F1 Today | Silent Verstappen snubs Croft, McLaren want to dominate like Red Bull
General
Today was the first offical FIA media session with the drivers in Australia, and many narratives were unearthed. GPblog brings you all the best from the paddock in Albert Park ahead of the 2025 F1 season opener, the Australian Grand Prix. It's time for F1 Today.
Silent Verstappen snubs Croft, McLaren wants to dominate and Hamilton is fopeful
Max Verstappen has now clarified he won't talk much during the official press sessions and why, which serves as context to understand the way he approached Sky Sports' commentator, David Croft's questions.
On the eve of the new F1 season, starting this weekend in Australia, Oscar Piastri believes in an exciting battle with more teams. Therefore, on the chance of a similar dominant spell as Red Bull and Max Verstappen recently had, he defined it as ideal.
On the question if whether or not Max Verstappen is a good team player or not, New Zealander Liam Lawson will experience that in the flesh this year. Asked about the matter during a media session in Melbourne (where GPblog was also present), the new Red Bull Racing driver's response was elaborate and telling.
Lewis Hamilton is hopeful ahead of his Ferrari debut. The seven-time world champion's move to Ferrari is arguably the biggest ever in Formula 1 history, leaving behind a 12 year-long partnership with Mercedes. "I know what I can bring, I know I can deliver," says the Briton on the eve of the Australia Grand Prix.
Jack Doohan takes a page from the minister of defense's playbook and relies on having signed a contract "for at least a year, if not more" while the 'Argentine' elephant in the room threatens his seat.
Asked by GPblog if the GPDA had received word from the FIA, George Russell outlines the 'drivers' syndicate' only goal: "There's been no contact from anybody. I expect there to be a few conversations this weekend, and I think we made it clear we just wanna have an open dialogue with the FIA."