F1 News Roundup: Massa Legal Update, Verstappen on Horner, and More

Thursday saw significant F1 developments, including a fresh update in Felipe Massa’s $82 million legal case and Max Verstappen's reaction to a "really weird" question about Christian Horner at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Meanwhile, a Sky F1 presenter is set to return, and Lando Norris along with Oscar Piastri made a joint request to McLaren.

Why it matters:

This roundup highlights several key narratives unfolding in Formula 1, from a long-running legal battle that could redefine a past championship to current driver dynamics and media returns. These stories collectively offer a snapshot of the sport's blend of on-track competition, behind-the-scenes drama, and evolving media landscape.

The Details:

• Massa's Legal Challenge: Felipe Massa's lawsuit regarding his 2008 F1 title defeat against Lewis Hamilton has seen a new ruling in London's High Court. While part of the case can proceed, a judge's decision on Thursday has reportedly dashed Massa's hopes of being retrospectively crowned the 2008 world champion.
• Verstappen on Horner: Max Verstappen expressed confusion over a reporter's "really weird" question concerning whether Red Bull's recent resurgence would have been possible under former team principal Christian Horner. Horner was replaced by Laurent Mekies after the British Grand Prix in July, and Verstappen has since achieved podium finishes in all but two races.
• Natalie Pinkham's Return: Sky F1 presenter Natalie Pinkham has hinted at her return at the Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend. This follows her absence from screens since undergoing neck surgery in September, with her last appearance being at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
• McLaren Drivers' Request: Lando Norris revealed that he and Oscar Piastri have jointly requested McLaren to reduce the number of social media clips they film together. The request comes as the evenly matched drivers prepare for their F1 2025 title battle, with Norris currently holding a 24-point lead over Piastri after his victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
• Verstappen's Number Change Ambition: Max Verstappen has expressed interest in switching his race number to No. 3, previously used by Daniel Ricciardo. With a recent rule change allowing drivers to alter their race numbers during their careers, Verstappen, who currently uses No. 1 as world champion, aims for this change in 2026.

What's next:

• The full implications of the High Court's ruling in Felipe Massa's case will become clearer in the coming weeks, potentially bringing an end to the protracted legal saga. Though hopes of a retrospective title seem diminished, the case has already stirred significant debate.
• Natalie Pinkham's expected return to Sky F1 will be welcomed by fans, bringing her familiar presence back to the broadcast team at one of the season's most anticipated races.
• The dynamic between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at McLaren will be one to watch, especially given their request for fewer joint social media engagements as their on-track rivalry intensifies for the 2025 season. This highlights the fierce competitive spirit even within the same team.
• Max Verstappen's potential number change in 2026, while a minor detail, reflects a personal preference and a slight shift in F1's long-standing tradition of fixed driver numbers. It will be interesting to see if he ultimately makes the switch, provided Ricciardo is not using the number then.
• The Las Vegas Grand Prix will undoubtedly provide more talking points, with or without Christian Horner, as the F1 season progresses toward its climax.