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RSS ↗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.
+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via PlanetF1The Red Bull decision that surprised Juan Pablo Montoya in BakuAt the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Red Bull achieved a double podium with Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar finishing second and third behind George Russell. Juan Pablo Montoya expressed surprise at Red Bull's decision to allow Hadjar to race Verstappen, especially as Verstappen struggled with his tyres. Hadjar indicated he had pace to overtake but was instructed to maintain position behind his teammate.
Montoya reflected on the potential outcome had Red Bull permitted Hadjar to pass Verstappen when he was having tyre issues. He noted that allowing Hadjar to race could have changed the dynamics of the race, especially with the possibility of multiple restarts. Despite the decision, Montoya appreciated that Red Bull encouraged Hadjar to race cleanly, indicating a shift in team strategy.
Wed 30 Sep · 06:53 UTC
via f1technical.netRussell and Verstappen reveal why Baku’s final laps were so much funGeorge Russell and Max Verstappen expressed their enjoyment of the final laps during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the intensity and excitement of the race. Russell, who secured victory, noted that the closing stages felt like a qualifying session, with both drivers pushing their limits on the Baku circuit.
The race featured two Safety Car periods that brought Verstappen closer to Russell, creating a thrilling battle. Both drivers appreciated the lack of tyre management required in the final stint, allowing them to race at full pace. Verstappen acknowledged the challenges of the Baku circuit, where proximity to the barriers added to the excitement.
Wed 30 Sep · 06:00 UTC
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.
Tue 29 Sep · 20:30 UTC
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.
Tue 29 Sep · 19:30 UTC
via Formula1.comWhere does Russell’s Baku win rank in the closest F1 finishes?George Russell secured a narrow victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. This margin is significant as it places Russell's win among the closest finishes in Formula 1 history, although it falls short of making the top 10 by a mere 0.014 seconds.
The article details the closest finishes in F1, highlighting races from various years, including the 2002 Austrian Grand Prix and the 1971 Italian Grand Prix. These races showcase the intense competition and narrow margins that can occur in Formula 1, with Russell's recent win adding to the legacy of thrilling finishes in the sport.
Tue 29 Sep · 15:42 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 teams prepare for weather challenges in Bahrain GPFormula 1 teams are bracing for potential thunderstorms and rain during the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia this weekend. The FIA has confirmed special measures to address the challenging weather conditions expected throughout the event.+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 15:27 UTC
via Formula1.comF1 Business Summit adds new Las Vegas speakersThe F1 Business Summit will feature Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu, chef Gordon Ramsay, and athlete Russell Wilson among others, taking place in Las Vegas on 19 November 2026. Komatsu's session will focus on leadership and innovation in Formula 1, while Ramsay will explore the business of hospitality during race weekends.
The event will also include discussions on athlete ownership and investment, with a keynote panel featuring Wilson and Shaun White. The Summit runs from 8am to 1pm, starting with a networking breakfast, and coincides with the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which occurs shortly after the Summit.Tue 29 Sep · 14:10 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell assigns 'most dominant' verdict as F1 title hopes reignitedGeorge Russell described his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as the most dominant of his career, achieving his first Grand Slam with a commanding victory. He secured pole position by a significant margin and led the race from start to finish, despite pressure from Max Verstappen, who was aiming for his first win of the season.
This victory has reignited Russell's championship hopes, as he has now reduced the points deficit to Kimi Antonelli to 66. Russell had been struggling earlier in the season, sitting 81 points behind Antonelli before the race, but this strong showing has boosted his confidence as he looks to continue closing the gap in upcoming races.Tue 29 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.com2 videos2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia's SepangThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking the venue's return to the Formula 1 calendar after a nine-year absence. This unique event has raised questions about the race's location, as it is officially named after Bahrain.+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 12:00 UTC
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.Tue 29 Sep · 11:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Pirelli faces challenges at Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaPirelli is preparing for unique challenges at the Bahrain Grand Prix, which will take place in Malaysia for the first time in nine years. Charles Leclerc recorded the fastest time during the second free practice session at Sepang International Circuit.+ 2 moreTue 29 Sep · 09:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Red Bull launches Verstappen engine investigation as penalty uncertainty growsRed Bull Racing has launched an investigation into Max Verstappen's engine issues that arose during the qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he finished eighth. Verstappen reported problems with his internal combustion engine, which worsened throughout the session, prompting the team to replace several components before the race.
Despite the qualifying setback, Verstappen managed to race from eighth to second place in the Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds behind race winner George Russell. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that while Verstappen may face a power unit penalty in the future, it remains uncertain pending further analysis of the engine issues.Tue 29 Sep · 09:04 UTC
via thejudge13.comVerstappen questions F1's Middle East race plansMax Verstappen has expressed concerns about Formula 1's decision to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He emphasised that safety should take precedence over contractual commitments.
+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 08:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri told why he’s ‘not a racer’ like Max Verstappen after getting caught ‘asleep’ in BakuOscar Piastri faced criticism following his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where a lock-up at turn one caused him to finish in thirteenth place. This incident occurred during a safety car restart while he was attempting to overtake George Russell, and it ultimately led to a disappointing race for McLaren, especially with teammate Lando Norris also facing issues.
Commentators like Christijan Albers and Jacques Villeneuve pointed out Piastri's lack of aggression and focus, suggesting he is not as competitive as drivers like Max Verstappen. Piastri has now gone eleven races without a podium, and with the next race at Sepang approaching, he is in urgent need of a turnaround in form to salvage his season.Tue 29 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via F1iMontoya defends Colapinto: ‘I admire people who try’Juan Pablo Montoya has come to the defence of Franco Colapinto following the Argentine's crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Colapinto collided with his teammate Pierre Gasly after locking up under braking, which also took out McLaren's Lando Norris. Despite the criticism directed at Colapinto, Montoya acknowledged the driver's aggressive approach and willingness to seize opportunities, suggesting that such instincts should not be stifled by a single mistake.
Montoya highlighted that Colapinto's error was a result of the challenging conditions during the Safety Car restart, where drivers often struggle to gauge the traffic ahead. He drew parallels between Colapinto's mindset and that of Max Verstappen, noting that while taking risks can lead to mistakes, it is also essential for achieving success in Formula 1. Colapinto's performance this season has seen him accumulate 27 points, while Gasly's standing at 41 points makes the loss of both Alpine cars particularly significant.
Tue 29 Sep · 07:23 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Kimi 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 moreTue 29 Sep · 06:08 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAlex Brundle says Kimi Antonelli didn't talk like a 'champion' at the Azerbaijan Grand PrixAlex Brundle has voiced concerns regarding Kimi Antonelli's performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Antonelli crashed during qualifying and started from P16. Despite a comeback to finish P5, Brundle noted that Antonelli's conservative driving could jeopardise his championship lead, which has now been reduced to 66 points following George Russell's victory.
Antonelli himself acknowledged that he held back during the race, stating he drove cautiously and did not take risks. He described the weekend as his worst of the year, indicating a need to improve his performance as the season progresses. With eight races remaining and a competitive field, Antonelli must regain his aggressive approach to maintain his championship advantage.Tue 29 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via gpfans.comRUMOURF1 News Today: Max Verstappen penalty claim disputed as champion issues public apologyMax Verstappen and Red Bull Racing's team principal Laurent Mekies have publicly disagreed over a potential penalty from the FIA. Verstappen fitted a new power unit before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and warned that any further changes could result in a grid penalty, a claim Mekies disputed.
In other news, Lando Norris issued an apology after demanding a rival driver be banned following his retirement from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to a collision. Additionally, team orders were revealed where Isack Hadjar was told not to overtake Verstappen during the race, while Christian Horner's comments have led to speculation about a possible move to Ferrari.Tue 29 Sep · 05:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen makes 'one second' declaration after George Russell defeatMax Verstappen narrowly missed out on his first victory of the season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing just behind George Russell. Starting from eighth position, Verstappen fought through the field but ultimately fell short, conceding that even a higher starting position might not have guaranteed him the win due to Russell's pace.
Despite the disappointment, Verstappen enjoyed the final laps of the race, particularly after a safety car allowed him to switch to softer tyres. He maintained a close gap to Russell, often around one second, but acknowledged that Russell's performance was strong enough to keep him ahead, even with some difficulties like boost lag.Tue 29 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Engine guru confirms Max Verstappen was right: 'I already had this view'Max Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current Formula 1 power units, arguing that they require excessive energy management, making the driving experience less authentic. His concerns have been echoed by renowned engine designer Mario Illien, who agrees that the balance between combustion and electric power is flawed, stating that the current setup diminishes the driver's role in racing.
Illien, who has extensive experience in F1 engine design, supports a shift in the power unit ratio that the FIA is considering, moving from a 52/48 split to a 58/42 ratio. However, he cautions that while this change may improve the situation, it will not fully resolve the underlying issues. Illien reminisces about the previous power unit configuration, which he believes was more effective and better received by fans.Mon 28 Sep · 17:15 UTC
via gpfans.comUntelevised Red Bull F1 radio reveals captivating Max Verstappen team orders to Isack HadjarDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Isack Hadjar received team orders from Red Bull not to overtake his teammate Max Verstappen, despite being faster on the track. This decision was communicated via untelevised radio exchanges, where Hadjar expressed his willingness to push for an attack on Oscar Piastri but was ultimately instructed to maintain his position behind Verstappen.
The strategy proved effective for Red Bull, as Verstappen managed to secure a better position after a safety car period, allowing him to challenge for the lead. The decision to keep Hadjar behind Verstappen, although controversial, resulted in a successful double podium for the team, highlighting the complexities of team dynamics in Formula 1.Mon 28 Sep · 16:44 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhy Mercedes thought Max Verstappen was "on some sort of massive bungee cord" in Azerbaijan GPDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell initially created a significant lead over Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, but the deployment of a safety car changed the race dynamics. After the safety car, Verstappen managed to close the gap and challenged Russell, leading to a nail-biting finish where only 0.196 seconds separated them at the line.
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord remarked on Verstappen's ability to catch up, likening it to being on a 'massive bungee cord'. Despite Russell's superior speed in the second sector, Verstappen's straight-line speed allowed him to stay close. The race highlighted the intense competition and strategic nuances of Formula 1, with Russell managing to maintain his lead despite the pressure.
Mon 28 Sep · 16:30 UTC
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.+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 07:00 UTCvia PlanetF1The Red Bull decision that surprised Juan Pablo Montoya in BakuAt the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Red Bull achieved a double podium with Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar finishing second and third behind George Russell. Juan Pablo Montoya expressed surprise at Red Bull's decision to allow Hadjar to race Verstappen, especially as Verstappen struggled with his tyres. Hadjar indicated he had pace to overtake but was instructed to maintain position behind his teammate.
Montoya reflected on the potential outcome had Red Bull permitted Hadjar to pass Verstappen when he was having tyre issues. He noted that allowing Hadjar to race could have changed the dynamics of the race, especially with the possibility of multiple restarts. Despite the decision, Montoya appreciated that Red Bull encouraged Hadjar to race cleanly, indicating a shift in team strategy.Wed 30 Sep · 06:53 UTCvia f1technical.netRussell and Verstappen reveal why Baku’s final laps were so much funGeorge Russell and Max Verstappen expressed their enjoyment of the final laps during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the intensity and excitement of the race. Russell, who secured victory, noted that the closing stages felt like a qualifying session, with both drivers pushing their limits on the Baku circuit.
The race featured two Safety Car periods that brought Verstappen closer to Russell, creating a thrilling battle. Both drivers appreciated the lack of tyre management required in the final stint, allowing them to race at full pace. Verstappen acknowledged the challenges of the Baku circuit, where proximity to the barriers added to the excitement.Wed 30 Sep · 06:00 UTCvia 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.Tue 29 Sep · 20:30 UTCvia 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.Tue 29 Sep · 19:30 UTCvia Formula1.comWhere does Russell’s Baku win rank in the closest F1 finishes?George Russell secured a narrow victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. This margin is significant as it places Russell's win among the closest finishes in Formula 1 history, although it falls short of making the top 10 by a mere 0.014 seconds.
The article details the closest finishes in F1, highlighting races from various years, including the 2002 Austrian Grand Prix and the 1971 Italian Grand Prix. These races showcase the intense competition and narrow margins that can occur in Formula 1, with Russell's recent win adding to the legacy of thrilling finishes in the sport.Tue 29 Sep · 15:42 UTCvia gpfans.comF1 teams prepare for weather challenges in Bahrain GPFormula 1 teams are bracing for potential thunderstorms and rain during the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia this weekend. The FIA has confirmed special measures to address the challenging weather conditions expected throughout the event.+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 15:27 UTCvia Formula1.comF1 Business Summit adds new Las Vegas speakersThe F1 Business Summit will feature Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu, chef Gordon Ramsay, and athlete Russell Wilson among others, taking place in Las Vegas on 19 November 2026. Komatsu's session will focus on leadership and innovation in Formula 1, while Ramsay will explore the business of hospitality during race weekends.
The event will also include discussions on athlete ownership and investment, with a keynote panel featuring Wilson and Shaun White. The Summit runs from 8am to 1pm, starting with a networking breakfast, and coincides with the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which occurs shortly after the Summit.Tue 29 Sep · 14:10 UTCvia RacingNews365George Russell assigns 'most dominant' verdict as F1 title hopes reignitedGeorge Russell described his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as the most dominant of his career, achieving his first Grand Slam with a commanding victory. He secured pole position by a significant margin and led the race from start to finish, despite pressure from Max Verstappen, who was aiming for his first win of the season.
This victory has reignited Russell's championship hopes, as he has now reduced the points deficit to Kimi Antonelli to 66. Russell had been struggling earlier in the season, sitting 81 points behind Antonelli before the race, but this strong showing has boosted his confidence as he looks to continue closing the gap in upcoming races.Tue 29 Sep · 14:00 UTCvia f1oversteer.com2 videos2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia's SepangThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking the venue's return to the Formula 1 calendar after a nine-year absence. This unique event has raised questions about the race's location, as it is officially named after Bahrain.+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 12:00 UTCvia 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.Tue 29 Sep · 11:30 UTCvia RacingNews365Pirelli faces challenges at Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaPirelli is preparing for unique challenges at the Bahrain Grand Prix, which will take place in Malaysia for the first time in nine years. Charles Leclerc recorded the fastest time during the second free practice session at Sepang International Circuit.+ 2 moreTue 29 Sep · 09:30 UTCvia PlanetF1Red Bull launches Verstappen engine investigation as penalty uncertainty growsRed Bull Racing has launched an investigation into Max Verstappen's engine issues that arose during the qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he finished eighth. Verstappen reported problems with his internal combustion engine, which worsened throughout the session, prompting the team to replace several components before the race.
Despite the qualifying setback, Verstappen managed to race from eighth to second place in the Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds behind race winner George Russell. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that while Verstappen may face a power unit penalty in the future, it remains uncertain pending further analysis of the engine issues.Tue 29 Sep · 09:04 UTCvia thejudge13.comVerstappen questions F1's Middle East race plansMax Verstappen has expressed concerns about Formula 1's decision to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He emphasised that safety should take precedence over contractual commitments.+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 08:44 UTCvia f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri told why he’s ‘not a racer’ like Max Verstappen after getting caught ‘asleep’ in BakuOscar Piastri faced criticism following his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where a lock-up at turn one caused him to finish in thirteenth place. This incident occurred during a safety car restart while he was attempting to overtake George Russell, and it ultimately led to a disappointing race for McLaren, especially with teammate Lando Norris also facing issues.
Commentators like Christijan Albers and Jacques Villeneuve pointed out Piastri's lack of aggression and focus, suggesting he is not as competitive as drivers like Max Verstappen. Piastri has now gone eleven races without a podium, and with the next race at Sepang approaching, he is in urgent need of a turnaround in form to salvage his season.Tue 29 Sep · 08:00 UTCvia F1iMontoya defends Colapinto: ‘I admire people who try’Juan Pablo Montoya has come to the defence of Franco Colapinto following the Argentine's crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Colapinto collided with his teammate Pierre Gasly after locking up under braking, which also took out McLaren's Lando Norris. Despite the criticism directed at Colapinto, Montoya acknowledged the driver's aggressive approach and willingness to seize opportunities, suggesting that such instincts should not be stifled by a single mistake.
Montoya highlighted that Colapinto's error was a result of the challenging conditions during the Safety Car restart, where drivers often struggle to gauge the traffic ahead. He drew parallels between Colapinto's mindset and that of Max Verstappen, noting that while taking risks can lead to mistakes, it is also essential for achieving success in Formula 1. Colapinto's performance this season has seen him accumulate 27 points, while Gasly's standing at 41 points makes the loss of both Alpine cars particularly significant.Tue 29 Sep · 07:23 UTCvia Sky Sports F1Kimi 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 moreTue 29 Sep · 06:08 UTCvia f1oversteer.comAlex Brundle says Kimi Antonelli didn't talk like a 'champion' at the Azerbaijan Grand PrixAlex Brundle has voiced concerns regarding Kimi Antonelli's performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Antonelli crashed during qualifying and started from P16. Despite a comeback to finish P5, Brundle noted that Antonelli's conservative driving could jeopardise his championship lead, which has now been reduced to 66 points following George Russell's victory.
Antonelli himself acknowledged that he held back during the race, stating he drove cautiously and did not take risks. He described the weekend as his worst of the year, indicating a need to improve his performance as the season progresses. With eight races remaining and a competitive field, Antonelli must regain his aggressive approach to maintain his championship advantage.Tue 29 Sep · 06:00 UTCvia gpfans.comRUMOURF1 News Today: Max Verstappen penalty claim disputed as champion issues public apologyMax Verstappen and Red Bull Racing's team principal Laurent Mekies have publicly disagreed over a potential penalty from the FIA. Verstappen fitted a new power unit before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and warned that any further changes could result in a grid penalty, a claim Mekies disputed.
In other news, Lando Norris issued an apology after demanding a rival driver be banned following his retirement from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to a collision. Additionally, team orders were revealed where Isack Hadjar was told not to overtake Verstappen during the race, while Christian Horner's comments have led to speculation about a possible move to Ferrari.Tue 29 Sep · 05:30 UTCvia RacingNews365Max Verstappen makes 'one second' declaration after George Russell defeatMax Verstappen narrowly missed out on his first victory of the season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing just behind George Russell. Starting from eighth position, Verstappen fought through the field but ultimately fell short, conceding that even a higher starting position might not have guaranteed him the win due to Russell's pace.
Despite the disappointment, Verstappen enjoyed the final laps of the race, particularly after a safety car allowed him to switch to softer tyres. He maintained a close gap to Russell, often around one second, but acknowledged that Russell's performance was strong enough to keep him ahead, even with some difficulties like boost lag.Tue 29 Sep · 04:30 UTCvia RacingNews365Engine guru confirms Max Verstappen was right: 'I already had this view'Max Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current Formula 1 power units, arguing that they require excessive energy management, making the driving experience less authentic. His concerns have been echoed by renowned engine designer Mario Illien, who agrees that the balance between combustion and electric power is flawed, stating that the current setup diminishes the driver's role in racing.
Illien, who has extensive experience in F1 engine design, supports a shift in the power unit ratio that the FIA is considering, moving from a 52/48 split to a 58/42 ratio. However, he cautions that while this change may improve the situation, it will not fully resolve the underlying issues. Illien reminisces about the previous power unit configuration, which he believes was more effective and better received by fans.Mon 28 Sep · 17:15 UTCvia gpfans.comUntelevised Red Bull F1 radio reveals captivating Max Verstappen team orders to Isack HadjarDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Isack Hadjar received team orders from Red Bull not to overtake his teammate Max Verstappen, despite being faster on the track. This decision was communicated via untelevised radio exchanges, where Hadjar expressed his willingness to push for an attack on Oscar Piastri but was ultimately instructed to maintain his position behind Verstappen.
The strategy proved effective for Red Bull, as Verstappen managed to secure a better position after a safety car period, allowing him to challenge for the lead. The decision to keep Hadjar behind Verstappen, although controversial, resulted in a successful double podium for the team, highlighting the complexities of team dynamics in Formula 1.Mon 28 Sep · 16:44 UTCvia Motorsport.comWhy Mercedes thought Max Verstappen was "on some sort of massive bungee cord" in Azerbaijan GPDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell initially created a significant lead over Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, but the deployment of a safety car changed the race dynamics. After the safety car, Verstappen managed to close the gap and challenged Russell, leading to a nail-biting finish where only 0.196 seconds separated them at the line.
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord remarked on Verstappen's ability to catch up, likening it to being on a 'massive bungee cord'. Despite Russell's superior speed in the second sector, Verstappen's straight-line speed allowed him to stay close. The race highlighted the intense competition and strategic nuances of Formula 1, with Russell managing to maintain his lead despite the pressure.Mon 28 Sep · 16:30 UTC