Formula 1: This is also discussed in the paddock in Austin

The heated discussion about Red Bull expenses from the previous year and an appropriate punishment, plus the puzzles about the future of Mick Schumacher.

Formula 1: This is also discussed in the paddock in Austin

The heated discussion about Red Bull expenses from the previous year and an appropriate punishment, plus the puzzles about the future of Mick Schumacher.

And don't forget the possible awarding of the Constructors' title at the US Grand Prix on Sunday (9 p.m. CEST / Sky). But there is still more to talk about.

No more race director rotation

Everything should get better. After last season's controversial finale, Michael Masi had to vacate his post as race director. The new plan: A duo that takes turns. But then came Suzuka. Then the thing with the salvage crane happened on the line. Luckily no damage for everyone on the track. Away was traded. The rotation has ended for this season. The German Niels Wittich takes over the race management in the USA, in Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi. Eduardo Freitas, who was in action in Suzuka, will not be able to play again.

Money out, no more races

Lewis Hamilton does not like the abrupt end of the W-Series season. The first formula racing series for women had to stop operations this year. Actually, they would have driven in Austin this weekend as part of the supporting program, as well as in Mexico City a week later. The final was also planned there. Jamie Chadwick was overall winner for the third time in a row - excluding the USA and double races in Mexico. The series ran out of money.

"There has never been enough focus on women in the sport in the entire Formula 1 era. And now there is not enough emphasis on it," said Hamilton. The 37-year-old record world champion is known for his commitment to equality. "There isn't really a way for these young, great drivers to get into Formula 1 at all. We have to do more," he said.

USA on everyone's lips

It's the tenth edition. In 2012, Formula 1 started in Texas for the first time, in 2020 the race was canceled due to the corona pandemic. When Formula 1 finally catches on in America, many asked themselves at the premiere. 2022 is certain: Austin also became a popularity accelerator. The fact that Formula 1 is now owned by an American company and is successfully running its own series on the Netflix streaming service also contributed to the increase in popularity. The result: 440,000 spectators are expected this weekend.

And they get to see an American team (Haas) with an American main sponsor coming soon. On Friday, Williams let the American regular driver Logan Sargeant, who is currently third in Formula 2, take the wheel in practice. And for the show next to the PS show, there is a packed program led by top star Ed Sheeran.

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