The VF1 Show with VF & Vincenzo

In this episode, we dive into the defining moments of the thrilling 2024 Formula 1 season, wrapping up with the high-stakes Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. McLaren claimed their first Constructors' Championship since 1998, signaling a resurgence of the team’s legacy. We analyze how strategic brilliance, driver performances, and key partnerships propelled them to the top. The season wasn’t just about titles—it was personal too. We discuss Max Verstappen’s surprise pregnancy announcement and its potential impact on his 2025 season, reflecting on how drivers manage life off the track while staying competitive. From the glitz of the Las Vegas Grand Prix to how it compared with its inaugural 2023 event, we explore the sport’s growing footprint in America. Finally, we look ahead to 2025: rising teams, shifting rivalries, and challenges on and off the grid. Will McLaren continue their dominance? Can Verstappen defend his title amid new responsibilities? And which mid-grid teams are set to upset the status quo? Tune in for all this and more, as we blend race analysis with a behind-the-scenes look at the business and future of Formula 1. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X/TikTok: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

The conversation covers various topics including the excitement in the current Formula One season, the potential driver changes and the marketability of drivers. The hosts discuss the performances of Daniel Ricciardo and Logan Sargeant, and speculate on their future in Formula One. They also touch on the importance of marketability and sponsorship dollars in the sport. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the upcoming British Grand Prix and the challenges faced by the Silverstone circuit in selling tickets. The conversation discusses the rising ticket prices for Formula One races and the potential impact on fan attendance. The hosts highlight the increasing cost of attending races, particularly in Europe, and the challenges faced by loyal fans. They also explore the role of promoters and the need for empathy towards fans. The conversation touches on the importance of long-term fan retention and the potential for other motorsports to capitalize on Formula One's pricing issues. The hosts suggest that Formula One should focus on accessibility and creating a unique experience to keep fans engaged. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this episode, we highlight the Monaco Grand Prix, from Charles Leclerc's emotional win and the positive changes happening at Ferrari, to the lack of overtaking in Monaco and the need for changes in the cars to improve racing. Could the potential solution of having a Monaco spec car for street races be the solution? We discuss the importance of attracting and retaining fans, and the need for fans to explore other motorsport series. We also discuss the potential for changes in Formula One regulations and the impact of the cost cap on teams and drivers. The conversation concludes with a mention of Kyle Larson's attempt at the double race and the excitement of seeing drivers push their limits. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

SummaryIn this conversation, Vincenzo and Vanessa discuss Lando Norris' victory at the Miami Grand Prix and the controversy surrounding former President Donald Trump's presence at the race. They highlight the double standards and hyper-partisanship in politics and how it affects the perception of the sport. They also touch on the role of politics in Formula One and the impact of politicians attending races. Overall, they emphasize the need to focus on celebrating Norris' achievement and not let politics overshadow it. The conversation discusses the reactions of President Donald Trump at the McLaren garage during a race weekend. It highlights the lack of understanding of politics and motorsport in discussions on social media. The conversation then shifts to the pricing of VIP areas and concessions at the Miami Grand Prix, emphasizing the concept of supply and demand. It also touches on the different experiences and price points available to fans and the importance of understanding the value of participating in the F1 experience. We discuss the value of networking and the perception of luxury experiences in Formula 1, and the viewership numbers for the Miami GP. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this episode of The VF1 Show, we discuss Ferrari's recent title sponsorship deal with HP which is a significant move that levels the playing field between Ferrari and its biggest competitors. We discuss the recent changes and developments in Formula 1, including the potential departure of Adrian Newey from Red Bull. We also talk about the launch of a free streaming channel in the US and the importance of engaging with content creators to attract and retain fans, and emphasize the need for Formula 1 to listen to its fan base and make changes to keep the sport exciting and appealing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Apology for Hiatus 08:46 Stability and Future of Red Bull's Driver Lineup 34:14 The Launch of a Free Streaming Channel in the US If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this episode of The VF1 Show, Vanessa and Vincenzo delve into the complexities of the F1 calendar and its impact on audience engagement. They also explore driver free agency, dissecting rumors and potential scenarios for how they'll impact existing contracts. The conversation then turns to the intriguing news of Liberty Media acquiring a majority stake in MotoGP, examining logistical challenges, potential benefits with Formula 1, and obstacles. Marketing strategies, sponsorship deals, and fan involvement are thoroughly analyzed, including the feasibility of crossover events and shared race weekends. Moreover, the hosts emphasize the importance of attracting fans to various motorsport series and discuss the potential for expansion in North America. They conclude by underscoring the necessity of careful planning and logistics for the success of any collaborative ventures. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Discussion of F1 Schedule Challenges09:16 The Impact of Declining Viewership and the Role of Drama26:03 Balancing Driver Moves and the Importance of On-Track Action31:45 The Power Play in Formula One and MotoGP33:09 The Complexity of F1 Free Agency35:54 The Potential Impact on Drive to Survive37:45 The Benefits and Challenges of a Partnership41:25 Turning Joint Race Weekends into Spectacular Events44:26 Attracting More Money from the US48:36 The Appeal of Multiple Motorsport Series53:10 The Logistics Challenge for Joint VenturesIf you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this episode, we talk about the issues fans have with the FIA and F1 in light of the Susie Wolff and Mohammed Ben Sulayem news. We also talk about the Australian GP and Williams’ decision to ground Logan Sergeant this weekend in favor of Alex Albon. If Formula 1 is the “pinnacle of motorsport” then how is it acceptable for teams to be so unprepared by not having critical components such as spare chassis? Perhaps, instead of pushing the issues with the spending cap, the series focus its attention on mandating a spending floor.  If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this episode, we touch on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and Ollie Bearman’s incredible drive for Ferrari, and briefly talk about some of the latest gossip from around the paddock. Adrian Newey to Ferrari?! Light the prayer candles, Tifosi! From team and driver domination, to fans not understanding the technical aspects of the sport, we talk about some of the issues the series has with fan retention—especially as viewership numbers worldwide are down after just two races. And should drivers have more say in the direction?  From VF: Apologies for the mispronunciation of Ollie Bearman’s last name! If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

DEATH! TAXES! MAX VERSTAPPEN AND THE DUTCH NATIONAL ANTHEM!  In this episode, we recap the season-opening Bahrain GP and who the immediate winners and losers are. We take a deep dive into the latest in the Christian Horner scandal from an unexpected legal and ethical angle, and how content creators could be sabotaging future opportunities in media by putting personal bias and opinions over due process. We conclude the episode by discussing why the spending cap is failing the sport and why this sport will never be “equal;” the new DRS rule; and we read fan responses from X! If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

With the first race of the season one a week away, we discuss observations from testing, and how Formula 1 could increase fan retention despite the predictability of the sport. We talk about the Christian Horner drama and why February 28th could be a critical day for his future in F1. And Could Carlos Sainz end up at Red Bull? We talk about why that seat is both the most and least desirable one on the grid, and the “musical cars” that will be free agency this season. "There are two religions in Italy; there's the Catholic Church and there's Ferrari." -- Will Buxton (Drive to Survive, S6:E8 "Forza Ferrari") If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

In this week’s episode, we unpack the details about Lewis Hamilton’s decision to move to Ferrari in 2025 and what that means for the rest of the grid. With fourteen drivers’ contracts up at the end of the season, who fills those coveted spots, and who’s likely out of a seat? We also discuss Formula 1’s rejection of the Andretti bid—and why they’ll continue to forge on.  If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

Welcome to season three of The VF1 Show! On this episode, we discuss the new Visa CashApp RB rebrand and whether it confirms the narrative with Red Bull. We talk about McLaren’s triumphs in the sponsorship and development arena and why they’re the team to pay attention to this season. Side Bar: What does McLaren's success mean for Lando Norris’s future? And should Guenther Steiner become Red Bull’s new press officer?! If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

On this episode, we recap the Las Vegas GP and what FOM could do to improve it for 2024. We also discuss the recent drama between Susie and Toto Wolff and the FIA and ask: is there more to this, and is it time for Formula 1 to go on its own? We finish up by talking about the new sprint race schedule for this upcoming season and talk Marketing 101. Why? Just press play!

This week on The VF1 Show, we talk about the teams the FIA recently rejected bids from and discuss why Andretti's approval makes the most sense for Formula 1. We also talk about F1's social media engagement report and why those numbers might not matter as much as people think.

The VF1 Show is back after a nice break, and on this week’s episode, we go in details discussing the Singapore GP. We talk about Williams and whether its gamble on Logan Sargeant was the wrong move; if James Vowels should give Sargeant another year; and ask why Williams isn’t doing more to market the team and Sargeant in America. We close out the episode talking about Fernando Alonso’s recent comments on why the quali format needs to change, and discuss our recommendations. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

On this week’s episode, we talk about Silly Season and ask, is this part of the marketability hype for Formula 1? We discuss the TV numbers and how they might not tell the whole story about the sport’s growth. We then get into Toto Wolff’s defense of Williams and moving the Capex goal posts, and why it behooves other teams to get on board with strengthening the sport, rather than gatekeeping. We conclude with a discussion on life after F1 for drivers and why careers hinge on teams getting it right with new regulations. If you like this podcast, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button, give us a 5-star rating, and follow us on X and Instagram: X: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

On today’s bonus episode, we talk about a few things that came out over the weekend, including the Spa-Francorchamps track and safety concerns. Is Fernando Alonso right? We also discuss F1 Academy and the big news that will bolster brand awareness with the help of Formula 1 teams. We finish the episode by talking about the recent rumors about the new 2026 engine regulations, which could make teams turn to American sports tricks unless other measures are taken. If you like this podcast, don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on: Twitter: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

On today’s episode, we discuss a dramatic rumor (and ironic) that Formula 1 is “shaking” businesses along the strip down for licensing fees for the Las Vegas GP. We also talk about F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali’s recent comments saying that he thinks Brad Pitt’s new Formula 1 film will have the same effect of ‘Drive to Survive’. Who broke the spending cap for 2022? We’ll share our predictions and discuss why the FIA needs to establish black and white protocols to avoid the politicization. And to finish out the episode, we talk about the arrest of hotel tycoon One Ben Seng and what it means for the Singapore Grand Prix. If you like this podcast, don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on: Twitter: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

On this week's episode, we discuss the LIV and PGA Golf merger that was allegedly negotiated during Lawrence Stroll’s daughters’ wedding, and why global business leaders could start looking towards F1 to get things done. We discuss Daniel Ricciardo’s return to the grid and the rumors swirling around the Red Bull organization. And why is Michael Andretti softening his tone? After failing to buy a team per Toto Wolff’s suggestion, we talk about why Andretti still makes the most sense as the 11th team addition. We conclude the show by talking about Stefano Domenicali’s newest idea for sprint races and ask: are these additions a cover to distract fans from the fact that racing is suffering under the cap because teams are focused on protecting the cars? If you like this podcast, don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on: Twitter: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino

**Apologies in advance for the popping sound throughout the beginning of this podcast. We couldn’t edit that out in post-production, but we talk about some great things so please bear with us!** In this episode, we unpack the track limits disaster from the Austrian GP, and go through the 2024 schedule. Next, we discuss our thoughts on a major topic of discussion within the sport right now on whether sustainable fuels could eliminate the hybrid engines. And, how early is too early for teams be allowed to work on next season’s car? We touch upon Nikita Mazepin’s latest attempt to return to racing, and wrap it up with F1’s Dilemma: Why sacrificing great racing will hurt the sport longterm.  If you like this podcast, don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on: Twitter: @TheVFCastro @VincenzoLandino Instagram: @TheVFCastro @TheVincenzoLandino