Lewis Hamilton has completed his farewell tour with Mercedes, marking the end of his 12-year partnership with the team before his move to Ferrari in 2025. The tour included several significant stops:

- Kuala Lumpur: Hamilton visited Mercedes' title partner Petronas at their Twin Towers, expressing gratitude for their successful partnership.

- Stuttgart: He had lunch with the Mercedes board and motorsport team.

- Brixworth: Hamilton greeted staff at Mercedes' engine plant.

- Brackley: The tour culminated at Mercedes' F1 headquarters, where Hamilton addressed over 1,000 team members.

Yuki Tsunoda’s impressive feedback during the Abu Dhabi test has boosted his case for a potential Red Bull seat, but challenges remain. While his chances hinge on Red Bull’s decision, his focus on personal improvement and long-term goals reflects a mature and determined approach.

This test comes as Red Bull evaluates its 2025 driver lineup, with speculation about replacing Sergio Perez.

Tsunoda's technical feedback and in-car behavior have been areas of concern for Red Bull, despite his acknowledged driving speed. Tsunoda claims his technical input during the test impressed both trackside engineers and Red Bull’s factory team in Milton Keynes.

Tsunoda admits Liam Lawson is the favorite for the seat if Perez is dropped.

Describes his chances as “50-50” but remains hopeful, calling driving for Red Bull a “dream.”

Early in his F1 career, Tsunoda faced criticism for inconsistency and immaturity. This test signals his progress in becoming a more complete driver.

The FIA has recently announced several rule changes for the 2025 Formula 1 season, focusing on DRS (Drag Reduction System) and driver cooling systems. These changes aim to improve safety and address competitive concerns.

The FIA has adjusted the regulations regarding the DRS:

- The minimum gap allowed in the rear wing slot when DRS is closed has been reduced to 9.4-13mm.

- When DRS is open, the upper boundary remains at 85mm.

These adjustments are likely intended to prevent situations similar to the McLaren 'mini DRS' controversy that occurred during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

In response to concerns about driver safety in extreme heat conditions, the FIA has introduced new "Heat Hazard" regulations:

A mandatory cooling kit for drivers will be required in high-temperature conditions.

The cooling system will be activated when:

1. The FIA's official weather radars predict temperatures over 30.5°C, or

2. The race director declares a 'heat hazard'

When the cooling system is mandated, the minimum weight of the cars will be increased by 5kg to compensate for the additional equipment.

The cooling kit was tested by Charles Leclerc during post-season testing in Abu Dhabi.

Rwanda has officially announced its bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, aiming to bring the sport back to Africa for the first time since 1993.

President Paul Kagame confirmed this intention during the FIA General Assembly in Kigali, expressing Rwanda's commitment to the project.

Location and infrastructure: Plans include constructing a permanent circuit near the new Bugesera airport, approximately 40 kilometers south of Kigali. The track is set to be designed by a company run by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has met with Rwandan representatives, and discussions have shown "good progress".

The earliest possible date for a Rwandan Grand Prix would be 2026, as the 2025 F1 calendar is already set. With 24 races currently scheduled, including Rwanda would require reorganization. The Dutch Grand Prix's exit after 2026 could potentially open a spot for Rwanda.

The likelihood of Rwanda securing an F1 Grand Prix appears promising:

Rwanda is now considered the leading candidate for Africa's return to F1, especially after plans for Kyalami in South Africa fell through. The country's bid has gained momentum, with representatives attending key F1 events and engaging directly with the FIA.

F1's leadership, including Stefano Domenicali, has expressed interest in returning to Africa, viewing Rwanda as a "serious" option. Support from influential figures like Lewis Hamilton, who has called for F1's return to Africa and specifically mentioned Rwanda as a favorite destination, could bolster the bid.

However, challenges remain, including the need for significant infrastructure development and potential competition from other venues. The final decision will likely depend on various factors, including the track's readiness, financial arrangements, and F1's overall strategy for calendar expansion.

The FIA has released new renders showcasing updates to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, aiming to balance car performance and provide teams with more design freedom. Key changes include:

Front wing modifications:

- Diveplane option on the endplate instead of a vertical fin

- More flexibility in endplate design

Wheel covers:

- Disc solution replacing fully enclosed rim covers

- Central section now exposes the wheel rim

Floor design:

- Five fences added to the leading edge

- Flat surface replacing the stepped arrangement

- Increased diffuser volume with forward-moved kick-line

- Small Gurney flap ahead of rear tyre

- Mouse house aperture in diffuser sidewall

Cooling louvres added to sidepod and engine cover juncture

Rear wing:

- Three-element angular spoon-shaped design

- Underwing mounted pillars replacing swan-neck style