Lewis Hamilton's highly anticipated Ferrari test debut

Lewis Hamilton started his Ferrari journey this week with a visit to the factory in Maranello. He spent Monday and Tuesday meeting the team and learning about the setup. On Wednesday, he then finally hit the track at Fiorano, Ferrari’s private circuit, for his first laps in the SF-23, their 2023 car.

This test was an important step as Hamilton prepares for the 2025 season, where he will race alongside Charles Leclerc. The session and two days at the factory helped him get used to the team, the car, and how they work together.

KTM's debt rises

KTM AG's debt has risen to €2.2 billion amid ongoing insolvency proceedings. A total of 3,534 claims have been filed, with €1.66 billion of the €2.18 billion in claims verified so far. The company’s subsidiaries are also facing significant claims.

A major part of the debt is owed to banks, leading to a leadership change, with Gottfried Neumeister replacing CEO Stefan Pierer, though Pierer remains co-CEO. KTM is seeking fresh investment, with 23 potential investors currently evaluating opportunities. Securing investment is seen as essential to protect jobs and prevent further losses.

KTM’s restructuring plan proposes a 30% repayment to creditors over two years, with positive feedback from potential investors. Production at its Mattighofen plant, which paused in December due to inventory issues, is set to resume on 17 March. Workforce numbers have been reduced from 6,000 to 4,400 employees, with no further layoffs planned. Creditors will negotiate the restructuring plan on 25 February.

New FIA punishments for swearing

This week, the FIA has also introduced new rules for the 2025 season that impose strict penalties for driver misconduct, including fines, suspensions, and the loss of championship points. The rules cover all FIA championships, including Formula 1, and target actions like swearing, offensive gestures, and criticism of the FIA.

This follows tensions in 2024, when Max Verstappen’s use of inappropriate language during a press conference sparked a row with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Verstappen received a community service punishment, and the GPDA condemned Ben Sulayem’s handling of the issue.

Under the new rules, Article 12.2.(1) of the International Sporting Code outlines penalties for breaches of conduct. Misconduct now includes verbal, written, or physical actions deemed offensive. Fines for first offenses start at €10,000, but in F1, this is increased to €40,000. Repeat offenses within two years can lead to fines of up to €120,000, a one-month suspension, and the deduction of championship points. Stewards have discretion to adjust penalties based on specific circumstances.

Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team reveals 2025 livery

The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team unveiled their bold new 2025 livery, dominated by bright yellow. The design, named "Fluo Stream – Act 2," incorporates iconic sun and moon motifs, reflecting Valentino Rossi’s symbols. The livery also prominently features the numbers 49 and 21 for riders Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli, alongside Rossi’s legendary number 46.

For 2025, the team, now a Ducati Factory Supported Team, rides the advanced Desmosedici GP25 and the title-winning GP24, with high expectations for the season ahead.