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via formula1.comWho has the edge in Sepang after a too-close-to-call Friday?The Bahrain Grand Prix in Sepang kicked off with a highly competitive second practice session, where the top four teams were separated by just four tenths of a second. Discussions among teams and drivers highlighted concerns about tyre degradation, which played a significant role in their performance assessments.
Despite the close times, no team has clearly established itself as the favourite to win, leaving the competition wide open. The data collected from the practice sessions suggests that the battle for supremacy will be intense, with teams still evaluating their strategies as they prepare for the race.
via formula1.comAll the stories that got the Malaysia paddock talkingFerrari was a major topic of discussion in the Formula 1 paddock as they returned to Sepang for the Bahrain Grand Prix. Speculation surrounded Team Principal Fred Vasseur's future due to the team's recent performance, having gone five races without a podium finish.
In response to the speculation, Ferrari publicly backed Vasseur earlier in the week. Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc expressed their support for Vasseur, reinforcing the team's commitment to their principal as they prepare for the upcoming race.
via planetf1.comLawrence Stroll acknowledges Aston Martin's engine issuesLawrence Stroll has stated that Aston Martin is currently missing two seconds in engine performance, which is impacting their competitiveness. He emphasised the team's commitment to winning but acknowledged the challenges they face in achieving that goal.
via thejudge13.comAston Martin quietly explores Mercedes engine return as Honda concerns growAston Martin is reportedly considering a return to Mercedes engines as team owner Lawrence Stroll has made discreet inquiries about the possibility. This comes amid a challenging 2026 season where Aston Martin has struggled with its Honda-powered package, currently sitting tenth in the constructors' championship with only three points.
Former driver Christian Danner highlighted the performance issues with Honda, particularly in integrating the combustion engine with the electrical components under the new regulations. While Aston Martin remains committed to Honda for now, the potential design provisions for a Mercedes power unit in their next car suggest serious consideration of alternatives as concerns about their current partnership grow.
via f1oversteer.comGuenther Steiner thinks Lawrence Stroll sees a Mercedes engine when he ‘wakes up at night’Guenther Steiner has expressed confusion over Lawrence Stroll and Fernando Alonso's lack of criticism towards Honda's underperformance, particularly after Aston Martin's fifth double DNF this season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Alonso acknowledged engine issues affecting their speed and called for further investigation, while reports indicate that Honda is significantly underpowered compared to competitors.
Steiner highlighted the irony of Stroll's loyalty to Honda, given the potential benefits of a Mercedes engine, which he believes could have kept Aston Martin competitive. Despite Alonso's commitment to give Honda another chance, the ongoing engine issues are likely to remain a significant challenge for the team moving forward.
via f1oversteer.com2026 Bahrain Grand Prix to be held in MalaysiaThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking the venue's return to the Formula 1 calendar after a nine-year absence. Fans can look forward to the race this weekend, with various details about the schedule and viewing options available.
via planetf1.comEsteban Ocon reflects on Haas exit as F1 future uncertainEsteban Ocon has expressed his disappointment regarding his departure from Haas at the end of the 2026 season, stating it is 'not really the way it should be.' Despite the setback, Ocon remains determined that this will not mark the end of his Formula 1 career.
via formula1.comGeorge Russell and Franco Colapinto shine in BakuGeorge Russell and Franco Colapinto were highlighted as key performers at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, each achieving notable results for their respective teams. Meanwhile, Alpine faced significant challenges during the race, marking a disappointing weekend for the team.
via f1oversteer.comLawrence Stroll must be regretting Adrian Newey's £24m salary when he sees Aston Martin corner dataAston Martin is struggling in the current Formula 1 season, sitting with only three points in the constructors' standings. Their performance issues are attributed to both engine problems with Honda and significant aerodynamic concerns, particularly in cornering speed. In the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll faced disappointing results, highlighting the team's struggles.
Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin in 2024 with a hefty £30 million salary, is under scrutiny for the team's poor cornering performance. Data analysis reveals that Alonso's qualifying time was significantly slower than the pole position, and the AMR26 chassis has been criticized for being overweight and ineffective. Despite these challenges, there is some hope for improvement with the upcoming 2027 car.