F1 Saudi Arabia GP 2024 LIVE: Race results, updates and times as Ollie Bearman scores points on debut

Max Verstappen romped to another commanding win at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, as rookie British teenager Ollie Bearman completed a dream debut by beating Lewis Hamilton to finish a brilliant seventh.

Despite threatening to quit Red Bull just 24 hours previously, following another twist in the ongoing Red Bull saga, Verstappen followed his win at the season-opening round in Bahrain last Saturday with another comfortable triumph in his all-conquering machine – remarkably his 19th in 20 appearances.

Sergio Perez completed a one-two finish for Red Bull, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc third. But for Bearman, just three months old when Hamilton made his debut in 2007, this will be a night he will never forget.

Handed his shock debut as an 11th-hour stand-in for Carlos Sainz, the boy from Chelmsford, 18 years, 10 months and one day, drove into the record books as the youngest British driver to start a Formula One race.

Follow all the latest updates at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

F1 SAUDI ARABIAIN GRAND PRIX

• Max Verstappen wins the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix; Perez 2nd; Leclerc 3rd

• Ollie Bearman finishes 7th after brilliant debut drive for Ferrari

• Click HERE for the top-10 in Jeddah

• Damon Hill hails Ollie Bearman after impressive debut drive for Ferrari: ‘A star is born’

• CRASH! Lance Stroll crashes into the wall (Lap 6/50)

• British 18-year-old Ollie Bearman replaced Carlos Sainz for the weekend

• COMMENT: On International Women’s Day, Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen wins Saudi GP as 18-year-old Brit Ollie Bearman shines bright on debut

20:36 , Kieran Jackson

Max Verstappen romped to another commanding win at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, as rookie British teenager Ollie Bearman completed a dream debut by beating Lewis Hamilton to finish a brilliant seventh.

Despite threatening to quit Red Bull just 24 hours previously, following another twist in the ongoing Red Bull saga, Verstappen followed his win at the season-opening round in Bahrain last Saturday with another comfortable triumph in his all-conquering machine – remarkably his 19th in 20 appearances.

Sergio Perez completed a one-two finish for Red Bull, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc third.

But for Bearman, just three months old when Hamilton made his debut in 2007, this will be a night he will never forget.

Handed his shock debut as an 11th-hour stand-in for Carlos Sainz, the boy from Chelmsford, 18 years, 10 months and one day, drove into the record books as the youngest British driver to start a Formula One race.

Max Verstappen wins Saudi GP as Ollie Bearman shines bright on debut

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix:Damon Hill hails Ollie Bearman after impressive debut drive for Ferrari: ‘A star is born’

20:59 , Kieran Jackson

Damon Hill said a star was born after rookie teenager Ollie Bearman beat Lewis Hamilton on his shock Ferrari debut at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Bearman drove into the record books by becoming the youngest British driver to race in Formula One and he delivered by finishing seventh, ahead of both Lando Norris, eighth and Hamilton, ninth.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton waited by Bearman’s Ferrari before embracing the 18-year-old as he climbed out of his scarlet machine at the end of the race.

“A star is born now,” Hill, the 1996 world champion, said on X.

“To jump in at such short notice, on a track as intimidating as Jeddah, in a Ferrari of all things, and hold up under immense pressure from Lando and Lewis and keep it together. Wow.”

Damon Hill hails Bearman after impressive debut drive for Ferrari: ‘A star is born’

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: TOP-10 IN JEDDAH

19:52 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Sergio Perez

3. Charles Leclerc

4. Oscar Piastri

5. Fernando Alonso

6. George Russell

7. Ollie Bearman

8. Lando Norris

9. Lewis Hamilton

10. Nico Hulkenberg

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen:

19:39 , Kieran Jackson

“It’s important to have peace in the team and focus on the driving and performance, so that’s what we do at the team.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Red Bull boss Christian Horner...

19:23 , Kieran Jackson

“A lot is made of this stuff but we are one team. Nobody is bigger than the team. Everybody has a role to play, from the bottom to the top. Unfortunately, there’s been a lot of speculation this weekend but our focus is very much on track.

“Helmut is a consulatant to Red Bull GmbH, not the race team. Max is a valued member, no single individual is bigger than the team. Today was Max’s 100th podium finish, all of which in RBR cars. This is an incredibly strong team which has strength in depth.

“I’m aware of what’s been said, Max is an important part of this team. As team principal and CEO, I’m resonsible for the operation and running of this team.

“Speculation is obviously rife. The most important thing is the team. We all have vested interests in performances like today.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman...

19:10 , Kieran Jackson

“Fantastic race, shocked at how fast we were pushing. That was incredible. I couldn’t relax, really exciting and fun race.

“The countdown was going slower than normal, we managed it really well. I think I did my fastest lap on the final one, I had good confidence.

“It was really difficult to follow, it requires extra precision.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Hamilton embraces Bearman after the race

19:01 , Kieran Jackson

Brit love!

Time for the podium!

18:53 , Kieran Jackson

A familiar feel. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard the Dutch-Austrian national anthem combination.

And it doesn’t look like ending anytime soon.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen after another victory...

18:44 , Kieran Jackson

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc after finishing third...

18:33 , Kieran Jackson

“We had quite good pace, fastest lap at the end! Bit of a boring race, Red Bull were too quick!

On Bearman: “He completely deserves it, he’s done an incredible job.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman secures P7!

18:28 , Kieran Jackson

What a drive on his debut - it’s 7th for Ollie Bearman! And he gets the fan-voted driver of the day!

“Not bad I think! Would have liked to have gone longer on the soft at the start, the car was mega today - I really enjoyed it, I had so much fun out there!”

All smiles in the Ferrari garage from his Dad alongside Ferrari chairman John Elkann! What a moment for the 18-year-old.

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Leclerc, Piastri, Alonso, Russell, Bearman, Norris, Hamilton, Hulkenberg

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen wins in Jeddah!

18:25 , Kieran Jackson

It’s been another cruise for Max Verstappen - he wins the first two races of the season for the first time!

It’s another Red Bull one-two: Perez second.

Charles Leclerc is third.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Final lap!

18:24 , Kieran Jackson

It’s looking OK for Ollie!

The Ferrari has a 2.4 sec lead on Norris behind. He should secure P7 and six points.

Final lap!

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Norris and Hamilton battling (Lap 47/50)

18:21 , Kieran Jackson

Norris has now stretched his gap to Hamilton to 1.4 seconds - he looks clear of the worse of it.

Verstappen out in front is 6.5 secs clear of Perez. Truth be told, we haven’t seen him on the screen for 20 laps...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Bearman in P7 (Lap 45/50)

18:17 , Kieran Jackson

“How far away is Hamilton?”

It’s Norris behind you, Ollie!

3.4 seconds between the Ferrari and the McLaren in the battle for eighth.

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Leclerc, Piastri, Alonso, Russell, Bearman, Norris, Hamilton, Hulkenberg

Five to go.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton...

18:09 , Kieran Jackson

“That’s impressive with the high speed with him.”

Up against the McLaren of Norris now...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lando Norris pits (Lap 39/50)

18:08 , Kieran Jackson

A slow stop from McLaren, 4.1 seconds. It means he comes out just 0.4 secs ahead of Lewis Hamilton...

Norris P9. Four Brits all in a row from 6-9: Russell, Bearman, Norris, Hamilton

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton pits (Lap 37/50)

18:06 , Kieran Jackson

And Hamilton - 2.5 sec stop - puts on soft tyres.

Hamilton in P10 - seven seconds behind Ollie Bearman in P9. There’s your battle for the finale!

Meanwhile, Sergio Perez sets the fastest lap, taking it away from Verstappen.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Piastri spurns his chance! (Lap 36/50)

18:03 , Kieran Jackson

Oscar Piastri gets the move done down the main straight on Lewis Hamilton... but then doesn’t brake in time and goes off track!

As a result, the McLaren driver quickly gives fifth place back to Hamilton. And we continue...

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Leclerc, Norris, Hamilton, Piastri, Alonso, Russell, Bearman, Zhou

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Bearman’s engineer...

18:01 , Kieran Jackson

“You are doing a mega job there.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton keeping Oscar Piastri at bay! (Lap 32/50)

17:58 , Kieran Jackson

Brilliant from Hamilton. Piastri must be so frustrated!

The straight-line speed with DRS just isn’t quite there for McLaren, compared to the other top teams!

Out in front, Verstappen’s lead is 7.8 seconds to Perez, who has a 9.8 sec lead on Leclerc.

Front-three, dare I say it, looks done and dusted. Will there by anymore drama?

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc moves up to P3 (Lap 27/50)

17:50 , Kieran Jackson

No problem this time for the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc - he’s up to third, taking Norris down the inside.

When will Norris and Hamilton pit? How long can they hang it out for on these medium tyres?

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Leclerc, Norris, Hamilton, Piastri, Alonso, Russell, Bearman, Hulkenberg

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton doing well to defend from Oscar Piastri (Lap 24/50)

17:43 , Kieran Jackson

Defensive masterclass from the Mercedes in fifth ahead of Piastri.... but Hamilton does still have to pit.

Further down, Kevin Magnussen receives another 10-sec penalty for going off the track and gaining an advantage - that’s 20 seconds worth of penalties for the Haas driver in 12th place!

Out in front, Verstappen is 6.5 secs clear of Perez.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman up to P9 (Lap 21/50)

17:40 , Kieran Jackson

After a few laps of frustration, Bearman finally gets it done over Hulkenberg with DRS down the main straight!

Bearman now up to ninth.

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Norris, Leclerc, Hamilton, Piastri, Alonso, Russell, Bearman, Hulkenberg

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Sergio Perez given a FIVE-SECOND penalty (Lap 16/50)

17:33 , Kieran Jackson

The stewards have made up their mind: Sergio Perez gets a five-second time penalty for that unsafe release in the pits!

Meanwhile, Lando Norris gets away with his jump start. He jumped - stopped - and then went again, and it looked tight as to whether he left his pit box.

And Kevin Magnussen given a 10-second penalty for causing a collision with Alex Albon further back in the pack. He didn’t give racing room, right decision!

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen takes the lead (Lap 14/50)

17:30 , Kieran Jackson

The Red Bull just has too much pace!

Norris is powerless down the straight to stop Verstappen, who takes the lead - and Perez takes P3 from Hamilton seconds later!

Leclerc up to fourth above Hamilton, too, while Bearman takes Zhou for P10!

Quite the drive so far from the debutant!

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman gets past Tsunoda! (Lap 12/50)

17:26 , Kieran Jackson

Brilliant move down the inside from the 18-year-old, who gets past the RB down the inside at turn 1!

Out in front, Norris keeping a distance of 0.8 secs to Verstappen out in front. But of course, the McLaren has not yet pitted.

Top-10: Norris, Verstappen, Hamilton, Perez, Leclerc, Piastri, Alonso, Hulkenberg, Russell, Zhou

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lando Norris keeps the lead at turn 1!

17:23 , Kieran Jackson

They’re all through cleanly as racing gets back underway!

Lando Norris has just enough pace down the straight to keep Verstappen behind him.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Safety car coming in

17:21 , Kieran Jackson

Here we go then... can Lando hold off Max at all?

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: TOP-10 as the safety car stays out (Lap 9/50)

17:21 , Kieran Jackson

1. Norris

2. Verstappen

3. Hamilton

4. Perez

5. Leclerc

6. Piastri

7. Alonso

8. Hulkenberg

9. Russell

10. Zhou

Bearman down in 14th.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Alonso close to crashing into Perez in pit lane!

17:19 , Kieran Jackson

Was that an unsafe release by Red Bull?

It was close...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Carnage in the pits!

17:17 , Kieran Jackson

Everyone in the top-10 bar Norris and Hamilton has stayed out!

Norris leads the grand prix, with Verstappen second and Hamilton third.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Lance Stroll crashes!

17:16 , Kieran Jackson

Stroll, running in ninth, loses control after tapping the wall and then flies into the barriers! He is “OK.”

Safety car is deployed!

Ollie Bearman, on softs, looks likely to pit.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Sergio Perez takes second place (Lap 5/50)

17:11 , Kieran Jackson

The Red Bull is just so quick!

Perez takes Leclerc down the inside, with DRS, at turn one!

Red Bull one-two again folks, with Verstappen 2.3 secs clear.

Top-10: Verstappen, Perez, Leclerc, Piastri, Alonso, Norris, Russell, Hamilton, Stroll, Tsunoda

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Oscar Piastri up to P4!

17:10 , Kieran Jackson

Piastri overtook Fernando Alonso early on but is now under pressure from the Aston Martin.

Out in front, Max Verstappen is already 1.5 secs clear of Leclerc, who is under pressure from Perez.

Meanwhile, Norris did jump the start! He may be in trouble with the stewards...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Race start!

17:06 , Kieran Jackson

It’s lights out and Max Verstappen keeps the lead at turn one!

Sergio Perez got a jump on Charles Leclerc but the Ferrari just about holds it out at turn 2 to keep second!

George Russell on the radio says Lando Norris has jumped the start!

Ollie Bearman safely through the first lap but is all over Yuki Tsunoda!

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Formation lap!

17:01 , Kieran Jackson

All the cars make their way around the Jeddah Corniche Circuit for the formation lap!

Every car on the grid on medium tyres, apart from Ollie Bearman in 11th and Valtteri Bottas in P16 - interesting!

Here we go then - can Charles Leclerc get a jump on Max Verstappen at the start?

A reminder of the starting grid in Saudi:

16:58 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. Sergio Perez

4. Fernando Alonso

5. Oscar Piastri

6. Lando Norris

7. George Russell

8. Lewis Hamilton

9. Yuki Tsunoda

10. Lance Stroll

11. Ollie Bearman

12. Alex Albon

13. Kevin Magnussen

14. Daniel Ricciardo

15. Nico Hulkenberg

16. Valtteri Bottas

17. Esteban Ocon

18. Pierre Gasly

19. Logan Sargeant

20. Zhou Guanyu

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: McLaren’s Lando Norris:

16:54 , Kieran Jackson

“Mercedes are quick and have a better race car than quali car, I want to go forwards - I think we can race the Astons.

“Fernando tries to play games with everyone, we’ll see - that’s our target.”

Driver Standings after one race

16:52 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen - 26 points

2. Sergio Perez - 18 points

3. Carlos Sainz - 15 points

4. Charles Leclerc - 12 points

5. George Russell - 10 points

6. Lando Norris - 8 points

7. Lewis Hamilton - 6 points

8. Oscar Piastri - 4 points

9. Fernando Alonso - 2 points

10. Lance Stroll - 1 point

11. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points

12. Kevin Magnussen - 0 points

13. Daniel Ricciardo - 0 points

14. Yuki Tsunoda - 0 points

15. Alex Albon - 0 points

16. Nico Hulkenberg - 0 points

17. Esteban Ocon - 0 points

18. Pierre Gasly - 0 points

19. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points

20. Logan Sargeant - 0 points

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman, talking to Sky Sports:

16:50 , Kieran Jackson

“Really excited, to do it in red is a dream. I’m as fit as I can be!”

Time for the Saudi Arabia national anthem!

16:47 , Kieran Jackson

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Jose Mourinho, talking to Sky Sports:

16:44 , Kieran Jackson

“I am [a fan] but because of my life in football it’s hard to go to grands prix.

I love the sport, respect the talent of everyone and the effort of every team.

“I hope so [return to management], Roma was great - two European finals in two years. I want to work tomorrow but don’t want to rush the decision.”

Mercedes’ George Russell:

16:43 , Kieran Jackson

“We hope we can get close in sector one to use the DRS and overtake the McLarens. There’s been VSCs and safety cars here before... but you can’t hope for them!”

He starts P7, with his team-mate in P8.

Ferrari boss on the 18-year-old

16:40 , Kieran Jackson

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Start time and where can I watch?

16:31 , Kieran Jackson

(All times GMT)

Saturday 9 March

• Race: 5pm

How can I watch it online and on TV?

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom - and ESPN in the United States.

Highlights of the race in the UK will be aired on free-to-air Channel 4 at 9:30pm (GMT) on Saturday.

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari at Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

16:24 , Kieran Jackson

History-making Ollie Bearman will drive for Ferrari at this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after replacing Carlos Sainz for the Scuderia.

Sainz, who finished third at last weekend’s season-opening race in Bahrain, has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will undergo surgery.

The 18-year-old Bearman made his Formula One debut last season, becoming the youngest British driver to step foot in an F1 machine at a Grand Prix weekend. And he quietly impressed, too.

Bearman was barely three months old when Fernando Alonso won his first world championship in 2005 – but on his Formula One debut in Mexico City, the Essex 18-year-old finished ahead of the double world champion.

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Carlos Sainz is present in the Jeddah paddock!

16:14 , Kieran Jackson

This is good to see!

The Spanish driver has had surgery after his appendicitis diagnosis, and is looking well as he recovers.

Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff alongside Ferrari chief John Elkann in Jeddah

16:08 , Kieran Jackson

I wonder what they spoke about..

Driver Standings after one race

16:02 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen - 26 points

2. Sergio Perez - 18 points

3. Carlos Sainz - 15 points

4. Charles Leclerc - 12 points

5. George Russell - 10 points

6. Lando Norris - 8 points

7. Lewis Hamilton - 6 points

8. Oscar Piastri - 4 points

9. Fernando Alonso - 2 points

10. Lance Stroll - 1 point

11. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points

12. Kevin Magnussen - 0 points

13. Daniel Ricciardo - 0 points

14. Yuki Tsunoda - 0 points

15. Alex Albon - 0 points

16. Nico Hulkenberg - 0 points

17. Esteban Ocon - 0 points

18. Pierre Gasly - 0 points

19. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points

20. Logan Sargeant - 0 points

Oliver Bearman one of 20 on the drivers parade!

15:51 , Kieran Jackson

A reminder of the starting grid in Saudi:

15:45 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. Sergio Perez

4. Fernando Alonso

5. Oscar Piastri

6. Lando Norris

7. George Russell

8. Lewis Hamilton

9. Yuki Tsunoda

10. Lance Stroll

11. Ollie Bearman

12. Alex Albon

13. Kevin Magnussen

14. Daniel Ricciardo

15. Nico Hulkenberg

16. Valtteri Bottas

17. Esteban Ocon

18. Pierre Gasly

19. Logan Sargeant

20. Zhou Guanyu

Ollie Bearman’s dad after his son qualified P11!

15:40 , Kieran Jackson

Where will Bearman finish on his F1 debut?

Max Verstappen takes pole as Ferrari debutant Ollie Bearman impresses in Saudi Arabia

15:36 , Kieran Jackson

Teenager Ollie Bearman celebrated becoming the youngest British driver in Formula One history by qualifying 11th in his Ferrari for Saturday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Bearman, 18 years and 10 months to the day, was thrown into the deepest of ends as a last-minute stand-in for Carlos Sainz, who was hospitalised with appendicitis.

But the Essex teenager, with just one hour of practice under his belt, and having never driven an F1 machine at night, came within 0.036 seconds of toppling Lewis Hamilton and progressing to Q3.

Max Verstappen put Red Bull’s continued off-track woes to one side by taking pole position, with Charles Leclerc second, three tenths back, and Sergio Perez third.

Fernando Alonso took fourth, with George Russell and Hamilton seventh and eighth respectively for Mercedes. Hamilton was nearly one second slower than Verstappen.

Max Verstappen takes pole as Ferrari debutant Ollie Bearman impresses in Saudi Arabia

F1 Saudi Aarabian Grand Prix: Start time and where can I watch?

14:24 , Kieran Jackson

(All times GMT)

Saturday 9 March

• Race: 5pm

How can I watch it online and on TV?

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom - and ESPN in the United States. Sky’s coverage of the race starts at 3:30pm.

Highlights of the race in the UK will be aired on free-to-air Channel 4 at 9:30pm (GMT) on Saturday.

Max Verstappen threatens to quit Red Bull with Helmut Marko at risk of suspension

13:55 , Kieran Jackson

Max Verstappen has sensationally threatened to quit Red Bull if Helmut Marko – who is at risk of suspension – is forced out of the team.

In another twist to the saga engulfing F1’s most dominant team, long-term motorsport adviser Marko could be suspended, according to reports.

Red Bull are undertaking a new investigation surrounding the various media leaks in the last month or so, including the leak of WhatsApp messages allegedly between Christian Horner and his female colleague, some of a sexually suggestive nature.

The BBC goes further, saying that Red Bull do indeed intend to suspend the 80-year-old, who is a close ally of Max and his father Jos.

And three-time world champion Verstappen, mere minutes after taking pole in Saudi Arabia, insisted his future at the team could depend on Marko’s position.

Max Verstappen threatens to quit Red Bull with Helmut Marko at risk of suspension

What is the starting grid for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix?

13:38 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. Sergio Perez

4. Fernando Alonso

5. Oscar Piastri

6. Lando Norris

7. George Russell

8. Lewis Hamilton

9. Yuki Tsunoda

10. Lance Stroll

11. Ollie Bearman

12. Alex Albon

13. Kevin Magnussen

14. Daniel Ricciardo

15. Nico Hulkenberg

16. Valtteri Bottas

17. Esteban Ocon

18. Pierre Gasly

19. Logan Sargeant

20. Zhou Guanyu

‘We’re here to stay’: F1 presenter Laura Winter sends defiant message to women in light of Horner scandal

13:29 , Kieran Jackson

F1 TV presenter Laura Winter produced a moving piece to camera in Saudi Arabia on International Women’s Day – admitting it has not been easy being a woman working in the sport in light of recent events.

The female Red Bull employee who accused team principal Christian Horner of “inappropriate behaviour” was suspended yesterday, on the eve of International Women’s Day on Friday.

The complainant still has the right to appeal the outcome of Red Bull’s internal investigation, which cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.

But after what has been a difficult month, with the role of women in Formula 1 brought back into the limelight, Winter sent a defiant message to those working in the sport and female fans, insisting: “We are here to stay and we are right where we belong.”

‘We’re here to stay’: F1 presenter sends message to women in light of Horner scandal

Could Max Verstappen really join Mercedes in 2025? Here’s what we know

13:25 , Kieran Jackson

In the never-ending topsy-turvy circus of Formula One, it’s wise to expect the unexpected.

Yet these latest shenanigans regarding Christian Horner, Max Verstappen and Red Bull – and the potential fallout and consequences of internal politics within the team – would be monumentally seismic for the sport.

The controversy surrounding Horner doesn’t seem to have concluded just yet. The latest is that Horner met with Verstappen’s manager in Dubai on Monday, to de-escalate tensions within the team after Verstappen’s father Jos implied that Horner’s position as team principal was untenable.

But where are we heading in this matter? What could the potential fallout be? And could Red Bull be in danger of losing their star driver to their biggest rivals?

The Independent gives the low-down on all matters Verstappen, Red Bull and Horner:

Could Max Verstappen really join Mercedes in 2025? Here’s what we know

Driver Standings after one race

13:20 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen - 26 points

2. Sergio Perez - 18 points

3. Carlos Sainz - 15 points

4. Charles Leclerc - 12 points

5. George Russell - 10 points

6. Lando Norris - 8 points

7. Lewis Hamilton - 6 points

8. Oscar Piastri - 4 points

9. Fernando Alonso - 2 points

10. Lance Stroll - 1 point

11. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points

12. Kevin Magnussen - 0 points

13. Daniel Ricciardo - 0 points

14. Yuki Tsunoda - 0 points

15. Alex Albon - 0 points

16. Nico Hulkenberg - 0 points

17. Esteban Ocon - 0 points

18. Pierre Gasly - 0 points

19. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points

20. Logan Sargeant - 0 points

COMMENT: On International Women’s Day, Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking

13:16 , Kieran Jackson

Another day in Formula 1’s never-ending soap opera – and another day further away from a conclusion to a story which threatens to rip Red Bull, and the sport, apart.

To recap the latest developments, early on Thursday it emerged that the female colleague, who raised allegations of “inappropriate, coercive behaviour” against Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner which were cleared by an internal probe, had been suspended on full pay by Red Bull Racing.

While we don’t yet know the grounds for her suspension and whether it could be lifted, the optics of this situation, now, are beyond unpalatable. It is shocking that Formula 1 – a sport that has prided itself on making such strides on inclusivity and diversity in recent years – has allowed the matter to stretch to this point. The message it sends, on the eve of the all-female racing series F1 Academy starting its second season on International Women’s Day, is truly terrible.

Full piece below:

Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking on IWD

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix race:

13:13 , Kieran Jackson

Teenager Ollie Bearman celebrated becoming the youngest British driver in Formula One history by qualifying 11th in his Ferrari for Saturday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Bearman, 18 years and 10 months to the day, was thrown into the deepest of ends as a last-minute stand-in for Carlos Sainz, who was hospitalised with appendicitis.

But the Essex teenager, with just one hour of practice under his belt, and having never driven an F1 machine at night, came within 0.036 seconds of toppling Lewis Hamilton and progressing to Q3.

Max Verstappen put Red Bull’s continued off-track woes to one side by taking pole position, with Charles Leclerc second, three-tenths back, and Sergio Perez third. Fernando Alonso took fourth, with George Russell and Hamilton seventh and eighth respectively for Mercedes. Hamilton was nearly one second slower than Verstappen.

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: This was tight!

16:46 , Kieran Jackson

Prior to the reconnaissance laps!

What is the race schedule?

Friday 8 March 2024 21:06 , Kieran Jackson

(All times GMT)

Saturday 9 March

• Race: 5pm

How can I watch it online and on TV?

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom - and ESPN in the United States. Sky’s coverage of the race starts at 3:30pm.

Highlights of qualifying in the UK will be aired on free-to-air Channel 4 at 8:30pm (GMT) on Friday; the race highlights are at 9:30pm (GMT) on Saturday.

Ollie Bearman’s dad in interview!

Friday 8 March 2024 19:30 , Kieran Jackson

Heartwarming stuff!

What is the starting grid in Saudi?

Friday 8 March 2024 19:19 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. Sergio Perez

4. Fernando Alonso

5. Oscar Piastri

6. Lando Norris

7. George Russell

8. Lewis Hamilton

9. Yuki Tsunoda

10. Lance Stroll

11. Ollie Bearman

12. Alex Albon

13. Kevin Magnussen

14. Daniel Ricciardo

15. Nico Hulkenberg

16. Valtteri Bottas

17. Esteban Ocon

18. Pierre Gasly

19. Logan Sargeant

20. Zhou Guanyu

Max Verstappen takes pole as Ferrari debutant Ollie Bearman impresses in Saudi Arabia

Friday 8 March 2024 19:05 , Kieran Jackson

Teenager Ollie Bearman celebrated becoming the youngest British driver in Formula One history by qualifying 11th in his Ferrari for Saturday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Bearman, 18 years and 10 months to the day, was thrown into the deepest of ends as a last-minute stand-in for Carlos Sainz, who was hospitalised with appendicitis.

But the Essex teenager, with just one hour of practice under his belt, and having never driven an F1 machine at night, came within 0.036 seconds of toppling Lewis Hamilton and progressing to Q3.

Max Verstappen put Red Bull’s continued off-track woes to one side by taking pole position, with Charles Leclerc second, three tenths back, and Sergio Perez third.

Fernando Alonso took fourth, with George Russell and Hamilton seventh and eighth respectively for Mercedes. Hamilton was nearly one second slower than Verstappen.

Max Verstappen takes pole as Ferrari debutant Ollie Bearman impresses in Saudi Arabia

Ollie Bearman’s dad reacts during qualifying:

Friday 8 March 2024 18:54 , Kieran Jackson

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman...

Friday 8 March 2024 18:44 , Kieran Jackson

“I woke up thinking about my F2 race. Chucked in the deep end for FP3 and qualifying. I wish Carlos the best, it was a fun opportunity.

“The track is evolving so much, the grip level is just incredible - after my first lap I was shocked! It’s a great feeling but takes some time to get used to.

“At the moment, not so proud! The racer in me knows that car was quick enough for Q3 - but in a couple of days I’ll look back on it.

“The goal was to do as many laps as possible, especially at night. I was close to the wall! Tried to get in as many laps as possible.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: TOP-10

Friday 8 March 2024 18:34 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. Sergio Perez

4. Fernando Alonso

5. Oscar Piastri

6. Lando Norris

7. George Russell

8. Lewis Hamilton

9. Yuki Tsunoda

10. Lance Stroll

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen after his first pole in Saudi

Friday 8 March 2024 18:24 , Kieran Jackson

“There have been crazy races around here, a lot of straights. I’m confident with the race-pace we have, the car will work really well around here.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc after qualifying P2

Friday 8 March 2024 18:17 , Kieran Jackson

“In the second lap I put everything together - I’m really happy with the lap, shame we’re a bit further away than we thought.

“We did a step forward compared to last year, car is in a better place. We will try and optimise everything else for the race.

On Bearman: “I hope Carlos will recover quickly. On Ollie’s side, he’s done an incredible job - he was straight up to speed and comfortable with the car. Very special day, I hope tomorrow we both can have a great race.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Sergio Perez after qualifying P3

Friday 8 March 2024 18:12 , Kieran Jackson

“Didn’t get much of an improvement which is why we missed front row. Max has done a tremendous lap, that was not possible for me today. Tomorrow is a long race, anything can happen.”

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen on pole in Jeddah!

Friday 8 March 2024 18:07 , Kieran Jackson

For the first time ever, Max Verstappen is on pole in Saudi!

His time of 1:27:472 is 0.319 secs quicker than P2 which goes to... Charles Leclerc.

Sergio Perez in third, with Fernando Alonso strong in fourth.

5-10: Piastri, Norris, Russell, Hamilton, Tsunoda, Stroll

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc

Friday 8 March 2024 18:01 , Kieran Jackson

“I don’t know, it just doesn’t feel good with new tyres.”

Everyone back in the pits. They’ll all now have new soft tyres for their final flying run.... three minutes to go...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen on provisional pole

Friday 8 March 2024 18:00 , Kieran Jackson

And by some distance! Max Verstappen top with a 1:27:472, 0.335 secs ahead of team-mate Sergio Perez in second. That Red Bull...

Fernando Alonso best of the rest with an excellent lap, five-tenths off Verstappen, with Charles Leclerc fourth and George Russell fifth.

6-10: Piastri, Norris, Stroll, Hamilton, Tsunoda

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Q3 underway!

Friday 8 March 2024 17:54 , Kieran Jackson

Time for the top-10 shootout then - who will be on pole position?

10 drivers involved: Verstappen, Leclerc, Alonso, Piastri, Russell, Perez, Norris, Tsunoda, Stroll, Hamilton

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman

Friday 8 March 2024 17:51 , Kieran Jackson

“That was a messy session, sorry about that!’

What a shame he couldn’t quite make the top-10 shootout...

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Ollie Bearman misses out!

Friday 8 March 2024 17:47 , Kieran Jackson

Oh so close!

Ollie Bearman improves but misses out on a top-10 finish by 0.036 secs to Lewis Hamilton in 10th! Still, a terrific effort from the 18-year-old Ferrari driver.

11-15 and out in Q2: Bearman, Albon, Magnussen, Ricciardo, Hulkenberg

Driver Standings after one race

Friday 8 March 2024 16:50 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen - 26 points

2. Sergio Perez - 18 points

3. Carlos Sainz - 15 points

4. Charles Leclerc - 12 points

5. George Russell - 10 points

6. Lando Norris - 8 points

7. Lewis Hamilton - 6 points

8. Oscar Piastri - 4 points

9. Fernando Alonso - 2 points

10. Lance Stroll - 1 point

11. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points

12. Kevin Magnussen - 0 points

13. Daniel Ricciardo - 0 points

14. Yuki Tsunoda - 0 points

15. Alex Albon - 0 points

16. Nico Hulkenberg - 0 points

17. Esteban Ocon - 0 points

18. Pierre Gasly - 0 points

19. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points

20. Logan Sargeant - 0 points

Ollie Bearman getting ready for qualifying!

Friday 8 March 2024 16:46 , Kieran Jackson

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari at Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Friday 8 March 2024 16:36 , Kieran Jackson

History-making Ollie Bearman will drive for Ferrari at this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after replacing Carlos Sainz for the Scuderia.

Sainz, who finished third at last weekend’s season-opening race in Bahrain, has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will undergo surgery.

The 18-year-old Bearman made his Formula One debut last season, becoming the youngest British driver to step foot in an F1 machine at a Grand Prix weekend. And he quietly impressed, too.

Bearman was barely three months old when Fernando Alonso won his first world championship in 2005 – but on his Formula One debut in Mexico City, the Essex 18-year-old finished ahead of the double world champion.

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari

COMMENT: On International Women’s Day, Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking

Friday 8 March 2024 16:10 , Kieran Jackson

Another day in Formula 1’s never-ending soap opera – and another day further away from a conclusion to a story which threatens to rip Red Bull, and the sport, apart.

To recap the latest developments, early on Thursday it emerged that the female colleague, who raised allegations of “inappropriate, coercive behaviour” against Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner which were cleared by an internal probe, had been suspended on full pay by Red Bull Racing.

While we don’t yet know the grounds for her suspension and whether it could be lifted, the optics of this situation, now, are beyond unpalatable. It is shocking that Formula 1 – a sport that has prided itself on making such strides on inclusivity and diversity in recent years – has allowed the matter to stretch to this point. The message it sends, on the eve of the all-female racing series F1 Academy starting its second season on International Women’s Day, is truly terrible.

Full piece below:

Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking on IWD

‘We’re here to stay’: F1 presenter Laura Winter sends defiant message to women in light of Horner scandal

Friday 8 March 2024 15:55 , Kieran Jackson

F1 TV presenter Laura Winter produced a moving piece to camera in Saudi Arabia on International Women’s Day – admitting it has not been easy being a woman working in the sport in light of recent events.

The female Red Bull employee who accused team principal Christian Horner of “inappropriate behaviour” was suspended yesterday, on the eve of International Women’s Day on Friday.

The complainant still has the right to appeal the outcome of Red Bull’s internal investigation, which cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.

But after what has been a difficult month, with the role of women in Formula 1 brought back into the limelight, Winter sent a defiant message to those working in the sport and female fans, insisting: “We are here to stay and we are right where we belong.”

‘We’re here to stay’: F1 presenter sends message to women in light of Horner scandal

Toto Wolff on prospects tomorrow:

Friday 8 March 2024 15:37 , Kieran Jackson

“I don’t think we’re in the fight for the race, Max is in a league of his own.

“Behind them, pecking order is Max, Ferrari, then us close to McLaren and Aston.”

Christian Horner demands end to ‘family intrusion’ after Red Bull female accuser suspended

Friday 8 March 2024 15:29 , Kieran Jackson

Christian Horner demanded an end to the saga engulfing Red Bull and the world of Formula 1, imploring at the end of a feisty press conference: “The intrusion on my family is enough.”

The Red Bull team principal was speaking at a press conference, a matter of hours after the female colleague who raised a complaint of “inappropriate behaviour” was suspended by Red Bull Racing.

It emerged on Thursday that the accuser has been suspended, on full pay, with the decision said to be taken as a result of the findings of the internal probe. A Red Bull spokesperson stated: “The company cannot comment on this internal matter”.

Horner, at an FIA team principals’ press conference in Saudi Arabia, urged the media to “draw a line” under the current controversy and insisted the intrusion on his wife Geri Halliwell and his family must stop.

Full piece below:

Horner demands end to ‘family intrusion’ after Red Bull female accuser suspended

Could Max Verstappen really join Mercedes in 2025? Here’s what we know

Friday 8 March 2024 15:10 , Kieran Jackson

In the never-ending topsy-turvy circus of Formula One, it’s wise to expect the unexpected.

Yet these latest shenanigans regarding Christian Horner, Max Verstappen and Red Bull – and the potential fallout and consequences of internal politics within the team – would be monumentally seismic for the sport.

The controversy surrounding Horner doesn’t seem to have concluded just yet. The latest is that Horner met with Verstappen’s manager in Dubai on Monday, to de-escalate tensions within the team after Verstappen’s father Jos implied that Horner’s position as team principal was untenable.

But where are we heading in this matter? What could the potential fallout be? And could Red Bull be in danger of losing their star driver to their biggest rivals?

The Independent gives the low-down on all matters Verstappen, Red Bull and Horner:

Could Max Verstappen really join Mercedes in 2025? Here’s what we know

Max Verstappen quickest in FP3

Friday 8 March 2024 14:34 , Kieran Jackson

Max Verstappen doesn’t improve on his earlier time but is still top at the end of third practice - his time of 1:28:412 is 0.194 secs quicker than Charles Leclerc.

3-10: Perez, Russell, Norris, Alonso, Stroll, Piastri, Hamilton, Bearman

A solid session from Oliver Bearman - worth noting that his quickest time would’ve been deleted in qualifying as he went off the track at turn 22. He was pushing though!

“Good job there, it was a good lap,” says Bearman’s engineer.

Zhou Guanyu crashes!

Friday 8 March 2024 14:18 , Kieran Jackson

RED FLAG!

A big shunt for Zhou Guanyu for Sauber - his car is in the wall, and is pretty smashed up!

I don’t know if that’ll be ready for qualifying in just under three hours time...

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari at Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Friday 8 March 2024 13:39 , Kieran Jackson

History-making Ollie Bearman will drive for Ferrari at this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after replacing Carlos Sainz for the Scuderia.

Sainz, who finished third at last weekend’s season-opening race in Bahrain, has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will undergo surgery.

The 18-year-old Bearman made his Formula One debut last season, becoming the youngest British driver to step foot in an F1 machine at a Grand Prix weekend. And he quietly impressed, too.

Bearman was barely three months old when Fernando Alonso won his first world championship in 2005 – but on his Formula One debut in Mexico City, the Essex 18-year-old finished ahead of the double world champion.

Who is Ollie Bearman? Essex boy with Italian twang driving for Ferrari

A big day for this man

Friday 8 March 2024 13:22 , Kieran Jackson

Ollie Bearman will have been dreaming about this for some time.

Driver Standings after one race

Friday 8 March 2024 13:06 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen - 26 points

2. Sergio Perez - 18 points

3. Carlos Sainz - 15 points

4. Charles Leclerc - 12 points

5. George Russell - 10 points

6. Lando Norris - 8 points

7. Lewis Hamilton - 6 points

8. Oscar Piastri - 4 points

9. Fernando Alonso - 2 points

10. Lance Stroll - 1 point

11. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points

12. Kevin Magnussen - 0 points

13. Daniel Ricciardo - 0 points

14. Yuki Tsunoda - 0 points

15. Alex Albon - 0 points

16. Nico Hulkenberg - 0 points

17. Esteban Ocon - 0 points

18. Pierre Gasly - 0 points

19. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points

20. Logan Sargeant - 0 points

COMMENT: On International Women’s Day, Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking

Friday 8 March 2024 12:59 , Kieran Jackson

Another day in Formula 1’s never-ending soap opera – and another day further away from a conclusion to a story which threatens to rip Red Bull, and the sport, apart.

To recap the latest developments, early on Thursday it emerged that the female colleague, who raised allegations of “inappropriate, coercive behaviour” against Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner which were cleared by an internal probe, had been suspended on full pay by Red Bull Racing.

While we don’t yet know the grounds for her suspension and whether it could be lifted, the optics of this situation, now, are beyond unpalatable. It is shocking that Formula 1 – a sport that has prided itself on making such strides on inclusivity and diversity in recent years – has allowed the matter to stretch to this point. The message it sends, on the eve of the all-female racing series F1 Academy starting its second season on International Women’s Day, is truly terrible.

Full piece below:

Red Bull’s suspension of Christian Horner’s accuser is truly shocking on IWD

Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Practice and qualifying start time

Friday 8 March 2024 12:58 , Kieran Jackson

What is the race schedule?

(All times GMT)

Friday 8 March

• Free practice 3: 1:30pm

• Qualifying: 5pm

Saturday 9 March

• Race: 5pm

Some big news in Saudi this morning:

Friday 8 March 2024 12:56 , Kieran Jackson

Carlos Sainz has been ruled out of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after being diagnosed with appendicitis.

British teenager Ollie Bearman will replace the Spanish driver in Jeddah and thus make his F1 race debut in Saturday’s race. He will become the youngest Briton to take part in a Formula 1 grand prix.

The 18-year-old, from Chelmsford in Essex, had on Thursday secured pole position for the F2 feature race but will now make the step up, starting with third practice on Friday lunchtime.

A Ferrari statement read: “Carlos Sainz has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will require surgery.

“As from FP3 and for the rest of this weekend, he will be replaced by reserve driver Oliver Bearman. Oliver will therefore take no further part in this round of the F2 Championship.

Full piece below:

Sainz ruled out of Saudi Arabian Grand Prix with Bearman stepping in at Ferrari

F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix qualifying

Friday 8 March 2024 12:53 , Kieran Jackson

Formula 1 returned last weekend with the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix after a drama-filled off-season which saw Lewis Hamilton announce his departure from Mercedes and the scandal surrounding Red Bull team principal Christian Horner continue into overdrive.

As the Horner controversy rumbles on, F1 switched attention back to the track as Max Verstappen cruises to a first grand prix victory of the season in Bahrain.

The season-opener in Bahrain proved that Red Bull will once again be the team to beat with Verstappen targeting a fourth-straight drivers’ championship. Their closest rivals seem to be Ferrari, who Hamilton is joining for 2025, after Carlos Sainz sealed third place behind Red Bull’s Sergio Perez. Sainz is ill, however, and has been replaced by British 18-year-old Ollie Bearman on Friday.

Mercedes and McLaren were the next best of the rest, sealing positions fifth to eighth, while Aston Martin secured ninth and tenth for three championship points in a race where all 20 drivers finished. Will it happen twice in a row, though, ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah?