

F1: Chequered Flag
BBC Radio 5 Live
F1 Back at Base - A deep dive into the high-octane world of Formula 1 with exclusive behind-the-scenes access. F1 Chequered Flag: Home of Formula 1.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 30, 2025 • 36min
Qatar Grand Prix Review
In this discussion, Marc Priestley, a former McLaren mechanic, shares keen insights into the intense drama of the Qatar Grand Prix. He delves into McLaren's controversial decision not to pit under a safety car and the fallout from that choice. The conversation shifts to the delicate balance between fairness and strategic pressure among drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. They also examine Max Verstappen's relentless performance and the psychological tactics that give him an edge. Get ready for some surprising race results and bold predictions for the championship!

Nov 29, 2025 • 33min
Qatar Grand Prix Saturday Review
Marc Priestley, a former McLaren mechanic, joins the discussion to dissect the thrilling events from Qatar. He analyzes Oscar Piastri's record-setting pole lap and sprint victory, reshaping the championship landscape against Lando Norris and Max Verstappen. The conversation also dives into Norris's critical qualifying mistakes, the implications of team strategy at McLaren, and the pivotal role of the race start. Listeners get insights into the impact of momentum and errors, alongside a preview of race strategy essentials.

Nov 28, 2025 • 55min
Qatar Grand Prix Preview
Andrew Benson, BBC Formula 1 correspondent, and Marc Priestley, former McLaren mechanic, dive into the thrilling build-up to the Qatar Grand Prix. They discuss Lando Norris's championship hopes after the Vegas disqualifications, with insights on sprint qualifying dynamics. The duo analyzes Max Verstappen's car challenges and Aston Martin's performance, particularly Fernando Alonso’s standout lap. They also explore McLaren's team harmony and the strategies drivers might employ in this crucial sprint weekend.

11 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 35min
Las Vegas Grand Prix Review
In this thrilling review, Harry Benjamin, a league commentator and F1 analyst, joins professional racing driver Alice Powell to dissect the dramatic Las Vegas Grand Prix. They delve into McLaren's costly disqualifications and the implications for championship standings, highlighting Verstappen's resurgence. Alice shares technical insights on car performance and strategy, while Harry breaks down tyre management and race dynamics. The duo also evaluates Hamilton's frustrations, Ferrari's challenges, and the rising stars of the race, providing a comprehensive look at the F1 landscape.

Nov 22, 2025 • 33min
Las Vegas Grand Prix Qualifying Review
Alice Powell, a professional racing driver known for her technical expertise and insights on car behavior, joins the panel to dissect the dramatic Las Vegas qualifying session. The conversation covers how rain leveled the field, allowing Lando Norris to claim pole position despite extreme conditions. Powell explains the challenges of visibility and managing wheelspin on a slippery track. The trio also discusses unexpected performances, including Carlos Sainz's surprise P3, and the implications for race day strategy, fueling excitement for the upcoming showdown.

Nov 20, 2025 • 37min
Las Vegas Grand Prix Preview
Lando Norris, a rising star at McLaren F1, shares insights on maintaining a race-by-race mindset amid the pressure of championship battles. The discussion heats up as hosts analyze the iconic status of the Las Vegas track and the challenges posed by weather conditions. Norris highlights his confidence and strategy for the final races while Oscar Piastri reflects on his previous experiences in Vegas. The show wraps up with predictions on potential winners, emphasizing the critical role of tire management and weather in this thrilling race weekend.

Nov 13, 2025 • 33min
Chequered Flag Extra: Hamilton's Ferrari 'nightmare' & Ocon on life at Haas
Esteban Ocon, a Grand Prix winner and Haas driver, shares insights into his remarkable journey in Formula 1. He reflects on early sacrifices made by his family and dives into his experiences as a reserve driver, emphasizing resilience and the sport's politics. Ocon discusses the importance of managing emotions on and off the track while highlighting friendships with fellow drivers. He also notes the challenges and excitement of settling into Haas, aiming for consistent point-scoring performances.

Nov 9, 2025 • 28min
São Paulo Grand Prix Review
Join Abbi Pulling, reigning F1 Academy champion, and Andrew Benson, BBC F1 correspondent, as they dive deep into the thrilling São Paulo Grand Prix. They analyze Lando Norris' perfect race weekend, his tire management, and the implications for his championship lead. Oscar Piastri's incident and the controversy around his penalty are unpacked, while Max Verstappen's impressive climb from the pit lane sparks discussions on Red Bull's challenges. The team also highlights Kimi Antonelli’s stellar performance and Ferrari's woes, wrapping up with a look ahead to the exciting Las Vegas race.

Nov 8, 2025 • 31min
São Paulo Qualifying Review
Andrew Benson, BBC F1 correspondent, joins the discussion on qualifying at São Paulo. They explore Lando Norris's sprint victory and how he secured pole position, showcasing his impressive form. The team analyzes Oscar Piastri's struggles, highlighting the pressure he faces amid a challenging season. Max Verstappen's unexpected Q1 exit is dissected, along with Red Bull's performance woes. The conversation wraps up with insights on Kimi Antonelli's standout weekend and predictions for the race, set against possible drizzle conditions.

Nov 7, 2025 • 57min
São Paulo Grand Prix Preview
Join reigning F1 Academy champion Abbi Pulling as she shares insights on the São Paulo Grand Prix. Abbi explores Lando Norris's recent championship surge and the mindset shifts propelling his performance. The panel discusses the impact of a suspension tweak on his results, along with Max Verstappen's do-or-die attitude heading into the race. They reflect on Interlagos' unique atmosphere, potential wet weather challenges, and predictions for both drivers' and constructors' battles, including an exciting talk about rookie Gabriel Bortoleto.


