Dive into the action-packed world of motorsport with On The Grid, where Tiff Needell and Paul Woodman unravel the biggest stories from a thrilling weekend of racing. This episode covers everything from the drama of the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix to updates from Formula 2, the F1 Academy, and Formula E.

The Lusail Circuit hosted the penultimate Formula 1 race of the season, but the weekend wasn't without its share of controversies. Questions are raised around the circuit's suitability—only one viable overtaking corner, a lack of enthusiastic spectators despite claims of a sellout crowd. Should Qatar invest billion to elevate it to a world-class venue?

• Max Verstappen had already clinched the title, becoming the first driver in over 40 years to win the World Championship in a car ranked 3rd or worse in the Constructors’ standings. Despite his team’s position, Verstappen dominated much of the season with the fastest car for at least half the races.
• The rivalry heats up as Max clashed with George Russell, reportedly telling him to "just F*** off." Verstappen’s fiery temperament was on full display, adding another layer to the ongoing paddock drama.

• Criticism rained down on the FIA, especially its president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, for questionable decisions. From yellow flag calls for track debris to the controversial 10-second drive-through penalty handed to Lando Norris, the weekend raised questions about race stewardship.

• Lewis Hamilton continues to grapple with self-doubt, admitting he might be losing pace against the younger drivers. Analyst Anthony Davidson remarked on Hamilton’s sudden dip in form.
• Jenson Button’s claim that Lando Norris and George Russell are on par with Verstappen stirred debate. Can anyone truly match Max at his peak?

The Formula 2 championship is heading for a nail-biting finish. Ollie Bearman and Paul Aron claimed victories, while the title battle between Isack Hadjar and Victor Bortoleto is tighter than ever, with just half a point separating them going to Abu Dhabi

Congratulations to Abbi Pulling, who clinched the inaugural F1 Academy Championship in Qatar. Her groundbreaking achievement is a monumental step forward in motorsport inclusivity and talent development.

Key Talking Points

• Should Qatar revamp the Lusail Circuit with a £1 billion investment?
• Was Lando Norris’s penalty fair, or a result of FIA inconsistency?
• Can George Russell and Lando Norris truly rival Max Verstappen?
• What’s next for Lewis Hamilton as he battles the younger generation?
• Next week Formula E, heads to Sao Palo as the electric revolution continues to reshape the racing landscape.

• Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix
• Max Verstappen World Champion
• Lusail Circuit controversy
• FIA decisions Formula 1
• Lando Norris penalty
• Formula 2 championship battle
• Abbi Pulling F1 Academy

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