F1 Explains

Join legends David Coulthard and Mika Hakkinen as they reminisce about their fierce McLaren rivalry and explore the dynamics of team mate title battles. They dive into how McLaren managed their tense rivalry in the late '90s and compare it to the current tensions between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Discover the physical toll of braking in F1, humorous dog anecdotes related to the sport, and what jobs they might pursue if not for racing. Their banter reveals the balance between friendship and competition in the high-stakes world of F1.

Gabriel Bortoleto, the Brazilian racing prodigy and 2024 Formula 2 champion, dives into his thrilling rookie season with Sauber. He unpacks the strategic ‘lift and coast’ technique, revealing its secrets for conserving fuel and tires. Find out how drivers manage speed under a Virtual Safety Car and the importance of different engine modes in the pitlane. Gabriel candidly shares his experiences racing alongside Nico Hülkenberg and the challenges of transitioning from F2 to F1, as well as what he's learned from his mentor, Fernando Alonso.

Mike Vandament, an experienced F1 flag marshal, and Sydney Davis Yagel, SCCA representative, dive into the critical roles marshals play in keeping drivers safe at Grand Prix events. They discuss the various marshal jobs, from flagging to response during incidents, emphasizing the importance of communication with race control. Sydney shares how newcomers can get involved in marshalling and what qualities make for a good marshal. Learn the secrets behind quick recoveries and the teamwork needed to clear crashes efficiently!

Dr. Ian Roberts, an FIA medical delegate with a rich background in intensive care, teams up with Bruno Correia, a professional racing driver and medical car driver. They delve into the adrenaline-fueled world of F1 medical logistics. Learn how the medical car is always on standby, the impressive equipment used, and why it's considered the fastest ambulance. They share gripping stories about responding to crashes, driver reactions post-incident, and the evolving safety measures in motorsport. It's a riveting peek into their vital roles on the track!

Alex Albon, a talented driver for Williams and a rising star in Formula 1, dives deep into the thrilling world of night races. He shares how racing under the stars affects both visibility and strategy. Albon also opens up about the reality of celebrity life and its impacts on personal time and relationships. Curious about car numbers? He reveals how drivers choose them, including the meaning behind his own number, 23. Plus, discover the creative process behind his unique helmet designs, blending personal flair with team regulations.

What are race strategists doing during a Grand Prix? How are strategies decided for each driver within a team? What happens to that strategy when something unexpected happens, like teammates colliding with each other? And is Artificial Intelligence used when deciding the best tactics for a race?Bernie Collins, former F1 strategist at Aston Martin and McLaren, joins Christian Hewgill in the paddock to answer your questions about the sport.Bernie also explains why teams change their engine power during different sessions, why drivers try and leave their final qualifying run as late as possible, and what the rules are when a driver is asked to give a place back to an opponent. Get your question answered on the podcastSend your voice notes and emails to F1Explains@F1.comIt's All To Drive For in 2025. Be there!Book your seat for a Grand Prix this season at tickets.formula1.comListen to more official F1 podcastsIn-depth interviews on F1 Beyond The GridExpert reaction before and after every Grand Prix on F1 Nation

2025 is a year of change for Jonathan Wheatley. He left Red Bull in the UK to join Sauber in Switzerland. He also stepped up from Sporting Director to Team Principal. Jonathan answers your questions about moving from a World Championship-winning team to one seeking success. He tells Christian how he leads the hundreds of people working at Sauber's factory and at the racetrack, including drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. More change is ahead for Jonathan and Sauber in 2026, as Audi-take over the team. Jonathan answers your questions on how the transition is going and Audi's ambition to win in Formula 1.F1 Explains puts your questions to F1 experts and insiders. Send yours to F1Explains@F1.comMore from official F1 podcasts: F1 Beyond The GridSauber driver Gabriel Bortoleto's story of leaving Brazil aged 11 to chase his F1 dreamF1 NationValtteri Bottas on why he chose to join Cadillac for 2026

Ferrari is synonymous with Formula 1 around the world. They’ve won more World Championships than any other team in the sport’s history.But is that success why they’re regarded as one of the most iconic names in F1? Or is there more to it?F1 Explains is at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza to find out what makes Ferrari so special.Christian Hewgill is joined by ESPN F1 journalist, Nate Saunders, who is also the author of ‘Forza Ferrari: How F1’s most famous team can win again’, and 2012 GP2 champion and F1TV pundit, Davide Valsecchi.They discuss how Ferrari’s long history with Formula 1 began, the legacy of legendary founder Enzo Ferrari, the team’s famous Tifosi fanbase, the pressure they face from the Italian media and why winning a title with Ferrari is extra special.Christian also meets some very passionate Italian Ferrari fans, who tell us why Ferrari mean so much to them, what it was like being at Monza when Charles Leclerc won in 2024, and how they would feel if Ferrari became World Champions again after such a long wait.Get your question answered on the podcastSend your voice notes and emails to F1Explains@F1.comIt's All To Drive For in 2025. Be there!Book your seat for a Grand Prix this season at tickets.formula1.comListen to more official F1 podcastsIn-depth interviews on F1 Beyond The GridExpert reaction before and after every Grand Prix on F1 Nation

The driver hits the brakes. The car stops in the pit lane and 20 people go to work. Wheel guns roar. Tyres spin. The car speeds back into the race. An F1 pit stop is 2 seconds of precision under pressure.F1 Explains meets the people who make lightning-fast pit stops happen. Christian Hewgill puts your questions to Haas pit crew members Matt Thompson, Monique Hurrell and Marcus Farrer.Matt, Monique and Marcus explain how they became part of the pit crew, what happens during a stop, and what they do for the rest of the race weekend.Get your question answered on the podcastSend your voice notes and emails to F1Explains@F1.comIt's All To Drive For in 2025. Be there!Book your seat for a Grand Prix this season at tickets.formula1.comListen to more official F1 podcastsIn-depth interviews on F1 Beyond The GridExpert reaction before and after every Grand Prix on F1 Nation

Doriane Pin, a rising star and leader in the F1 Academy, shares her journey through the Mercedes Junior Driver Programme. Gwen Lagrue, the head of this program, discusses how they identify and nurture young talent, including standout drivers like George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. They explore the challenges of racing, from funding to the importance of mentorship. The duo emphasizes how Mercedes provides vital track exposure and support systems to ensure the next generation of racers is well-prepared for the competitive world of Formula 1.