In the round-up: Mercedes driver George Russell says he expects to see a similar order to the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix during this weekend’s race in Australia
In brief
Russell expects “similar story” to Jeddah in Melbourne
Russell finished fourth in Jeddah after originally being promoted to the podium in third following a post-race penalty to Fernando Alonso that was later cancelled by stewards.
The Mercedes driver finished ahead of the two Ferraris but behind Alonso’s Aston Martin and far behind the two winning Red Bulls. He says he anticipates the order from Jeddah to repeat this weekend in Australia.
“I think it’ll be a similar story in Melbourne,” Russell said. “The tarmac is very similar in Melbourne compared to the circuit here: some fast and flowing corners. So, I’d say the order that we’ve seen this weekend, it’ll be very similar.
“But like we saw in Qualifying, there’s only maybe two-tenths splitting three, four or five cars. So, they’ll probably be similar in Melbourne too.”
IndyCar extends NTT title sponsorship
The IndyCar Series has extended its title sponsorship with technology company NTT to a “multi-year” deal to commence in 2024, the championship has announced.
NTT has been the title sponsor of IndyCar since 2019 and will remain so into 2024 and beyond after agreeing an extension with the series.
“IndyCar is a great partner for NTT DATA because of our shared commitment to driving innovation, increasing sustainability and delivering amazing experiences,” said NTT’s CEO Kaz Nishihata. “We also appreciate how IndyCar is so diverse, with drivers from 15 different countries, and races that range from short ovals and superspeedways to road and street courses. It’s both an incredible sport and a wonderful example for our world.”
Esports champion wins single-seater debut in British F4
The winner of an esports organised by Motorsport UK on the RaceRoom platform will compete in this season’s British F4 championship with JHR Developments.
Deagen Fairclough, a 16-year-old with previous karting and closed-wheel car racing experience, won the ROKiT Racing Star competition in the male division to earn professional training and an opportunity to compete in the british F4 championship.
“I’m over the moon to finally be racing in British F4 with JHR and ROKiT,” said Fairclough.
“I’ve got a lot to learn having never raced a car like this before, as I’ve come from a closed, front wheel drive Fiesta, so…
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