Areplacement presenter for regular This Morning co-host Alison Hammond was given a warm welcome by viewers today (Friday July 18).
Stand in presenter Sian Welby charmed fans with her latest appearance on ITV’s flagship show alongside regular Friday host Dermot O’Leary.
But as some of Alison’s detractors sniped at her on social media, others joked the beloved telly fave is ‘living rent free’ in their heads.
Devoted daytime telly viewers are more used to watching Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond on Fridays (Credit: YouTube)
Viewers praise Sian Welby
Sian has always received plaudits from those watching at home whenever she pops up on This Morning to deputise for the series’ regular stars.
That was also the case today, with X users calling for her to be given even more showings on the programme.
“Love Sian on This Morning, she should be on more regularly #ThisMorning,” read one such post.
“Sian is a breath of fresh air with Dermot on #ThisMorning @thismorning,” wrote a second admirer.
A third pleaded: “Can we keep Sian forever please? #ThisMorning.”
Can we keep Sian forever please?
To which someone else replied: “Yes please. She is so natural, so nice and perfect for this job!”
However, amid comparison to other This Morning presenters, other viewers used their preference for Sian to slam Alison.
Some Sian Welby supporters couldn’t help but take potshots at the star she was filling in for (Credit: YouTube)
‘Friday just got a whole lot better’
Harshly disparaging Alison as an “embarrassing laughing muppet”, one hater posted how it was “good news” that “the lovely Sian [is] presenting instead”. “A huge plus,” they celebrated, comparing the two co-hosts.
“Yay a Friday without Alison… there is a God! #ThisMorning,” rejoiced another X user.
A third wrote: “Friday just got a whole lot better. @alisonhammond not on @thismorning ! Spooo much improved without her! Without her even dreary O’Leary is acting, almost, like an adult! Make it permanent @ITV.”
And someone else couldn’t help but mention Alison as they sneered: “Since Alison is busy appearing on every show that going maybe they should get Sian to present the show with Dermot on a Friday! Natural chemistry and Dermot seems a lot calmer in her presence #ThisMorning.”
Some Sian Welby fans have used her appearances to take potshots online at Alison Hammond (Credit: YouTube)
Why wasn’t Alison Hammond on This Morning today?
Alison, who is hosting the show for a number of days next week as the presenting line-up is shook up by the summer holidays, appears to have been on a little break recently.
Her Instagram Stories yesterday (Thursday July 17) indicated she had spent time in Cheddar Gorge in Somerset exploring caves.
But, as one X user noted, it seems her presence is always felt by those This Morning viewers who have a strong antipathy towards her.
“#ThisMorning Alison living rent free in people’s heads even on her day off,” they observed, adding a chuckling emoji to their words.
The actress has suffered immense loss from a young age
Actress Kate Beckinsale has shared that her mum, actress Judy Loe, died on Tuesday (July 15). She was 78.
Kate, 51, shared the news on Instagram today (July 18), two years after she shared that Judy had stage four cancer.
Kate Beckinsale mourns death of her beloved mum
Alongside a selection of photos, she wrote: “I don’t want to post this. I am only posting this because I have had to register my mother‘s death certificate and it will soon become public record. She died the night of July 15 in my arms after immeasurable suffering.”
She added: “I am paralysed. Jude was the compass of my life, the love of my life, my dearest friend. The vastness and huge heart of this tiny woman has touched so many people who love her dearly. She has been brave in so many ways, forgiving sometimes too much, believing in the ultimate good in people and the world is so dim without her that it is nearly impossible to bear.”
Kate signed off the post: “Mama, I love you so much. This has been my greatest fear since finding my father dead at five and I am here. Oh my Mama. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I am so sorry.”
Actress Judy appeared in General Hospital, Inspector Morse, Casualty, Holby City and Doctors. She played Jan Goddard in Holby City, the hospital’s chief exec, and appeared in nine episodes.
Kate Beckinsale with her mother Judy Loe (Credit: Cover Images)
Kate Beckinsale’s TV director stepdad died last year
Judy’s death came a year and a half after Kate lost her stepfather.
TV director Roy Battersby had been married to Judy since 1997. He died in January last year at the age of 87 following a stroke.
I will honour him and his work every day of my life.
Kate honoured Roy, who worked on shows including Between The Lines, Inspector Morse, Cracker and A Touch of Frost, in April, on what would have been his 89th birthday.
She wrote on Instagram: “Happy birthday Roy. Given I’ve been waiting all day – can you rise again please – ideally tomorrow … that would be great. You being dead is really [bleep]ing wearing now. I love you so very much and I wish you had been here to have your birthday and Easter on the same day but anyway – see you tomorrow. I shall be waiting at the mouth of the cave.”
Weight loss concerns
In July last year, after an Instagram user left a rude comment on one of her posts, she said that she “lost a lot of weight” through grief and stress brought on by Roy’s death and Judy’s cancer.
She added that she needed a stay in the hospital, explaining: “The grief had burned a hole in my oesophagus which made me vomit copious amounts of blood, and I found eating very hard.”
BAFTA controversy
Weeks after her stepdad’s death, Kate slammed BAFTA when the organisation emailed her to say it couldn’t guarantee he’d be part of the In Memoriam segment of its TV awards ceremony.
She wrote on Instagram at the time: “Today BAFTA told me they ‘could not guarantee’ he (Roy) would be included in their ‘in memoriam’ tribute, to honour the industry members we have lost. So a man dead less than a week somehow has to audition in front of a committee after a decades-long career in which he has been awarded from said organisation (that has awarded him the highest accolade they have) to decide if his death is worth mentioning.
“If his work, his life, his craft, his mentoring, his heart and soul are worthy of a mention that he is gone. That, that has broken my heart all over again. I am paralysed, sick and sickened and I will honour him and his work every day of my life.”
In a later statement, BAFTA described him as a “renowned and trailblazing director” and added: “We confirm he will be honoured in our forthcoming BAFTA Television Awards in May, and on the In Memoriam section on our website.”
Kate lost her dad when she was a child
In 1979, when she was five years old, Kate lost her dad, the actor Richard Beckinsale. He died from a heart attack caused by coronary artery disease. Richard starred in shows such as Porridge and Rising Damp. He was 31 when he died.
The night of his death, Richard attended a party for The Two Ronnies before returning to the family home in Sunningdale, Berks. The last anyone heard from the star was in a phone call he made to friends before going to bed. During the call, he noted he had pains in his arms and chest but made light of it. Tragically, Richard never woke up.
‘It was a terrible loss’
Kate told The Independent in 1997: “Anybody who’s lost anybody knows that while it does get less painful, in that immediate way, it can still catch you 20 years later. Ever since he died, he’s been on telly very regularly so I’m very used to it. But sometimes it’ll catch me out and I’ll think, [bleep]. I’m older now than you were then.”
Of losing her father, the Hollywood actress said in 2013: “It was a terrible loss. It’s so weird as a five-year-old to look out in the street and see people reading the paper and crying while you’re crying and your mum is crying and your granny’s crying.
“Even though it was the worst loss that I have experienced I was able to share it with people who genuinely, even if they didn’t know him, really seemed to love him. I feel not many people are in that position – to have lost somebody and also to feel like that’s something really relevant to other people.”
Stepmum Emily Andre has stepped up to explain all…
Instagram followers of Princess Andre have been wondering whether she may have a new beau, several weeks after it was reported she’d broken up with her boyfriend.
The daughter of Katie Price and Peter Andre, 18, has been sharing snaps of her holiday – thought to be in Mexico – on social media for the past week.
But while fans have gushed over her glam outfits and the spa day retreat Princess enjoyed, some have pondered whether one of the young men pictured alongside her could indicate a new romance is blossoming.
Princess Andre has sparked romance rumours weeks after love split (Credit: Cover Images)
Does Princess Andre have a boyfriend?
At the end of May, reports suggested Princess and her boyfriend of two years had gone their separate ways.
A source is told The Sun at the time: “She always kept her romance out of the public eye, and it will be the same with her split. They grew apart – they were each other’s first love, so it has been tough. But there are no hard feelings.”
The insider was also quoted as claiming Princess’ ex remains on “good terms” with both her mum and dad.
They are also said to have added: “Princess is really concentrating on her career right now. There is no place for a man.”
‘Where’s Princess’s bf gone?’
However, that hasn’t prevented those making their thoughts known in the comments section of Princess’ latest post from speculating whether Princess may be seeing someone new.
A carousel of pics uploaded yesterday (July 18) depicts Princess, dressed in white, posing near a swimming pool.
Boyfriend post is pending…
In two separate pics she is joined by two young men, each with their arm around her. But Princess also identified them both, tagging in their handles and captioning her post: “Clearly Joe missed the white memo.”
And this seems to have prompted one user to ask Princess: “Who is Joe?”
Princess Andre posing for pictures at an event with her brother Junior Andre (Credit: Cover Images)
‘You should date Joe’
Luckily for Princess’ most inquisitive followers, an answer was soon supplied by her dad’s wife Emily Andre.
“My little brother 🙂 one of them!! Xx,” she replied to the question about Joe’s identity.
And another user chipped in with: “Family member of Emily I believe.”
Someone else who may not have noticed Emily’s comment suggested: “Princess, you should date Joe xx.”
But as other commenters wondered how and if Princess and Joe may be related, one person wrote in reply: “They’re Emily’s brothers so practically family.”
Additionally, Emily also commented: “Awwww guys. Love my bros xxx.”
To which someone else replied to her: “Every member of your family mother father you, your brothers etc are all so GOOD LOOKING. Great family genes xxxxx.”
And in previous pics from Princess’ holiday, Emily seemed to confirm her siblings were also away for the trip, commenting: “Awww so glad you guys are having fun. Keep my brothers in check please.”
As she hosted the show while holding her baby granddaughter
Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray tickled viewers today (Friday July 18) as he mocked fellow ITV star Lorraine Kelly.
Lorraine normally fronts the morning show that bears her name between Mondays and Thursdays. It follows Good Morning Britain in the schedules – and she frequently pops up while that programme is on air to preview her own show.
However, fans were taken aback to see her usual Friday stand-ins Christine Lampard and Ranvir Singh weren’t deputising today. And they took to social media in their droves to register their reaction as Adil poked fun at Lorraine’s presence.
Adil Ray co-hosted Friday’s Good Morning Britain alongside Kate Garraway (Credit: YouTube)
What did Adil Ray say to Lorraine on Good Morning Britain?
As Lorraine appeared on GMB to tease what was coming up on her show, Adil jokily highlighted his surprise at her being on shift.
Adil chuckled, sitting alongside fellow co-host Kate Garraway: “Lorraine is here after 9. In for Lorraine, in fact.”
An amused Lorraine replied: “How are you doing? It’s lovely to see you both!”
Friday’s instalment of Lorraine did come with another ‘host’ on screen, though. But it wasn’t Christine or Ranvir. Instead it was Lorraine’s baby granddaughter Billie, who was live in the studio!
Lorraine went on: “As you can see, a very special guest with me all morning. Baby Billie is here. Hooray! Good to see you little lamb. She’s just the best. The absolute best.”
The proud grandmother continued: “She’s nearly a year old. Next month. You’re a year old – we might have to have a party. It’s very, very exciting.”
What an adorable co-host! (Credit: YouTube)
How Good Morning Britain viewers reacted
Daytime telly fans immediately made their way to social media to express how funny they found Adil’s remarks. Others also joined in with the gag by repeating it.
“Adil straight up to her face just said ‘Lorraine sitting in for Lorraine’,” one fan posted on X. They continued, adding crying laughing emojis to their words: “I have a new-found respect for him now #lorraine #gmb.”
An incredulous onlooker wrote: “Sorry I’m confused, it’s a Friday yet #Lorraine is actually hosting her own show???????”
“Lorraine?!?! ON A FRIDAY,” echoed somebody else.
“The rarely spotted Lorraine actually doing her show on a Friday,” posted a fourth fan.
And someone else went with: “#lorraine How come she’s in on a Friday? Is it end-of-term party?”
Cheeky Adil! (Credit: YouTube)
Meanwhile, another X user reckoned they’d cracked the case. They wrote: “Now I understand why #Lorraine has turned up on a Friday. LOOK AT THE BABY LOOK AT THE BABY.”
And while many viewers were delighted to coo over little Billie, not everyone was won over.
“What’s the purpose of the baby being present for this segment? #Lorraine,” one X user sniffed.
Princess Anne’s dutiful service has been acknowledged
Princess Anne’s decades of dutiful service are being celebrated with the first-ever official UK coin dedicated to the Princess Royal.
Unveiled in celebration of her 75th birthday, this Royal Mint release has already wowed fans.
And many are over the moon about the tribute to Princess Anne!
Princess Anne is often dubbed the hardest working royal (Credit: Cover Images)
Princess Anne’s service honoured with a coin
Dubbed the “Anne-iversary coin,” this fitting tribute is a £5 piece and was personally approved by Anne herself.
It features a portrait of the princess embossed on the coin.
The image depicts the princess and her signature bouffant hairstyle, styled with the Aquamarine Pineflower Tiara.
The special piece is framed with an inscription that reflects Anne’s hard work.
It states: “The Princess Royal – Celebrating 75 Years – Duty and Devotion.”
The Royal Mint wrote on social media: “Join us as we celebrate Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as she marks her milestone 75th birthday with the first UK coin made in her honour, featuring her official Coat of Arms and an official portrait taken by John Swannell.”
Royal fans praise commemorative coin
Many fans agree this is a well-deserved honour. Consequently, they have flocked to social media to praise the piece.
“Love love love this! So well deserved! Another fab example of a life of service in honour, dignity and grace! Rock on Princess Royal,” one exclaimed.
Another penned: “She’s an absolute treasure and a shining example of true strength and selfless service to others – I hope I can add this to my collection.”
The coin marks Anne’s 75th birthday (Credit: The Royal Mint/Cover Images)
“The very hard-working royal who makes no fuss – just quiet devotion like her mother,” gushed another.
“So well deserved.. The Princess Royal is one of the hardest-working royals and a national treasure,” commented someone else.
Anne, often credited as the hardest-working member of The Firm, has a big birthday just around the corner.
Princess Anne’s birthday
She turns 75 on August 15, but so far has insisted it shouldn’t be made a big deal.
A charity forum she hosted at Buckingham Palace in June marked her birthday. Evidently, other than that, the princess doesn’t intend to have big plans.
Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: “For the first time in British numismatic history, we are honoured to celebrate the Princess Royal on an official UK coin.
“Her Royal Highness’s unwavering commitment to public service, charitable work, and support of His Majesty’s armed forces over seven and a half decades makes her truly deserving of this tribute.”
The Royal Mint designer discusses Princess Anne coin
The portrait of Anne is based on a photograph of the princess taken by John Swannell, a Royal Photographic Society fellow.
Thomas T Docherty, the designer of the coin, says the image reflected the princess’ “strength of character” and “understated elegance”.
Mr Docherty said: “I wanted to capture Her Royal Highness’s remarkable legacy and dedication to public service. The portrait reflects her strength of character and unwavering commitment to duty.”
He concluded: “It was really by observing Princess Anne and looking at the role she plays within not only her family but the nation and the Commonwealth that formed inspiration for the design of the coin.
“She has, I would say, a kind of understated elegance and strength.”
Cadillac are working to finalise their first driver line-up ahead of the General Motors team debuting in Formula 1 in 2026, with Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas in the mix.
The American crew are yet to sign a driver to lead their arrival in the pinnacle of motorsport next term. But Cadillac are engaged in talks with a flurry of drivers as team principal Graeme Lowdon strives to sign at least one experienced name, but he is not opposed to a youngster.
Bottas and Perez both slipping off the grid after the 2024 F1 season pushed the veteran pair firmly onto Cadillac’s radar for 2026. The Finn won 10 of his 246 Grand Prix starts between 2013 and 2024, while the Mexican won six races from his 281 starts between 2011 and ‘24.
Progress has also been made in the General Motors brand’s negotiations with the former. It is said that Bottas and Cadillac have now agreed on the terms of a contract. The 35-year-old has not signed the deal, yet the framework is in place should the Finn accept Cadillac’s offer.
Photo by Mark Sutton – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images
Guenther Steiner thinks Mick Schumacher has a ‘good chance’ to join Cadillac in 2026
Bottas’ position is not unlike the Mexican’s as Perez and Cadillac agreed on the terms of his contract earlier this year, as well. But the 35-year-old held off on putting pen to paper then as Perez was waiting to see if a chance would potentially emerge to join Mercedes in 2026.
Perez and Bottas are also not the only names on the shortlist, and Guenther Steiner believes Cadillac should consider offering Mick Schumacher his return to Formula 1. The former Haas boss believes his old driver also has a ‘good chance’ to get one of the seats at the GM brand.
Lowdon has confirmed that Cadillac are speaking with Schumacher, who Steiner claims can ‘help’ thanks to what he learned as Mercedes’ reserve driver across 2023 and 2024. He also has further experience of racing for a factory as the 26-year-old races for Alpine in the WEC.
Steiner told sport.de: “I think Mick has a good chance. Cadillac need a driver with Formula 1 experience, and there aren’t many drivers currently who don’t have a job but have driven in Formula 1.
“When he was a test driver at Mercedes, he didn’t race but he learned a lot about a good, large team. This knowledge of how a successful team works could help Cadillac.”
Guenther Steiner would sign Valtteri Bottas and Mick Schumacher if he were in charge of Cadillac
Photo by MARK SUTTON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Steiner considers Schumacher one of the ‘four favourites’ to join Cadillac along with Bottas, Perez and Zhou Guanyu. Yet if he were in Lowdon’s shoes, Steiner would look to pair Bottas and Schumacher, given they both know how Mercedes work and the ‘work ethic’ required.
“He and Mick both worked at Mercedes and learned the same work ethic,” Steiner added.
Schumacher drove for Haas under Steiner’s watch during the 2021 and 2022 seasons after making his debut for the American-owned team. The German achieved a total of 12 points from 43 Grand Prix starts after his P8 in the 2022 British GP and P6 in the 2022 Austrian GP.
But the son of the seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher also failed to finish five of his 43 starts from 44 entries. Mick registered three DNFs in his rookie season plus two as a sophomore, on top of failing to start the 2022 Saudi Arabian GP after crashing in qualifying.
McLaren increasingly look set to have an intra-team battle between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris to lift the 2025 F1 drivers’ title on their hands for the rest of the season.
Only eight points now separate the papaya pals atop the F1 drivers’ championship after the first 12 of the 24 rounds due to be staged this term. Piastri and Norris have even opened 69 and 61-point leads over Max Verstappen, as the Red Bull racer targets his fifth title in a row.
Verstappen can become only the second driver in F1 history after Michael Schumacher from 2000 to 2004 to win the championship in five consecutive campaigns. But the Red Bull RB21 has struggled to pose a persistent threat to the McLaren MCL39 over the first half of 2025.
Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko believes Verstappen’s 2025 title hopes are ‘over’ after falling almost three full Grand Prix wins behind Piastri in the standings. The Dutchman now needs to outscore the Australian by 5.75 points per round to retain his crown this term.
Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Oscar Piastri finds fighting Lando Norris for the F1 title ‘easier’ as they share data at McLaren
Piastri is relishing the prospect of McLaren having an in-house fight to secure the team’s first drivers’ title since Lewis Hamilton in 2008. The 24-year-old believes it is ‘easier’ to manage a title fight when going up against a teammate, as it allows him to look at his direct rival’s data.
Norris, naturally, can also observe Piastri’s data, which is one negative from McLaren having the two favourites to win the drivers’ title. Although their data is not absolutely comparable, as Piastri refuses to use McLaren’s modified front suspension geometry that Norris relished.
“In some ways, it makes it easier because you can see what your opponent’s doing,” Piastri told RACER. “You know what they’re doing with the car [and] you know how they’re driving the car, so you have a lot more insight in some ways.
“But it also makes it more difficult because that obviously goes the other way as well. I think the other thing that makes it difficult is, obviously, when it comes to races and strategy.
“Obviously, only one of you can pit at a time, or both of you can pit at the same time, but one of you is going to lose a lot. So, that’s another element that becomes difficult to manage for the team, more so than the drivers.
“But there’s positives and negatives of having that battle within the same team. I think we do a very good job of managing it because we’ve seen in the past [that] it can be a pretty difficult situation to manage.”
Oscar Piastri beat his teammate to win the F3 and F2 titles in his rookie seasons
Photo by Joe Portlock – Formula 1/Formula Motorsport Limited via Getty Images
Piastri can turn to Mark Webber for help amid his F1 title fight with Norris, too, as the nine-time Grand Prix winner and fellow Australian is the McLaren pilot’s agent. Norris is also not the first teammate with whom Piastri fought to win a title through his single-seater career.
Melbourne native Piastri won the 2020 Formula 3 title as a rookie when he beat ART Grand Prix’s Theo Pourchaire by three points and PREMA partner Logan Sargeant by four. He even beat PREMA teammate Robert Shwartzman by 60.5 points for the 2021 F2 title as a rookie.
McLaren not having a car to compete for the crown ensured Piastri could not win the F1 title as a rookie in 2023. But he now has a package that is propelling the seven-time Grand Prix winner to the top of the table in a close battle with teammate Norris in the 2025 F1 season.
Piastri’s F3 title was not the only close fight that he ultimately conquered, either. He sealed his first single-seater title in Formula Renault Eurocup in 2019 when he beat now-Williams junior Victor Martins by 7.5 points. Now, Piastri has his eyes on denying Norris the F1 title.
The whispers of change in the Formula 1 paddock have transformed into loud discussions, and at the center of it all is a seismic shift that could alter the very landscape of the sport. The talk of the town now centers around the reigning World Champion, Max Verstappen, and an audacious $200 million plan that could see him leave Red Bull, where he’s dominated, and join Mercedes. This move, should it materialize, would not merely be a driver switching teams—it would be the foundation of a new F1 dynasty and a potential game-changer in the sport.
Red Bull’s Dominance Faces Internal Struggles
On the surface, Red Bull appears unbeatable. Verstappen, with his seemingly unassailable performances, has been a key factor in their dominance. However, insiders reveal that beneath this apparent success, cracks are starting to form. The friction within the team has become increasingly evident, with Verstappen himself expressing concerns. After an investigation involving Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, Verstappen warned that if the internal issues weren’t addressed, Red Bull could “tear apart.” This was no throwaway comment; it was a stark warning about the team’s stability.
Adding to this tension is the murmur surrounding Helmut Marko, the man who brought Verstappen to F1 and helped shape his career. There are growing whispers that Marko might be sidelined by Red Bull’s more corporate leadership, something that doesn’t sit well with Verstappen, who is known for preferring a more hands-on, racing-focused environment rather than a corporate-driven setup. It’s this tension that may be the key to understanding why Verstappen is looking for an exit strategy.
The Mysterious Exit Clause
Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull is thought to have a cryptic clause that could allow him to leave the team if two key conditions are met: the removal of Helmut Marko or a significant dip in performance. This clause has been the subject of intense speculation, with reports suggesting that it may already have been activated during private discussions. This adds a whole new layer to the rumors of Mercedes making moves to secure Verstappen for 2026, as the clock on his Red Bull contract is ticking.
What’s more interesting is the timing of these discussions. Sources have revealed that Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, met with Mercedes executives in Monaco, just days after Max gave a cryptic interview in which he stated that his future in F1 was never certain. Mercedes also reportedly sent representatives to the Austrian Grand Prix to engage directly with Verstappen’s inner circle. These aren’t just casual meetings—they are calculated moves, a clear indication that Mercedes is serious about the prospect of signing Verstappen.
Mercedes Makes Its Move
Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen is not merely a hopeful pursuit. The team is actively executing a carefully calculated strategy to bring Verstappen into their fold. It’s not just about offering a larger paycheck; Mercedes is reportedly preparing a $200 million war chest. This figure goes beyond Verstappen’s salary—it’s a comprehensive plan designed to facilitate his exit from Red Bull. This could include paying off his existing contract, managing legal challenges, and securing his personal sponsors, among other factors.
Sources indicate that Mercedes has already consulted a top international sports law firm in London—one that was involved in Lewis Hamilton’s high-profile move to Mercedes in 2013. This isn’t a team hoping for Verstappen’s contract to expire; it’s a team setting up the necessary legal channels to ensure that Verstappen can exit Red Bull and join Mercedes with minimal obstacles.
The Three-Step Plan for Securing Verstappen
Mercedes’ strategy to lure Verstappen involves three deliberate steps:
Breaking Loyalty: The first part of the plan is to increase friction within Red Bull, making Verstappen feel increasingly uncomfortable at his current team. Every controversial quote, every rumbling of discord, all serve to make Verstappen’s environment feel more oppressive. The idea is to make leaving feel like a form of liberation, not just from Red Bull’s internal struggles, but from the corporate structure that seems to be taking root within the team.
Securing the Future Vision: Mercedes is offering Verstappen more than just a fast car; they’re offering him control over the team’s future. This includes having a say in the development of the car, the driver lineup, and, importantly, positioning himself as the figurehead for the 2026 regulation changes. The idea is to make Verstappen the defining face of F1’s next era, akin to how Hamilton was for the hybrid era. The future of F1 could revolve around Verstappen if Mercedes gets its way.
Selling the Dream Team: The final part of Mercedes’ strategy involves pairing Verstappen with their rising star, Mick Antinelli, creating a powerful driver lineup of experience and youth. The idea is to have a pairing that is not only capable of dominating the next era of F1 but could also redefine it entirely. This lineup could potentially be the most dominant in F1 history, dominating the sport from 2026 to 2030.
The Commercial and Legacy Implications
Mercedes isn’t just looking at Verstappen as a driver—it’s looking at him as a commercial asset. The Dutch driver’s massive fanbase and personal brand are a marketing goldmine. His connection to Dutch and German brands would bring a new wave of sponsors and fan engagement to Mercedes, propelling the team into a new era of global dominance. Verstappen’s presence would also allow Mercedes to tap into the digital fanbase, where the real commercial opportunities lie today. This is more than just a sporting decision; it’s a business move of the highest order.
Red Bull’s Response
Red Bull, realizing the potential loss, is scrambling to keep Verstappen. The team has reportedly offered Verstappen a massive contract extension and even equity in the team, giving him a stake in the company’s future. This move shows just how serious Red Bull is about holding onto their star driver. However, Verstappen’s silence on the matter speaks volumes. If the offers are failing to get a response, it suggests that Verstappen’s focus may already be elsewhere—on a potential future with Mercedes.
The Impact on Formula 1
If this $200 million coup succeeds and Verstappen joins Mercedes, the impact on F1 will be monumental. Red Bull, as we know it, could crumble. Verstappen’s departure would strip the team of its star driver and the momentum that has driven its dominance in recent years. Without Verstappen, Red Bull could quickly fall from the top of the grid to a midfield team.
Ferrari, too, could be affected. They’ve staked their future on Lewis Hamilton, but if Mercedes builds the best car for 2026 and secures Verstappen’s services, Ferrari could find itself trailing behind, again.
Teams like McLaren and Aston Martin, while competitive, would be left to fight for the scraps as Mercedes builds what could be the most formidable team F1 has ever seen. A two-tier Formula 1 could emerge, with Mercedes at the top, setting the stage for a new era of dominance.
A New Chapter for F1
For the fans, particularly the massive Dutch fanbase, Verstappen’s move to Mercedes would be a game-changer. His army of supporters would likely follow him to the Silver Arrows, creating a new global wave of interest in the sport. This is a move that could propel F1 into the mainstream in a way we’ve never seen before, giving it the kind of global reach that only the biggest sports stars can provide.
In conclusion, the potential move of Max Verstappen to Mercedes isn’t just about a change in driver lineup. It’s a shift that could redefine the entire structure of Formula 1, turning Mercedes into the dominant force for years to come, and challenging the very foundations of Red Bull’s success. The battle for Verstappen is just beginning, and when the first domino falls, it will send shockwaves through the entire sport. The future of Formula 1 could very well depend on where Verstappen decides to go next.
Understanding the Power Dynamics at Red Bull: A Deep Dive into the 2% Share Transfer
In the ever-evolving world of Formula 1, few teams have captured the spotlight quite like Red Bull Racing. The team has dominated the sport in recent years, and its success on the track is mirrored by the intrigue surrounding the power structure within its parent company, Red Bull GmbH. Amidst whispers of corporate drama and internal conflicts, the recent 2% share transfer in Red Bull GmbH has sparked significant speculation. What does this seemingly minor event mean for the future of Red Bull Racing, its leadership, and its dominance in Formula 1? Let’s dive deeper into this complex situation.
The Background: The Passing of Dietrich Mateschitz and the Aftermath
To understand the significance of the 2% share transfer, we need to take a step back and consider the events that unfolded after the passing of Dietrich Mateschitz in October 2022. Mateschitz, one of the co-founders of Red Bull and the mastermind behind its meteoric rise in motorsports, left behind a massive legacy. His death, while expected due to his health struggles, created a massive void within the company, and the power vacuum left many wondering what would happen to the team’s future.
In the months following his passing, there was considerable speculation surrounding the power dynamics within the company. Mateschitz’s son, Mark Mateschitz, became a key figure in the company’s leadership. However, Red Bull’s ownership was also split between two parties: the Austrian Mateschitz family (49%) and the Thai Uvidya family (49%). The remaining 2% was seen as the swing vote, which could determine who had the upper hand in critical decisions for the company.
The 2% Share Transfer: The Trigger for Corporate Drama?
On May 31, 2023, 2% of Red Bull GmbH shares were transferred from Shalom Uvidya’s control to a Swiss wealth management firm, Fed’s Trustees SA. This seemingly small transaction became the focal point of much speculation, especially considering the timing. Just five weeks after the transfer, Christian Horner, the longtime team principal of Red Bull Racing, was dismissed from his position. The question on everyone’s mind was: was this share transfer the catalyst for a power shift within the company? Did it set the stage for Horner’s ousting?
The timing was undeniably striking. Red Bull GmbH, however, maintained that the transfer was a standard corporate move, one aimed at ensuring continuity within the company. The official line was that fiduciary agreements and share transfers were part of normal business practices, but given the timing of Horner’s dismissal, many believed there was more to the story.
What Does the 2% Share Transfer Really Mean?
To grasp the real significance of the 2% transfer, it’s important to understand the structure of Red Bull GmbH. As mentioned earlier, the company was split between the Austrian and Thai sides, each holding 49% of the company’s shares. The remaining 2% held a critical role, acting as the deciding factor in the event of a deadlock. The importance of this 2% became clear when it was transferred to Fed’s Trustees SA, a Swiss firm, under a mandate from Shalom Uvidya.
This shift, contrary to initial assumptions, did not mark a power grab by the Austrians. Instead, it solidified the Thai family’s control over the company. It seemed that the Uvidya family still controlled 51% of the company’s shares, meaning that the Thai side retained the majority stake. While the exact details of the transfer remain unclear, evidence suggests that the Thai family continues to wield significant power within the company, despite the 2% moving to a third-party trustee.
This revelation changes the narrative significantly. Instead of a corporate coup led by the Austrians, it now appears that the transfer was more about clarifying the ownership structure and ensuring a stable decision-making process within the company. It is likely that this transfer was a diplomatic move to stabilize the relationship between the two factions and avoid further internal friction.
The Internal Tensions: Christian Horner and the Red Bull Racing Dilemma
One of the key figures caught up in this web of corporate intrigue was Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing. Horner’s dismissal just five weeks after the 2% share transfer raised eyebrows and added fuel to the speculation about a corporate power shift. The timing seemed too coincidental to ignore, and many wondered if the transfer had played a role in this decision.
The situation surrounding Horner’s dismissal was complex. Initially, reports surfaced suggesting that the Austrian side wanted him gone immediately after the allegations of misconduct, which had been circulating within the company. However, the Thai side, which held the majority stake, reportedly insisted that Horner remain in his position. Horner was eventually cleared of the allegations, but the episode exposed deep divisions between the two factions at the top of Red Bull GmbH.
Amidst these internal struggles, the company itself continued to perform well, thanks to the operational structure put in place by Mateschitz before his death. The company had three managing directors, known as the “triumvirate”: Alexander Kirchmayr, Fran Watslawik, and Oliver Minslaf. This trio has been instrumental in steering Red Bull GmbH to success, despite the challenges faced at the corporate level.
In 2023, Red Bull GmbH surpassed the $10 billion revenue mark, with projections suggesting they would hit $11.2 billion in 2024. The company’s success in selling nearly 13 billion cans of Red Bull underscores the effectiveness of its management structure, even amid internal conflicts.
The Aftermath: A Stabilized Power Structure?
So, where does this leave Red Bull GmbH today? The 2% share transfer, which initially appeared to be a dramatic move, seems to have been more about stabilizing the power dynamics within the company. Rather than signifying a hostile takeover, the transfer can be seen as a necessary clarification of roles and decision-making authority. By transferring the 2% to Fed’s Trustees SA, the Uvidya family likely ensured that their control over the company remained intact, while also providing a neutral mechanism for resolving any future deadlocks.
Insiders suggest that the relationship between the key players within Red Bull GmbH has improved in recent months. The turbulent period following Mateschitz’s death appears to be over, with the various factions finding a more harmonious way to work together. While rumors about relocating the company’s headquarters or shifting operational control have been shelved, the current structure seems to be delivering strong results.
For Red Bull Racing, this newfound stability could be a game-changer. With the corporate tensions largely behind them, the team can focus on what it does best: dominating the track. The stability at the top could provide the foundation for a continued period of success, with clear decision-making processes and a unified direction.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for F1?
The big question now is: how does this new stability affect Red Bull Racing’s future in Formula 1? The answer lies in the power dynamics at the top of the company. If the Uvidya family continues to hold the majority stake, and if the structure of Red Bull GmbH remains as it is, the team will likely enjoy continued success. The stability within the company could help the team avoid internal strife and distractions that have plagued other organizations in the past.
This newfound clarity at the corporate level could also make it easier for Red Bull to retain key figures, such as team principal Christian Horner and star driver Max Verstappen. With the internal conflicts largely resolved, the team can focus on building its next era of dominance in Formula 1.
Conclusion: A Stable Future for Red Bull Racing?
While the 2% share transfer initially seemed like a potential catalyst for a corporate coup, it has ultimately played a role in stabilizing Red Bull’s internal power structure. The resulting clarity and improved relations among the key players provide a strong foundation for the team’s future. Red Bull Racing, already dominant on the track, may be poised to continue its reign for years to come, with a more stable and unified leadership structure to guide them. Whether this marks the beginning of a new era of Red Bull dominance in Formula 1 remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the stormy period following Dietrich Mateschitz’s death appears to be behind them, and the team can now focus on what matters most: winning.
The Battle for Ferrari’s Future: Hamilton, Leclerc, and the Steering Revolution
In the world of Formula 1, where milliseconds often determine the difference between victory and defeat, Ferrari’s garage is usually a place of innovation, tradition, and careful attention to detail. But for the 2025 season, something extraordinary is unfolding within the Maranello walls, something that threatens to redefine the very essence of Ferrari’s racing philosophy. This revolution is not driven by a dramatic scandal or a significant technological breakthrough, but by something far more subtle — the steering wheel.
Ferrari has long been known for its smooth, progressive steering that reflects the brand’s heritage, offering predictability and comfort for its drivers. But when seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton arrived at Ferrari’s doors, he brought more than just a wealth of experience and accolades. He brought with him a new philosophy, one that challenged the very foundations of Ferrari’s driving feel. Hamilton’s demands were not just about fine-tuning the car for his preferences; he was asking for a fundamental rewrite of how the car responds to steering inputs.
Hamilton’s Impact on Ferrari’s Steering Design
For years, Ferrari’s steering system has been synonymous with smoothness. Its hydraulic systems, designed to provide a cushion-like feel, reward a more deliberate and controlled driving style. However, Hamilton’s feedback was entirely different. He wasn’t interested in subtle tweaks. He wanted a more immediate, responsive steering feel—one that could deliver fingertip precision and instant torque translation. The demands were clear: no dead zones, immediate feedback, and precise steering at every corner.
This wasn’t just a preference for comfort; it was a challenge to Ferrari’s very identity. Ferrari has long prided itself on a design philosophy that prioritizes balance and predictability. The team’s development path was traditionally shaped by the feedback of their lead driver, Charles Leclerc. But now, Hamilton’s influence was impossible to ignore.
The Stealth War: Hamilton vs. Leclerc
As the 2025 season unfolded, the simmering conflict between Hamilton and Leclerc regarding steering preferences became more apparent. Ferrari, known for its tight-knit team dynamic, now found itself in an unusual situation: two of the best drivers in the world had drastically different demands for the car’s handling characteristics. The core of this issue wasn’t about personal rivalries, but about competing philosophies on how a Ferrari should feel at the limit.
Hamilton’s quest for precise, direct steering was dramatically demonstrated during simulator tests at Spa-Francorchamps. By adjusting the hydraulic steering system to Hamilton’s specifications, Ferrari discovered significant improvements. The data revealed that Hamilton’s setup allowed for quicker corrections through O’Rouge, tighter lines through Puhon, and a reduction in steering input variance at Blanchimont — crucial sectors that often define qualifying performances. These findings were not just anecdotal; they were backed by hard data.
The most shocking revelation came when the simulator overlays showed that Hamilton’s configuration was not just different, but objectively faster. When compared to Leclerc’s baseline setup, Hamilton’s steering configuration proved to offer cleaner lines and fewer corrections, resulting in improved delta times in sector 2 at Spa. In an environment where qualifying times can be separated by mere hundredths of a second, this difference could be crucial.
This driven revelation led Ferrari to an unprecedented decision: they began running two distinct steering configurations—one for Hamilton and one for Leclerc. This was an extraordinary concession for a team that has always valued a unified design philosophy. The fact that Ferrari was willing to split the car’s steering setup for two drivers highlighted just how significant the stakes had become.
The Internal Tension: Leclerc vs. Hamilton
Beyond the technical realm, this shift in steering philosophy created a palpable tension within the team. Leclerc, who had long been the cornerstone of Ferrari’s development path, now found his preferences challenged by the arrival of Hamilton. Their interactions, though polite and professional, were laced with a subtle undercurrent of competition. Cameras captured moments of quiet conversation, but it was clear that Leclerc, once the clear focus of Ferrari’s engineering efforts, was recalculating his approach. While there was no outward confrontation, his adjustment to Hamilton’s influence was evident in his longer simulator runs and a shift in his tone during team radio communication.
Ferrari’s engineers, who once deferred automatically to Leclerc’s feedback, were now processing Hamilton’s setup requests with equal urgency. The shift in the team’s internal culture was subtle, but undeniable. Where once the traditional, smooth handling philosophy had been the default, Hamilton’s demands were now being taken as seriously as Leclerc’s.
A Championship in the Balance
With the title race in 2025 closely contested, Ferrari’s engineers found themselves at a crossroads. Red Bull and McLaren had set the early pace, and Ferrari’s performance was directly linked to every decision made in the garage. The gap to the championship leaders was narrow enough that any advantage—no matter how small—could make the difference between winning and losing.
Hamilton’s hydraulic steering override may seem like a niche adjustment, but in the world of F1, small improvements in handling can lead to big gains. If his setup delivers just a few tenths of a second over a sector, it could shift qualifying positions, alter race strategies, and secure podiums that Ferrari might otherwise miss. Conversely, sticking with Leclerc’s more traditional setup could risk leaving precious points on the table.
Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, now faces a delicate decision. Does he continue with the car philosophy Ferrari has used for years, or does he embrace Hamilton’s radical feedback and turn it into the team’s new benchmark? The answer to this question could shape Ferrari’s 2025 season, and perhaps even their approach to car development for years to come.
The Philosophical Crossroads
At the heart of this issue lies a fundamental question: what defines a Ferrari? For decades, Ferrari’s cars have been synonymous with a design ethos that balances mechanical grip and driver input, delivering a smooth, progressive experience. But Hamilton’s demands for more immediate and direct feedback cut against this tradition. His legacy at Mercedes was built on cars that responded instantaneously to his commands, and he wants that same level of precision at Ferrari.
If Hamilton’s steering override proves superior in real-world conditions, it could signal a significant shift for Ferrari. The team would have to decide whether to pivot fully toward Hamilton’s philosophy for future car designs, potentially abandoning the traditions that have long defined the team’s character. This decision would also reshape Ferrari’s internal culture, reducing the influence of Leclerc and potentially signaling the beginning of a new era—one where driven responsiveness and driver feedback loops become the primary guiding principles.
The Road Ahead
As Ferrari heads into the latter half of the 2025 season, the stakes could not be higher. The outcome of this internal debate is not just about who is faster; it is about who Ferrari will trust to define the future of their cars. Will Ferrari embrace Hamilton’s radical changes and reshape their philosophy accordingly? Or will they stay the course with Leclerc’s more traditional setup?
The answer to this question will not only impact Ferrari’s chances of securing a championship in 2025 but will also determine the future direction of the team. As the team approaches the critical race at Spa and beyond, one thing is certain: Ferrari is at a crossroads. The choices made today will echo throughout the next generation of Ferrari cars, and could redefine what it means to drive a Ferrari in the years to come.
