Neat Burger, the plant-based fast-food chain co-owned by Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and actor Leonardo DiCaprio, has entered liquidation. The brand, which began operations in 2019 and expanded into London, Milan, and New York, has now closed its last UK outlet earlier this year amidst financial difficulties.
The company’s closure marks a significant setback for Hamilton, whose backing of the vegan burger venture was part of his wider environmental and ethical efforts. Liquidators have been appointed to manage the winding down of the business after it failed to sustain operations.
Max Verstappen Highlights McLaren’s Medium-Speed Cornering Advantage
Four-time World Champion Max Verstappen has praised McLaren’s MCL39 for its strong performance through medium-speed corners, identifying this as a crucial factor behind the team’s potential success in the 2025 F1 season. Verstappen pointed out that McLaren’s ability to preserve the rear tyres has been particularly impressive this year.
Drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris have demonstrated superior control over tyre temperatures, which has contributed to McLaren’s competitive edge. Verstappen commented on the car’s rotation during these medium-speed turns as “quite incredible,” emphasizing how this strength could define McLaren’s performance moving forward.
Daniel Ricciardo Reflects on Identity After F1 Career Ends
Daniel Ricciardo has opened up about his experience adjusting to life after his Formula 1 career concluded abruptly last year following his replacement at the Racing Bulls team after the Singapore Grand Prix. The Australian driver, who started 257 races between 2011 and 2024 and claimed eight victories, spoke candidly about the personal journey he has faced since stepping away from F1.
“trying to figure out who I am” —Daniel Ricciardo, Former F1 Driver
Potential Valtteri Bottas Comeback Fuels Mercedes Speculation
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has hinted at a possible announcement regarding Valtteri Bottas returning to a more active role in Formula 1 for the 2026 season. After losing his race seat with Sauber, Bottas returned to Mercedes as a reserve driver for 2025, and rumors have suggested he might join the new Cadillac F1 team next season.
Wolff urged fans and media to “watch this space,” creating anticipation about Bottas’s future involvement and the team’s driver lineup for upcoming seasons.
Dutch Analyst Supports Claims Verstappen May Join Mercedes in 2026
Robert Doornbos, a former Red Bull racer turned Dutch motorsport pundit, defended his prediction that Max Verstappen will switch from Red Bull to Mercedes for the 2026 season. Doornbos asserted that Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has made significant efforts to convince Verstappen to move teams at the end of 2025.
This prediction, however, sparked criticism from Verstappen’s father, Jos, who dismissed Doornbos’s claim by calling him a “headless chicken.” Despite the backlash, Doornbos continues to stand by his assessment of the shifting dynamics within F1.
2025 Season Set for Key Developments on and off the Track
As McLaren shows promising performance through its medium-speed corners and tyre management, Verstappen’s comments underline shifting competitive balances that could influence next season’s championship outcomes. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton faces challenges outside racing with the collapse of Neat Burger, reflecting the difficulties even high-profile stars encounter in business.
The potential return of Valtteri Bottas and the speculation around Verstappen’s future team add layers of anticipation to Formula 1’s evolving driver market. These developments will likely shape team strategies and fan expectations in the lead-up to 2026.
