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- F1 Sees 135% Growth in US Viewers in Record 2025 Season
F1 Sees 135% Growth in US Viewers in Record 2025 Season
Andrew Evans
December 11, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Bentley sets another snow speed record
Toto Wolff takes to the wheel of the Mercedes CLK GTR
McLaren sells a 2026 F1 car for $11.5m before it even races
Audi sells ItalDesign stake to US company
Council fines a driver after painting a disabled bay around his car
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The Bentley Flying Spur Speed recently demonstrated its capabilities by completing a remarkable lap on a snow-covered track in Sweden, achieving a time of 2:58 despite challenging winter conditions. This performance, accomplished without any modifications apart from winter tires, highlights the sedan's impressive hybrid powertrain and advanced handling systems, further cementing its racing credentials.
Audi has decided to divest the majority of its ownership in Italdesign after a 15-year period, with UST, a California-based company, acquiring the stake while Lamborghini retains a notable share. This move aligns with Audi's strategy to reduce costs following disappointing financial performance, although specific details regarding the sale price and terms remain undisclosed.
Caterham is set to unveil a nearly production-ready version of its inaugural electric vehicle, the Project V sports car, at the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 9. Following a period of limited updates since its collaboration announcement with Yamaha for electric motors, the company will now assess the motor's performance, battery safety, and chassis durability as part of its vehicle testing process.
Renault is considering reviving its Renaultsport sub-brand, recognizing the potential for electric and hybrid technologies to power a new high-performance Clio model. Bruno Vanel, the company's global sales and operations director, indicated that while there is currently no RS variant available, future interest could lead to the development of a performance-focused version of the upcoming Clio, leveraging its existing hybrid capabilities.
This week marks significant leadership transitions within the BMW Group, with Milan Nedeljkovic set to take over as Chairman and CEO in May 2026, while Alexander Karajlovic steps into the role of Head of Development for BMW M. The M division continues to thrive, having achieved its 13th consecutive year of growth, and is preparing to introduce its first electric model, the M3 "ZA0", in 2027, alongside updates to existing combustion engines to comply with new regulations.
Brabus has expanded its tuning expertise to include Bentley, unveiling the Brabus 900, a modified version of the Continental GT Speed plug-in hybrid. This upgraded model features enhanced performance with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 888bhp, alongside striking exterior modifications and customizable interior options.
General Motors' four brands in the US received low rankings in the recent J.D. Power 2025 OEM ICE App Report, falling significantly short of the average scores in their categories. While there was a slight improvement from last year's results, issues like slow connectivity and unreliable app performance continue to hinder user satisfaction among owners of GM’s internal combustion engine vehicles.
The Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky will close for its winter holiday from December 15 until January 12, allowing for better inventory management during a period of typically reduced sales. This facility, which has been dedicated to Corvette production since 1981, also faces challenges due to high demand and limited supply, resulting in significant dealer markups on premium models like the Z06 and ZR1.
Nurdin Pitarevic, COO of Rimac Technology, discussed advancements in solid-state batteries and innovative e-axles during an interview, highlighting their potential integration into future Bugatti models by 2030. The new battery technology aims to enhance energy density and reduce weight, while the e-axles are designed to deliver substantial power outputs, indicating a shift towards electrification in Bugatti's lineup.
Sony Honda Mobility plans to include customizable digital license plates as an accessory for the Afeela 1, thanks to a collaboration with Reviver, which specializes in this technology. Set to launch alongside the vehicle in 2026, these plates will allow owners to personalize their appearance and will be priced similarly to Reviver's existing offerings.
MOTORSPORT
The 2025 Formula 1 season achieved unprecedented viewership in the US as ESPN wrapped up its eight-year broadcasting tenure, culminating in a record average of 1.3 million viewers per race. The season finale in Abu Dhabi, featuring a title battle among Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri, drew an average of 1.5 million viewers, contributing to a substantial rise in audience numbers throughout the season.
A unique opportunity arose for a buyer to acquire a McLaren Formula 1 car that is still in the conceptual phase, priced at approximately $11.5 million. The purchaser will receive the vehicle, set to race in 2026 as McLaren defends its titles, along with exclusive experiences including personal interactions with team members and attendance at prestigious racing events.
A resolution has been achieved in the antitrust case involving 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR after extensive litigation, with both sides expressing optimism for the future of the sport. The settlement includes the introduction of permanent charters, aimed at fostering long-term stability and growth within the racing community while ensuring a competitive environment for all teams.
Next season, Formula 1 will introduce significant changes to its engine and chassis regulations, leading to a transformation in the racing dynamics. DRS will be replaced by active aerodynamics for all drivers, and a new electrical power boost will assist overtaking, while the FIA is working to simplify the terminology associated with these changes for better clarity among teams and fans.
Mercedes is considering a reduction in the number of Formula 1 teams it supplies with power units, as indicated by CEO Toto Wolff. While the current arrangement includes four teams, the company is contemplating a shift to providing engines for only two or three teams following the introduction of new regulations next season.
Peugeot has appointed Emmanuel Esnault as the new team principal, effective January, in preparation for the upcoming 2026 World Endurance Championship season. This transition follows Oliver Jansonnie's elevation to head of Stellantis motorsport, as he takes over from the retiring Jean Marc Finot, marking a significant shift in the team's leadership structure.
For the 2026 season, the IndyCar Series will implement a new officiating framework operated by an independent, nonprofit entity known as INDYCAR Officiating Inc., which will also oversee Indy NXT. Governed by a three-member Independent Officiating Board, the organization will ensure unbiased race oversight, with board members selected by team owners and the FIA.
Alba Larsen, a promising talent from the F1 Academy, has earned a seat with Ferrari for the 2026 season after joining its driver academy in 2025. Following a strong rookie season that included multiple top finishes, she will continue her partnership with MP Motorsport while also competing in the Formula 4 British Championship.
CURIOSITIES
A Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR, a rare model with only 28 units produced, reportedly owned by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, was entrusted to Toto Wolff for a test drive in Dubai. This high-performance vehicle, featuring a 6.9-liter V12 engine, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and was developed to homologate a Le Mans racing car.
A man returned from vacation to find that a newly painted disabled parking bay encircled his legally parked Audi TT, resulting in multiple parking fines during his absence. Although the local council later canceled the tickets, they stated that the parking attendant who issued the fines was unaware of the changes made to the street restrictions.
Polyphony Digital has released a second update for Gran Turismo 7 within a week, introducing version 1.66, which addresses several issues and implements various adjustments. Among the notable changes is a modification to the physics simulation that affects manual gear shifting at high engine speeds, as well as updates to some vehicles and improvements in the multiplayer lobby display and steering feedback.
After inheriting a fleet of around a dozen cars from his father, a man named Jerry decided to sell the collection knowing he cannot maintain them all, despite some being close to roadworthy. Among the vehicles are a mix of American classics and European models, including a rare 1960 Dodge Phoenix convertible and a Fiat 124 Spider, both of which have not been driven in years.
Wayne Griffiths, formerly CEO of Seat and Cupra, has transitioned from the automotive sector to the beverage industry by launching his own gin, aptly named Gin Wayne, which features locally sourced pears and apples from Carinthia and is limited to just 500 bottles. Priced at €182 ($213) each, the artisanal spirit is crafted in small batches at a distillery in Klagenfurt, emphasizing natural ingredients and a meticulous production process.
London's authorities are intensifying efforts to address the issue of luxury vehicles parked illegally, particularly around the upscale Chancery Rosewood hotel, which has drawn complaints from local residents. Recently, a Rolls-Royce and other high-end cars were towed from sidewalks, highlighting ongoing tensions between wealthy visitors and city regulations.
A unique version of the already rare BMW M1 is set for auction in January, with the model distinguished by its striking color scheme and special modifications. Originally awarded to Niki Lauda for winning the 1979 Procar Championship, this well-preserved vehicle retains its original mechanical specifications and is likely to fetch a significant price due to its history and condition.
A car that was stolen and then recovered has fallen victim to theft once more within a short span of time and reportedly by the same individual. The Waterbury Police Department reported that after a woman’s 2015 Honda Civic was carjacked and later returned to her, but the keyfob was not recovered — whereupon it was taken again, leading to the arrest of a suspect who was found in possession of narcotics.
Colin Furze's latest project, the "85-25", reimagines a 2025 Toyota Hilux as a modern tribute to the iconic 1985 truck from Back to the Future, featuring advanced off-road modifications and a striking design. Collaborating with Arctic Trucks and ARB UK, Furze incorporated numerous custom elements, including a high-performance suspension and unique bodywork, while maintaining a low center of gravity for enhanced stability.
Oscar Mayer is currently accepting applications for its 2026 Wienermobile drivers, known as "Hotdoggers," specifically targeting recent college graduates. The selected candidates will operate the iconic 27-foot hot dog-shaped vehicles across the United States for a year, with the application period closing on January 31.
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