By Fatma Younis
Formula 1 heads into the final rounds of the season with several unresolved storylines, from a growing rift between Ferrari's drivers to geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, Esteban Ocon's sudden departure from Haas, and a long-standing debate over red-flag tyre regulations.
Ferrari driver clash raises questions over team orders
Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc collided on the opening lap of the Mexico City Grand Prix, allowing Max Verstappen to pass both and win the race. Hamilton said Ferrari "have to have some serious talks behind closed doors" after the incident cost the team a likely one-two finish. Team principal Frederic Vasseur admitted frustration, while Leclerc argued that hard racing between teammates is acceptable. The episode highlights Ferrari's lack of formal rules of engagement, unlike McLaren, and the difficulty of managing two drivers of equal status when a championship-contending car arrives.
Qatar and Abu Dhabi races proceed amid Middle East tensions
Despite Yamaha's withdrawal from the Qatar MotoGP and private misgivings among Formula 1 personnel, the sport plans to hold the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds as scheduled. Williams driver Carlos Sainz publicly questioned the certainty of the races going ahead, citing the volatile regional situation and upcoming US elections. Formula 1, owned by Liberty Media, says host governments have assured there are no significant risks and that the UK government does not advise against travel. Commercial ties are deep: Qatar co-owns the Audi F1 team and Abu Dhabi co-owns McLaren. Imola is being prepared as a backup for Abu Dhabi, but a decision cannot be delayed much longer.
Ocon dropped by Haas after reported confrontation
Esteban Ocon was removed from the Haas lineup for the remainder of the Mexico weekend following an apparent confrontation with team principal Ayao Komatsu after a dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre strategy. Ocon issued a statement acknowledging a "difference in viewpoints" but categorically denied any physical violence. With Ocon already set to leave Haas at season's end, the team may run rookie Ryo Hirakawa, who impressed in Mexico, or bring in 2025 signing Rafael Camara for the remaining races.
Red-flag tyre change rule remains unchanged despite criticism
The regulation allowing drivers to change tyres during a red-flag period continues to draw criticism for neutralizing late-race battles, most notably at the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix. The rule is maintained for safety reasons, such as potential tyre damage from debris, and there is currently no appetite within Formula 1 to modify it.
