Maldonado Heading To Lotus

The chips are beginning to fall in the driver market as Lotus have finally confirmed that Pastor Maldonado will partner returnee Romain Grosjean in 2014. The announcement concerning Kimi Raikkonen's replacement at Enstone has been eagerly anticipated ever since the Finn declared his departure back in October. However, the news of Maldonado's arrival has angered many fans as the pay driver debate rumbles on. Nico Hulkenberg has undoubtedly been beaten to the seat by Maldonado's pocket, yet the Venezuelan's appointment is not as dire a forecast for the future as some may perceive.

Brawn Departs From Mercedes

After months of speculation, it was today confirmed that Ross Brawn and Mercedes have parted company, with immediate effect. Brawn's exit was somewhat of an inevitability; the Brit has been disillusioned by the change in management structure at Mercedes and the relationship broke down in conjunction with Paddy Lowe's switch to the team from McLaren. It was the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. However, what lies ahead for one of Formula One's highly regarded team personnel?
 

Expect Old-School Lewis in 2014

Lewis Hamilton has experienced the season in 2013 which many predicted for his first year with Mercedes. He managed to claim his first victory with the Brackley outfit in Hungary, yet has been unable to perform at the level which led to stunning campaigns in 2007 and his title winning season in 2008. However, Hamilton has declared that he is about to head into a winter dictated by a strict training regime - the like of which he has not undertaken since the winter prior to the 2007 season. Lewis is determined to make 2014 a major success.

Brazilian Grand Prix: Race Anaysis

The 2013 Brazilian Grand Prix was never set to live up to the thrilling climax from 2012, yet the final race of this season was undoubtedly a special occasion for many reasons. Sebastian Vettel claimed his ninth consecutive win and his thirteenth of the season; equalling the respective records set by Ascari and Schumacher. It was an impressive drive once again, but it was teammate Mark Webber who stole the show. His final race ended with a well deserved podium in P2 making it yet another Red Bull 1-2, capping off another magical season for them.

Check out Sky Sports F1's photo gallery for the Brazilian Grand Prix

Brazilian Grand Prix: Saturday Analysis

It was echoes of qualifying back in March for the Australian Grand Prix, as rain delays caused chaos once again in Brazil. While Q3 was delayed due to heavy rain, the session did eventually resume and Sebastian Vettel once again rose to the top of the pile, claiming his 45th career Pole in sublime fashion. His massive margin of 0.7 seconds to Nico Rosberg in P2 was truly remarkable - His margin of 1.1 seconds to Mark Webber in P4, even more-so. A ninth consecutive victory is on the cards, yet rain at Interlagos can spring the biggest of surprises.

Brazilian Grand Prix: Friday Analysis

Day one of the final race weekend of the season was a damp affair, as the infamous Interlagos rain restricted running throughout the field. Fortunately, teams did eventually venture out in both sessions, as fears of a wet Saturday or Sunday meant that track time with the wet and intermediate tyres could prove valuable. Nico Rosberg seemed to be the driver most at ease in the conditions, as he topped the timesheet in both FP1 and FP2. Mercedes look strong in the inclement conditions, but Red Bull are never far behind.

Perez Disinterested In Backmarker Drive

Following his late and frankly harsh dismissal by McLaren, Sergio Perez will be one of a number of talented drivers without a job come next Monday. It is a travesty, yet Sergio may struggle to find a seat in Formula One at all, considering the awkward timing of McLaren's announcement. While a move to a midfield team could be a possibility, (with a return to Sauber being suggested), Sergio has stated that he would not be interested in joining one of the lower constructors for 2014.