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via PlanetF1Lawson makes Red Bull deadline claim ahead of big Baku decisionLiam Lawson is currently in a holding pattern regarding his participation in the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as his potential race seat depends on Isack Hadjar's recovery from a wrist injury. Hadjar has missed three races, and while Lawson has performed well in his absence, scoring points in two of his three races, the Red Bull team is cautious about rushing Hadjar back into the car. Team principal Laurent Mekies emphasized that Hadjar's recovery is progressing as planned, and they will take the necessary time to evaluate his fitness before making a decision.
Lawson has expressed the difficulties of preparing for two different cars, as he awaits clarity on whether he will race for Red Bull or Racing Bulls. He has noted that while he feels comfortable in the RB22, switching back to the VCARB03 would be challenging due to the differences between the two vehicles. Despite the uncertainty, Lawson remains optimistic about his performance and the speed of the Red Bull car, indicating that he has had positive experiences during his recent races.
Tue 15 Sep · 18:01 UTC
via Formula1.comNorris' Madring misery creates Baku betting valueLando Norris, a prominent driver for McLaren, has recently encountered challenges during the Madring event, which has led to a shift in the betting markets for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix. His performance has drawn attention, prompting bookmakers to adjust their odds in response to his recent struggles on the track.
As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, Norris' difficulties have sparked discussions among bettors and analysts regarding his potential as a contender. Despite the setbacks, there remains a belief in his capabilities, and the betting landscape reflects a mix of optimism and caution regarding his chances in the race.
Mon 14 Sep · 18:46 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams aims for improvement with Baku upgradesWilliams Racing is preparing to introduce a significant upgrade package for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, following a challenging performance at the Spanish Grand Prix. Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes these upgrades could lead to a substantial improvement for the team.
+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 13:49 UTC
via thejudge13.comHadjar faces final fitness test from Red Bull before BakuRed Bull Racing is set to make a decision regarding Isack Hadjar's fitness to race at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after he missed three races due to a wrist injury. Team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed that a final medical examination will take place the week before the event, and the team is focused on allowing Hadjar's recovery to progress without rushing the process.
If Hadjar is unable to compete, Liam Lawson is expected to continue as his replacement, having performed well in recent races. The points battle has tightened during Hadjar's absence, with only 12 points separating him from Lawson in the championship standings. Red Bull is prioritizing Hadjar's health over the championship implications as they await the outcome of his fitness test.
Mon 14 Sep · 11:38 UTC
via RacingNews365Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend set for another major schedule changeThe Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend is set for significant changes, with the F1 race being moved to Saturday to avoid a clash with Azerbaijan's Remembrance Day. Formula 2 will also adopt an expanded format, featuring two qualifying sessions and two feature races, making it a unique event in the season. This will be the only time F2 stages more than one feature race in a single weekend.
As the championship progresses, Nikola Tsolov leads the standings by seven points over Rafael Câmara. The final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are still on the calendar, but uncertainty surrounds their execution due to potential security issues. F2 CEO Bruno Michel emphasized the unique nature of this weekend's schedule, which aims to enhance the entertainment value for fans.
Mon 14 Sep · 09:19 UTC
via Motorsport.comWho slept worst last night: Carlos SainzCarlos Sainz has been under scrutiny following his performance in the Spanish Grand Prix and his role as an ambassador for the Madring circuit. His recent struggles in Formula 1 have led to criticism, particularly regarding the lackluster design of the circuit, which many feel does not showcase the host city effectively.
During the race, Sainz attempted an aggressive move at the start but ended up colliding with Yuki Tsunoda, resulting in damage to his car. This incident, along with a subsequent five-second penalty, has added to the challenges he faces as he seeks to return to competitive form in the sport.Mon 14 Sep · 05:46 UTC
via F1iSainz delivers a stark warning over Williams’ Baku upgradeCarlos Sainz has expressed cautious optimism regarding Williams' upcoming upgrade for the Baku race, acknowledging that while it may help the team improve, it won't significantly alter their current struggles. Williams has had a disappointing 2026 season, sitting ninth in the Constructors' standings with just 11 points, and both drivers have not added to that tally since Monaco.
Sainz, who recently extended his contract with Williams, emphasizes the need for the team to learn from their mistakes this season. He views the Baku upgrade as a small step forward rather than a complete turnaround, urging the team to demonstrate improvement in the upcoming season to avoid a prolonged decline.
Sat 12 Sep · 13:37 UTC
via newsonf1.comHadjar return still uncertain for BakuSep.12 (GMM) Isack Hadjar’s wrist injury appears more serious than initially hoped, with the Red Bull driver still wearing a substantial brace in Madrid and Laurent Mekies refusing to guarantee he will return in Baku. Hadjar has now missed three races, with Liam Lawson again substituting this weekend. Mekies said Red Bull had no hesitation…
Wikimedia Commons · HumanBodyPiloter5 · CC0F1’s September rush spotlights three circuitsSeptember 2026 will feature three significant Formula 1 races, starting with the Spanish Grand Prix at the newly introduced Madring circuit. This event is expected to level the playing field as teams will have no prior data to guide their setups, leading to potential surprises during qualifying and the race itself.
Following Madring, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku City Circuit will take place, known for its chaotic and dramatic races. The month will conclude with the Singapore Grand Prix, which tests drivers' endurance under extreme heat and humidity. This series of races is crucial for the championship standings, with each circuit presenting unique challenges that could impact the title race.
Fri 11 Sep · 21:08 UTC
via Motorsport.comMcLaren pauses H-wing concept for Spanish Grand PrixMcLaren has decided not to use its H-wing concept at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. The team plans to reintroduce its rotating rear wing design at the next race in Baku.+ 1 moreThu 10 Sep · 11:53 UTCWikimedia Commons · Joop van Bilsen / Anefo · CC0Carlos Sainz Discusses Reasons for Renewing Williams ContractCarlos Sainz has signed a new contract with Williams, citing both public and private motivations for his decision. He acknowledged experiencing some mental concerns prior to finalizing the agreement.
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz breaks silence on Audi transfer rumours amid new Williams F1 dealCarlos Sainz has publicly denied rumors linking him to a potential transfer to Audi, stating that he has remained committed to Williams despite the team's struggles in the 2026 season. He emphasized that he values loyalty and does not believe in leaving a team during difficult times, reaffirming his dedication to the Williams project after signing a multi-year contract extension.
Sainz's performance in 2025 included notable podium finishes, but the current season has seen Williams facing challenges, placing them near the back of the midfield. While Sainz's position in the Drivers' Standings is currently low, he remains focused on contributing to the team's improvement rather than seeking immediate success elsewhere.Tue 1 Sep · 16:34 UTC
via Motorsport.comRivals copying Ferrari F1 aero designs "a good reward" for MaranelloFerrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, expressed that the imitation of their innovative designs by rival teams serves as a validation of their engineering efforts. The SF-26, Ferrari's latest car, showcases several unique features, including the Flick Tail Mode and the Macarena wing, which have attracted attention and led to copies by competitors like McLaren and Red Bull. However, the FIA has intervened by banning the exhaust wing design for the upcoming 2027 season to maintain regulatory control over F1 innovations.
Despite challenges with their power unit, Ferrari's chassis has been deemed highly competitive, with drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton achieving victories in recent races. Vasseur highlighted the importance of a long-term vision in F1 development, noting the time required to implement changes and recruit talent, which is essential for the team's future success.Tue 1 Sep · 13:00 UTC
via the-race.com'Everything was on fire' - Williams's F1 2026 disaster laid bareIn response to their difficulties, Williams is implementing a recovery plan that includes hiring new personnel, updating software systems, and introducing a new lighter chassis at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Vowles emphasized the need for a change in mindset and innovation to regain confidence and improve performance. The team is determined to learn from their failures and push boundaries to ensure future success, aiming to prove that they can turn things around and compete effectively in the coming seasons.
Tue 1 Sep · 11:50 UTC
via grandprix.comAudi changes Monza gearing before Baku overhaulAudi is making adjustments to its car ahead of the upcoming Monza Grand Prix, focusing on revising the transmission ratios to enhance performance. The team has identified issues with the original gear setup, which complicated starts and limited overall speed. These changes have been in the works for some time, as manufacturing new parts requires significant lead time under regulations.
Following the Monza adjustments, Audi is preparing a major aerodynamic upgrade for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team has shown recent improvement, scoring points in four consecutive races after a slow start to the season. The upcoming changes aim to address performance weaknesses while maintaining speed on the long straights of both circuits.
via thejudge13.comIs it time to scrap the F1 summer break as D-Day approaches for Qatar and Abu Dhabi?The Formula 1 calendar has expanded to 24 races, with the season typically running from February to December. Due to ongoing instability in the Middle East, there are concerns about the viability of the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, which could lead to significant changes in the schedule, including the potential cancellation of these events and a shift to Imola for the season finale.
The article discusses the implications of the mandated summer break, which was introduced in 2009 to allow teams a period of rest and cost savings. However, with the current racing calendar stretching nearly a year and teams growing in size, there are calls to reconsider this break to allow for more flexibility in scheduling races, particularly in Europe during the summer months.Mon 31 Aug · 14:55 UTC
via Motorsport.comExclusive - Fred Vasseur explains how he challenged Ferrari to take more risksFred Vasseur, the team principal of Ferrari, is pushing for a cultural shift within the team to embrace risk-taking in their design and strategy. Since his arrival in early 2023, he has focused on reducing the blame culture and encouraging innovation, which has led to the development of unique features in Ferrari's 2026 car, such as a rotating rear wing. This approach aims to enhance performance and competitiveness on the track.
Despite the challenges posed by the cost cap and the potential pitfalls of risky innovations, Vasseur believes that fostering a supportive environment for engineers will lead to better decision-making and improved results. He is confident that as the team continues to adopt this bold mentality, they will see positive outcomes in their performance, as evidenced by recent race wins from their drivers.Mon 31 Aug · 08:02 UTC
via RacingNews365Pirelli selects tyre range for Bahrain Grand PrixPirelli has confirmed the tyre selection for the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix, which will take place in Malaysia. The chosen tyres include the C2, C3, and C4 compounds, suitable for the event.+ 1 moreThu 27 Aug · 10:12 UTC
via thejudge13.comBearman Threatens to Quit Ferrari ProgrammeOliver Bearman, a promising young driver in the Ferrari Driver Academy, has shown impressive performance in various racing categories, including a strong showing in F2 and a successful F1 debut. Despite his achievements, Bearman's path to a seat with Ferrari's senior team is hindered by the recent contract extension of Charles Leclerc and the ongoing presence of Lewis Hamilton, who is performing well in the current season. Bearman has been performing strongly at Haas, outpacing his teammate Esteban Ocon and contributing significantly to the team's points tally.
Bearman has expressed frustration over the lack of opportunities within the Ferrari program and has indicated that he may consider leaving if he cannot secure a competitive seat. The historical challenges faced by drivers in the Ferrari Driver Academy, coupled with the current team dynamics, have led to uncertainty regarding Bearman's future in Formula 1, as he seeks to compete for championships.Fri 21 Aug · 13:41 UTC
via Motorsport.comF1 pre-start procedure to remain despite safety concernsThe FIA has stated that the pre-start procedure will remain in place for the upcoming seasons, despite declaring that safety issues have been resolved. This decision follows discussions among teams regarding the challenges faced during practice starts in Bahrain.+ 1 moreWed 19 Aug · 09:34 UTCPage 32 of 33