F1 Today | Hamilton targets media amid Qatar GP debacle, Marko makes Qatar promise to McLaren drivers
Photo: Race Pictures
A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
These are the best Formula One stories of Saturday 29 November, 2025.
Photo: Race Pictures
Hamilton fires back at media
Lewis Hamilton has criticised the media for what he believes is a negative psychological impact on Ferrari staff during the 2025 season. Hamilton said ongoing negative reporting affects team members at home and contributes to the difficulty of a year in which Ferrari shifted focus to its 2026 car as early as April.
He dismissed the idea that lack of development is the root of Ferrari’s issues, stating he supported the early switch of focus and citing stability and downforce deficits as current challenges. Hamilton described the cars as on the limit due to halted development and noted an element of luck. He added that the overall situation has been tough for mechanics, engineers and factory staff.
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Looking ahead to the Qatar GP, Hamilton said he did not expect a significant comeback.
Marko promises McLaren drivers fireworks
Max Verstappen will start the Qatar Grand Prix from third, behind Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, after McLaren locked out the front row. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko said he expects an aggressive start to the race and stated that having Verstappen alongside often makes other drivers nervous.
Marko noted overtaking is nearly impossible at Lusail, saying opportunities would mainly come in the first laps, though the expected two-stop race could introduce strategy options. He added that Red Bull resolved the bouncing issues affecting Verstappen’s car by installing an older, undamaged floor and making additional setup changes.
Marko said the improvements reduced the performance gap seen earlier in the weekend and expressed confidence that Verstappen would be more competitive in race trim, particularly on medium and hard tyres.
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