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via Motorsport.comLaurent Mekies credited with ending Red Bull's second seat "curse"Laurent Mekies, the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, has been credited with transforming the team's culture, which has reportedly helped Isack Hadjar thrive in his role. Will Buxton highlighted that Mekies has replaced the historically ruthless environment with a more supportive atmosphere, allowing drivers to perform better without excessive pressure.
Hadjar, who was promoted to Red Bull in 2026, impressed in his first race back after recovering from a wrist injury, finishing third. The change in management style under Mekies is seen as a significant factor in lifting what was referred to as Red Bull's second seat 'curse', which had previously troubled the team in finding a suitable teammate for Max Verstappen.
via f1oversteer.comFranco Colapinto accuses Lando Norris of not acting like a ‘champion’ like Max VerstappenFranco Colapinto has expressed disappointment in Lando Norris' reaction to their crash during the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, suggesting that Norris does not embody the qualities of a champion like Max Verstappen. Colapinto's comments came after he caused a three-car incident that eliminated both him and Norris from the race, leading to a heated exchange where Norris called for Colapinto to be banned from Formula 1.
Despite the initial outburst, Norris later apologised for his comments. Colapinto highlighted the difference in their reactions, noting that Verstappen has historically shown understanding towards younger drivers making mistakes, which he believes makes Verstappen a role model for aspiring racers. The situation has opened the door for further discourse as they approach the next race in Bahrain.
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen addresses Alonso GT3 partnership rumoursMax Verstappen has dismissed speculation about teaming up with Fernando Alonso in GT3 racing. The Dutch driver confirmed his next appearance in GT3 machinery following his recent Aston Martin deal.
via the-race.comMax Verstappen to race GT3 in Portugal this monthMax Verstappen has confirmed he will compete in a GT3 race in Portugal later this month, marking his return to GT racing. This will be his first appearance in GT3 machinery since the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
via f1oversteer.comIsack Hadjar has realised Liam Lawson was right about Max Verstappen after joining Red BullIsack Hadjar has expressed his admiration for Max Verstappen after joining Red Bull Racing, echoing Liam Lawson's sentiments about the four-time world champion. Hadjar feels fortunate to be racing alongside Verstappen, describing him as a kind and supportive teammate who provides invaluable guidance early in his career.
Despite the challenges of competing against Verstappen, Hadjar is grateful for the opportunity and acknowledges the difficulty of the current Formula 1 landscape. Red Bull has confirmed that Hadjar will remain with the team for the 2027 season, making him only the second driver since 2018 to spend two or more seasons alongside Verstappen.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen explains why his ‘pure pace’ was stronger as an 18-year-old F1 driver than nowMax Verstappen has shared insights on his racing evolution, stating that his raw pace as an 18-year-old was stronger than it is now, despite his extensive experience in Formula 1. He attributes this to a shift in his racing mentality, where he no longer feels the need to be fast all the time, focusing instead on optimising his race weekends.
During a podcast appearance, Verstappen discussed how his experiences and personal life have changed since his teenage years. He noted that as he matured, he became calmer and more strategic in his approach to racing, understanding when to push and when to hold back. This evolution reflects not only his growth as a driver but also the changes in his life outside of racing.
via f1technical.netRed Bull drivers report performance boost from upgradesMax Verstappen and Isack Hadjar from Red Bull Racing noted a significant improvement in performance following the team's recent upgrades at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The upgrades, which included a five-part package focused on enhancing aerodynamic efficiency, contributed to their competitive edge during the race.
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell details F1 drivers' Langkawi boys' trip ahead of Bahrain GP in MalaysiaGeorge Russell, a driver for Mercedes, has shared insights about a recent trip to Langkawi, Malaysia, which he took with six other Formula 1 drivers ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix. The trip featured activities such as go-karting and sightseeing, with Russell expressing his admiration for the island's beauty and the friendliness of its people. He noted that the itinerary was influenced by Mercedes' title partner, Petronas.
In addition to Russell, Kimi Antonelli, his teammate, arrived in Malaysia early but chose to explore Kuala Lumpur and visit a water park. Antonelli currently leads the championship standings by 66 points, following Russell's victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The trip served as a unique way for the drivers to bond and prepare for the upcoming race.
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies relieved that furious Max Verstappen radio wasn’t broadcast at Azerbaijan GPLaurent Mekies, Red Bull's team principal, revealed that Max Verstappen was not pleased during qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he qualified eighth, his lowest position since Japan. Mekies shared data showing Verstappen lost significant time on the straights due to an engine issue, which contributed to his frustration expressed over team radio, although this communication was not broadcasted during the event.
In the race, Verstappen managed to finish second, just a tenth of a second behind George Russell, who had a strong performance. Despite the challenges faced in qualifying, Verstappen's driving earned him the driver of the day award, highlighting his capability to perform under pressure. With eight races remaining in the season, he aims to extend his streak of winning at least one race each year with Red Bull.
via Formula1.comVerstappen says Russell can still win title in 2026Max Verstappen has stated that George Russell requires a significant turnaround to challenge Kimi Antonelli for the world championship ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Russell recently reduced Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, reigniting his hopes in the title race.
via F1iToto Wolff perplexed by Mercedes' Sepang upgrade strugglesMercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed confusion over the team's performance following their latest upgrades at the Malaysian Grand Prix. Despite expectations of a three-tenths improvement, Wolff noted that the W17 car instead lost five-tenths due to increased drag and poor handling in low-speed corners.
via Formula1.comIsack Hadjar praises Max Verstappen as a benchmarkIsack Hadjar expressed his gratitude for having Max Verstappen as a benchmark in Formula 1, describing him as an intimidating reference point. Hadjar, who is in his second season with Red Bull, acknowledged the challenges of competing alongside Verstappen.
via PlanetF1Verstappen warns Mercedes upgrade may shift competitionMax Verstappen expressed caution regarding the impact of Mercedes' significant upgrades ahead of the Sepang practice session. Despite dominating the first practice, Verstappen acknowledged that the changes could alter the competitive landscape in Formula 1.
via CrashMax Verstappen on pole for Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaMax Verstappen secured pole position for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia after dominating the qualifying sessions. The race will take place at the Sepang circuit on Sunday, October 4.Wikimedia Commons · Christijan_Albers_2006.JPG: Mathieu Felten derivative work: Flyz1 · CC BY 2.5Albers says Piastri lacks Verstappen’s ‘bite’Sep.30 (GMM) Oscar Piastri’s difficult run has drawn fresh criticism after his mistake in Baku, with former F1 driver Christijan Albers questioning whether the McLaren driver has the aggression of a driver like Max Verstappen. The Australian had been on course for the 2025 title before his late-season collapse, and his struggles have continued into…
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli praises Max Verstappen's unique skillsKimi Antonelli has described Max Verstappen's abilities as 'incredible' following their recent wheel-to-wheel battles in Formula 1. Antonelli's comments highlight the unique advantages Verstappen possesses, which he observed during their encounters on track.
via gpfans.comKelly Piquet offers rare insight into F1 star Max Verstappen's private lifeIn a recent interview, Kelly Piquet provided a glimpse into her relationship with Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, revealing that he is a devoted family man who enjoys the comforts of home. Piquet highlighted how Verstappen prioritises family time, returning home promptly after his racing commitments, and how they share a life together in Monaco with their daughter, Lily.
Piquet described Verstappen as down-to-earth and grounded, contrasting his public persona as a fierce competitor. She expressed her appreciation for their equal partnership, noting that Verstappen does not seek the spotlight and prefers a quieter lifestyle, which aligns well with her own values.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen clarifies his comments about F1 becoming ‘easier’ after Liam Lawson disagreedMax Verstappen expressed his views on the 2026 Formula 1 cars, stating they are 'numb' to driver inputs, which he believes makes it easier for drivers to find their limits. This comment came after Liam Lawson, who recently replaced Isack Hadjar, performed impressively in qualifying, being only 0.115 seconds slower than Verstappen. Verstappen's remarks have sparked debate, particularly as Lawson disagreed, arguing that adapting to the new car was not straightforward due to the complexities introduced by new energy management protocols.
Verstappen further elaborated that the current cars favour a cautious driving style, allowing many drivers to achieve similar lap times. He noted that the small gaps in qualifying times this year, with seven out of eleven driver pairings within two-tenths of a second, support his theory that the cars do not reward the fastest drivers as much as before. This marks a significant change from the previous year, where the average gap between teammates was larger.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen proposes changes to F1 race weekendsMax Verstappen has outlined his vision for improving Formula 1, suggesting the elimination of Friday practice sessions. The Red Bull Racing driver believes these changes would enhance the overall experience of the Grand Prix weekend.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen picks overtake on Oscar Piastri as his favourite from his whole F1 careerMax Verstappen has declared his overtake on Oscar Piastri during the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix as his favourite move of his Formula 1 career. The Dutch driver executed the pass around the outside at the first chicane, a challenging overtaking spot, and went on to win the race by six seconds. He noted that the move was unexpected, particularly as Piastri braked earlier than anticipated.
In a discussion on the 'P1 with Matt and Tommy' YouTube channel, Verstappen reflected on the significance of the overtake, stating it was a pivotal moment in the race. Piastri acknowledged Verstappen's skill in the move, admitting he misjudged the situation. The overtake has since been recognised as the Overtake of the Year, highlighting Verstappen's prowess in wheel-to-wheel racing.Page 5 of 34