F1: Chequered Flag - podcast cover

F1: Chequered Flag

BBC Radio 5 Livewww.bbc.co.uk

F1 Back at Base - A deep dive into the high-octane world of Formula 1 with exclusive behind-the-scenes access. F1 Chequered Flag: Home of Formula 1.

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Episodes

Austrian Grand Prix Review

This episode reviews the Austrian Grand Prix where Lando Norris secured a vital win, leading a McLaren 1-2 ahead of championship leader Oscar Piastri. The discussion covers their intense battle, McLaren's impressive team management, Ferrari's mixed results with upgrades, Mercedes' struggles, and notable performances from other teams like Liam Lawson and Gabriel Bortoleto, alongside analysis of Yuki Tsunoda's future and Williams' difficulties. The panel looks ahead to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Jun 29, 202537 min

Austrian Grand Prix Qualifying Review

Lando on pole! Rosanna Tennant, Ben Edwards, Alice Powell and Andrew Benson look back at qualifying from Austria. They hear from Norris, as well as Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri, who finished second and third. Plus Max Verstappen, who starts back in seventh.

Jun 28, 202537 min

Austrian Grand Prix preview

Is Max Verstappen really about to join Mercedes? What does this mean for George Russell? Just two of the questions that Rosanna Tennant, Ben Edwards, Alice Powell and Andrew Benson get stuck into. They also hear from Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Is the new F1 movie any good? Andrew and Ben give their verdict. And Brad Pitt makes his first appearance on the Chequered Flag.

Jun 27, 202541 min

Chequered Flag Extra: Red Bull’s protest & Bottas on life in F1

Harry Benjamin and the BBC's F1 correspondent Andrew Benson discuss Red Bull’s protest against George Russell following the Canadian Grand Prix. We also hear from Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas, who sat down with Harry to speak about his early days in racing, meeting Toto Wolff, becoming Lewis Hamilton’s team-mate and what’s next for him in F1.

Jun 19, 202538 min

Canadian Grand Prix Review

This episode reviews the dramatic Canadian Grand Prix, featuring analysis of the collision between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, including driver reactions. The discussion also covers George Russell's victory and Mercedes' improved performance, Kimi Antonelli's first F1 podium, and Ferrari's challenging race weekend. The hosts also highlight other notable driver performances and pick their driver of the race.

Jun 15, 202541 min

Canadian Grand Prix Qualifying Review

BBC Radio 5 Live's F1: Chequered Flag reviews Canadian Grand Prix Qualifying, where George Russell dramatically secured pole position alongside Max Verstappen. The episode discusses the impact of tyre choices, hears from Russell and Verstappen on their race prospects, and analyzes McLaren's mixed results with Oscar Piastri third and Lando Norris struggling in seventh. It also covers incidents involving Leclerc and Hajar, potential grid penalties, and race predictions.

Jun 15, 202529 min

Canadian Grand Prix Preview

Previewing the Canadian Grand Prix, the panel discusses McLaren's strong form and the intense battle between teammates Piastri and Norris for the championship lead. They analyze Max Verstappen's recent collision and penalty points, his driving style, and the risk of a race ban. The episode also covers the struggles of Ferrari and Mercedes, Lance Stroll's injury situation, young driver Isaac Hadjar's potential, and changes to the 2026 F1 calendar.

Jun 13, 202556 min

Back at Base: Bonus 2. Inside F1: The Movie

In this special bonus episode of F1: Back at Base, Sarah Holt and Holly Samos tell the behind-the-scenes story of the upcoming F1 movie. Through exclusive interviews with key figures, including legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, Oscar nominee Kerry Condon, and F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, we document how the new movie was made. From the idea originally being presented in a London cinema, to choosing the actors, shooting the movie, and the battle to make the film authentic, mixing ...

Jun 05, 202546 min

Spanish Grand Prix Review

Reflecting on the Spanish GP, Oscar Piastri secured a dominant win, leading a McLaren one-two. Lando Norris finished second, overcoming a poor start and battling strategy calls. Max Verstappen had a chaotic end, receiving a penalty after contact with George Russell following a late safety car period and a debated tire strategy. The episode also covers notable midfield performances, Aston Martin's driver issues, and team reactions.

Jun 01, 202537 min

Spanish Grand Prix Qualifying Review

This episode of Chequered Flag reviews Spanish Grand Prix qualifying, where Oscar Piastri secured pole position with a stunning lap, leading a McLaren front-row lockout alongside teammate Lando Norris. The discussion covers the top three drivers' performances and interviews, including Max Verstappen in P3 and the impact of the new technical directive. Analysts also assess the performances of George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, and surprising results like Carlos Sainz's P18 and strong showings from Gasly, Hadjar, and Bortoleto, looking ahead to race strategy.

May 31, 202524 min

Spanish Grand Prix Preview

The F1 team previews the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, discussing the circuit changes and the potential shift to a Madrid street track. They analyze the tightening championship battle between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and assess Max Verstappen's chances. A key discussion point is the new technical directive on front wing flexibility and its potential impact on the competitive order, alongside updates on other teams like Mercedes and Williams.

May 29, 202535 min

Monaco Grand Prix review

Damon Hill, Rosanna Tennant, and Harry Benjamin review the Monaco Grand Prix. They discuss the impact of the new mandatory pit stop rule, Lando Norris's significant pole and win, Charles Leclerc's performance at home, Oscar Piastri's challenging weekend, Max Verstappen's strategy, and standout drives from Hadjar and Lawson, alongside commentary on driver frustrations and potential future rule changes.

May 26, 202536 min

Monaco Grand Prix Qualifying review

Rosanna Tennant and Harry Benjamin review Monaco Grand Prix qualifying. Lando Norris secured a crucial pole position and new lap record, while home hero Charles Leclerc narrowly missed out and discussed race strategy. Oscar Piastri had a challenging weekend, including wall contact, finishing P3. Lewis Hamilton received a grid penalty, and Max Verstappen struggled to P5. They also delve into Red Bull's team dynamics and review performances across the midfield and back of the grid.

May 24, 202537 min

Monaco Grand Prix Preview

Join Rosanna, Harry Benjamin, and Jolyon Palmer for a preview of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend. They discuss the unique atmosphere and challenges of the Monaco circuit, debate the impact of the new mandatory two-stop pit rule, and analyze the intense championship battle between McLaren and Red Bull. The episode features an in-depth interview with championship leader Oscar Piastri and a check-in with Haas rookie Oliver Bearman, plus favorite Monaco memories and podium predictions.

May 22, 202556 min

Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix Review

Ben Edwards, Andrew Benson, and Marc Priestley review the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, highlighting Max Verstappen's victory and McLaren's performance. They analyze key moments, including Verstappen's first-corner move and strategic decisions by McLaren and Ferrari. The discussion includes insights from Verstappen, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, Lewis Hamilton, and Alex Albon, covering team performance, tire strategies, and future race prospects.

May 18, 202531 min

Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix Qualifying Review

Ben Edwards, Mark Priestley, and Andrew Benson review the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix qualifying session. Oscar Piastri secured pole position, followed by Max Verstappen and George Russell. The episode features interviews with the top three drivers and discusses Lando Norris' struggles and Ferrari's disappointing performance.

May 17, 202531 min

Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix Preview

The F1 Chequered Flag podcast previews the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, discussing the historic Imola track and its potential last year on the circuit. They analyze the growing rivalry between McLaren's Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris against Max Verstappen, assess Ferrari's struggles with Lewis Hamilton, and highlight the debut of Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli. The episode also touches on FIA penalty changes and the pressures faced by young drivers.

May 15, 202528 min

Chequered Flag Extra: Colapinto In & Wheatley On Audi

Harry Benjamin & the BBC’s F1 correspondent Andrew Benson react to the news that Alpine have replaced Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the next five races. It comes in the same week that Oliver Oakes leaves his role as Alpine team principal. We also hear from Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley, who sits down with Jennie Gow to discuss his F1 career and his new role at Sauber before the transition to Audi in 2026.

May 08, 202534 min

Chequered Flag Extra: Steiner, Verstappen & Will Cadillac Be Competitive?

Special guest, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner, speaks with Harry Benjamin about his career. Harry is also joined by the BBC’s F1 correspondent Andrew Benson to talk more about Max Verstappen’s Saudi Arabian GP penalty and the fallout from that. Plus, Harry and Andrew discuss Audi’s F1 chances and whether Cadillac will be competitive.

Apr 24, 202539 min

Back At Base S2: Bonus 1. Inside The Championship

With two race wins from two at the start of the 2025 F1 season, McLaren couldn’t have got off to a better start in the defence of their constructors’ world title. So what better time to look back on exactly how they achieved that success in 2024? In this bonus episode of F1: Back at Base - How To Go Racing, Holly Samos and Sarah Holt take you behind the scenes at McLaren as they finally became World Champions again after a 26-year wait. McLaren are one of the most decorated teams in F1, winning ...

Mar 26, 202543 min

Chinese Grand Prix Review

This episode reviews the Chinese Grand Prix, focusing on Oscar Piastri's victory and McLaren's overall performance, including Lando Norris's brake issues and the team's dynamic. The discussion covers Ferrari's struggles, Mercedes' improved showing with George Russell, and Red Bull's challenges with Verstappen and rookie driver Liam Lawson. Additionally, the podcast highlights the impressive performance of the Haas F1 team.

Mar 23, 202543 min

Rebalancing the Grid: Female Drivers in F1

When will we next see a female driver in Formula One? Eleanor Oldroyd is joined by former F3 driver Alice Powell and BBC reporter Charlotte Simpson to examine why there aren’t any female drivers currently at the sport’s elite level. They look at the existing programmes designed to boost the number of female drivers and ask what more can be done. Leading female driver Abi Pulling talks through her experiences in the sport, while Susie Wolff explains the aims of the F1 Academy in developing female...

Mar 12, 20251 hr 24 min

Back At Base S2: 8. The Search For Perfection

This episode recaps the thrilling conclusion of the 2024 F1 season, focusing on McLaren's quest for the Constructors' Championship and Aston Martin's ongoing transformation. Interviews with drivers Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso, along with team principals Zak Brown and Andrea Stella, provide insights into the intense competition and future ambitions. The episode culminates in McLaren's victory celebration and a look at Aston Martin's new wind tunnel, highlighting the relentless pursuit of perfection in Formula One.

Mar 12, 202545 min

Back At Base S2: 7. A Lot More To Lose

In just 15 days’ time, the final chapter in the story of the 2024 Formula 1 season will be written. A triple header of races - from the bright lights of Las Vegas to the heat of Qatar and Abu Dhabi – will decide the World Championships. It’s late November, and time for Formula 1 to take up residency in Las Vegas. The sound of engines roaring down the city’s world-famous Strip will soon bring in the crowds. Unlike other races on the calendar, which are organized by local promoters, the Las Vegas ...

Mar 05, 202540 min

Back At Base S2: 6. Total Commitment

The McLaren and Aston Martin Formula 1 teams are preparing for a “Super Sunday” in Brazil. For just the sixth time in the sport’s history, both qualifying and the race are taking place on the same day. Stormy weather is testing the teams’ resources and resolve at the Interlagos Circuit, home to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. The teams and drivers arrive at the track at the crack of dawn, ready to think on their feet in a marathon day ahead. After a well-orchestrated performance in Saturday’s Sprint R...

Feb 26, 202540 min

Chequered Flag Special: F1 75 Launch

Rick Edwards joins Jennie Gow, Harry Benjamin and Andrew Benson at the F1 75 launch event. The team look ahead to the start of the new season, discuss the glitz and glamour of this new day in the F1 calendar, and speak to the drivers, including George Russell and Lando Norris, as well as the team bosses, including Toto Wolff, Christian Horner and Fred Vasseur.

Feb 19, 202557 min

Back At Base S2: 5. Echoes From The Past

There are just five races left to go in the frenetic 2024 Formula 1 season - and the stakes are getting higher. McLaren are still in the hunt for both World titles but, after a penalty for Lando Norris at the U.S. Grand Prix, the team must regroup back at base. The next race in Mexico is vital for the team if they are to keep Norris’ hopes alive in the Drivers’ Championship. The events in Austin saw the British star’s title fight with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen heat up. Will the Mexico race see i...

Feb 19, 202537 min

Back At Base S2: 4. The Calm Before the Storm

It’s late September. The seasons are turning – but the wheels of Formula 1 have stopped. There is now a three-week pause before racing resumes at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. At Aston Martin’s Silverstone headquarters, the cars have made a rare return home. In 2024, the cars travel to 21 countries across five continents - that’s a total 127,000 kilometres in air distance. Head of Build and Car Assembly Mark Gray is the man in charge of logistics and caring for Aston Martin’s racing cars...

Feb 12, 202539 min

Back At Base S2: 3. Mission Control

Tension is building inside the McLaren factory. The team is closer to a title than they have been for 12 years and, after dramatic races in Zandvoort and Monza, there is much to discuss. Not least the team’s philosophy that allows their drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, to freely race each other. Team Principal Andrea Stella has returned to the factory to consider whether there now needs to be a change of policy. While Stella smooths out any wrinkles caused by the battling teammates, Prod...

Feb 05, 202542 min

Back At Base S2: 2. Project Pencil

The Aston Martin team is preparing to unveil the super signing of the 2024 season. Someone who will shape their Formula 1 cars and - if things go to plan - the team’s future at the front of the grid. But until then the news has to be kept under wraps. In the ultra-competitive world of Formula 1 secrecy is a necessity. The McLaren and Aston Martin teams are also gearing up for a return to racing at Round 15 of the World Championship, the Dutch Grand Prix, held at the seaside circuit of Zandvoort....

Jan 29, 202538 min
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