F1: Chequered Flag

In a captivating discussion, Andy Cowell, a former Mercedes power unit lead now helming Aston Martin, shares insights from his impressive career in motorsport. He dives into the ambitious vision of Lawrence Stroll and the team's transition to a works team. Andy elaborates on the impact of Adrian Newey's engineering prowess and the challenges posed by the upcoming 2026 regulations. With excitement brewing around Aston's new facilities and partnerships, Andy fuels hopes for a competitive future on the grid with a touch of humor.

In this lively discussion, Andrew Benson, BBC Formula 1 correspondent, and Sam Bird, British racing driver, provide in-depth analysis of the Mexico City Grand Prix. They delve into Lando Norris's impressive pole-to-victory triumph and the fan reactions he faced on the podium. The duo unpacks the chaotic start featuring Verstappen, Hamilton's penalty implications, and Ferrari's strategic execution. They also spotlight Oliver Behrman's outstanding drive to fourth, naming him 'hero of the race.' Racecraft insights and technical details bring the action to life!

In this episode, British racing driver Sam Bird shares his expertise on the thrilling qualifying session at the Mexico City Grand Prix. He analyzes Lando Norris's impressive pole lap and discusses McLaren's setup advantages over teammate Oscar Piastri, who faced challenges. The championship landscape intensifies as Max Verstappen battles grip issues, while Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton shine with strong performances. Sam also dives into first-lap strategies and tyre management, offering race predictions that heighten the anticipation for Sunday.

Join former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer, BBC's Andrew Benson, and journalist Rebecca Clancy as they dissect the lead-up to the Mexico City Grand Prix. They evaluate Max Verstappen's resurgence in the title fight and unpack McLaren's internal dynamics and recent struggles. The panel discusses the unique challenges of the high-altitude circuit, Red Bull’s strategic maneuvers, and the implications of rookie drivers on the championship landscape. All this while predicting race outcomes and analyzing the potential for team disruptions!

Is it unthinkable that Max Verstappen has become some people’s favourite for the drivers’ title? 1996 world champion Damon Hill joins Jennie Gow and Harry Benjamin to reflect on his lights-to-flag victory in Austin. They hear from the four-time world champion, as well as the two McLaren drivers he’s hunting down - Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Has Max Verstappen put himself in the title race? With both McLaren drivers failing to score in the sprint and the Dutchman starting Sunday’s race from pole, Jennie Gow, Harry Benjamin and Christian Hewgill look back on a dramatic day in Austin. They hear from Verstappen, Norris and Piastri.

Will what happened in Singapore change the dynamic between McLaren’s two drivers for the rest of the season? Harry Benjamin is joined by Andrew Benson, Jennie Gow, Jolyon Palmer and Will Buxton to preview the race in Austin. We hear from both McLaren drivers, while George Russell discusses his new Mercedes contract and Haas’s Ollie Bearman sums up his season so far.

In this discussion, Andrew Benson, BBC's F1 correspondent, dives into McLaren's incredible journey from the bottom of the standings to constructors' champions by 2025. He highlights the pivotal role of leaders Zac Brown and Andrea Stella, detailing how Stella’s technical changes revived the team. The conversation also touches on the fierce rivalry between drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris and the challenges of managing their competition without risking collisions. Plus, they explore ongoing improvements and strategies for maintaining team fairness amidst rising tensions.

Tensions rise at McLaren after the drivers’ first-lap contact during the Singapore Grand Prix. The team clinched their tenth constructors’ championship, but emotions are high. Team principal Andrea Stella weighs in on the situation, highlighting the team's achievements. Race winner George Russell and runner-up Max Verstappen share their perspectives on the thrilling race. It’s a rollercoaster of excitement and introspection in the world of Formula 1!

The hosts dive into George Russell's standout qualifying performance, highlighting his two stellar Q3 laps. They discuss Max Verstappen's challenges, including traffic and turbulent air on his laps. McLaren's Oscar Piastri shines with a solid P3, sparking a debate about team development priorities. Weather predictions suggest a dry race, while Lewis Hamilton shows promise, contrasting with Ferrari's struggles. The team also reflects on rookie performances and makes race winner predictions, adding to the excitement of the impending Grand Prix.