Ryan Reynolds

On this month's episode of the Flat Chat podcast, Stuart Codling is joined as usual by Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to discuss the stories in July’s edition of GP Racing magazine.  Ahead of the British Grand Prix, we’ve spoken to Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris and George Russell for this month’s edition.  On the podcast we profile Lando Norris as not just a McLaren hotshot but an entrepreneur launching new businesses to connect with his growing fanbase.  Also on the podcast is a discussion about the recent investment in Alpine F1, led by the figurehead of Ryan Reynolds, and what it means for the sport.  Finally we talk about the consequence of decades of focus from F1 teams into aerodynamic complexity, and how this had led to suggestions that rule makers need to intervene (again) to make overtaking easier.

On this month's episode of the Flat Chat podcast, Stuart Codling is joined as usual by Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to discuss the stories in July’s edition of GP Racing magazine. Ahead of the British Grand Prix, we’ve spoken to Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris and George Russell for this month’s edition.  On the podcast we profile Lando Norris as not just a McLaren hotshot but an entrepreneur launching new businesses to connect with his growing fanbase. Also on the podcast is a discussion about the recent investment in Alpine F1, led by the figurehead of Ryan Reynolds, and what it means for the sport. Finally we talk about the consequence of decades of focus from F1 teams into aerodynamic complexity, and how this had led to suggestions that rule makers need to intervene (again) to make overtaking easier.

49: McLaren's Mogul, Ryan Reynolds and Outrageous Overtaking

On this month's episode of the Flat Chat podcast, Stuart Codling is joined as usual by Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to discuss the talking stories in June's edition of GP Racing magazine.  A key talking point is the seeming shift in F1 from a young driver's sport to a battlefield for experienced veterans. We explore Fernando Alonso's continued success as he approaches 42, highlighting that, in this adrenaline-fueled sport, age is truly just a number.  Rumours are circulating of 33-year-old Daniel Ricciardo's potential move to AlphaTauri, which sparks a conversation about the team's current flux. Mark Gallagher takes us through the after-effects of Dietrich Mateschitz’s death, the regime change at AlphaTauri, and its impact on the Red Bull talent pipeline.  On another front, the team discusses the challenges presented by an expanding F1 calendar, diving into the potential strain on teams, drivers, and all involved with the sport. With a poignant quote from the Haas team manager serving as a conversation starter, we explore the physical, mental, and logistic challenges that accompany the increasing number of race weekends.

On this month's episode of the Flat Chat podcast, Stuart Codling is joined as usual by Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to discuss the talking stories in June's edition of GP Racing magazine. A key talking point is the seeming shift in F1 from a young driver's sport to a battlefield for experienced veterans. We explore Fernando Alonso's continued success as he approaches 42, highlighting that, in this adrenaline-fueled sport, age is truly just a number. Rumours are circulating of 33-year-old Daniel Ricciardo's potential move to AlphaTauri, which sparks a conversation about the team's current flux. Mark Gallagher takes us through the after-effects of Dietrich Mateschitz’s death, the regime change at AlphaTauri, and its impact on the Red Bull talent pipeline. On another front, the team discusses the challenges presented by an expanding F1 calendar, diving into the potential strain on teams, drivers, and all involved with the sport. With a poignant quote from the Haas team manager serving as a conversation starter, we explore the physical, mental, and logistic challenges that accompany the increasing number of race weekends.

48: Ageless Alonso, Ricciardo's Rumoured Reshuffle & F1's Calendar Conundrum

The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine leads on Valtteri Bottas becoming the first and possibly the last F1 driver on the cover with a moustache and mullet.Bottas is the subject of an exclusive no-holds-barred interview (and an unusual photo shoot) in GP Racing this month. Now free of the corporate leash he’s enjoying life – and racing – once again. He explains why he rejected advice to ‘be more evil’ while at Mercedes and why he’s taking a stand for drivers to be able to express themselves.GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to discuss this latest incarnation of Bottas as well as some of the most recent developments in F1.As senior Ferrari engineer David Sanchez leaves for McLaren, the panel reflect on the chaos which seems to be enveloping the teams currently in the wake of the dominant Red Bull outfit. If former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto was as much a victim of regime change in the boardroom as of operational problems on track, why is his successor Frederic Vasseur – the preferred choice of the new executives – seemingly at loggerheads with CEO Benedetto Vigna?While team principal and senior executive squabble over peripheral topics such as who gets a paddock pass, the team has bigger issues to face: a car concept that may not be working and a lead driver, Charles Leclerc, who may be on the verge of throwing Ferrari over for a better offer when his contract expires.At McLaren, meanwhile, what is the thinking behind yet another management restructure? Having dropped the much-derided 'matrix management' system three years ago in favour of a conventional top-down hierarchy, McLaren's decision to have three technical leaders represents a major pivot.Elsewhere on the grid another team with a new leader, Williams, has enjoyed an unexpectedly positive start to the season considering the latest upheaval over the winter. First impressions are that new boss James Vowles is taking exactly the right approach to dealing with the problems which have pegged Williams back in recent years: measured and diplomatic, but decisive, as befits a leader with a background in engineering and strategy. It’s the opposite tactic to that recently adopted by AlphaTauri boss Franz Tost, who seems to be following the playbook of Antonio Conte at Tottenham Hotspur by throwing his backroom staff under the bus…

The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine leads on Valtteri Bottas becoming the first and possibly the last F1 driver on the cover with a moustache and mullet. Bottas is the subject of an exclusive no-holds-barred interview (and an unusual photo shoot) in GP Racing this month. Now free of the corporate leash he’s enjoying life – and racing – once again. He explains why he rejected advice to ‘be more evil’ while at Mercedes and why he’s taking a stand for drivers to be able to express themselves. GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to discuss this latest incarnation of Bottas as well as some of the most recent developments in F1. As senior Ferrari engineer David Sanchez leaves for McLaren, the panel reflect on the chaos which seems to be enveloping the teams currently in the wake of the dominant Red Bull outfit. If former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto was as much a victim of regime change in the boardroom as of operational problems on track, why is his successor Frederic Vasseur – the preferred choice of the new executives – seemingly at loggerheads with CEO Benedetto Vigna? While team principal and senior executive squabble over peripheral topics such as who gets a paddock pass, the team has bigger issues to face: a car concept that may not be working and a lead driver, Charles Leclerc, who may be on the verge of throwing Ferrari over for a better offer when his contract expires. At McLaren, meanwhile, what is the thinking behind yet another management restructure? Having dropped the much-derided 'matrix management' system three years ago in favour of a conventional top-down hierarchy, McLaren's decision to have three technical leaders represents a major pivot. Elsewhere on the grid another team with a new leader, Williams, has enjoyed an unexpectedly positive start to the season considering the latest upheaval over the winter. First impressions are that new boss James Vowles is taking exactly the right approach to dealing with the problems which have pegged Williams back in recent years: measured and diplomatic, but decisive, as befits a leader with a background in engineering and strategy. It’s the opposite tactic to that recently adopted by AlphaTauri boss Franz Tost, who seems to be following the playbook of Antonio Conte at Tottenham Hotspur by throwing his backroom staff under the bus…

44: Bottas Mullet Magic, Ferrari Fiasco and McLaren's Moves

In this episode, we're getting ready for a new season of racing and looking at the season-preview issue of GP Racing magazine. Our cover features Red Bull, who seem to be the ones to beat based on their form and pre-season test. But with 23 races scheduled, there's still hope for an exciting year of competition.  Joining Stuart Codling to discuss the pecking order are special guests Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew. We'll be looking at the second year of the new technical regulations and whether they have succeeded in bringing us closer and more competitive racing. We'll also be discussing Red Bull's penalty for breaking the budget cap in 2021 and whether it will affect their performance this season.  Testing has given us a glimpse of what to expect in the season opener, with Red Bull looking fastest, Ferrari close behind, and Mercedes potentially lagging. We'll be exploring how the teams have adapted to rule tweaks that aim to slow the cars down and reduce bouncing.  We'll also be discussing the new Aston Martin factory and whether they can manage the logistics of moving in during a month with three GPs. Plus, we'll take a look at the revolving door of team managers and the transition to a football manager-style culture of regular hirings and firings.

In this episode, we're getting ready for a new season of racing and looking at the season-preview issue of GP Racing magazine. Our cover features Red Bull, who seem to be the ones to beat based on their form and pre-season test. But with 23 races scheduled, there's still hope for an exciting year of competition. Joining Stuart Codling to discuss the pecking order are special guests Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew. We'll be looking at the second year of the new technical regulations and whether they have succeeded in bringing us closer and more competitive racing. We'll also be discussing Red Bull's penalty for breaking the budget cap in 2021 and whether it will affect their performance this season. Testing has given us a glimpse of what to expect in the season opener, with Red Bull looking fastest, Ferrari close behind, and Mercedes potentially lagging. We'll be exploring how the teams have adapted to rule tweaks that aim to slow the cars down and reduce bouncing. We'll also be discussing the new Aston Martin factory and whether they can manage the logistics of moving in during a month with three GPs. Plus, we'll take a look at the revolving door of team managers and the transition to a football manager-style culture of regular hirings and firings.

44: GP Racing Season Preview: Bull On The Run 🏁

The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine analyses a chaotic scene: half of the grid is swapping managers while F1’s stakeholders argue over how much it’s worth.  GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in F1, from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulyayem vs Stefano Domenicali to the (James) Vowles movement at Williams and much, much more.  It’s remarkable that Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer, who has been in post for a year, is now the fifth longest-serving team principal in F1. Some have likened the sweeping changes at the top of several teams to a football-style rent-a-manager culture. F1 teams were once run by the individuals whose names were above the door but now, with more corporate involvement, team principals are seemingly now disposable assets answering to higher masters. Our panel asks if this gives managers the time required to effect change – and examines the prospects of former Mercedes strategist James Vowles importing some of that team’s winning culture to the struggling Williams organisation.  Is $200million now too cheap a buy-in for aspiring new entrants? And is F1 worth the widely mooted figure of $20billion? These two questions are interlinked and the source of the apparent rancour between the FIA and the commercial rights holder, exposed and exacerbated by the FIA’s president freely expressing his thoughts on social media. F1’s legal department responded with a stiffly worded letter saying commercial matters are not within the FIA’s bailiwick – but how accurate is that, given the governing body’s role in policing the budget cap which is so vital to F1’s commercial ecosystem?  Speed is the theme of this month’s issue of GP Racing, which courts controversy by assembling an international panel of experts – from journalists to engineers and team managers – to vote on the 50 fastest grand prix drivers in world championship history. While the identity of number one may not provoke too much anger, the list’s reach also includes many drivers whose sheer speed over a lap wasn’t reflected in race wins and championship trophies.  Refocusing the frame of reference on last season, this month’s GP Racing also ranks the drivers on the 2022 grid scientifically in speed order and examines the significance of the fastest pitstops of the year. The findings may come as a surprise.

The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine analyses a chaotic scene: half of the grid is swapping managers while F1’s stakeholders argue over how much it’s worth. GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in F1, from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulyayem vs Stefano Domenicali to the (James) Vowles movement at Williams and much, much more. It’s remarkable that Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer, who has been in post for a year, is now the fifth longest-serving team principal in F1. Some have likened the sweeping changes at the top of several teams to a football-style rent-a-manager culture. F1 teams were once run by the individuals whose names were above the door but now, with more corporate involvement, team principals are seemingly now disposable assets answering to higher masters. Our panel asks if this gives managers the time required to effect change – and examines the prospects of former Mercedes strategist James Vowles importing some of that team’s winning culture to the struggling Williams organisation. Is $200million now too cheap a buy-in for aspiring new entrants? And is F1 worth the widely mooted figure of $20billion? These two questions are interlinked and the source of the apparent rancour between the FIA and the commercial rights holder, exposed and exacerbated by the FIA’s president freely expressing his thoughts on social media. F1’s legal department responded with a stiffly worded letter saying commercial matters are not within the FIA’s bailiwick – but how accurate is that, given the governing body’s role in policing the budget cap which is so vital to F1’s commercial ecosystem? Speed is the theme of this month’s issue of GP Racing, which courts controversy by assembling an international panel of experts – from journalists to engineers and team managers – to vote on the 50 fastest grand prix drivers in world championship history. While the identity of number one may not provoke too much anger, the list’s reach also includes many drivers whose sheer speed over a lap wasn’t reflected in race wins and championship trophies. Refocusing the frame of reference on last season, this month’s GP Racing also ranks the drivers on the 2022 grid scientifically in speed order and examines the significance of the fastest pitstops of the year. The findings may come as a surprise.

43: The Quick List: Our 50 Fastest Grand Prix Drivers

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has driven his final grand prix, and the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine examines his career and legacy.  GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to debate the hot topics of Vettel’s life in F1. How did the cheeky young hotshoe who liked to quote Monty Python become a four-time world champion – and become public enemy number one after publicly shunning team orders? Why did the German public not take him to their hearts as they did Michael Schumacher? Why did he ultimately fail to emulate the achievements of Schumacher, his childhood hero, despite his attempts to forge a similar path?  Vettel is the cover star of this month’s GP Racing magazine and he leaves a fascinating legacy – particularly after his final two years in F1 where he reinvented himself as a force for social change. As our panel observes, while he hasn’t compelled any of his colleagues to champion the same causes as him, he has supported and helped empower those who wish to speak up for issues they are passionate about. And is he finally done with F1, or will he continue to use his star power to be a positive influence from the sidelines?  One driver who sees retirement as a mere speck in the distance is Pierre Gasly. His new boss, Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer, told GP Racing this month that he believes Gasly to be a better bet than the team’s original choice, Australian Oscar Piastri. Naturally Szafnauer would say that – but could he be right? And what to make of Gasly’s firmly expressed belief that his own best achievements lie in front of him, not in the past?  Our panel also debates the latest moves in the team principal market – so many of them that Szafnauer, who joined Alpine at the beginning of last year, is now F1’s fifth longest-serving team boss. Have we now entered the era of the rent-a-manager? One thing is for certain: every world championship since 2010 has been won by either Red Bull or McLaren, both of which have been run by the same individuals for many years.

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has driven his final grand prix, and the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine examines his career and legacy. GP Racing columnists Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew join editor Stuart Codling to debate the hot topics of Vettel’s life in F1. How did the cheeky young hotshoe who liked to quote Monty Python become a four-time world champion – and become public enemy number one after publicly shunning team orders? Why did the German public not take him to their hearts as they did Michael Schumacher? Why did he ultimately fail to emulate the achievements of Schumacher, his childhood hero, despite his attempts to forge a similar path? Vettel is the cover star of this month’s GP Racing magazine and he leaves a fascinating legacy – particularly after his final two years in F1 where he reinvented himself as a force for social change. As our panel observes, while he hasn’t compelled any of his colleagues to champion the same causes as him, he has supported and helped empower those who wish to speak up for issues they are passionate about. And is he finally done with F1, or will he continue to use his star power to be a positive influence from the sidelines? One driver who sees retirement as a mere speck in the distance is Pierre Gasly. His new boss, Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer, told GP Racing this month that he believes Gasly to be a better bet than the team’s original choice, Australian Oscar Piastri. Naturally Szafnauer would say that – but could he be right? And what to make of Gasly’s firmly expressed belief that his own best achievements lie in front of him, not in the past? Our panel also debates the latest moves in the team principal market – so many of them that Szafnauer, who joined Alpine at the beginning of last year, is now F1’s fifth longest-serving team boss. Have we now entered the era of the rent-a-manager? One thing is for certain: every world championship since 2010 has been won by either Red Bull or McLaren, both of which have been run by the same individuals for many years.

42: The Many Faces Of Sebastian Vettel

On this month's edition of Flat Chat, we look at McLaren’s Aussie swap, with Daniel Ricciardo waving goodbye to a full time race seat, and Oscar Piastri coming in to partner Lando Norris in 2023. Our front cover image features Max Verstappen and we look at how he smashed Formula 1’s toughest record.  Plus we uncover a lost interview with the media-shy Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz, who rarely gave journalists access, favouring the spotlight being placed on his team and drivers.

On this month's edition of Flat Chat, we look at McLaren’s Aussie swap, with Daniel Ricciardo waving goodbye to a full time race seat, and Oscar Piastri coming in to partner Lando Norris in 2023. Our front cover image features Max Verstappen and we look at how he smashed Formula 1’s toughest record.  Plus we uncover a lost interview with the media-shy Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz, who rarely gave journalists access, favouring the spotlight being placed on his team and drivers.

41: The Unstoppable Max Verstappen

GP Racing's monthly podcast looks at how Mercedes needs Lewis Hamilton more than ever, as they rely on his unique skillset to spearhead Brackley's revival. Stuart Codling is joined by regular co-hosts Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to explain why those writing-off Hamilton as a spent force don't understand what drives the 7-time champ.  Also on the show, the team discuss how Red Bull's deal with Porsche ultimately collapsed, and Matt Kew explains why he thinks auto manufacturers underestimate Formula 1.  Plus we send Oleg Karpov to interview Kevin Magnussen at home in Denmark, where he says family life is more important than joining his F1 peers in the tax havens of Monaco or Switzerland.

GP Racing's monthly podcast looks at how Mercedes needs Lewis Hamilton more than ever, as they rely on his unique skillset to spearhead Brackley's revival. Stuart Codling is joined by regular co-hosts Mark Gallagher and Matt Kew to explain why those writing-off Hamilton as a spent force don't understand what drives the 7-time champ. Also on the show, the team discuss how Red Bull's deal with Porsche ultimately collapsed, and Matt Kew explains why he thinks auto manufacturers underestimate Formula 1. Plus we send Oleg Karpov to interview Kevin Magnussen at home in Denmark, where he says family life is more important than joining his F1 peers in the tax havens of Monaco or Switzerland.

40: How Lewis Hamilton is turbocharging Mercedes' revival

McLaren has formally announced that it no longer requires the services of Daniel Ricciardo for the 2023 Formula 1 season, leaving the Australian to fight for his future on the grid - the cover story of the latest GP Racing magazine and the lead talking point in this episode of the Flat Chat podcast.   GP Racing magazine editor and host Stuart Codling is joined by columnist Mark Gallagher and Autosport F1 editor Matt Kew to assess why Ricciardo’s stock has fallen so far since his Red Bull exit, what tailored approach is required to lift him out of the doldrums, and what he and McLaren must do next as they part ways.   F1 and Netflix star Ricciardo’s own drive to survive is the cover story of this month’s GP Racing. The eight-time grand prix winner sat down exclusively with our own staff writer Oleg Karpov for a revealing 1-to-1 a year after his well-executed victory in the 2021 Italian GP arrested some of the questions being asked about his form in his first year in papaya, alongside Lando Norris.  But even success at Monza this time around will come too late to save his seat at McLaren. The margins of performance to Norris adding up to huge differences over a lap and indeed in the championship fight. The summer break will have also afforded fewer opportunities than before for him to cleanse body and mind, since Ricciardo will have been busy negotiating his severance package from McLaren while looking at other options for 2023.  The panel for this edition of the Flat Chat podcast also discuss the changing role of F1’s team principals in respect of our GP Racing feature shadowing Aston Martin boss Mike Krack during a race weekend to see precisely what the big wigs' job description entails.  Codling, Gallagher and Kew then take a look at Porsche’s imminent arrival in F1, following the FIA World Motor Sport Council finally signing off the 2026 power unit regulations. They evaluate the scale of the coup that Porsche’s presence will represent for Liberty Media, and also opine on how the famous Stuttgart manufacturer might interact with F1 disruptor Red Bull.

McLaren has formally announced that it no longer requires the services of Daniel Ricciardo for the 2023 Formula 1 season, leaving the Australian to fight for his future on the grid - the cover story of the latest GP Racing magazine and the lead talking point in this episode of the Flat Chat podcast.  GP Racing magazine editor and host Stuart Codling is joined by columnist Mark Gallagher and Autosport F1 editor Matt Kew to assess why Ricciardo’s stock has fallen so far since his Red Bull exit, what tailored approach is required to lift him out of the doldrums, and what he and McLaren must do next as they part ways.  F1 and Netflix star Ricciardo’s own drive to survive is the cover story of this month’s GP Racing. The eight-time grand prix winner sat down exclusively with our own staff writer Oleg Karpov for a revealing 1-to-1 a year after his well-executed victory in the 2021 Italian GP arrested some of the questions being asked about his form in his first year in papaya, alongside Lando Norris. But even success at Monza this time around will come too late to save his seat at McLaren. The margins of performance to Norris adding up to huge differences over a lap and indeed in the championship fight. The summer break will have also afforded fewer opportunities than before for him to cleanse body and mind, since Ricciardo will have been busy negotiating his severance package from McLaren while looking at other options for 2023. The panel for this edition of the Flat Chat podcast also discuss the changing role of F1’s team principals in respect of our GP Racing feature shadowing Aston Martin boss Mike Krack during a race weekend to see precisely what the big wigs' job description entails. Codling, Gallagher and Kew then take a look at Porsche’s imminent arrival in F1, following the FIA World Motor Sport Council finally signing off the 2026 power unit regulations. They evaluate the scale of the coup that Porsche’s presence will represent for Liberty Media, and also opine on how the famous Stuttgart manufacturer might interact with F1 disruptor Red Bull.

39: Ricciardo Parts With McLaren - what went wrong, what next?

On this month's edition of Flat Chat, we look at George Russell's career and why Lewis Hamilton says he could be the next British world champion. Our long interview is with David Coulthard, including details of how his late sister inspired his project to find the next female F1 driver. And finally we were on the Silverstone grid to witness 'our Nige' drive his championship winner for the first time since 1992.

38: Will The Next British Champion Please Stand Up

Join Codders, Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher as they lift the lid on the world of Formula 1.GP Racing is the world's best-selling F1 magazine, with stunning photography, expert analysis, unrivalled journalism and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the glamorous and adrenaline-fuelled world of F1.

As the second half of the 2022 F1 season beckons, the championship fight between Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc is hotting up. The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine investigates the background of what is an old rivalry renewed: Max and Charles locked horns (and wheels) in karting a decade ago but circumstances have prevented them from going toe-to-toe for a title again until now.  But who will prevail this time around? This isn’t just a battle between Leclerc and Verstappen – it’s a resurgent, and sometimes shaky, Ferrari versus the might of Red Bull. GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the growing rancour between the two teams and the championship protagonists.  Verstappen vs Leclerc is the cover story of this month’s GP Racing magazine, featuring exclusive insight into these two characters from senior figure who have worked with both of them. You may be surprised to learn which is tipped to lift the trophy at the end of this season.  The panel also considers the plight of the number-two drivers up and down the grid. Sergio Perez now has a new Red Bull contract and won the Monaco Grand Prix – but would he have been allowed to do so if he and Max were running one-two? Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are theoretically equal number ones, but how long will this status be upheld?  Taking a wider view, given Daniel Ricciardo’s struggles at McLaren, would it have been more prudent for him to have remained at Red Bull and picked up scraps from Verstappen’s table rather than taking the course which has now led him to McLaren, where he being shown the way by Lando Norris? Sometimes drivers lack the support systems around them to take a long-term view – something which can’t be said of Verstappen, who has been guided (and often pushed) in the right direction by his uncompromising father, Jos.  The podcast guests also debate the virtues and shortcomings of the media covering grands prix ‘on remote’. There are those who say journalists need to be there to hold the stakeholders to account, and to unpick details that surprise and delight the fans. While that’s true, there’s also an argument to say remote participation benefits F1’s carbon footprint and sometimes elicits better chemistry with drivers.benefits F1’s carbon footprint and sometimes elicits better chemistry with drivers.

As the second half of the 2022 F1 season beckons, the championship fight between Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc is hotting up. The latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine investigates the background of what is an old rivalry renewed: Max and Charles locked horns (and wheels) in karting a decade ago but circumstances have prevented them from going toe-to-toe for a title again until now. But who will prevail this time around? This isn’t just a battle between Leclerc and Verstappen – it’s a resurgent, and sometimes shaky, Ferrari versus the might of Red Bull. GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the growing rancour between the two teams and the championship protagonists. Verstappen vs Leclerc is the cover story of this month’s GP Racing magazine, featuring exclusive insight into these two characters from senior figure who have worked with both of them. You may be surprised to learn which is tipped to lift the trophy at the end of this season. The panel also considers the plight of the number-two drivers up and down the grid. Sergio Perez now has a new Red Bull contract and won the Monaco Grand Prix – but would he have been allowed to do so if he and Max were running one-two? Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are theoretically equal number ones, but how long will this status be upheld? Taking a wider view, given Daniel Ricciardo’s struggles at McLaren, would it have been more prudent for him to have remained at Red Bull and picked up scraps from Verstappen’s table rather than taking the course which has now led him to McLaren, where he being shown the way by Lando Norris? Sometimes drivers lack the support systems around them to take a long-term view – something which can’t be said of Verstappen, who has been guided (and often pushed) in the right direction by his uncompromising father, Jos. The podcast guests also debate the virtues and shortcomings of the media covering grands prix ‘on remote’. There are those who say journalists need to be there to hold the stakeholders to account, and to unpick details that surprise and delight the fans. While that’s true, there’s also an argument to say remote participation benefits F1’s carbon footprint and sometimes elicits better chemistry with drivers.benefits F1’s carbon footprint and sometimes elicits better chemistry with drivers.

37: Red Bull vs Ferrari - Battle Renewed

Mercedes has gone from perpetual winner to rank outsider in the space of a winter – and an aerodynamic phenomenon known as ‘porpoising’ is said to be to blame. But what does that actually mean, and how can the team lift itself out of such a drastic competitive slump?  On this month's podcast we explore the struggles facing Mercedes and how long it might take to fix.  We also report on the forthcoming Miami GP and discuss the future of Aston Martin, given their slow start to the season.

Mercedes has gone from perpetual winner to rank outsider in the space of a winter – and an aerodynamic phenomenon known as ‘porpoising’ is said to be to blame. But what does that actually mean, and how can the team lift itself out of such a drastic competitive slump? On this month's podcast we explore the struggles facing Mercedes and how long it might take to fix. We also report on the forthcoming Miami GP and discuss the future of Aston Martin, given their slow start to the season.

36: The Fall of Mercedes

The first F1 Australian Grand Prix in three years is upon us, and the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine kicks off the excitement.  GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in F1, and not just the recently announced Las Vegas Grand Prix. After several years of uncertainty Melbourne committed to host the Australian GP for the long term – but several other cities are believed to be contemplating bids. Could Australia, like the USA, host more than one race per season as F1 edges towards a 25-round calendar?  Fernando Alonso is the cover star of this month’s GP Racing magazine and, in an exclusive interview, he explains how the fire to win grands prix still burns within him. As our panel notes, he seems more mellow and philosophical nowadays when discussing his career. There’s no doubt he’s still one of the fastest drivers on the grid but, at 40, he’s well aware that time is no longer on his side – and that the last two management shake-ups at Alpine have removed the people responsible for hiring him. For all his star quality, now is the time to deliver.  One driver particularly coveting Alonso’s seat is F2 champion Oscar Piastri. The Australian’s sole contribution to his home grand prix will be to act as Alpine’s reserve driver. This month’s GP Racing features an exclusive interview with Piastri, who is rightly considered to be the best driver not on the current F1 grid. His lightning ascent of the junior ladder has certainly taken his patron team by surprise – and puts him in the same firmament as the likes of George Russell and Charles Leclerc.  The opening races of the 2022 season have presented an abrupt shift in the competitive order as the previously dominant Mercedes team struggles. How much of this is down to competitive over-reach – trying too hard to find gains that are too big? And is the W13 a fundamentally flawed car, or one with knockout potential waiting to be accessed?  Next year the F1 calendar will include a third US-based grand prix. Las Vegas will host a Saturday-night race on the iconic Strip. Our panel weighs up the significance of this and what it means for other races. Significantly, F1 is acting as promoter – is this a case of the commercial rights holders competing with its own customers? And even if not, what can we read in to the move? Two years ago the race promoters were able to band together to get a better deal from F1 – now they might not be so lucky.

The first F1 Australian Grand Prix in three years is upon us, and the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine kicks off the excitement. GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in F1, and not just the recently announced Las Vegas Grand Prix. After several years of uncertainty Melbourne committed to host the Australian GP for the long term – but several other cities are believed to be contemplating bids. Could Australia, like the USA, host more than one race per season as F1 edges towards a 25-round calendar? Fernando Alonso is the cover star of this month’s GP Racing magazine and, in an exclusive interview, he explains how the fire to win grands prix still burns within him. As our panel notes, he seems more mellow and philosophical nowadays when discussing his career. There’s no doubt he’s still one of the fastest drivers on the grid but, at 40, he’s well aware that time is no longer on his side – and that the last two management shake-ups at Alpine have removed the people responsible for hiring him. For all his star quality, now is the time to deliver. One driver particularly coveting Alonso’s seat is F2 champion Oscar Piastri. The Australian’s sole contribution to his home grand prix will be to act as Alpine’s reserve driver. This month’s GP Racing features an exclusive interview with Piastri, who is rightly considered to be the best driver not on the current F1 grid. His lightning ascent of the junior ladder has certainly taken his patron team by surprise – and puts him in the same firmament as the likes of George Russell and Charles Leclerc. The opening races of the 2022 season have presented an abrupt shift in the competitive order as the previously dominant Mercedes team struggles. How much of this is down to competitive over-reach – trying too hard to find gains that are too big? And is the W13 a fundamentally flawed car, or one with knockout potential waiting to be accessed? Next year the F1 calendar will include a third US-based grand prix. Las Vegas will host a Saturday-night race on the iconic Strip. Our panel weighs up the significance of this and what it means for other races. Significantly, F1 is acting as promoter – is this a case of the commercial rights holders competing with its own customers? And even if not, what can we read in to the move? Two years ago the race promoters were able to band together to get a better deal from F1 – now they might not be so lucky.

35: How Alonso's F1 Fire Still Burns Within

As the second pre-season F1 test gets under way in Bahrain, the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine dives into the latest developments.  As the F1 season-preview issue of GP Racing magazine hits the shelves, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to examine the unexpected controversies already embroiling a season which promised to be revolutionary.  Whenever F1 adopts new rules there are winners and losers – and unexpected twists. Our panel considers the unanticipated consequences of the new regulations, from bouncing cars to brutal arguments about innovations. No other new rulebook has been the subject of so much scientific research – including cloud computing facilities far beyond those permitted for the teams – so can it deliver on all the promises?  And as some teams fitted major upgrade packages to their cars at the second test, others – including Ferrari – stuck to a gameplan of data-gathering with the original package to maximise understanding of it. Ferrari, as revealed in this month’s GP Racing, has reasons to be confident ahead of this hugely important season. Avoiding the temptation to throw upgrades at the car and go for low-fuel ‘glory runs’ is strongly suggestive of a team much more at ease with itself than in recent seasons.  Our panel also considers the significance of cancelling the Russian Grand Prix. The FIA’s response to events in Ukraine was widely criticised for being light-touch, but is there more to this situation than meets the eye? For the commercial rights holder, not only cancelling the 2022 event but annulling the event going forward was a notably decisive act – and one which will have commercial as well as political consequences.  In recent weeks Max Verstappen has extended his Red Bull contract until the end of 2028, a deal of unprecedented length in modern Formula 1. What does this tell us about Red Bull’s determination to keep hold of him, and the power Max now holds in determining his own future? 

As the second pre-season F1 test gets under way in Bahrain, the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine dives into the latest developments. As the F1 season-preview issue of GP Racing magazine hits the shelves, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to examine the unexpected controversies already embroiling a season which promised to be revolutionary. Whenever F1 adopts new rules there are winners and losers – and unexpected twists. Our panel considers the unanticipated consequences of the new regulations, from bouncing cars to brutal arguments about innovations. No other new rulebook has been the subject of so much scientific research – including cloud computing facilities far beyond those permitted for the teams – so can it deliver on all the promises? And as some teams fitted major upgrade packages to their cars at the second test, others – including Ferrari – stuck to a gameplan of data-gathering with the original package to maximise understanding of it. Ferrari, as revealed in this month’s GP Racing, has reasons to be confident ahead of this hugely important season. Avoiding the temptation to throw upgrades at the car and go for low-fuel ‘glory runs’ is strongly suggestive of a team much more at ease with itself than in recent seasons. Our panel also considers the significance of cancelling the Russian Grand Prix. The FIA’s response to events in Ukraine was widely criticised for being light-touch, but is there more to this situation than meets the eye? For the commercial rights holder, not only cancelling the 2022 event but annulling the event going forward was a notably decisive act – and one which will have commercial as well as political consequences. In recent weeks Max Verstappen has extended his Red Bull contract until the end of 2028, a deal of unprecedented length in modern Formula 1. What does this tell us about Red Bull’s determination to keep hold of him, and the power Max now holds in determining his own future?

34: 2022 Season Preview

As we await the outcome of the FIA’s enquiry into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix debacle, what are the practical steps the governing body needs to take to restore respect and confidence in its people and procedures? And should race director Michael Masi stay or go?  In the latest edition of the Flat Chat podcast, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in a saga which has led to seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton considering his future in Formula 1.   The final laps of the 2021 season finale overshadowed what had otherwise been a hugely successful year for F1, with a compelling and dramatic contest for the drivers’ championship. Casual viewers tuning in to the Abu Dhabi race will have been left baffled by the bizarre and shambolic turn of events – but how much of the responsibility for that lies with the competitors themselves?  This month’s GP Racing magazine offers a considered analysis of the season and its contentious conclusion, and takes a look at the first hints of how the new technical package for the 2022 season is shaping up.  There’s also exclusive interviews with the architects of the constructors’ championship-winning car. Mercedes’ W12 was described by Lewis Hamilton as “a monster of a diva” and GP Racing examines how the aerodynamic rule changes between seasons turned a dominant technical package into a troubled and temperamental one.  Our podcast guests discuss the implications of this for the coming season – as well as debating whether Lewis Hamilton will indeed return to the cockpit.  Also in GP Racing this month, Mark Gallagher interviews Jacques Villeneuve to mark the 25th anniversary of his championship-winning season. It’s a fascinating tale in which Jacques describes, among other facets of his childhood, how his father used to make him take the controls of the family helicopter when he was just 10 years old.

As we await the outcome of the FIA’s enquiry into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix debacle, what are the practical steps the governing body needs to take to restore respect and confidence in its people and procedures? And should race director Michael Masi stay or go? In the latest edition of the Flat Chat podcast, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss the latest developments in a saga which has led to seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton considering his future in Formula 1.  The final laps of the 2021 season finale overshadowed what had otherwise been a hugely successful year for F1, with a compelling and dramatic contest for the drivers’ championship. Casual viewers tuning in to the Abu Dhabi race will have been left baffled by the bizarre and shambolic turn of events – but how much of the responsibility for that lies with the competitors themselves? This month’s GP Racing magazine offers a considered analysis of the season and its contentious conclusion, and takes a look at the first hints of how the new technical package for the 2022 season is shaping up. There’s also exclusive interviews with the architects of the constructors’ championship-winning car. Mercedes’ W12 was described by Lewis Hamilton as “a monster of a diva” and GP Racing examines how the aerodynamic rule changes between seasons turned a dominant technical package into a troubled and temperamental one. Our podcast guests discuss the implications of this for the coming season – as well as debating whether Lewis Hamilton will indeed return to the cockpit. Also in GP Racing this month, Mark Gallagher interviews Jacques Villeneuve to mark the 25th anniversary of his championship-winning season. It’s a fascinating tale in which Jacques describes, among other facets of his childhood, how his father used to make him take the controls of the family helicopter when he was just 10 years old.

33: The Good, The Bad, The Unbelievable -  How F1 crowned its new king in a season like no other

Today we're talking about the new book from Mark Gallagher, The Business of Winning.  Get the inside track on what it takes to succeed in a competitive business with high technology, high finance and immensely high stakes  You can order your copy here: https://www.koganpage.com/product/the-business-of-winning-9781398602700  Stuart Codling and Mark are joined by David Coulthard, Dr Cristiana Pace and Neil Martin.

Today we're talking about the new book from Mark Gallagher, The Business of Winning. Get the inside track on what it takes to succeed in a competitive business with high technology, high finance and immensely high stakes You can order your copy here: <a href="https://www.koganpage.com/product/the-business-of-winning-9781398602700" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.koganpage.com/product/the-business-of-winning-9781398602700</a> Stuart Codling and Mark are joined by David Coulthard, Dr Cristiana Pace and Neil Martin.

32: The Business of Winning

Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s commitment to do ‘whatever it takes’ to win the F1 title is the hot topic of the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine.   An exclusive interview with Verstappen was the cover feature of November’s edition of GP Racing and the tensions in the world championship battle have grown even more feverish since it hit the news stands. GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to debate the latest developments in what is an increasingly bitter fight.  Verstappen’s on-track conduct has come under fire but his confidence has been bolstered by his team’s determination to stand by its man. Red Bull has carried on developing its car for this season regardless of the technical reset to come in 2022 – and on top of committing resources, it has thrown its political weight behind Verstappen as well, firing damaging salvos at its Mercedes rivals.  Not yet on the same competitive page as Mercedes and Red Bull but easing ever closer, a resurgent Ferrari seems almost certain to claim third place in the constructors’ title this season. That’s not where this proud and historic team wants to be but it represents real and slightly unexpected progress after a disastrous 2020.  Ferrari’s resurgence is due in part to some remarkable performances by Charles Leclerc, cover star of December’s GP Racing. Those at the top of the organisation – including Enzo Ferrari’s own son – see Leclerc as a rightful heir to heroes of the marque’s past such as Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda and Gilles Villeneuve.  Do these comparisons cut it? GP Racing has spoken to some of Ferrari’s most senior engineers about what makes Leclerc so special – and their belief that he still has room to grow and develop into an even tougher competitor.  And as this chapter of the hybrid F1 era draws to a close, Mercedes technical director James Allison has ‘moved upstairs’ to become chief technical officer. The latest issue of GP Racing carries a full and frank interview with Allison about his fascinating career – and why he believes being fired from a job can be good for you…

Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s commitment to do ‘whatever it takes’ to win the F1 title is the hot topic of the latest Flat Chat podcast from GP Racing magazine.  An exclusive interview with Verstappen was the cover feature of November’s edition of GP Racing and the tensions in the world championship battle have grown even more feverish since it hit the news stands. GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to debate the latest developments in what is an increasingly bitter fight. Verstappen’s on-track conduct has come under fire but his confidence has been bolstered by his team’s determination to stand by its man. Red Bull has carried on developing its car for this season regardless of the technical reset to come in 2022 – and on top of committing resources, it has thrown its political weight behind Verstappen as well, firing damaging salvos at its Mercedes rivals. Not yet on the same competitive page as Mercedes and Red Bull but easing ever closer, a resurgent Ferrari seems almost certain to claim third place in the constructors’ title this season. That’s not where this proud and historic team wants to be but it represents real and slightly unexpected progress after a disastrous 2020. Ferrari’s resurgence is due in part to some remarkable performances by Charles Leclerc, cover star of December’s GP Racing. Those at the top of the organisation – including Enzo Ferrari’s own son – see Leclerc as a rightful heir to heroes of the marque’s past such as Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda and Gilles Villeneuve. Do these comparisons cut it? GP Racing has spoken to some of Ferrari’s most senior engineers about what makes Leclerc so special – and their belief that he still has room to grow and develop into an even tougher competitor. And as this chapter of the hybrid F1 era draws to a close, Mercedes technical director James Allison has ‘moved upstairs’ to become chief technical officer. The latest issue of GP Racing carries a full and frank interview with Allison about his fascinating career – and why he believes being fired from a job can be good for you…

31: The Star Quality of Charles Leclerc

October's edition of GP Racing features a rejuvinated Sebastian Vettel on the front cover and looks at how he fits into Lawrence Stroll's ambitious plan to make Aston Martin a winning team. Flat Chat podcast host Stuart Codling is joined by Mark Gallagher and Ben Anderson (Editor, GP Racing) to discuss how the Silverstone team is transforming itself with a series of high-profile recruitments and investment into long term success.  Also on the podcast today we discuss Formula 1's return to Zandvoort. GP Racing's principal photographer returns to the Dutch dunes for the first time in 36 years. Damien Smith speaks to one of the makers of the Schumacher Netflix documentary, and with Qatar added to the calendar F1 once again navigates the moral maze of racing in a controversial location.

October's edition of GP Racing features a rejuvinated Sebastian Vettel on the front cover and looks at how he fits into Lawrence Stroll's ambitious plan to make Aston Martin a winning team. Flat Chat podcast host Stuart Codling is joined by Mark Gallagher and Ben Anderson (Editor, GP Racing) to discuss how the Silverstone team is transforming itself with a series of high-profile recruitments and investment into long term success. Also on the podcast today we discuss Formula 1's return to Zandvoort. GP Racing's principal photographer returns to the Dutch dunes for the first time in 36 years. Damien Smith speaks to one of the makers of the Schumacher Netflix documentary, and with Qatar added to the calendar F1 once again navigates the moral maze of racing in a controversial location.

30: Green Means Go: Inside Vettel's Aston Adventure

It’s 30 years since Michael Schumacher left an indelible calling card on the Formula 1 scene at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix, qualifying seventh at a track he’d only previously lapped on a bicycle. And he did it with a minnow start-up team on the verge of collapsing under its debts.   This month’s GP Racing, on sale today, celebrates the 30th anniversary of Schumacher’s explosive debut and features an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of the weekend with insight from Michael’s race engineer, Trevor Foster. Author and GP Racing columnist Mark Gallagher was the Jordan team’s press officer at the time, and he joins Flat Chat podcast host Stuart Codling and GP Racing editor Ben Anderson to wind the clock back to that stunning weekend in August 1991.   It’s hard to believe that the future seven-time world champion was seen as an inexperienced pay driver at the time. But Jordan had a seat to fill and bills to pay. As Mark relates, he himself didn’t see any money until after the end of the season – and only then after Eddie Jordan tried to invoice him for food consumed during the year…   Schumacher quickly found performance in the Jordan 191 car which the incumbent drivers hadn’t been able to access – much to the chagrin of Andrea de Cesaris, who became convinced there was something wrong with his own car. Exactly how Schumacher managed to break his clutch on the opening lap, and how De Cesaris came close to catching Ayrton Senna’s McLaren for the lead before suffering an engine blow-up, have never been fully explained until now.   The Flat Chat panel also looks at the parallel-but-often-separate career of Mika Hakkinen who, like Schumacher, made his F1 debut in 1991. Mika’s rivalry with Michael began in F3 but would in effect go on hiatus for several years as Hakkinen laboured in back-of-the-grid cars and then broke his neck in qualifying for the 1995 Australian Grand Prix.   Once installed in competitive machinery Hakkinen shone, and his rivalry with Schumacher defined an era – until he suddenly decided to quit. How much of that was prompted by fear of further injury, how much by the draining effect of fighting for championships with one of the greatest drivers of all time?

It’s 30 years since Michael Schumacher left an indelible calling card on the Formula 1 scene at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix, qualifying seventh at a track he’d only previously lapped on a bicycle. And he did it with a minnow start-up team on the verge of collapsing under its debts.  This month’s GP Racing, on sale today, celebrates the 30th anniversary of Schumacher’s explosive debut and features an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of the weekend with insight from Michael’s race engineer, Trevor Foster. Author and GP Racing columnist Mark Gallagher was the Jordan team’s press officer at the time, and he joins Flat Chat podcast host Stuart Codling and GP Racing editor Ben Anderson to wind the clock back to that stunning weekend in August 1991.  It’s hard to believe that the future seven-time world champion was seen as an inexperienced pay driver at the time. But Jordan had a seat to fill and bills to pay. As Mark relates, he himself didn’t see any money until after the end of the season – and only then after Eddie Jordan tried to invoice him for food consumed during the year…  Schumacher quickly found performance in the Jordan 191 car which the incumbent drivers hadn’t been able to access – much to the chagrin of Andrea de Cesaris, who became convinced there was something wrong with his own car. Exactly how Schumacher managed to break his clutch on the opening lap, and how De Cesaris came close to catching Ayrton Senna’s McLaren for the lead before suffering an engine blow-up, have never been fully explained until now.  The Flat Chat panel also looks at the parallel-but-often-separate career of Mika Hakkinen who, like Schumacher, made his F1 debut in 1991. Mika’s rivalry with Michael began in F3 but would in effect go on hiatus for several years as Hakkinen laboured in back-of-the-grid cars and then broke his neck in qualifying for the 1995 Australian Grand Prix.  Once installed in competitive machinery Hakkinen shone, and his rivalry with Schumacher defined an era – until he suddenly decided to quit. How much of that was prompted by fear of further injury, how much by the draining effect of fighting for championships with one of the greatest drivers of all time?

29: The Untold Story of Michael Schumacher's F1 Debut

Why has Carlos Sainz thrived while the other high-profile drivers to have swapped teams this F1 season have struggled? And how has he managed to fit straight in to a Ferrari team which is traditionally difficult political territory, especially when under pressure?   These are just a few of the angles covered in a frank and exclusive interview with Sainz in this month’s GP Racing magazine.   An exclusive interview with Sainz is the centrepiece of this month’s GP Racing magazine. In the latest edition of the Flat Chat podcast, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss Sainz’s remarkable journey, and what Sainz describes as his “process”. The interview reveals a driver who has never relied on raw talent alone, but who has worked and fought for every break he’s had.  There’s also been evidence of a cultural change within Ferrari, one which is enabling the team to rediscover its form after years of underachievement. Our panel reckons Sainz and Charles Leclerc add up to the strongest driver partnership in Formula 1: if Ferrari can get on par with Mercedes and Red Bull’s car technology and race operations, championships beckon…  This month’s GP Racing also includes exclusive insight into the technical woes Mercedes has been battling with this season, and the innovative technologies which have enabled Red Bull and Honda to unlock latent potential within their hybrid power unit. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff says his outfit won’t “resign” the season, despite turning off the development taps and applying a final upgrade package at Silverstone. It’s managed to nose ahead in the drivers’ and constructors’ championships but, with Red Bull still bringing vans full of upgrades to each round, can its resistance last?  Also on the cover of GP Racing there’s an exclusive interview with Esteban Ocon, who has rewarded Alpine’s faith in him – that is, a freshly minted three-year contract – with a smoothly executed if circumstance-assisted victory in Hungary. What convinced him to throw over a chance to bid for the second seat at Mercedes to stay with Alpine – and what had he done to impress Alpine so much in the months before that sensational win?

Why has Carlos Sainz thrived while the other high-profile drivers to have swapped teams this F1 season have struggled? And how has he managed to fit straight in to a Ferrari team which is traditionally difficult political territory, especially when under pressure?  These are just a few of the angles covered in a frank and exclusive interview with Sainz in this month’s GP Racing magazine.  An exclusive interview with Sainz is the centrepiece of this month’s GP Racing magazine. In the latest edition of the Flat Chat podcast, GP Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to discuss Sainz’s remarkable journey, and what Sainz describes as his “process”. The interview reveals a driver who has never relied on raw talent alone, but who has worked and fought for every break he’s had. There’s also been evidence of a cultural change within Ferrari, one which is enabling the team to rediscover its form after years of underachievement. Our panel reckons Sainz and Charles Leclerc add up to the strongest driver partnership in Formula 1: if Ferrari can get on par with Mercedes and Red Bull’s car technology and race operations, championships beckon… This month’s GP Racing also includes exclusive insight into the technical woes Mercedes has been battling with this season, and the innovative technologies which have enabled Red Bull and Honda to unlock latent potential within their hybrid power unit. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff says his outfit won’t “resign” the season, despite turning off the development taps and applying a final upgrade package at Silverstone. It’s managed to nose ahead in the drivers’ and constructors’ championships but, with Red Bull still bringing vans full of upgrades to each round, can its resistance last? Also on the cover of GP Racing there’s an exclusive interview with Esteban Ocon, who has rewarded Alpine’s faith in him – that is, a freshly minted three-year contract – with a smoothly executed if circumstance-assisted victory in Hungary. What convinced him to throw over a chance to bid for the second seat at Mercedes to stay with Alpine – and what had he done to impress Alpine so much in the months before that sensational win?

28: Carlos Sainz: Living His Dream With F1's Greatest Team

The best dad puns. Also like the F1 insight.

Puns Galore

Join Codders, Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher as they lift the lid on the world of Formula 1. GP Racing is the world's best-selling F1 magazine, with stunning photography, expert analysis, unrivalled journalism and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the glamorous and adrenaline-fuelled world of F1.

Flat Chat with Codders by GP Racing

GP Racing columnist Mark Gallagher, along with contributor and former Autosport Editor in Chief Damien Smith,  join host Stuart Codling to look back at the life of a legend.  Earlier this month motorsport lost an iconic figure in Sir Stirling Moss. Even though his passing was not unexpected, given the length of time he battled illness, it was still a shock to hear the news. His legacy has a permanence in the world of motorsport because of the way he defined a certain type of sportsman, in a post-war era of 'stick and ball' sports where racing drivers didn't have the status of their sporting peers.  On the podcast today the team share their memories, and talk Mercedes, Lotus and a blue Ferrari.

GP Racing columnist Mark Gallagher, along with contributor and former Autosport Editor in Chief Damien Smith, join host Stuart Codling to look back at the life of a legend. Earlier this month motorsport lost an iconic figure in Sir Stirling Moss. Even though his passing was not unexpected, given the length of time he battled illness, it was still a shock to hear the news. His legacy has a permanence in the world of motorsport because of the way he defined a certain type of sportsman, in a post-war era of 'stick and ball' sports where racing drivers didn't have the status of their sporting peers. On the podcast today the team share their memories, and talk Mercedes, Lotus and a blue Ferrari.

Mr Motor Racing remembered: Why Sir Stirling Moss was the greatest

Flat Chat is back for April alongside a new edition of the magazine. On the show today, Stuart Codling is joined by Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher to talk about how the Netflix TV revolution has changed the game. As of recording this podcast (15th April) there was no announcement about when F1 will go racing again so the team discuss whether July in Austria could be the start of the Formula 1 season. And what do Renault have to do to keep their star driver?

F1 But Not As We Know It - How Netflix changed the game

Welcome to a fresh start for the world's best-selling F1 magazine.  Welcome to GP Racing! On the podcast today, we dive into how Lewis Hamilton took the hard road to threaten Schumi's incredible records. Plus, Leclerc vs Vettel. Can Ferrari control F1's new civil war? And finally why Red Bull moved fast to keep Max.

Lewis Hamilton's Path To Greatness

The latest issue of F1 Racing is out now and on the cover is... Fernando Alonso.He hasn't given up on F1 and is planning a comeback next year. Our man James Roberts went to visit him at home in Oviedo for an exclusive interview.  Our other big interview this month is with McLaren CEO Zak Brown.   This month we got an exclusive look behind the scenes at Esteban Ocon's first test for Renault. It's an interesting story because he was on that team's driver development programme when they were racing as Lotus, got dropped when they ran out of money, then he was rescued by Mercedes – but they ultimately didn't have a place for him.  Elsewhere in this issue, Mark's column looks at Lawrence Stroll's plans for Racing Point and the possible acquisition of Aston Martin.

The latest issue of F1 Racing is out now and on the cover is... Fernando Alonso.He hasn't given up on F1 and is planning a comeback next year. Our man James Roberts went to visit him at home in Oviedo for an exclusive interview. Our other big interview this month is with McLaren CEO Zak Brown. This month we got an exclusive look behind the scenes at Esteban Ocon's first test for Renault. It's an interesting story because he was on that team's driver development programme when they were racing as Lotus, got dropped when they ran out of money, then he was rescued by Mercedes – but they ultimately didn't have a place for him. Elsewhere in this issue, Mark's column looks at Lawrence Stroll's plans for Racing Point and the possible acquisition of Aston Martin.

Alonso's 2021 Return

Jenson Button

Nick Fry

A couple of months ago we celebrated the 10th anniversary of Jenson Button's World Championship by revealing some of the previously little known details of that year. The Brawn GP CEO Nick fry was kind enough to share his memories, from the shock of Honda deciding to close the team to its rebirth as Brawn GP and the acquisition by Mercedes. Feedback from our readers about the story was really positive. And as usual with such things, there was a lot of interesting stuff that just wouldn't fit on the page. So here just for you is the full recording of Nick Fry at the offices of F1 Racing.

Nick Fry Interview: The Inside Story of Brawn GP and Jenson Button's Incredible F1 Championship Win

Lewis Hamilton is now a six-time world champion. We’ve talked about his driving style a lot. So we thought it was time to look at his crossover appeal to the world outside of Formula 1, where he’s creating a business empire. Several things jumped out about this, not least the statistic that a single social media post by Lewis is worth $40,000. From one alpha male to another. We look at Charles Leclerc this month “Ferrari’s new alpha” is the headline. And in a fantastically opportune piece of timing, the two Ferraris collided on track last weekend. Looking ahead to 2021, Formula 1 has now actually released the details of how the rules will work on and off the track. We’ve published an explainer in our ‘Insider’ section but it’s clear that these rules are still a work in progress. The budget cap is something that’s been tried before and it hasn’t worked. What are the chances of it happening now?

The World Is Not Enough - Building Lewis Hamilton's Empire 🤑

F1 Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to weigh up whether winning the world championship with Lewis Hamilton in the garage next door really is an impossible dream. Bottas is a proven grand prix winner, but time and again Hamilton has found an extra gear mid-season and left his team-mate eating dust.  While his challenge for the 2019 drivers’ championship is running out of road, Bottas says he’s still developing as a driver. He’s trying to erase the weaknesses in wheel-to-wheel combat and tyre management that have occasionally held him back during race weekends, and he’s changed his lifestyle as well.  F1 Racing’s cover feature this month is an exclusive interview with Bottas. In it he explains the renewed motivation he found to come out of the blocks fighting this season and answer his critics: “’F**k them. I can do this.’ That was the mentality.”  Ferrari celebrated its 90th anniversary with a star-studded event in Milan. F1 Racing reported from the scene and our panel ask what it is that still makes Ferrari so special despite its often fraught existence.  The Scuderia’s long relationship with Philip Morris International and its Marlboro brand has become a talking point again this season with the arrival of PMI’s Mission Winnow branding. While this is a campaign to communicate that the tobacco industry is undergoing a transformation towards a smoke-free future, rather than advertising a product, many territories F1 visits remain uncomfortable with the idea of the tobacco industry being involved in sport.  But the departure of tobacco sponsorship has cost F1 in the region of £300m a year, and there hasn't been an influx of other corporates to fill that gap. F1 is still a great way to communicate product, but can it communicate an ideal? That remains a challenge as it looks for new partners and revenue streams in an increasingly regulated ad industry.  And as F1 continues to struggle to reach a consensus for the next set of technical regulations, Mark Gallagher argues that it needs to innovate if it’s to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.

F1 Racing editor Ben Anderson and columnist Mark Gallagher join host Stuart Codling to weigh up whether winning the world championship with Lewis Hamilton in the garage next door really is an impossible dream. Bottas is a proven grand prix winner, but time and again Hamilton has found an extra gear mid-season and left his team-mate eating dust. While his challenge for the 2019 drivers’ championship is running out of road, Bottas says he’s still developing as a driver. He’s trying to erase the weaknesses in wheel-to-wheel combat and tyre management that have occasionally held him back during race weekends, and he’s changed his lifestyle as well. F1 Racing’s cover feature this month is an exclusive interview with Bottas. In it he explains the renewed motivation he found to come out of the blocks fighting this season and answer his critics: “’F**k them. I can do this.’ That was the mentality.” Ferrari celebrated its 90th anniversary with a star-studded event in Milan. F1 Racing reported from the scene and our panel ask what it is that still makes Ferrari so special despite its often fraught existence. The Scuderia’s long relationship with Philip Morris International and its Marlboro brand has become a talking point again this season with the arrival of PMI’s Mission Winnow branding. While this is a campaign to communicate that the tobacco industry is undergoing a transformation towards a smoke-free future, rather than advertising a product, many territories F1 visits remain uncomfortable with the idea of the tobacco industry being involved in sport. But the departure of tobacco sponsorship has cost F1 in the region of £300m a year, and there hasn't been an influx of other corporates to fill that gap. F1 is still a great way to communicate product, but can it communicate an ideal? That remains a challenge as it looks for new partners and revenue streams in an increasingly regulated ad industry. And as F1 continues to struggle to reach a consensus for the next set of technical regulations, Mark Gallagher argues that it needs to innovate if it’s to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Dreaming The Impossible Dream

Max Verstappen has conquered his demons and made Red Bull-Honda his team. Now to take down Lewis. Max sat down with F1 Racing magazine to talk about becoming F1's most feared hunter.  Robert Kubica has already announced he will not be driving in Formula 1 in 2020, but he was happy to sit down with us to talk about how he faced an uphill battle to return to the grid.  This month's long interview is with Frederic Vasseur. Every Formula 1 world champion since 2007 has driven for Fred at some point in their career. As a Formula 3 and GP2/Formula 2 team boss he was a starmaker par excellence, helping turn around Lewis Hamilton's career when Lewis hit his first bumps in the road.  Does Formula 1 need new teams on the grid? And if so, exactly how much money would you need to start your own F1 team.

Max Verstappen has conquered his demons and made Red Bull-Honda his team. Now to take down Lewis. Max sat down with F1 Racing magazine to talk about becoming F1's most feared hunter. Robert Kubica has already announced he will not be driving in Formula 1 in 2020, but he was happy to sit down with us to talk about how he faced an uphill battle to return to the grid. This month's long interview is with Frederic Vasseur. Every Formula 1 world champion since 2007 has driven for Fred at some point in their career. As a Formula 3 and GP2/Formula 2 team boss he was a starmaker par excellence, helping turn around Lewis Hamilton's career when Lewis hit his first bumps in the road. Does Formula 1 need new teams on the grid? And if so, exactly how much money would you need to start your own F1 team.

Max Off The Chain!

Sebastian Vettel rates his current performance as 5 out of 10. Why is his current form a shadow of that which won four World Championships with Red Bull? We discuss Andrew Benson's feature article this month as Sebastian has big questions to answer as he enters the final year of his contract in 2020.  We're also talking about 24 races in a season, when sponsorships go wrong and the driver market after the Summer break.  F1 Racing is the world’s best-selling F1 magazine. Join Codders, Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher as they lift the lid on the world of Grand Prix racing.

Sebastian Vettel rates his current performance as 5 out of 10. Why is his current form a shadow of that which won four World Championships with Red Bull? We discuss Andrew Benson's feature article this month as Sebastian has big questions to answer as he enters the final year of his contract in 2020. We're also talking about 24 races in a season, when sponsorships go wrong and the driver market after the Summer break. F1 Racing is the world’s best-selling F1 magazine. Join Codders, Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher as they lift the lid on the world of Grand Prix racing.

Unravelling Sebastian Vettel 🏎

F1 Racing is the world’s best-selling F1 magazine. Join Codders, Ben Anderson and Mark Gallagher as they lift the lid on the world of Grand Prix racing.

The Billion Dollar Gamble

The best podcast episodes of the most interesting stories and things. From skyping someone while they're in space, to tracking down and meeting a telephone scammer in person, to the story of a Galapagos. These episodes will keep you and all your friends entertained and captivated for hours. Learn something new in every episode! Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Episodes: Interesting Stories & Things

The best podcast episodes on romantic relationships. Episodes talk about the 5 love languages, intimacy, and the taboo topics of sexual desires and infidelity. This topic is a deep dive into the science and complexities that face us in our relationships with others. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!