Sergio Spinoza, autor en Titansports

THE BEST GIFTS FOR FORMULA 1 FANS

Sergio Spinoza / Automotive industry, Formula 1 / en / December 11, 2024

If you have a Formula 1 lover in your life, surprising them this holiday season is easier than you think. Here are some options to celebrate their passion for motorsport. FORMULA 1: A PASSION THAT UNITES Formula 1 isn’t just about speed; it’s history, innovation, and emotions that captivate millions. From the iconic starting grid to legendary drivers, fans experience each season as a unique event. Finding a gift that captures this essence can be a challenge, but there are options that stand out for their originality. UNIQUE GIFTS FOR F1 LOVERS F1-Themed Holiday Sweater For those who enjoy the holidays with style, an F1-inspired sweater is the perfect choice. Designs featuring team colors and details evoking the most iconic circuits make this garment a must-have for the season. It’s ideal for blending tradition with fandom. LEGO F1 Models The collaboration between LEGO and Formula 1 has resulted in incredible building sets. From current team cars to special editions honoring icons like Ayrton Senna, these sets combine creativity with a love for racing. The Official Formula 1 Video Game For tech-savvy and adrenaline-seeking fans, the official F1® 24 video game offers an immersive experience. Compatible with consoles and PC, this title lets players compete on the most famous circuits, such as the Mexican Grand Prix, and step into the shoes of their favorite drivers. Miniature Historic Race Cars Scale model race cars are a classic for any F1 enthusiast. Models like Schumacher’s Ferrari or Checo Pérez’s special edition Red Bull are collectible pieces that capture the essence of racing. These items are perfect for decorating a space or enhancing a collection. CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF FORMULA 1 More than just gifts, these options are a way to connect with the passion that moves millions of fans. Formula 1, known for its innovation and spectacle, offers a wide range of products that span nostalgia and modernity. If you’re looking to surprise that special fan, any of these alternatives will help them celebrate their love for the pinnacle of motorsport. Which gift would you choose for the next Grand Prix?

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2024 SEASON: A RECORD-BREAKING YEAR IN FORMULA 1

Sergio Spinoza / Formula 1 / en / December 10, 2024

Formula 1 experienced a year of unforgettable milestones and iconic moments that will forever be etched in the history of motorsport. From individual achievements to collective feats, 2024 was a season that redefined the boundaries of competition. FERNANDO ALONSO: THE KING OF GRAND PRIX Spanish veteran Fernando Alonso reached an incredible 400 Grand Prix starts, solidifying his place as the driver with the most participations in history. This milestone was celebrated during the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, with his 400th start officially marked in Qatar. With over 20 years on the track, Alonso remains a beacon in Formula 1, while rival Lewis Hamilton, with over 350 races, is the only active driver who could come close to this record. A UNPRECEDENTED EVENT: THE FIRST SUSPENSION Danish driver Kevin Magnussen made history as the first driver suspended after accumulating 12 penalty points on his super license. The incident occurred following a collision with Pierre Gasly in Italy, costing Magnussen his participation in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he was replaced by young talent Oliver Bearman. This event serves as a reminder of the sport’s stringent regulations. THE RETURN OF THE BLACK FLAG For the first time in 17 years, the black flag, a symbol of disqualification, was waved during the Brazilian Grand Prix. Nico Hülkenberg was penalized after receiving external assistance to rejoin the track—an action prohibited by the rules. This rare occurrence highlighted the strictness of the regulations in the pinnacle of motorsport. FERRARI’S DOMINANCE ON THE PODIUM Ferrari, the most iconic team in Formula 1, achieved two new 1-2 finishes in the Australian and Austin Grands Prix. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc extended the Italian team’s historic leadership with 87 double podiums, further distancing themselves from Mercedes, which secured its 60th 1-2 in Las Vegas. SEVEN WINNERS IN A COMPETITIVE SEASON Unlike 2023, the 2024 championship saw seven different drivers claim victory at the top of the podium: Max Verstappen, Carlos Sainz, Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, and Oscar Piastri. Each driver secured multiple wins, representing four different teams. HAMILTON SETS NEW PERSONAL RECORDS Lewis Hamilton not only extended his victory record to 105 wins but also established himself as the driver with the most wins at a single Grand Prix, with nine victories at Silverstone. BROTHERS MAKE HISTORY For the first time, two brothers, Charles and Arthur Leclerc, competed for the same team, Ferrari, during an official session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This unique occurrence marked a historic milestone in Formula 1’s 74 seasons. VERSTAPPEN: LEGENDARY FOUR-TIME CHAMPION Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive title in Las Vegas, joining the ranks of legends like Fangio, Prost, Schumacher, Vettel, and Hamilton. This achievement cements his status as a pivotal figure in Formula 1 history. The 2024 season not only broke records but also proved that the excitement and competition in Formula 1 are more alive than ever.

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GUIDE TO MOTORCYCLE PHONE MOUNTS

Sergio Spinoza / Automotive industry / en / December 9, 2024

Motorcycle phone mounts have become an essential accessory for modern riders. With the rise of smartphones and navigation apps, having a proper mount ensures safer and more comfortable rides. There are various options available in the market, each tailored to different needs and riding styles. HANDLEBAR MOUNTS: PRACTICAL AND ADJUSTABLE One of the most common types is the handlebar mount, which attaches directly to the motorcycle’s handlebar. Its design offers direct and convenient access to your phone, making it ideal for following routes or receiving notifications. Equipped with adjustable clamps and non-slip materials, these mounts are compatible with various phone sizes. Additionally, they often include a 360° rotation feature, allowing the rider to adjust the device’s position to their preference. REARVIEW MIRROR MOUNTS: AN EFFICIENT ALTERNATIVE The rearview mirror mount is an excellent solution for those who want to keep the handlebar clear. This model uses the mirror’s screw as the attachment point, leaving space for other accessories. Like handlebar mounts, it offers adjustable angles and rotation options, providing optimal visibility without obstructing the rider’s view. MAGNETIC MOUNTS FOR THE TANK Designed for motorcycles with metal tanks, magnetic mounts stand out for their quick and easy installation. These accessories use powerful magnets to securely hold the phone in place. While practical for short trips, they may not be the best option for uneven terrain or high speeds, as vibrations and wind could affect their stability. SUCTION MOUNTS: EASY TO INSTALL Suction mounts are a popular choice due to their ease of installation, adhering to smooth surfaces through suction. Although commonly used in cars, some models are compatible with motorcycles that have windshields or smooth tanks. However, it’s important to note that the grip may weaken over time or with temperature changes. WATERPROOF MOUNTS: TOTAL PROTECTION For riders covering long distances or facing variable weather conditions, waterproof mounts are the best choice. Equipped with sealed cases, they protect the phone from water, dust, and other elements. Their design allows interaction with the touchscreen through a transparent membrane. However, it’s crucial to avoid device overheating on sunny days, as the fully enclosed cover may retain heat. CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOUNT FOR YOUR MOTORCYCLE Selecting the best mount depends on your motorcycle’s design and the type of ride. For short city trips, handlebar or rearview mirror mounts are ideal, while for long journeys or extreme weather, a waterproof mount ensures greater safety. Stability, ease of installation, and compatibility with various phone sizes are key factors to consider when choosing. Regardless of your riding style, motorcycle phone mounts are indispensable allies for enhancing your road experience.

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SEAT LEÓN CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF INNOVATION AND SUCCESS

Sergio Spinoza / Automotive industry, Motorsports / en / December 7, 2024

The SEAT León marks its 25th anniversary as one of the most iconic compact cars in the automotive industry. Since its debut in 1999, this model has left a lasting legacy with over 2.5 million units sold and a consistent evolution that has set trends in design, technology, and performance. A STORY THAT BEGAN IN BARCELONA Manufactured at the Martorell plant in Barcelona, the SEAT León was designed to stand out from its very first generation. Created by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it introduced innovations such as all-wheel drive, a six-speed transmission, and engines reaching 180 HP. These features not only brought SEAT back into the compact segment but also set a benchmark in its category. FOUR GENERATIONS OF EVOLUTION The second generation, launched in 2005, featured a more aerodynamic design by Walter de Silva. This version stood out for its sporty style and more efficient engines. The technological leap came with the third generation, which introduced advanced infotainment systems, driver safety assists, and became the first compact car to include Full LED lighting. This generation became the best-seller, with over one million units delivered. In its fourth generation, the SEAT León continues to lead the way, embracing smart mobility and a contemporary design that keeps it a market reference. RECOGNITION AND SUCCESS ON THE TRACKS Over the years, the SEAT León has received multiple accolades, including being named ‘Car of the Year’ in Spain, Portugal, and Argentina. Additionally, its racing version won the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) in 2008 and 2009, making history as the first diesel-powered car to claim the title. MORE THAN A CAR, A CULTURAL ICON The SEAT León’s success extends beyond sales and the racetrack. This compact car has appeared in films like 3 Days to Kill and Men in Black: International, as well as in TV series like Dark and Sherlock. Unique conceptual versions have also been developed, such as the SEAT León Trencadís, inspired by architect Antoni Gaudí, and the SEAT León Cristóbal, a concept car featuring 16 safety assist systems. A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES With 25 years of history, the SEAT León remains synonymous with innovation and success, paving the way for a future filled with challenges and opportunities in the automotive industry.

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MCLAREN DOMINATES P2 AT THE ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX

Sergio Spinoza / Formula 1 / en / December 7, 2024

Lando Norris led an exciting second free practice session at the Yas Marina Circuit, emerging as the fastest driver of the day. The Briton, along with teammate Oscar Piastri, positioned McLaren as the team to beat during the final weekend of the 2024 Formula 1 season. A KEY DAY FOR THE COMPETITION The P2 session, widely regarded as the most representative practice before Sunday’s race, provided a glimpse of what’s to come in the Grand Prix. Norris clocked the fastest lap with a 1:23.517, followed by Piastri and Nico Hulkenberg from Haas, who completed the provisional top three. Meanwhile, Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc battled to stay close to the McLarens. However, the Italian team faces an additional challenge as Leclerc is set to receive a 10-place grid penalty for exceeding the allocation of Energy Stores. A CHALLENGING CIRCUIT The conditions at Yas Marina, with temperatures dropping during the session, allowed for qualifying simulations in the final stages. The technical nature of the track tested the drivers’ precision, with incidents such as Max Verstappenstruggling with curbs and Jack Doohan of Alpine locking his tires multiple times. Despite setbacks, Ferrari showed flashes of competitiveness, with Sainz securing fourth place, followed by Lewis Hamilton, who is competing in his final race with Mercedes. Leclerc finished sixth, while other notable names such as Valtteri Bottas and Kevin Magnussen also featured in the top ten. CHALLENGES FOR RED BULL One of the day’s most unexpected outcomes was Red Bull’s performance. Sergio Pérez ended in 14th place, while world champion Verstappen finished a distant 17th, plagued by issues with the front axle. The session underscored that the team has significant work ahead before qualifying. WHAT’S NEXT With the FP3 session scheduled for 2:30 PM local time, teams will have one last opportunity to fine-tune their setups before qualifying. This Grand Prix promises to cap off the season with intense battles among McLaren, Ferrari, and the rest of the grid. McLaren’s dominant performance in P2 sends a strong message: they are ready to end the year on a high. Can Norris capitalize on this advantage and close the season with a victory? Everything will be decided this weekend in Abu Dhabi.

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“CHILE” VALENZUELA READY TO FACE “CEJITAS” VALLADARES

Sergio Spinoza / Box, Combat Sports / en / December 7, 2024

Sonoran boxer Germán “Chile” Valenzuela has declared himself ready to go up against Monterrey’s Daniel “Cejitas” Valladares in his hometown, in a minimum flyweight fight that promises intense emotions. The showdown is set for this Saturday at the Gimnasio Cedereg in Guadalupe, Nuevo León, as part of the co-main event of Round Zero Upper Fight, presented by TV Azteca. GOAL: DEFEAT THE FORMER CHAMPION Valenzuela (17-6-0) faces a major challenge against Valladares (29-4-1), a former world champion with extensive ring experience. Nevertheless, the fighter from Navojoa says he’s motivated and ready, having passed the official weigh-in at 49.3 kilograms. In his remarks, “Chile” Valenzuela expressed his confidence after intense preparation: “I trained for a month and a half in my hometown with professional featherweight and bantamweight boxers. I ran every morning, and I’m in my best shape. I’m not looking for the knockout, but if it comes, it will be welcome.” The Sonoran fighter is determined to give his all in the ring, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating his opponent, a former world champion with a distinguished career. A NIGHT NOT TO BE MISSED The event, organized by promoter José Antonio “Charro” Hernández, features an exciting card where all fighters cleared the scales without issues. The main event will spotlight Oziel “Russo” Santoyo from Monterrey and Víctor “Gato” González from Coahuila, who will battle for the WBC Fecarbox Middleweight Championship. Fans can catch all the action live at 7:00 PM via AYM Sports and on Round Zero Upper Fight‘s social media platforms. PREPARATION AND EXPECTATIONS For Valenzuela, this match represents an opportunity not only to take down a renowned rival but also to showcase his talent on a major stage. “I know Valladares was a world champion. I watched his fight against Japanese boxer Ginjiro Shigeoka, and now it’s my turn to face him,” he said with determination. The eight-round bout promises to deliver a spectacle, as Valenzuela’s offensive style aims to counter the experience of the Monterrey native. BOXING AT ITS FINEST Featuring a lineup that combines rising stars and established talent, this boxing night confirms Round Zero Upper Fight‘s role as a key platform for the sport’s growth in Mexico. The action kicks off this Saturday at the Gimnasio Cedereg, where the thrill and passion of Mexican boxing will take center stage. Don’t miss it!

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THE RALLY MADE IN MEXICO RETURNS TO HUATULCO

Sergio Spinoza / Motorsports / en / December 6, 2024

The thrill of motorsport is coming back to Huatulco, Oaxaca, with the highly anticipated second edition of the Rally Made in Mexico, taking place from February 27 to March 2, 2025. This unique event will be hosted at the Hotel Camino Real, solidifying its status as one of the most important rallies in Mexico. AN EVENT DESIGNED BY DRIVERS Under the coordination of Paulina Granados, the Rally Made in Mexico is set to stand out not only for its competitive nature but also for its cultural and festive atmosphere. With the motto “Designed by drivers for drivers”, this edition aims to bring together the best national and international rally racers, including prominent women in key sporting and operational roles. Key figures in the event include Gilles Spitalier, operations director of the Rally México WRC, and Hilaire Damiron, head of the drivers’ committee, which features members such as Gabriel Pérez, Jérôme Seignon, Alexis Uribe, and Laura Damiron. Paulina Granados stated: “Our goal is to preserve the essence of rallying in Mexico while promoting female participation and ensuring a safe and memorable experience for everyone involved.” ICONIC ROUTES The rally route spans 180 kilometers, connecting Huatulco, Pluma, and San Pedro Huamelula. Drivers will face unique challenges as they navigate the iconic “MEX 200” highway, offering breathtaking views of Oaxaca’s coast and mountains. Over two days of competition, participants will test their endurance and skills under challenging conditions, with the approval of the Mexican Motorsport Federation and the National Rally Commission of Mexico AC. CATEGORIES AND TOP DRIVERS The event will feature several competition categories, including: Modern Cars (1995-2024):Subcategories Modern Pro and Modern Plus. Vintage Cars (1950-1994):Subcategories Vintage Pro and Vintage Plus. Confirmed drivers include: Benito Guerra Jr., world rally champion. Juan Carlos Peralta, from the Peralta Racing Team. Miguel Granados, from the Martini Racing Team. Gabriel Pérez, from the Museo del Automóvil RT. AN ALL-ROUND EXPERIENCE The Rally Made in Mexico is not just a celebration of motorsport; it also highlights local gastronomy and culture. Attendees will enjoy interactive activities, meet-and-greets with drivers, and unique shows that showcase the traditions of Oaxaca. With a commitment to promoting inclusion and highlighting the country’s cultural richness, this event positions itself as one of the most exciting on the motorsport calendar in Mexico.

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JAGUAR I-TYPE 7: THE NEW CHALLENGER FROM JAGUAR TCS RACING

Sergio Spinoza / Formula 1 / en / December 6, 2024

Jaguar TCS Racing has unveiled the all-new Jaguar I-TYPE 7, the single-seater that will compete in Season 11 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. The reveal took place in an iconic building in downtown São Paulo, Brazil, kicking off a highly anticipated campaign for the brand. INNOVATION IN THE GEN3 EVO ERA The Jaguar I-TYPE 7 features a fully redesigned powertrain, including a new inverter, motor generator unit (MGU), and an optimized transmission. These enhancements deliver superior handling balance and increased efficiency—critical attributes in the highly competitive GEN3 Evo era of Formula E. Key upgrades include: All-wheel driveactivated during crucial moments like qualifying duels and attack mode. 600 kW combined regenerationto the battery, enabled by the front and rear propulsion systems. Hankook iON tiresproviding up to 10% more grip. These innovations, alongside improved aerodynamics and a redesigned rear suspension, position the I-TYPE 7 as a strong contender for the 2024/25 season. AN ICONIC DESIGN With a color scheme of black, white, and gold, the Jaguar I-TYPE 7 embodies the identity of Jaguar TCS Racing. Its São Paulo debut follows an intensive testing phase in Madrid, where the team fine-tuned the single-seater for the new campaign. “It’s exciting to begin our championship quest with the I-TYPE 7. This car marks a significant leap in electric technology, with the goal of transferring these benefits to Jaguar’s future vehicles,” said James Barclay, team principal. DRIVERS READY FOR ACTION Mitch Evans (#9) and Nick Cassidy (#37) will take the wheel of the I-TYPE 7 on the track. Both drivers expressed their enthusiasm for competing with the team’s most advanced car yet. “Returning to the track as world champions is an honor. I’m ready to unlock the potential of the new I-TYPE 7 and aim for a strong start in São Paulo,” said Evans. Cassidy added: “The car shows remarkable progress. We are ready to fight from the very first round.” JAGUAR’S SUSTAINABLE VISION In addition to pursuing success on the track, Jaguar TCS Racing continues advancing electric technology, collaborating with key partners like Tata Consultancy Services, Google Cloud, and Castrol. These partnerships strengthen the brand’s commitment to a more sustainable future. SEASON OPENER The Jaguar I-TYPE 7 will make its debut on Saturday, December 7, at the São Paulo E-Prix. With cutting-edge technology and a strong team, Jaguar TCS Racing aims to defend its title and lead Formula E into its next era.

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HYUNDAI DRIVES RESEARCH IN BATTERIES AND ELECTRIFICATION

Sergio Spinoza / Automotive industry / en / December 6, 2024

Hyundai Motor Group has taken a SIGNIFICANT STEP IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES by announcing a collaboration with the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT). This initiative aims to strengthen research in batteries and electrification, with an estimated investment of $7 million between 2025 and 2029. CENTER OF EXCELLENCE AT IIT DELHI The project includes the establishment of the Hyundai Center of Excellence (Hyundai CoE) at IIT Delhi, funded by the company. This center will serve as the hub for developing solutions tailored to the Indian market, focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen battery technologies. The inauguration ceremony at IIT Delhi was attended by academic leaders such as Professor Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, along with representatives from IIT Bombay and IIT Madras, who will work jointly on the project. COLLABORATING TO INNOVATE The Hyundai CoE will not only engage in joint research but also promote knowledge exchange between experts from India and South Korea. Activities will include technical meetings, training sessions in Korea, and lectures delivered by specialists at the IITs. Naksup Sung, Head of Hyundai’s R&D Planning and Coordination Center, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the IITs, institutions recognized for their academic excellence. We believe this initiative will have a positive impact on talent development and technological innovation.” FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES Hyundai Motor Group’s investment aligns with the Indian government’s policies to promote the adoption of electric vehicles and strengthen the sustainable mobility ecosystem. This collaboration involves the Center for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART), a leading institution in EV research in India. Research projects will focus on strategic areas such as advanced software development and hydrogen fuel cell battery technologies. FUTURE IMPACT The collaboration will also enhance the presence of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) in the Indian market, a key region for the company’s expansion. By prioritizing the development of technologies specific to India, Hyundai aims to establish itself as a leader in innovation and electric mobility in the region. The Hyundai CoE is envisioned as a platform that will not only accelerate technological advancement but also strengthen academic-industrial collaboration and technical training. This joint effort between Hyundai and the IITs marks a milestone in battery and electrification research, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future in the automotive sector.

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inDrive, a renowned mobility platform, has begun operations at Cancún International Airport.

INDRIVE LAUNCHES OPERATIONS AT CANCÚN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Sergio Spinoza / Automotive industry / en / December 5, 2024

inDrive, a renowned mobility platform, has begun operations at Cancún International Airport, becoming the first authorized app to offer this service at a Mexican airport. The strategic partnership with Caribe Taxi Exprés (CTE)includes a fleet of over 300 vehicles to meet transportation demand in one of the most visited regions in the country. A NEW MOBILITY ALTERNATIVE The integration of inDrive into Cancún International Airport marks a significant step in modernizing transportation services. Focusing on safety and accessibility, the platform aims to serve both residents and tourists traveling to and from popular destinations such as the Riviera Maya. Local authorities, led by Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama, highlighted that this model strengthens the state as a top-tier destination while promoting responsible tourism. Juan Carlos Ibarra, CTE representative, expressed a commitment to improving mobility experiences in the region through collaborative efforts. A SERVICE TAILORED TO CUSTOMER NEEDS The inDrive operating model stands out by offering flexibility to both users and drivers. Unlike other apps, it does not automatically assign rides, allowing individuals to choose the option that best suits their needs. This approach has positioned inDrive as one of the most popular mobility platforms in Mexico, with operations in over 58 cities across the country. Additionally, the partnership with CTE ensures compliance with local and federal regulations, a critical factor in a region where transportation regulations have sparked ongoing debate. EXPANSION AND RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS The launch in Cancún comes after a year of global expansion for inDrive, which recently celebrated reaching 5 billion rides since its inception in 2012. The platform operates in 46 countries, adapting to the specific needs of each market while prioritizing fair pricing and transparent conditions. In Mexico, the growth of inDrive reflects the rising demand for reliable mobility alternatives. By entering the country’s second-busiest airport, the company reaffirms its commitment to innovation for the benefit of local communities. A PROMISING FUTURE The start of operations at Cancún International Airport marks a milestone for inDrive and opens the door to similar projects at other airports across the country. In a competitive landscape, this partnership with Caribe Taxi Exprés lays the foundation for transforming the transportation experience in one of Mexico’s most important tourist hubs.

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Author name: Sergio Spinoza