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via thejudge13.comWhy F1’s latest circuit was ‘La Monumental’ disasterThe newly inaugurated Madring circuit in Madrid, hosting the Spanish Grand Prix, has been met with widespread criticism for its lack of excitement and overtaking opportunities. Despite being marketed as a thrilling venue with a notable banked turn, the race turned out to be a dull affair, with drivers expressing their disappointment over the track layout. Notably, Gabriel Bortoleto and Lando Norris voiced their frustrations, highlighting the processional nature of the race and the challenges posed by the circuit's design.
The FIA is reportedly aware of the shortcomings of the Madring and is considering modifications for future events. The rush to establish the Grand Prix in Madrid, coupled with inadequate design considerations, has raised concerns about the decision-making processes within F1. As the sport enjoys rising popularity, the disconnect between fan expectations and the reality of the racing experience at new circuits like Madring could pose challenges for F1's image moving forward.
Tue 15 Sep · 11:58 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhat Colapinto learned from Gasly's Monza pole to make his Madrid breakthroughFranco Colapinto has acknowledged the significant impact Pierre Gasly's qualifying performance at Monza had on his own development. After qualifying eighth at Monza, where Gasly achieved a surprising pole position, Colapinto analyzed the data to identify areas for improvement. He noted that while he was close to Gasly in Q1, the gap widened in subsequent sessions, prompting him to focus on understanding Gasly's performance enhancements.
At the Spanish Grand Prix, Colapinto applied the lessons learned from Monza, ultimately finishing seventh after successfully reaching Q3. He highlighted the importance of energy management and driving techniques that he observed from Gasly. Colapinto expressed pride in his qualifying performance in Madrid, stating it was one of his best sessions and reflecting on the progress he made since Monza.
Tue 15 Sep · 07:18 UTC
via gpfans.comToto Wolff criticises Ferrari over Monza incidentMercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed his concerns regarding the first-lap incident involving Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton at the Italian Grand Prix. Wolff stated that Ferrari 'looked like idiots' and emphasised the importance of avoiding similar clashes within his own team.
+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 19:59 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRalf Schumacher says Fred Vasseur was clearly ‘annoyed’ with Lewis Hamilton before Spanish GPRalf Schumacher observed that Fred Vasseur, the team principal of Ferrari, expressed annoyance towards Lewis Hamilton ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. This frustration stemmed from the ongoing conflict between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, which had escalated during the previous race at Monza, where Leclerc's actions led to controversy and criticism of Ferrari's team orders.
During the Spanish GP, Hamilton faced further disappointment as he retired early due to brake failure. This incident, combined with Leclerc's performance, highlighted the challenges Ferrari is facing in maintaining a cohesive team dynamic. Vasseur emphasized the importance of teamwork among drivers to improve their competitive standing in the championship.
Mon 14 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Racing Bulls respond to Audi appeal as Yuki Tsunoda faces jeopardyRacing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has addressed the appeal lodged by Audi concerning Yuki Tsunoda's start infringement during the Italian Grand Prix. The appeal follows a decision by the stewards that found Tsunoda did not warrant a penalty for his actions, which allowed him to finish in the points at Monza.
The controversy arose after Tsunoda's car was positioned incorrectly on the grid, leading to an extra formation lap. Audi disagrees with the stewards' ruling and aims to overturn it, which could result in a point for their driver Gabriel Bortoleto. Permane humorously noted his upcoming trip to Paris for the appeal, reflecting on the team's previous involvement in FIA hearings.
Mon 14 Sep · 10:20 UTC
via f1chronicle.comToto Wolff Dismisses ‘Couch Warriors’ Criticism of Mercedes’ Handling of George Russell at MonzaToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, defended the team's decision to pit George Russell during the Italian Grand Prix, which critics claimed cost him the win. He referred to the critics as 'couch warriors' and emphasized that the tyre strategy was sound, with Russell on a hard compound suited for a one-stop race while Antonelli, who won, was on fresher mediums after starting on hard tyres.
Wolff acknowledged the challenges of managing two title contenders within the same team and noted that such decisions are part of the competitive nature of Formula 1. He also mentioned a near-collision between Russell and Antonelli late in the race, which could have mirrored Ferrari's earlier mishap, highlighting the fine margins in racing.
Sun 13 Sep · 20:21 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell reveals reason behind wait for Mercedes F1 engine penaltyGeorge Russell has decided to postpone his engine penalty until the upcoming triple-header in the Americas, despite his teammate Kimi Antonelli opting to take his penalty at Monza. Russell's strategy is influenced by Mercedes' plan to introduce a new internal combustion engine specification, which he aims to coincide with his penalty to avoid incurring multiple penalties for component changes.
Russell's current engine issues have forced him to exceed the standard allocation of components, leading to the need for a penalty. While Antonelli successfully recovered from a grid penalty to win at Monza, Russell believes that waiting for the upgrade will ultimately be more beneficial, as taking the penalty now would only lead to another penalty when the new components are introduced.Sun 13 Sep · 07:30 UTC
via f1technical.netAlpine reflect on their contrasting fortunes in Madrid after Monza pole shockAlpine faced contrasting results in the qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix, with Franco Colapinto achieving a commendable ninth place while Pierre Gasly struggled to secure fourteenth. Colapinto's performance was a notable turnaround from his teammate's recent pole position at Monza, showcasing his ability to handle pressure and adapt to the new Madring circuit. Gasly, on the other hand, encountered grip issues and crashed during Q2, which hindered his chances of a top-ten start.
Despite the mixed outcomes, both drivers and Alpine's management expressed optimism for the race. Colapinto acknowledged the challenges of overtaking at the new track and emphasized the importance of executing their strategy effectively. Gasly, while disappointed with his qualifying result, pointed to promising long-run performance in practice as a reason for hope. The team is focused on understanding the discrepancies in performance and aims to maximize their chances for points in the upcoming race.
Sat 12 Sep · 22:00 UTC
via grandprix.comFerrari reportedly holds back Leclerc engine as a precautionFerrari made a strategic decision to use an earlier engine specification for Charles Leclerc during the Madrid race as a precaution. This choice was influenced by the limited time available for checks on his upgraded Monza engine following an accident at the Italian Grand Prix, where initial inspections revealed no significant issues.
The team aimed to maximize preparation time on the unfamiliar circuit by avoiding potential complications from engine problems. While the Monza engine is still considered recoverable, Ferrari has not confirmed when it will be back in service, nor have they abandoned the upgrade.
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner backs Kimi Antonelli for Ferrari seatGuenther Steiner, the former Haas Formula 1 team principal, stated that Kimi Antonelli should be in a Ferrari after his remarkable victory at the Italian Grand Prix. David Coulthard also praised Antonelli's performance, describing his rise from 19th on the grid to first as a career-defining moment.Fri 11 Sep · 21:24 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFred Vasseur says he won't 'waste energy' over Ferrari concern, points to 'really good' signFred Vasseur, the team principal of Ferrari, is facing speculation regarding his future following a poor performance at the Monza Grand Prix. Despite the backlash from fans and reports of dissatisfaction from Ferrari executives, Vasseur emphasizes that he has ongoing support from the Ferrari hierarchy and aims to focus on improving the team's performance.
Vasseur insists that pressure is a normal part of his role and he will not waste energy on speculation about his job security. He believes Ferrari remains in a good position this season, having won two races and having clear plans for future improvements.Fri 11 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comFerrari "too late" to prioritise Lewis Hamilton in F1 title fight, says Jolyon PalmerJolyon Palmer, a former Formula 1 driver, has expressed that Ferrari has missed its chance to support Lewis Hamilton in the ongoing championship race. He believes that the team has allowed their title aspirations to fade, particularly after a disappointing performance at Monza. Currently, Hamilton sits third in the standings, significantly trailing the championship leader Kimi Antonelli, while Leclerc is also behind in fifth place.
Palmer emphasized that the dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc have hindered their chances, as both drivers have been focused on competing against each other rather than collaborating. He pointed out that their clashes during races have cost them valuable points, and with the season progressing, he feels it is now too late for Ferrari to prioritize Hamilton's bid for the title.Fri 11 Sep · 13:09 UTC
via Motorsport.com“I f***ed up quite a lot”: How Yuki Tsunoda discovered the complexity of F1 2026 at MonzaYuki Tsunoda is competing in his third race of the 2026 Formula 1 season with Racing Bulls, stepping in for Liam Lawson. After a relatively smooth debut at the Dutch Grand Prix, Tsunoda faced challenges at the Italian GP, where he struggled with pace and made mistakes that affected his grid position and race outcome. His performance is currently under review due to a protest from Audi regarding his actions during the race.
Tsunoda has expressed the complexities of driving the new generation of F1 cars, which require a different approach to energy management and throttle sensitivity. He acknowledged that he underestimated the penalties for not executing the new strategies correctly, which impacted his qualifying performance. Despite criticism from Max Verstappen about the new regulations, Tsunoda remains focused on his individual performance and believes he has done well in his recent races.Fri 11 Sep · 11:38 UTC
via F1iPiastri insists ‘we’re all good’ after heated Monza battle with NorrisOscar Piastri has downplayed any concerns regarding team dynamics at McLaren following a tense race with teammate Lando Norris at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Despite a heated battle for fourth place, which included some close moments and Norris expressing frustration over team radio, both drivers have moved past the incident and maintain a positive relationship, even spending time together off the track.
Piastri also reflected on his performance and adaptation to the 2026 McLaren car, noting that he has faced challenges but found some improvements during the Monza race. As they head to the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, Piastri is eager to see how his recent progress translates into results on a new track.
Fri 11 Sep · 09:48 UTC
via gpfans.comFerrari F1 boss hits back at Lewis Hamilton and Charles LeclercFerrari F1 team principal Fred Vasseur has publicly addressed criticism from drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc following a challenging Italian Grand Prix at Monza. The race saw Leclerc crash out early and Hamilton finish in sixth place after their on-track collision on the first lap. Vasseur emphasized the need for both drivers to prioritize the team's interests and take responsibility for their actions on the track, reflecting on the importance of team unity in achieving success.
In his statement, Vasseur acknowledged the pressures of his role and the speculation surrounding his future at Ferrari. He clarified that while he encourages open communication, drivers must be mindful of how their comments can be interpreted by the media. Vasseur's remarks come as Ferrari aims to improve its performance, currently holding second place in the Constructors' Championship, and he remains focused on the team's progress despite external pressures.Fri 11 Sep · 07:59 UTC
via Motorsport.comCharles Leclerc gives insight into eyesight problem after Monza F1 crashCharles Leclerc provided details about his experience following a crash at the Italian Grand Prix, where he lost control of his car and hit the barriers. Although he initially faced some vision issues in his right eye, he reported that these problems were short-lived and resolved shortly after the incident. Leclerc was cleared from the medical center but mentioned he would need further checks to ensure his fitness for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix.
In the days following the crash, Leclerc underwent several medical evaluations, mainly addressing neck tightness. He described the crash as significant but noted that he felt fine after the initial shock wore off. Leclerc's medical assessments were satisfactory, allowing him to prepare for the next race without major concerns.Fri 11 Sep · 07:48 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc isn’t contractually ‘allowed’ to do what Lewis Hamilton routinely does at FerrariCharles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton participated in a Ferrari event before the Monza race, highlighting the demanding nature of the weekend. A notable difference in their contracts emerged, as Hamilton is allowed to decline interview requests, giving him more control over his media engagements compared to Leclerc, who must adhere to Ferrari's guidelines.
This contractual disparity affects their visibility and interactions with fans. Leclerc's extensive media presence contrasts with Hamilton's limited interviews, which may influence public perception, especially after a controversial incident during the race where Hamilton accused Leclerc of causing him to lose positions.Fri 11 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via theguardian.comSports quiz of the week: Monza drama, US Open heroics and unusual side hustlesThis week's sports quiz highlights significant events across various sports, including Formula 1 and tennis. Kimi Antonelli made history by becoming the first Italian driver to win a home grand prix in 60 years, while Elena Rybakina's victory at the US Open propelled her to the women's world No. 1 ranking after defeating Zheng Qinwen.
In other notable events, Ben Shelton's victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open quarter-finals marked a historic moment, and Bernie Ecclestone's detention in Portugal raised questions about an item found on his private jet. Additionally, Matthew Brennan's success in the Vuelta a España adds to the week's sporting achievements.
Fri 11 Sep · 05:00 UTC
via newsonf1.comLeclerc cleared to race as Ferrari tension coolsSep.11 (GMM) Charles Leclerc has been cleared to race in Madrid after further medical checks following his heavy Monza crash, while Ferrari appears to have calmed the tensions exposed during its disastrous home weekend. “It felt like a serious accident,” Leclerc, who reported vision problems after the impact, said on Thursday. “But all the checks…
via f1chronicle.comPierre Gasly Says Monza Pole Brings New Belief and Motivation to Alpine Ahead of MadridPierre Gasly says his maiden pole position at Monza has given Alpine new belief and motivation heading into Madrid The Frenchman says the result ended…Thu 10 Sep · 23:51 UTCPage 2 of 32