Under the hood

The Formula 1 silly season is in full swing after the recent announcements outlining Fernando Alonso’s retirement and Daniel Ricciardo’s move from Red Bull to Renault. McLaren have signed Spaniard Carlos Sainz jnr to replace two-time world champ Alonso, while Red Bull are likely to promote Toro Rosso youngster Pierre Gasly to their top squad. That means Kiwi Brendon Hartley has a better chance of retaining his seat in 2019. Having been under pressure to hold on to his job earlier in the year, a string of improved performances have seen Hartley look more secure in his role. Motorsport

Monday magazine even suggested he would command interest from other teams if Toro Rosso didn’t bring him back next year.