F1 Gossip: Ex-Renault CEO Ghosn flees Japan in musical instrument box

- Carlos Ghosn, the former chief of Renault and Nissan, has fled from Japan to Lebanon while awaiting trial. Ghosn was at the helm of Renault upon its return to F1 in 2016, but was arrested in November 2018 over financial misconduct. Ghosn said in a statement he had "escaped injustice and political persecution" (BBC News)

- According to reports in the Lebanese media, Ghosn travelled to Beirut hiding in a box designed for a musical instrument on a private jet (The Mainichi)

- Panama has reportedly completed a feasibility study into hosting a Formula 1 grand prix in the future along the coastline and bayfront of its capital, Panama City, potentially as early as 2022. The study included a potential circuit layout (Mi Diario)

- Porsche was "really close" to committing to a Formula 1 entry with its new hybrid engine, originally designed for its 919 Hybrid LMP1 car, before ultimately deciding to focus on its commitment to EVs through Formula E (Motorsport Week)

- Williams deputy team boss Claire Williams is refusing to let the British squad's recent struggles define its future, looking ahead to the arrival of Nicholas Latifi alongside George Russell for 2020 (RACER)

- The opening half of a study into Formula 1's finances revealing team budgets through 2019 has been published, also making note of a sizeable rise in the sport's share value (RaceFans)

- Fans of six-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton have been vocal in their frustration after the Briton was omitted from the New Year's Honours list, missing out on a knighthood (The Sydney Morning Herald)