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via f1chronicle.comToto Wolff Admits George Russell Struggled to Accept Kimi Antonelli’s Blistering Start to 2026Toto Wolff revealed that George Russell has found it challenging to cope with Kimi Antonelli's impressive performance at the start of the 2026 season, where Antonelli won five races in a row. Russell, who was expected to be a strong contender for the Drivers' Championship, is currently 66 points behind Antonelli after winning the recent Baku Grand Prix.
Wolff discussed the emotional impact of having a competitive young teammate like Antonelli, stating that Russell has faced difficulties throughout the season, including an engine failure at the Canadian Grand Prix. As the championship battle continues, Wolff emphasised the importance of managing the rivalry between the two Mercedes drivers, drawing on his experiences from previous seasons.
Fri 2 Oct · 22:25 UTC41
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies admits he'd love the Max Verstappen 'problem' Martin Brundle can now see for Red BullLaurent Mekies of Red Bull Racing expressed enthusiasm about the competitive dynamic between Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, following their recent success. The duo achieved a double podium finish, marking a significant improvement for the team this season, and Mekies highlighted Hadjar's impressive performance in Baku as a turning point for the second seat at Red Bull.
Mekies acknowledged the potential challenges of managing two strong drivers competing for points but views it as a positive situation for the team. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and the possibility of making difficult decisions in the future, indicating that both drivers are committed to maximizing team results. With Hadjar eager to establish his position and Verstappen focusing on the upcoming season, Red Bull appears to be in a strong position moving forward.
Fri 2 Oct · 19:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli’s Sepang ‘data’ just proved Mercedes’ Bahrain GP simulations were horribly wrongMercedes must start from scratch at the 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, after Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell’s data proved their simulations ...Fri 2 Oct · 16:00 UTC/PRACTICE%20DEBRIEF%20header%20Bahrain%20Malaysia.webp)
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.
Fri 2 Oct · 13:28 UTC
via racer.comF1 teams adapt to challenging Sepang circuit conditionsMercedes and other teams are adjusting to the demanding surface of the Sepang International Circuit as Formula 1 returns to Malaysia. The circuit, which has not hosted a Grand Prix since 2017, presents unique challenges for drivers and teams alike.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 11:42 UTC
via PlanetF1‘Brave and brilliant’ – Martin Brundle leads tributes after heartbreaking newsMartin Brundle has expressed his condolences following the death of Esther Rantzen, a prominent British television personality, who passed away at the age of 86 after battling lung cancer. Rantzen was well-known for her long-running show That's Life! and for founding the charity Childline, which provides support for children in need.
In his tribute, Brundle praised Rantzen as a brave and brilliant communicator. He highlighted her advocacy for assisted dying after her cancer diagnosis in 2023. Brundle, a former Formula 1 driver and current commentator, has returned to his role at the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is being held in Malaysia this year due to a rescheduling.
Fri 2 Oct · 10:31 UTC
via newsonf1.comAntonelli considering Monaco moveOct.2 (GMM) Kimi Antonelli could soon join Formula 1’s growing Monaco contingent, with Prince Albert revealing that the Mercedes championship leader is considering moving to the Principality. Antonelli, who was born in Bologna and currently lives in San Marino, moved away from the family home as his Formula 1 career accelerated. Prince Albert revealed the…
via f1oversteer.comChristian Horner denies Ferrari team principal rumoursMartin Brundle has shared that Christian Horner dismissed speculation regarding his potential move to Ferrari as team principal during a recent phone call. The former Red Bull team principal clarified that he is not pursuing any management role at the Scuderia.+ 4 moreFri 2 Oct · 06:30 UTC36
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell believes he can challenge Kimi AntonelliGeorge Russell expressed confidence in his ability to compete for the Formula 1 title, stating he is no longer 'lost' in his Mercedes. After reducing Kimi Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, Russell feels invigorated and ready to take on the challenge.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 21:33 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli makes eye-catching Mercedes F1 admission after 'conscious decision'Kimi Antonelli has acknowledged his personal growth in Formula 1, particularly after his performance in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix where he finished fifth. He started the race from 16th due to a wall collision during qualifying, marking a significant recovery that he attributes to a conscious decision to drive within his limits rather than risk a potential no-score.
Reflecting on his progress over the past year, Antonelli stated that he would not have been capable of such a strategic approach 12 months ago. He recognised the importance of securing points in challenging situations, especially after a disrupted weekend filled with difficulties, and expressed satisfaction with his decision to prioritize a safe finish over aggressive driving.
Thu 1 Oct · 17:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc defends Fred Vasseur amid Horner rumoursCharles Leclerc has publicly supported Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur in response to speculation linking Christian Horner to the role. The comments come after Horner's remarks prompted a strong reaction from Leclerc, who described the situation as 'disrespectful'.Thu 1 Oct · 14:20 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli and George Russell in title showdownKimi Antonelli has stated his intention to 're-establish the order' over George Russell at the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix, as the two Mercedes drivers compete for the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers' Championship. With eight rounds remaining, Russell believes Antonelli is now 'under pressure' following recent performances.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli on the hard call that rescued his Azerbaijan GP weekendKimi Antonelli faced a challenging Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, starting from 16th on the grid due to technical difficulties and a crash in qualifying. To salvage his race, he made a strategic decision to drive conservatively, allowing other drivers to make mistakes while he focused on finishing the race safely.
Despite his struggles, Antonelli's fifth-place finish kept him well ahead in the championship standings, with a 66-point lead over his teammate George Russell, who won the race. Antonelli's approach demonstrated maturity and adaptability in a difficult situation, as he prioritised securing points over aggressive driving.
Thu 1 Oct · 12:54 UTC
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.Thu 1 Oct · 11:52 UTC
via BBC SportRussell says his 'confidence is back and growing'George Russell expressed renewed confidence following his recent victory in Azerbaijan, stating he no longer feels lost and is ready to compete for wins consistently. With seven or eight races remaining, he aims to close the 66-point gap to his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Russell noted that he has adjusted his driving style to better suit the Mercedes car, allowing him to focus more on speed rather than adjustments.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton backed Ferrari's team principal Frederic Vasseur amidst speculation about his future, asserting that removing him would be a mistake. Hamilton highlighted Ferrari's improvement this season, noting their second place in the constructors' championship despite a power deficit compared to rivals. He emphasised the importance of building on their progress and maintaining a strong foundation for future success.
Thu 1 Oct · 11:07 UTC
via Formula1.comAntonelli believes Russell has ‘got the momentum’Kimi Antonelli has expressed his belief that George Russell has gained significant momentum following his recent victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite maintaining a 66-point lead in the drivers' standings, Antonelli acknowledges the challenge Russell poses, especially after his strong performance in Baku where he secured pole position and ultimately won the race.
Looking ahead to the Bahrain Grand Prix, Antonelli is optimistic about the upgrades Mercedes will introduce, which he hopes will enhance the car's grip and downforce. He is eager to test his skills on the Sepang circuit, noting the importance of improving in areas such as managing long corners. Antonelli remains focused on achieving the best results and is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.Thu 1 Oct · 10:19 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer says Kimi Antonelli's 'grandmother' comments give George Russell a 'glimmer' of hopeGeorge Russell's recent victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has reignited his hopes for the F1 Drivers' Championship, especially after teammate Kimi Antonelli's admission of struggling with confidence. Antonelli, who finished fifth after starting from sixteenth, described his cautious driving style as akin to that of a 'grandmother', which has raised questions about his current form.
Jolyon Palmer noted that Antonelli's comments could provide Russell with a psychological edge as the season progresses. Russell's dominant performance, leading every lap of the race, showcased a change in his driving style, which may further pressure Antonelli as they head into the next race in Bahrain.Thu 1 Oct · 10:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Lawrence 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.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 09:08 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli expects major gains from Mercedes upgradesAndrea Kimi Antonelli has stated that Mercedes' engineers anticipate a significant improvement in lap times from their upcoming updates at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. Bernie Collins has noted that rivals are closely monitoring the W17 following these developments.Thu 1 Oct · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli target Australia's iconic Bathurst 12 Hour raceMax Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli are set to compete in the Bathurst 12 Hour race in early 2027, with the event taking place on February 14 at Mount Panorama Circuit in New South Wales. Other Formula 1 stars, including Lance Stroll and Valtteri Bottas, have also expressed interest in participating in this prestigious GT3 event.
Verstappen is expected to race with his own team, Verstappen Racing, supported by Mercedes AMG. He has previously shown strong performance in endurance racing, nearly winning the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2026. Antonelli, the current F1 championship leader, has familial ties to the GT3 scene, as his father manages a team in the Italian GT championship.
Thu 1 Oct · 07:45 UTCPage 1 of 30