

As part of this relationship, DataRobot’s AI Cloud technology platform will be integrated into the McLaren Racing infrastructure, delivering AI-powered predictions and insights to maximise performance and optimise simulations.

From this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix, DataRobot branding will be visible on the nose of the McLaren MCL35M race cars and on the race suits of McLaren F1 drivers, Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo.

After Mexico and Brazil, Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow now heads for the Qatar Grand Prix, on the coast of the Arabian Peninsula, also bordering Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf. It will be the first time a Formula 1 Grand Prix has been held here. Qatar covers an area of just over 11,500 square kilometres, with a population of 2,800,000.

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The track. The track-only took a year to build, thanks to a workforce of around a thousand, at a cost of 58 million US dollars. It was inaugurated in 2004, staging that year’s MotoGP, the first such race to be held at night as from 2007 when a powerful 3600 floodlight system was installed. It is 5.380 kilometres in length, with the main straight measuring 1.068 kilometres. The track is surrounded by artificial grass to prevent sand from blowing onto it from the surrounding desert. The first corner is very important, as it requires very heavy braking before a quick section where it is important to carry speed before braking for turn 4, which marks the start of a section with more corners. A hairpin at turn 6 is the slowest point on the track and leads into the most technical part of the circuit. The complex of corners 12, 13 and 14 are taken as one turn, similar to the famous turn 8 at Istanbul Park. Turn 15 is a fairly quick right-hander before the final braking point on the lap. Here there is more than one possible line, which means overtaking is a possibility.

Programme. The race will take place at night so that all other sessions are later than usual in the day. The first free practice on Friday starts at 13.30 local (11.30 CET), with the second at 17 (15 CET). On Saturday, the final hour of preparation begins at 14 (12 CET) prior to qualifying at 17 (15 CET). The inaugural Qatar Grand Prix gets underway at 17 (15 CET).

Qatar Grand Prix: facts & figures

1. The number of current Formula 1 drivers who have raced at the Losail circuit. In February 2009, Sergio Perez took part in the two legs of the GP2 Asia championship. The Mexican won Race 1 and came second in Race 2, which was won by Nico Hülkenberg.

Introduction

Lewis Hamilton won the 2021 Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix after a sensational battle with his rival Max Verstappen in an absolutely enthralling return to Brazil for F1. Verstappen finished runner-up ahead of pole-sitter Valtteri Bottas.

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Hamilton enjoyed a terrific start from P10 on the grid and was clearly on the charge, teammate Bottas – who lost the lead to Verstappen at the start – letting him for P5 by on Lap 5. Hamilton then took P2 off Perez in a duel that began on Lap 17 and culminated in a Lap 19 pass at Turn 4. The first stops took place around Lap 25 but the action built up to a terrific crescendo after Verstappen took a second stop on Lap 41, Hamilton on Lap 44.

The Mercedes driver bore down on Verstappen and despite being shoved wide at Turn 4 – the stewards noting but not investigating – on Lap 48, Hamilton didn’t give up, trying it again on Lap 58 only to meet a stubborn defence. A lap later came the winning pass with DRS on the run-up to Turn 4, this time Verstappen having no choice but to concede. Hamilton ended up 10.4 seconds up the road in first place at the flag, cutting Verstappen’s championship lead from 21 points to 14 points.

Ocean Bottle goes full throttle with Red Bull Racing Honda. With research indicating that the amount of plastic in our oceans will quadruple by 2030 and that over 75% of this pollution will come from uncollected plastic waste, reducing the amount of single-use plastics and supporting sustainable actions has never been more crucial.

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Red Bull Racing Honda is therefore pleased to announce a new partnership with a reusable water bottle company to help prevent pollution of our ocean and lower the Team’s environmental impact.

In 2022, the company will supply the Team and its guests with fully recyclable reusable water bottles made from recycled materials, and that’s not all! With each unit supplied to the Team, Ocean Bottle will commit to collecting the equivalent of 1,000 plastic bottles.

Since launching in January 2019, Ocean Bottle has funded the collection of more than 2.5 million kilos of ocean-bound plastic, equivalent to 245 million plastic bottles and by 2025 it aims to have collected 80 million kilos of plastic, equivalent to 7 billion plastic bottles. With each unit supplied to the Team, Ocean Bottle will commit to collecting the equivalent of 1,000 plastic bottles.

The Ferrari BR20, the latest addition to the Prancing Horse’s One-Off series, was unveiled today and joins the most exclusive group in Maranello’s range: unique, absolutely bespoke cars crafted to the specifications of a client and designed as a clear expression of their own unique requirements.

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The BR20 is a two-seater V12 coupé developed on the GTC4Lusso platform, which in terms of its philosophy and styling approach, cleverly references the magnificent Ferrari coupés of the 1950s and 60s, without the slightest hint of nostalgia. Instead, it pulls off the challenging feat of marrying timeless elegance with muscular sportiness, effortlessly incorporating styling themes typical of some of the most iconic 12-cylinders in Ferrari history, including the 410 SA and 500 Superfast.

The GTC4Lusso’s two rear seats have been removed to add extra dynamism to the BR20’s ultra-sleek fastback line. The new car is three inches longer than the original, thanks to a specific rear overhang treatment designed to create a silhouette that beautifully emphasises its proportions. One of the cornerstones of the design process for this one-off was the radical modification made to the cabin volume. This in turn gave the design team, led by Flavio Manzoni, the freedom to conceive the innovative proportions that ultimately produced a powerful yet stylistically coherent exterior design theme.

The new cabin design solution creates the impression of a pair of arches running lengthwise from A-pillar to rear spoiler. The rear volume of the arch has been hollowed out to create an aerodynamic channel with the air outlet concealed by the black rear fascia under the spoiler. This modern take on Ferrari’s “flying buttress” theme firmly connects the car to signature Prancing Horse styling cues not just from Ferrari’s GT tradition, but also sports cars such as the 599 GTB Fiorano. To visually lighten the cabin, the black paint of the roof visually connects the windscreen to the rear screen, which stands above the surface of the rear tailgate as if to channel the airflow.

According to the sports marketing agency In-Sport Marketing, at the moment 7,2 million people in the world are involved in motorsports and their number increases by 20-25% every year. According to the agency’s research, motorsports are among the ten most popular sports, along with volleyball and track and field.

This can be seen especially clearly in bookmakers’ offices, where you can bet on the sports of interest. For example, in the 20Bet office not only generous 20Bet bonuses but also large lines on sporting events, including motorcycling. This signals that people’s interest in motorsports is only growing.

Today, we’re going to talk to you about which motorsports are definitely worth a try if you’re interested in the sport.

Speedway

Short track on motorcycles. Speeds here are much less than in road-ring racing – an average of 70-80 kilometres per hour. But there’s more contact. There’s not much room for overtaking, and the track is never comfortable. Most often the track consists of granite, marble, or dolomite crumb. In winter, riders compete on an icy track. It is very difficult not to fall or collide with an opponent within 4 laps of the track on an oval track. That is why speedway is considered one of the most dangerous sports. But where there is danger, there is adrenaline.

One of the most economically profitable types of motorsports. Tracks do not require much maintenance, inexpensive maintenance, and the price of motorcycles. The sport does not change from year to year, so you can ride one bike for several seasons. A motorcycle that has been racing for many years is no worse on the track compared to a new bike. You can take up this kind of motorsport from as young as 7 years old. Many champions of prestigious road-ring races started on the dusty roads of speedway when they were children.

Bowmore Masters’ selection unites the worlds of whisky making and automotive design. New limited-edition single malt whisky combines the mastery of Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer and Bowmore’s Master Whisky Blender. Each Master’s unique understanding of proportionality has created a whisky with exquisite depth and balance.

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A shared commitment to heritage, craftsmanship and innovation unites the worlds of whisky making and automotive design with the creation of Bowmore Masters’ Selection; the first single malt whisky to be made by Bowmore Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky in collaboration with Aston Martin.

Imagined and defined by two Masters; Bowmore Master Whisky Blender Ron Welsh and Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman, Bowmore Masters’ Selection bridges two distinct worlds in a powerful, yet inspiring way. At its heart is mutual trust and respect for one other’s worlds and a passion to discover and learn from each other. Each Master imparts their own creativity and character, but also makes an indelible mark, like leaving their own unique fingerprint, on every single creation.

Marek Reichman has often spoken about the concept of the ‘Golden Ratio’ – the mathematical ratio found in nature that creates aesthetically pleasing compositions -, which sits at the heart of the design of every Aston Martin. Absolute beauty can be created when you achieve a perfect relationship between each proportion of the car.

Many people dream about being their own boss. You will be able to set preferred hours, serve your customers as per your choice and specialize in a particular automobile field. Car enthusiasts can turn their passion into a lucrative business by opening a workshop.

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But having an entrepreneurial spirit is not enough. Without the right investments, guidance and a strong team, the establishment could struggle to survive amid the pandemic. In the fourth quarter of 2020, there were about 2,34,7000 auto repair and maintenance centres in America which is a 0.9% increase from the previous year. The revenue generated by the automotive repair industry is likely to grow in the coming years. 

So, if you looking to start a car-related business, this could be the right fit for you. A good way to attract car lovers is to offer them something to do while their vehicle undergoes a repair. Premier Car Models has enabled to choose of Tamiya model car kits or simple Tamiya car models like vintage and classic models with fine details to keep customers productively busy. Below are a few other helpful tips to start your brand. 

  Decide the Garage Type 

Offering niche repairs can help you flourish. So, research and check the demand for different car repair services. It could be anything from rustproofing, interior repairs, exterior paints, tire and oil changes, air conditioning and battery replacement. Plan the related expenses and focus on being sustainable. Specialized services can help improve the performance and keep the car components safe and durable. You can get hold of Tamiya car model kits to explain your services to your clients for better clarity. 

Introduction

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen cruised to a record third career 2021 Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix victory ahead of Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez – who became the first Mexican driver to take a Formula 1 podium at their home race.

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The joy of Valtteri Bottas’s shock pole position was short-lived as Verstappen swept around the outside of the two Mercedes into the first corner on the opening lap. Bottas was then tipped into a spin by McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo into Turn 2 to leave Verstappen leading Hamilton then Perez behind the Safety Car, which was called back for a Lap 5 race restart, as Bottas dropped to the back of the field.

Verstappen’s pace on the medium tyres – on which everyone bar Yuki Tsunoda and Esteban Ocon started – was superior to Hamilton’s in the opening stint. With the Briton losing time to the Dutchman and his teammate Perez, he pitted for hards on Lap 30 and Verstappen followed on Lap 34, emerging second to make Perez the first Mexican to lead his home race.

Valkyrie is now in full production at Aston Martin’s Gaydon Headquarters. The era-defining hypercar is the first true F1 car for the road. First customer car completed and awaiting delivery.

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The first customers will soon receive their game-changing Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar. The ultra-luxury British car manufacturer announced today that the highly anticipated Valkyrie coupe has entered full production and the first customer car is now complete, with deliveries planned in the coming weeks.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers commented: “It is an immensely proud moment for us to complete our first ever hypercar. The Aston Martin programme has tested everyone who has worked on it to the limit but the commitment to the dream has produced a truly incredible car, an F1 car for the road. The hypercar is born out of the steadfast dedication of a large group of highly skilled engineers and technicians who have worked tirelessly to get Valkyrie to the production stage. I’m sure our customers will be delighted with what they have achieved.”

Like all Aston Martin sports cars, Valkyrie is being built at the marque’s UK Headquarters in Gaydon. A dedicated project delivery team manages the build right through to delivery in a specially commissioned Valkyrie production area. A team of highly skilled technicians are hand-building each of the 150 cars, with each Valkyrie taking over 2000 man-hours to create.

Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez charged into action on the streets of Mexico City today at the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, with a series of flat-out blasts and tyre-smoking doughnuts along the city’s historic boulevard.

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Bringing Formula One power to a massive crowd of 130,000 fans, Checo cranked up the double championship-winning Red Bull Racing RB7 and lit up Mexico in preparation for his home race at this weekend’s Grand Prix.

Checo unveiled a special edition driver’s suit to bring even more colour to his home show run, and a one-off helmet design that he’ll also wear for this weekend’s race at the Autodrómo Hermanos Rodriguez.

QuintEvents and Formula 1 have announced a multi-year extension to their official partnership, F1 Experiences, offering unique and exclusive fan package experiences and trackside hospitality. The successful F1 Experiences programme will continue with innovative offerings for fans, as crowds return to grandstands following the COVID-19 pandemic.

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F1 Experiences began at the start of the 2017 season, providing fans with packages that include exclusive benefits, access and experiences not available anywhere else, and the offering has continued to grow ever since. Packages include track tours, access to the paddock, private pit lane walks, the opportunity to watch the race in VIP Hospitality, as well as the chance to meet icons of F1, past and present.

Health and safety remain the top priority when attending a race and F1 Experiences offer options for intimate viewing opportunities, in addition to hospitality suites and amenities. This partnership extension will continue to offer packages at various price points, ensuring that fans at every level are given the chance to experience the greatest racing spectacle on the planet in an unforgettable way.

Chloe Targett-Adams, Director of Race Promotion, Formula 1, said:

We’re delighted to extend our partnership with QuintEvents as we continue to welcome fans back to the circuits and give them an experience they’ll never forget. The action on the track this season has been some of the best we’ve seen, as the championship goes down to the wire, so it’s fitting we’re able to deliver the same quality to fans off the track. It’s a hugely exciting time for F1 as we look forward to the new era of racing in 2022 and F1 Experiences will continue to be a key part of the race weekend.

The Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) – Promoter of the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2021 – is delighted to announce that Saudi Telecom Company (stc) will be the title partner of the first ever Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which will take place on the brand-new Jeddah Corniche Circuit on the weekend of December 3rd – 5th.

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The formal agreement was signed this morning by HRH Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammad bin Khalid Alabdullah Alfaisal, Chairman of stc Board of Directors, and stc Group CEO Engineer Olayan M. Alwetaid.

In addition to its inclusion on the event title, the terms of the agreement will see the stc logo be heavily displayed throughout the race weekend. The stc brand is set to feature prominently on all global broadcasts as well as on the winners’ trophies and across the Jeddah Corniche Circuit – the newest, longest and fastest street circuit in the world – during the penultimate round of the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship.

In turn, stc will support a variety of inspiring initiatives and events hosted across the Kingdom, as part of Vision 2030’s aim to inspire the nation to engage in increased sporting activities and to promote a healthier lifestyle for all.