F1 Round up: FIA vs F1, Hamilton launches tequila brand

"I went through hell" - FIA boss defends F1 expansion bid

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem remains committed to expanding the Formula 1 grid, despite strong criticism from teams.

"They attacked me, abused me, just to break me," he said, referring to the backlash after opening an expression of interest for a new team."

"It was unnecessary, counterproductive, not good for business."

Ben Sulayem suggested greed motivates the opposition. "They look at the money as a piece of cake and they will share it," he stated.

The FIA president maintained his support for the approved Andretti/GM bid.

"We supported Andretti because it was the right thing to do. That's very clear," he affirmed.

‘I’m one of the only drivers that can fight Verstappen’

Lewis Hamilton believes he's one of the only drivers capable of challenging Max Verstappen, but requires Mercedes to deliver a title-contending car.

"I'm praying every day that we will close the gap [to Red Bull] and we’ll hit the ground running," Hamilton said.

"I want to be fighting Max. I believe I am one of the only drivers that can do so. But we’ve got to have the package, not only the car, but we’ve got to be operating better in our pit stops," he explained.

While the 2022 title is unattainable, Hamilton aims to match Verstappen's consistency next season.

Hamilton launches non-alcoholic tequila brand

Lewis Hamilton entered the spirits business with a new non-alcoholic tequila called Almave.

"I’ve always loved tequila for its taste, but there are times when I don’t want the alcohol part of the deal and I know that there is a growing group of people who want the same," Hamilton said of his motivation.

The new product coincides with Hamilton's return to the Mexico Grand Prix this weekend.

He continues leveraging his fame for business opportunities.