Andrea Kimi AntonelliGeorge RussellJenson ButtonRalf Schumacher 
via f1technical.netAntonelli reveals how he keeps his feet on the ground amid championship successAndrea Kimi Antonelli, the Mercedes driver, has had a stellar 2026 Formula 1 season, highlighted by his recent victory at the Spanish Grand Prix. He currently holds a commanding lead in the Drivers' Championship, significantly ahead of his teammate George Russell. Despite his success, Antonelli remains grounded, attributing his focus to the strong support system around him, particularly his father, who helps him stay humble and focused on his performance.
As the championship race intensifies, Antonelli is determined not to let the pressure of leading the standings affect his driving. He emphasizes the importance of concentrating on each race and extracting the best from himself and his car, rather than getting caught up in the championship implications. Antonelli's mindset is to keep things simple and avoid overthinking, allowing him to maintain his competitive edge as the season progresses.
f1technical.netMon 21 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner predicts Max Verstappen will go winless in 2026 F1 seasonGuenther Steiner, the former Haas Formula 1 team principal, has made a bold prediction that Max Verstappen will finish the 2026 Formula 1 season without a single victory. He believes that the current Red Bull Racing package is not competitive enough to secure wins, especially with strong performances from rivals Mercedes and McLaren.
Verstappen is currently sixth in the standings, significantly trailing championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Despite achieving second place in several races this season, he has acknowledged a performance gap compared to his competitors, indicating that improvements are still needed in the car's setup and performance.
Motorsport.comMon 21 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Verstappen crashes after life-threatening blowout as Hamilton suffers 'magic button' mishapDuring the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Max Verstappen experienced a life-threatening crash when his left-rear tyre exploded at high speed, leading to a collision with the wall. This incident occurred on lap 46, and Verstappen reported feeling no prior warning before the blowout. Pirelli later investigated and found no manufacturing defects in the tyres, attributing the failure to the specific running conditions on the track.
Simultaneously, Lewis Hamilton faced his own challenges when a switch on his steering wheel caused him to lose control at Turn 1 during the race restart. This mishap resulted in both championship contenders failing to score points, leaving the title fight unchanged but highlighting the precarious nature of their competition. Following the race, Mercedes made adjustments to their steering wheel design to avoid similar issues in the future.
RacingNews365Mon 21 Sep · 13:15 UTC
via PlanetF1Toto Wolff comments on George Russell's 2026 strugglesToto Wolff has acknowledged George Russell's difficulties in matching his Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Russell's performance has raised questions about his title aspirations as he continues to adapt to the competitive landscape.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 13:03 UTC
via Motorsport WeekNorris and Antonelli urge changes to Madring circuitLando Norris and Andrea Kimi Antonelli have called for modifications to the Madring circuit following its debut at the Spanish Grand Prix. Their comments come in response to the track's limitations highlighted during the race and the negative feedback from fans.
Motorsport Week+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 13:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Mercedes reveal clever tactic to deceive F1 rivalsMercedes has revealed that it uses secret codes during races to communicate with its drivers, ensuring that their strategies remain undisclosed to rival teams. This tactic was notably employed during the recent Spanish Grand Prix, where Kimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the season, aided by the timing of a virtual safety car.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes' race-side engineering director, explained that the team discusses potential race interruptions beforehand and adjusts their plans accordingly. The use of secret codes, which are changed weekly, allows them to signal strategies without alerting competitors, as all communications can be monitored by other teams.RacingNews365Mon 21 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Baku low-drag mastery points to one F1 team to fear in Azerbaijan GPMercedes arrives in Baku with strong momentum from recent races, particularly excelling in low-drag setups that suit the Azerbaijan Grand Prix's demands. Kimi Antonelli and George Russell are highlighted as key drivers to watch, with the W17 car demonstrating an effective balance of downforce and speed, crucial for the long straights and tight corners of the Baku circuit.
In contrast, Red Bull's Max Verstappen has shown improvement, podiuming in four of his last five races, making them a credible threat. Meanwhile, McLaren is reallocating engineering resources to support Oscar Piastri, while Ferrari's performance is under scrutiny due to concerns over their straight-line speed, which could hinder their competitiveness in Baku.RacingNews365Mon 21 Sep · 10:50 UTC
via CrashNico Rosberg advises Kimi Antonelli on title challengeNico Rosberg has warned Kimi Antonelli that his own mindset could be his greatest challenge in the pursuit of the 2026 Formula 1 title. Rosberg, a former champion, shared insights based on his own experiences in the sport.
Crash+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 08:31 UTC
via gpfans.comHinchcliffe says Hamilton and Ferrari's 2026 hopes are overJames Hinchcliffe has stated that Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari's chances of winning the 2026 Formula 1 championship are effectively finished after a costly retirement at the Spanish Grand Prix. The former IndyCar driver described Ferrari's performance as a 'resounding flop', further diminishing Hamilton's aspirations for an eighth world title.
gpfans.com+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 07:58 UTC
via the-race.comWhat Mercedes' rivals got so badly wrong in F1 2026After a disappointing Spanish Grand Prix, both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell of Mercedes have acknowledged that the 2026 Formula 1 title race is effectively over, with Kimi Antonelli dominating the standings. Antonelli has secured eight victories in 14 races, leaving his rivals struggling to keep pace, with Hamilton and Russell both failing to win in their last six outings.
Ferrari's early-season potential has not translated into consistent performance, as they have been outmaneuvered politically and technically. Meanwhile, McLaren's Lando Norris has shown promise with recent wins, but the team admits to having fallen behind in development. Looking ahead, both Ferrari and McLaren are under pressure to improve for the 2027 season, with McLaren planning significant changes to their car design.
the-race.comMon 21 Sep · 06:14 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen surprisingly snubbed for Kimi Antonelli in F1 rankingGuenther Steiner, a former Formula 1 team principal, has expressed his preference for Kimi Antonelli over Max Verstappen in a hypothetical draft scenario. Steiner stated that if he had to choose a driver for a four-year contract, he would select Antonelli, citing his impressive performance this season as a key factor.
Kimi Antonelli has made a significant impact in Formula 1 this year, currently leading his teammate George Russell by 66 points and securing seven race victories. Steiner's comments highlight the rising star's potential, contrasting with Verstappen's established success, including four consecutive championships from 2021 to 2024.RacingNews365Mon 21 Sep · 05:25 UTC
via Motorsport.comLando Norris predicted to overtake George Russell in 2026 F1 standingsGuenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has expressed confidence that Lando Norris will surpass George Russell in the 2026 Formula 1 drivers' championship standings. Currently, Norris sits in fourth place with 186 points, while Russell holds second with 211 points, and Kimi Antonelli leads the championship with 292 points.
Norris has recently experienced a surge in performance, winning consecutive races at the Hungarian and Dutch Grands Prix. Following these victories, he emphasized the improvements within the McLaren team and his belief in their potential to compete for the championship. Norris remains optimistic about the team's ability to enhance their car and maintain their momentum as the season progresses.Motorsport.comSun 20 Sep · 21:11 UTC
via PlanetF1Kimi Antonelli discusses friendship with Sebastian VettelKimi Antonelli has shared insights about his friendship with four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel as he approaches a significant milestone in his career. Antonelli is on track to potentially break one of Vettel's long-standing records this season.PlanetF1+ 1 moreSun 20 Sep · 12:24 UTC
via PlanetF1George Russell ‘on the ropes’ as pundits weigh in on ‘painful’ Mercedes realityGeorge Russell is experiencing a challenging season in Formula 1, currently trailing his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Despite securing two grand prix victories, Antonelli has dominated with eight wins and holds an 81-point lead. Russell has openly admitted that Antonelli has performed better this year, a stark contrast to last season when he outscored Antonelli significantly. This shift in momentum has raised concerns about Russell's championship prospects.
Former drivers David Coulthard and Nico Rosberg have weighed in on Russell's situation, commending his attitude and acknowledgment of Antonelli's performance. Coulthard noted that Russell is handling the pressure well, while Rosberg highlighted the psychological challenges Russell faces as he questions his own abilities. The 2026 season has seen notable changes in driver performances, with several drivers experiencing swings in their standings compared to the previous year.PlanetF1Sun 20 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner compares Madring backlash to Las Vegas debut with 2027 warningGuenther Steiner has called for urgent modifications to the Madring circuit following the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, which was criticized for its lack of excitement and overtaking opportunities. He highlighted the need for improvements to avoid repeating the negative reception that the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix received. Steiner emphasized that the organizers must ensure the track is suitable for the 2027 season, as it is part of a 10-year contract.
The race saw Kimi Antonelli secure his eighth victory of the season, further solidifying his lead in the drivers' standings. Steiner's comments reflect a broader concern about maintaining the quality and competitiveness of Formula 1 events, especially in new venues. He noted that while initial reactions can be negative, with time and adjustments, events like Las Vegas can become successful and iconic.Motorsport.comSun 20 Sep · 10:28 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull issue FIA response as Kimi Antonelli shares unique dream - RacingNews365 ReviewRed Bull Racing's boss Laurent Mekies has stated that the team is open to discussions about the future of the ADUO regulations, following a proposal from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem aimed at supporting Honda's involvement in Formula 1. This response indicates Red Bull's proactive stance in engaging with regulatory changes that could impact the sport's landscape.
In addition to the regulatory discussions, Kimi Antonelli shared his aspirations to achieve a level of fan support similar to that of Valentino Rossi. Meanwhile, Lando Norris has made a significant decision by appointing Rene Rosin to lead his new junior racing team, LN4 Fusion. Sergio Perez is hopeful about the introduction of a new Ferrari engine at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, while Sebastian Vettel has weighed in on the ongoing criticism regarding the new cars introduced this season.RacingNews365Sat 19 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli shows no signs of championship pressureMercedes Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli is demonstrating confidence as he approaches his first championship title, according to former driver Jolyon Palmer. David Coulthard also commended George Russell for acknowledging Antonelli's strong performance in the current season.Motorsport.comSat 19 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli handed praise from major rival: 'An asset for F1'Kimi Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, has had a remarkable 2026 Formula 1 season, securing eight victories and establishing a commanding 81-point lead in the drivers' championship. His performance has drawn praise from notable figures in the sport, including McLaren's team principal Andrea Stella, who described Antonelli as an 'asset for F1' and acknowledged his consistent growth and skill on the track.
Flavio Briatore, Alpine's boss, also highlighted Antonelli's rising status in Italy, comparing him to tennis star Janick Sinner. Briatore noted that Antonelli's success is beneficial for both Formula 1 and Italy, as he is quickly becoming one of the country's most recognized athletes. The combination of Antonelli's talent and his potential to attract fans away from traditional teams like Ferrari marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of F1.RacingNews365Sat 19 Sep · 13:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen left furious after multiple George Russell clashes - ThrowbackDuring the 2023 Azerbaijan sprint race, tensions flared between Max Verstappen and George Russell when they collided at the start. Russell attempted to overtake Verstappen but lost control due to understeer, damaging Verstappen's car significantly. Despite the incident, race control deemed it a racing incident, resulting in no penalties for either driver. Verstappen managed to recover and finish third in the sprint race, while Russell ended up in eighth place in the main race despite setting the fastest lap.
After the sprint, Verstappen confronted Russell in parc fermé, expressing his frustration over the collision. Russell defended his actions, stating he had no grip, while Verstappen insisted that drivers need to leave space. Their heated exchange highlighted the competitive nature of the sport, with Verstappen's sarcastic radio message following his successful pass at the restart further emphasizing the tension between the two drivers.RacingNews365Sat 19 Sep · 12:50 UTC
via Motorsport.comRob Smedley explains Peter Bonnington's key role in Kimi Antonelli's F1 successRob Smedley has highlighted the significant role of Peter Bonnington in Kimi Antonelli's impressive performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Antonelli, who has become the youngest driver to lead the championship standings, has achieved back-to-back victories at the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix. Currently, he holds an 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, showcasing his dominance in the series. Smedley acknowledges Bonnington's contributions as Antonelli's race engineer, emphasizing that while Bonnington provides crucial support, it is Antonelli who must deliver results on race day.
Antonelli himself has expressed gratitude for working with Bonnington, recognizing the engineer's extensive experience with legendary drivers like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. He appreciates the guidance Bonnington offers as he navigates new challenges in his racing career. Smedley and co-host Otmar Szafnauer also discussed the importance of communication between Antonelli and Bonnington, noting that Antonelli's feedback is vital for optimizing performance. Overall, the collaboration between Antonelli and Bonnington is seen as a key factor in Antonelli's successful title charge.Motorsport.comSat 19 Sep · 12:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli shares Valentino Rossi dream for own F1 careerKimi Antonelli, currently competing in his second season of Formula 1, has expressed his desire to emulate the strong fan connection that Valentino Rossi maintained throughout his illustrious career. Rossi, a seven-time MotoGP champion, retired in 2021 but continues to be a beloved figure among fans, often seen in merchandise at races. Antonelli, who is on track to potentially become the youngest world champion at just 20 years old, aspires to achieve a similar level of admiration and support from fans in his own racing career.
In addition to his aspirations in F1, Antonelli has formed friendships with notable athletes in other sports, including MotoGP's Marco Bezzecchi and tennis star Jannik Sinner. He values these relationships for the motivation and understanding they provide in managing the pressures of elite competition. Antonelli's admiration for Rossi's ability to attract a large audience and his mental resilience during races highlights his ambition to create a lasting impact in the world of motorsport.RacingNews365Sat 19 Sep · 09:30 UTC
via F1iWolff reveals why Antonelli won’t ‘lose the plot’ in title bidToto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, has expressed confidence in Kimi Antonelli's ability to maintain focus during his championship bid, as Antonelli currently holds an 81-point lead. Wolff noted that the young driver has shown no signs of being distracted by his success, attributing this to Antonelli's grounded personality and strong family support. Despite the pressure of leading the championship, Antonelli remains committed to his racing approach, focusing on each race without overcomplicating his strategy.
Wolff emphasized that while the team is aware of potential distractions, Antonelli's mindset allows him to compartmentalize his life and racing. The Mercedes team is actively discussing how to support Antonelli's development while ensuring he stays focused on the track. Antonelli himself echoed this sentiment, stating that he is fortunate to have a supportive team and family that keeps him grounded, allowing him to concentrate on performing his best in each race.
F1iSat 19 Sep · 08:09 UTC
via gpfans.comRUMOURFerrari boss 'annoyed' with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, claims F1 insiderFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur is reportedly frustrated with drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc following a first-lap incident during the Italian Grand Prix. Ralf Schumacher suggested that Vasseur's annoyance was due to Hamilton being forced off the track by Leclerc, which negatively impacted Hamilton's race, finishing in tenth place. Leclerc also faced difficulties, crashing shortly after the incident.
In response to the situation, Vasseur spoke with both drivers to remind them of the team's operational principles. Hamilton expressed his desire for clearer communication and 'rules of engagement' to prevent future conflicts. Both drivers later addressed the incident, with Leclerc admitting his mistake and Hamilton noting the importance of their open discussion to move forward.gpfans.comSat 19 Sep · 07:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Toto Wolff confirms 'unlock' needed to baffling George Russell mysteryToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has acknowledged that the team is puzzled by George Russell's inconsistent performance compared to teammate Kimi Antonelli. Despite a strong start to the season, Russell has only managed to win two races, while Antonelli has dominated with eight victories, creating an 81-point gap between them. Wolff emphasized the need for analysis to understand the underlying issues affecting Russell's pace, particularly highlighted during the recent Spanish Grand Prix.
Russell himself has pointed out that the changes in car regulations have not suited his driving style, which relies on smoother inputs rather than the high-rotation techniques favored this season. He has conceded that the championship is out of reach for him this year, acknowledging Antonelli's deserving lead. Wolff noted that the imbalance in performance between drivers is a common challenge in the sport, and he aims to provide support and transparency to both drivers as they navigate the season.RacingNews365Sat 19 Sep · 07:00 UTC