This week on News from the Nerds, host James M is back like Baku. He’s joined by Abby and Sam as they run through all the major talking points before a weekend in Azerbaijan for F1 and F2, and a maiden round for F1 Academy at the Red Bull Ring.

A toast to Tost at AlphaTauri:
News broke this week about changes within personnel at AlphaTauri, putting the rumours of the team being sold to rest. Franz Tost is stepping down at the conclusion of 2023, after being at the helm since the team was taken over from Minardi in 2005. In his place will be Ferrari Sporting Director, Laurent Mekies. Good appointment? The trio break down the changes and what it means for the team.
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/breaking-alphatauri-bring-in-new-team-principal-and-ceo/

Sprint Saturday is confirmed:
Sprint Saturday is signed, sealed and to be delivered at the six designated weekends across the rest of the 2023 season. As well as the new format there are some rules changes from the FIA regarding the Sprint Saturday format. But what do the panel make of the new format and Sprint Saturday concept?
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/f1-approves-new-sprint-weekend-format-for-baku/

FIA is back on the defensive:
The FIA has come under fire again after allegations of sexism and bullying were made against President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The trio talk about the trouble the FIA has faced this season, the statement the governing body released and their thoughts on the topic.
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/fia-release-statement-on-ben-sulayem-sexism-row/

Ferrari in transition:
Laurent Mekies is leaving the team, meaning the role of Sporting Director is available, but rumours suggest Charles Leclerc could be looking at a move to Mercedes. The panel discuss the likelihood of Leclerc joining Russell and Mercedes and what it could mean.
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/charles-leclerc-engaging-in-open-secret-talks-with-mercedes/

F1 Academy hits the track:
This weekend is the first round of the 2023 F1 Academy season in Spielberg Austria. The panel talk about the series, their hopes for it and the excitement surrounding the all-new female feeder series.
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/f1-academy-reveals-key-details-for-all-women-series/
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