F1: Chequered Flag
BBC Radio 5 Live
F1 Chequered Flag from the BBC offers expert analysis of every F1 race, with exclusive insight into every twist and turn of the F1 season. Each episode brings you in-depth race reviews, breaking down the strategies that shape each Grand Prix and the key players making headlines. Hear from F1 stars like Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, and the bosses of powerhouse teams like Red Bull, Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren. And get up to speed on the cars and tactics changing the game. Coming up this season: what will it take for Max Verstappen to win his fifth consecutive world title? Can McLaren retain their lead from the 2024 Constructors Championship? Will Oscar Piastri or Lando Norris take the lead, the two McLaren team-mates turned rivals? How will Lewis Hamilton perform after his shock switch to Ferrari? And what can we expect from this season’s rookie drivers, Oliver Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, Jack Doohan, Isack Hadjar and Gabriel Bortoleto?Stay tuned for the latest F1 updates, straight from the track.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 28, 2025 • 40min
Dutch Grand Prix Preview
Anticipation builds for the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, where vibrant festivities meet thrilling racing. McLaren's fierce rivalry between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri takes center stage as they battle for championship glory. Can Lewis Hamilton bounce back with Ferrari, while Max Verstappen seeks a home victory? Weather might play a crucial role, adding an unpredictable twist. Plus, there’s buzz around Cadillac’s driver announcement for 2026, and insights into team dynamics as the new season approaches.
24 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 29min
Chequered Flag Extra: Lando Norris Special
British racing driver Sam Bird joins to shed light on Lando Norris, who is gunning for the 2025 drivers’ title. They delve into Norris's journey from karting to Formula 1 fame, revealing the crucial role of a driver coach in honing performance. The discussion highlights Norris's unique transparency and emotional struggles amidst the pressures of racing. Insights from his former teammate, Carlos Sainz, and McLaren's Andrea Stella underscore Norris's potential as a future champion, as they explore the balance of authenticity and competitiveness in motorsport.
Aug 14, 2025 • 31min
Chequered Flag Extra: Claire Dubbelman on life as F1’s Deputy Race Director & women in motorsport
Claire Dubbelman, F1's Deputy Race Director, shares her inspiring journey in a male-dominated field, detailing her rise within the motorsport hierarchy. She talks about the critical role of a race director, managing race safety, and the teamwork involved in high-stakes moments. Passionate about promoting female participation, Claire advocates for greater representation and a supportive culture for women in motorsport. She hopes her position will inspire others and emphasizes the importance of community and resilience in the racing world.
5 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 26min
Chequered Flag Extra: Damon Hill Special
Damon Hill, the 1996 F1 World Champion and son of legendary driver Graham Hill, shares his riveting journey through the world of motorsport. He opens up about the profound impact of his father's legacy and how tragedy shaped his career. Delving into his early passion for motorcycles, he recounts his unexpected rise to F1 glory. The conversation touches on the emotional aftermath of the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, blending triumph and loss. Hill's insights on his new documentary give a personal glimpse into the complexities of racing life.
Aug 3, 2025 • 25min
Hungarian Grand Prix Review
Lando Norris's thrilling one-stop victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix takes center stage as he narrowly fends off teammate Oscar Piastri's two-stop strategy. The race highlights include George Russell's podium finish and a dejected Charles Leclerc, who started on pole but ended fourth. As emotions run high, the dynamic between veteran drivers and rising stars is explored, particularly a seasoned driver's impressive performance on his 44th birthday. The discussion wraps up with debates over the Driver of the Day and insights into future races.
9 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 27min
Hungarian Grand Prix Qualifying Review
Sam Bird is a seasoned commentator and analyst for Formula 1, while Jennie Gow serves as a pit lane reporter, bringing her on-the-ground insights to the discussions. They dive into Lewis Hamilton's dismay after qualifying 12th, contrasting it with Charles Leclerc's unexpected pole. The duo explores the emotional rollercoaster of F1, the impact of varying track conditions, and the fierce rivalry between McLaren teammates. They also stir up excitement by making predictions ahead of the Grand Prix and discuss the intricacies of tire strategies and car performance.
Aug 1, 2025 • 58min
Hungarian Grand Prix Preview
Sam Bird, a seasoned Formula E driver and former Mercedes test driver, joins commentator Harry Benjamin and F1 star Lando Norris to preview the Hungarian Grand Prix. They dive into the fierce rivalry at McLaren between Norris and Oscar Piastri, providing thrilling insights. The conversation also touches on Carlos Sainz reflecting on life in F1, and Benjamin shares the story behind his iconic race-start catchphrase. They wrap up with predictions and a peek into the competitive dynamics shaping the season.
6 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 31min
Belgian Grand Prix Review
Damon Hill, the 1996 F1 world champion, joins Harry Benjamin to dive into the thrilling details of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa. They discuss Oscar Piastri's stunning victory and whether he's outshone teammate Lando Norris. Hill analyzes the tense moments throughout the race, from rookie Piastri's tactics to the challenges faced by Ferrari. Listeners get insight into drivers' strategies, the impact of weather delays, and reactions from stars like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. It's a captivating look at shifting team dynamics and racing brilliance.
15 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 19min
Belgian Grand Prix Qualifying Review
Damon Hill, the 1996 Formula One world champion, joins Harry Benjamin to dissect the thrilling qualifying and sprint race at Spa. They dive into Lando Norris's impressive pole position and his challenges during the sprint. The duo analyzes Charles Leclerc's standout performance and Ferrari's upgrades, contrasting it with Max Verstappen's struggles under pressure. They also ponder the impact of weather conditions on race strategies, pit stop tactics, and the dynamics within teams, setting the stage for an exciting upcoming race.
7 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 57min
Belgian Grand Prix Preview
Alisha Palmowski, a promising Red Bull team racer in the F1 Academy, joins to dissect the ongoing drama at Red Bull Racing. They dive deep into Laurent Mekies' appointment and its implications for Max Verstappen’s future. The discussion highlights the challenges of transitioning to new leadership and adapting to evolving team dynamics. Alisha shares insights into her own racing journey, the fierce rivalry in the F1 Academy, and the critical importance of momentum and mindset in the sport. A thrilling preview of the Belgian Grand Prix awaits!
