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via Sky Sports F1Italian GP: Schedule and how to watch on Sky SportsThe 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza is set to be a crucial race in the Formula 1 season, with Kimi Antonelli starting from the back of the grid due to a power unit change. Currently leading the Drivers' Championship, Antonelli's position opens up opportunities for his rivals, particularly Lando Norris, who has recently shown strong performance by winning the last two races. Ferrari, racing on home turf, is also expected to make a significant impact with new engines for their drivers, Hamilton and Leclerc, while Max Verstappen aims to defend his title from the previous year.
The race weekend will feature a full schedule of practice sessions and qualifying, culminating in the main event on September 6, 2026. The weather is expected to be favorable with sunny conditions and warm temperatures. Fans can watch the event live on Sky Sports, which will provide comprehensive coverage of all sessions throughout the weekend, including practice, qualifying, and the race itself.
Fri 28 Aug · 11:36 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli causes chaos in Amelia Dimoldenberg's "Passenger Princess"Kimi Antonelli, the Mercedes Formula 1 driver and championship leader, participated in an episode of the YouTube series 'Passenger Princess' hosted by Amelia Dimoldenberg. The episode showcased Antonelli's driving skills as he instructed Dimoldenberg on how to drive, leading to a chaotic and humorous experience, including attempts at doughnuts in a Mercedes SUV.
The episode was well-received, garnering over one million views and significant engagement on social media. Throughout the episode, Antonelli shared insights about his life as a driver, including his early start in go-karting and his pre-race rituals, while Dimoldenberg's comedic attempts at driving added to the entertainment.
Fri 28 Aug · 11:01 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes on Dutch GP team orders: We would’ve done the exact same thing the other way aroundMercedes confirmed that their team orders during the Dutch Grand Prix were aimed at maximizing their chances for a double podium finish. Kimi Antonelli was instructed to overtake George Russell late in the race, which allowed them to secure second and third places respectively, despite initial reservations from Russell about the decision.
After reviewing the race strategy, Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord stated that they would have made the same call had the positions been reversed. The team emphasized the importance of clear communication and strategy to avoid losing time between their drivers, ultimately leading to a successful outcome.Fri 28 Aug · 09:52 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell dealt brutal Valtteri Bottas comparison: 'It looks like it'George Russell, who joined Mercedes as a junior driver in 2017 and became a full-time driver in 2022, is facing challenges in his second year alongside teammate Kimi Antonelli. Currently, Antonelli holds a significant 59-point lead over Russell, prompting comparisons to Valtteri Bottas, who previously occupied a similar role at Mercedes. Guenther Steiner, former Haas team principal, noted that Russell's situation resembles Bottas's, but emphasized that Russell has the option to pursue opportunities elsewhere if he feels he is not receiving equal chances at Mercedes.
Steiner's comments highlight the pressure on Russell to perform and the potential for him to seek a lead driver position at another team if he is unhappy with his current role. While Bottas was content with his position for many years, Steiner indicated that Russell's future is ultimately in his own hands, especially as the current driver market has limited options for the upcoming season.
Fri 28 Aug · 08:10 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLawrence Stroll just ‘sounded out’ two F1 engine manufacturers as Aston Martin seek Plan-B to HondaAston Martin is exploring alternatives to their current engine supplier, Honda, due to disappointing performance in the 2026 F1 season. Lawrence Stroll has reached out to Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains to discuss potential engine supply deals for 2028, as Honda's engine has been criticized for being underpowered and problematic. Despite a recent points finish by Fernando Alonso, the team is considering a backup plan if Honda does not deliver significant improvements by 2027.
The partnership with Honda has faced challenges, including staff redistribution and design issues that have led to excessive vibrations in the engine. Stroll is aware of the financial implications and is weighing the possibility of returning to Mercedes or switching to Red Bull Powertrains. Meanwhile, Honda's leadership has committed to enhancing their engine's performance, but there are uncertainties about Aston Martin's future engine partnerships and the willingness of other manufacturers to accept them as customers.
Fri 28 Aug · 08:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comF1TV man admits he gets 'anxious' interviewing Lewis Hamilton after a bad raceLawrence Barretto, a presenter for F1TV, has shared his feelings of anxiety when interviewing Lewis Hamilton after challenging races. Hamilton's candid nature has made him a difficult interviewee in the past, particularly during tough moments, but this season has seen a notable change in his attitude following improved performances with Ferrari. Despite this, Barretto still feels apprehensive about how Hamilton will respond after disappointing races.
During the recent Dutch Grand Prix, Hamilton was visibly frustrated with Ferrari's strategic decisions, particularly regarding team orders. He expressed his desire to win and was more articulate in his post-race comments than in previous instances. This shift in Hamilton's demeanor has been recognized by media members, indicating a potential resurgence in his competitive spirit.Fri 28 Aug · 06:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Italian Grand Prix Odds Shift Following Antonelli PenaltyThe upcoming Italian Grand Prix sees a significant change in betting odds due to a penalty for driver Antonelli. This development has led to a new favorite emerging for the race at Monza.Thu 27 Aug · 15:30 UTC
via grandprix.comSchumacher calls Antonelli Mercedes' clear number oneRalf Schumacher has stated that Kimi Antonelli has positioned himself as the leading driver for Mercedes in the current championship, holding a significant points lead over teammates George Russell and Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli's consistency, with ten podium finishes out of twelve races, has contributed to this perception, despite Mercedes not officially naming a number one driver.
As the season progresses, Antonelli's recent engine change will see him start from the back at Monza, presenting Russell with an opportunity to close the points gap. Schumacher suggests that Russell should concentrate on racing rather than the internal team dynamics, although he acknowledges that the situation may evolve as the season continues.
via racer.comAntonelli says Mercedes no longer has F1’s fastest carKimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, has acknowledged that Mercedes is no longer the fastest team in Formula 1 following Lando Norris' recent victories with McLaren. Antonelli emphasized the need for an upgrade package to help Mercedes regain its competitive edge, as he believes McLaren has made significant advancements in performance, especially since the Hungarian Grand Prix.
George Russell, Antonelli's teammate, won the Sprint race in Zandvoort and commented on the challenges of overtaking at the circuit. He expressed confidence in the team's efforts to improve their car and noted that McLaren's strengths on high-degradation circuits could pose a challenge for Mercedes in the upcoming races.
via f1oversteer.comLando Norris ‘reminded’ Jolyon Palmer of Mika Hakkinen after what he saw at the Dutch Grand PrixJolyon Palmer saw shades of Mika Hakkinen fighting Michael Schumacher in how Lando Norris overtook Andrea Kimi Antonelli to win the 2026 F1 Dutch Grand ...Thu 27 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Mercedes F1 theory raised over new George Russell 'mission'George Russell is currently in a challenging position in the drivers' championship, trailing his teammate Kimi Antonelli by 59 points. As the 2026 season progresses, former F1 team boss Guenther Steiner suggests that Mercedes has tasked Russell with a new mission: to support Antonelli's title bid, indicating a shift in team dynamics as they navigate the second half of the season.
The team has already begun implementing this strategy, as seen in the recent Dutch Grand Prix where Russell was instructed to allow Antonelli to pass him. Steiner emphasizes that this approach reflects a more mature leadership under Toto Wolff, who is now better positioned to manage team orders and internal relationships compared to past seasons marked by significant rivalries.Thu 27 Aug · 08:10 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell outlines "tough" battle to keep Lewis Hamilton off the Dutch GP podiumGeorge Russell faced a challenging race at the Dutch Grand Prix, finishing in third place after a strong performance against teammate Kimi Antonelli and a late push from Lewis Hamilton. Despite being under pressure, Russell managed to secure his position, highlighting the competitive nature of the race and the ongoing battle within the Mercedes team.
Looking ahead, Russell acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of McLaren and Ferrari, especially with upcoming upgrades. He emphasized the importance of the next few races for Mercedes, as they aim to maintain their lead in both championships while adapting to the evolving performance of their rivals.Thu 27 Aug · 08:08 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 paddock insider shares fascinating verdict on Aston Martin's billionaire owner Lawrence StrollRalf Schumacher has praised Lawrence Stroll, the billionaire owner of Aston Martin, for his significant contributions to Formula 1 since entering the sport in 2018. Stroll's leadership has seen the team evolve from Force India to Aston Martin, with substantial investments in infrastructure and personnel, including the hiring of Adrian Newey and the signing of Fernando Alonso as a driver.
Schumacher believes that Stroll's assertiveness and passion for the sport are beneficial for F1, and he is optimistic about Aston Martin's prospects for the remainder of the season. Following a major car upgrade, the team has shown improvement, with Alonso recently scoring points, indicating a positive trajectory for their performance.
Wed 26 Aug · 21:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Mercedes launches Kimi Antonelli W17 inspection amid Wolff upgrades claim – roundupMercedes has initiated a thorough investigation into Kimi Antonelli's W17 car following his reports of persistent understeer during the Dutch Grand Prix. Team principal Toto Wolff revealed that the team lacks the financial resources to implement further upgrades in response to competitors' advancements, particularly with McLaren's recent successes highlighted by Lando Norris's back-to-back victories.
In addition to the Mercedes situation, the article covers other key developments in Formula 1, including Fernando Alonso's challenges with the new Honda engine and Max Verstappen's contract extension with Red Bull until 2030. Carlos Sainz's commitment to Williams for the 2027 season is also noted, emphasizing the ongoing dynamics of driver contracts and team strategies in the sport.
Wed 26 Aug · 19:01 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMercedes are working on a secret 'weapon' to get Kimi Antonelli on the Monza podium despite penaltyMercedes has confirmed that Kimi Antonelli will start from the back of the grid at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix due to an engine penalty. In response to the high expectations from local fans, the team is working on a secret 'weapon' that includes a revised turbocharger and a new fuel formula to enhance performance and help Antonelli navigate through the field effectively. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the numerous overtaking opportunities available at the Monza circuit.
The decision to take the penalty was made in consultation with Antonelli's father, reflecting the pressure on the young driver as the championship leader. The last Italian driver to win at Monza was Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966, making this a significant race for the Tifosi. With the new turbo and fuel enhancements, Mercedes hopes to regain its competitive edge and potentially alter the championship landscape, as Antonelli is determined to make a strong showing despite starting in 20th position.Wed 26 Aug · 18:00 UTCvia f1oversteer.comMercedes are working on a secret 'weapon' to get Kimi Antonelli on the Monza podium despite penaltyMercedes has confirmed that Kimi Antonelli will start from the back of the grid at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix due to an engine penalty. In response to the high expectations from local fans, the team is working on a secret 'weapon' that includes a revised turbocharger and a new fuel formula to enhance performance and help Antonelli navigate through the field effectively. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the numerous overtaking opportunities available at the Monza circuit.
The decision to take the penalty was made in consultation with Antonelli's father, reflecting the pressure on the young driver as the championship leader. The last Italian driver to win at Monza was Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966, making this a significant race for the Tifosi. With the new turbo and fuel enhancements, Mercedes hopes to regain its competitive edge and potentially alter the championship landscape, as Antonelli is determined to make a strong showing despite starting in 20th position.Wed 26 Aug · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes searching for answers after Kimi Antonelli’s pace fell off in F1 Dutch GPKimi Antonelli faced challenges during the Dutch Grand Prix, finishing second after a strong start but struggling with car balance in the latter stages of the race. Mercedes is investigating the issues he encountered, particularly the increased oversteer with each tyre change, as they prepare for the next race in Italy where Antonelli will incur an engine penalty due to earlier reliability problems.
Despite his difficulties, Antonelli managed to extend his championship lead, with support from teammate George Russell, who allowed him to pass during the race. The team is focused on resolving the performance issues before the upcoming race, as competition tightens in the championship standings.Wed 26 Aug · 12:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAston Martin have started ‘exploring’ another Mercedes engine deal with Toto WolffAston Martin is currently in discussions with Mercedes to explore alternative engine options after a disappointing performance with Honda. The team, which switched to Honda engines at the end of the 2025 season, has faced significant challenges, including a loss of over a second per lap despite recent upgrades. Meetings between Aston Martin and Mercedes have taken place throughout the season, indicating a potential shift back to Mercedes engines in the future.
While Aston Martin has not issued an ultimatum to Honda, they are clearly seeking to apply pressure for improvements. The team has also been in talks with other companies regarding power unit options, with a deal with Mercedes being viewed as the most logical next step. Honda's recent performance has not met expectations, leading to uncertainty about the partnership's future.Wed 26 Aug · 10:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Nico Rosberg offers 'disaster' verdict over Mercedes team orderDuring the Dutch Grand Prix, George Russell was instructed by Mercedes to allow teammate Kimi Antonelli to pass, which he did on lap 66. This decision came after a virtual safety car period and raised concerns for Russell about losing a potential double podium finish due to the presence of Ferrari drivers behind him. Nico Rosberg commented on the situation, stating that it was a difficult decision that could negatively impact Russell's championship hopes.
Rosberg acknowledged that while the team order was tough for Russell, it was necessary to ensure the best outcome for the team. Ultimately, the decision allowed Antonelli to secure second place, while Russell finished third, maintaining his position in the championship but falling further behind Antonelli, who now leads by 59 points.Wed 26 Aug · 05:25 UTC
via gpfans.comTragic death of Italian star reorders Antonelli priorities: 'First and foremost, health'Kimi Antonelli celebrated his 20th birthday while leading the Formula 1 championship with six wins this season. His father, Marco Antonelli, reflected on the significance of health in light of the recent passing of Italian driver Cedric Sbirrazzuoli, who died at the age of 39 from cancer. Marco's poignant message highlighted the need to prioritize well-being over the pursuit of fame and fortune in motorsport.
As Kimi continues to excel in his racing career, Marco expressed hopes that his son remains true to himself and enjoys his passion for racing. The Antonelli family has always viewed motorsport as a part of their daily lives, and Kimi's journey to F1 has been marked by both talent and fortunate opportunities.Tue 25 Aug · 17:45 UTCPage 10 of 19