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via gpfans.comKimi Antonelli avoids F1 penalty despite surprise engine change at Azerbaijan Grand PrixKimi Antonelli's Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend began poorly when he experienced a mechanical failure during the first practice session, which required an engine change. The issue was attributed to a hydraulics failure in his Mercedes, causing him to stop just 25 minutes into the session. Despite the setback, Antonelli remains the championship leader with an 81-point advantage over his teammate George Russell.
The use of a fire extinguisher by marshals on Antonelli's car complicated matters, necessitating the replacement of his engine before the second practice session. Fortunately for Antonelli, the new engine was from his previously used set, allowing him to avoid penalties from the FIA stewards. After missing part of the first practice, he managed to return to the track half an hour into the second session.
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli praises Baku recovery after lost practice timeKimi Antonelli, the current Formula 1 championship leader, expressed satisfaction with his recovery during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after losing significant practice time. Despite the setback, Antonelli managed to secure the second-fastest time in the final practice session.
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops Practice 3 at Baku Grand PrixGeorge Russell led the third practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, outperforming his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli. The session indicated that Mercedes could be the team to beat this weekend.
via f1oversteer.comJock Clear has seen a ‘Michael Schumacher-esque’ trait in Kimi Antonelli even Max Verstappen lackedJock Clear, a long-time Ferrari performance engineer, has expressed admiration for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, likening his ability to engage fans to that of Michael Schumacher. Antonelli, who is currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 standings with eight wins, has captured the hearts of Ferrari supporters, particularly after his victory at Monza, making him the first Italian to win there since 1966.
Clear noted that Antonelli's impressive performance this season, including his ability to avoid major mistakes, sets him apart from his competitors, including George Russell. Despite facing some reliability issues, Antonelli's consistent results have positioned him as a strong contender for the championship, potentially making him the youngest F1 champion in history.
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops FP2 in Baku ahead of team-mateGeorge Russell set the fastest time during the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit. He was followed closely by Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell leads Kimi Antonelli in FP2 in BakuGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Russell's performance in Baku showcased his team's strong form ahead of the race weekend.
via Motorsport.comWhat Kimi Antonelli has learned from Max VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has been learning valuable lessons from Max Verstappen, who has praised Antonelli's impressive performances this season. With eight wins under his belt, Antonelli leads his teammate George Russell significantly in the championship standings. Verstappen, currently sixth in the standings, has encouraged Antonelli to maintain his current approach as he continues to develop his skills.
Antonelli has specifically noted Verstappen's exceptional racecraft, particularly his ability to read situations and position his car effectively. He reflected on a recent race in Madrid, where he learned the importance of maintaining track position and the potential to capitalize on opportunities, as demonstrated by Verstappen. Antonelli's observations of Verstappen's adaptability and performance under pressure have further inspired him in his own racing career.
via grandprix.comAlonso proposes longer, gentler electric boost for F1Fernando Alonso has proposed a change to the 2026 Formula 1 cars, advocating for a reduction in peak electrical output to allow for longer use of battery power on straights. He believes this adjustment would enable drivers to maintain speed more effectively towards corners, contrasting with the current model that requires drivers to lift and coast before braking.
Max Verstappen supports Alonso's view but warns that simply reducing electrical output could lead to a decrease in overall power unless compensated by an increase in combustion engine contribution. Both drivers acknowledge that any changes would require consensus and testing before being implemented in the regulations.
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen tops final practice at Azerbaijan Grand PrixMax Verstappen achieved the fastest time in Free Practice 3 for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, benefiting from Red Bull's latest upgrade package. Meanwhile, Mercedes faced a challenging start to the weekend as the Formula 1 title race intensifies.
via espn.comGeorge Russell leads opening practice in BakuGeorge Russell topped the first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, Russell's teammate Kimi Antonelli faced reliability issues that forced him to end his session early.
via PlanetF1George Russell leads Azerbaijan Grand Prix FP2 sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, following an early red flag. Max Verstappen expressed frustration over ongoing issues affecting his performance during the session.
via CrashRed Bull and Williams unveil upgrades at Azerbaijan GPRed Bull and Williams have introduced significant upgrades at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen providing feedback on Red Bull's latest enhancements. The developments come as teams intensify their efforts in the ongoing Formula 1 season.
via PlanetF1Red Bull updates on Isack Hadjar's wrist injuryRed Bull Racing's boss Laurent Mekies has provided an update on Isack Hadjar's wrist injury following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team also addressed the strategic decisions made during the race involving Max Verstappen and Hadjar.Wikimedia Commons · Joop van Bilsen / Anefo · CC0Verstappen targets Nurburgring, Spa endurance racesMax Verstappen has announced his intention to participate in major endurance races at the Nurburgring and Spa in 2027, as the Formula 1 calendar will not clash with these events. He expressed his desire to return to the Nordschleife after a previous race and highlighted Spa as another appealing option, although he remains uncertain about competing in Le Mans due to its demanding preparation requirements.
Lando Norris is also getting involved in endurance racing, having recently driven McLaren's new prototype for the World Endurance Championship. However, other F1 drivers like Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso have expressed skepticism about adding endurance races to their schedules, citing the busy calendar as a significant barrier to participation.
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso casts doubt over dream Max Verstappen partnershipFernando Alonso has expressed skepticism about teaming up with Max Verstappen for the 2027 24 Hours of Le Mans. Although both drivers have previously shown interest in collaborating, Alonso believes it is unrealistic at this time due to Verstappen's busy racing schedule.
While Alonso is open to the possibility of a future partnership, he does not foresee it happening next year. He emphasized that the decision would depend on Verstappen's availability, as he participates in numerous races throughout the year.
via f1chronicle.comVasseur highlights Ferrari's struggles in AzerbaijanFerrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the team's performance issues during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, particularly on the long straights. Despite showing potential earlier in the season, Ferrari has only secured one podium in their last five races.
via thejudge13.comRed Bull announces driver decision for 2027Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Isack Hadjar will continue with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season, partnering with Max Verstappen. This decision comes after Hadjar's impressive performance in 2026, where he achieved seven consecutive top-six finishes and a podium at the Monaco Grand Prix. Red Bull's CEO, Laurent Mekies, expressed confidence in Hadjar's abilities and his integration into the team, making the contract extension a straightforward choice.
Hadjar's announcement coincides with his return from a wrist injury that sidelined him for three races. He has completed rehabilitation and is set to compete in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The young French driver expressed excitement about continuing with Red Bull, highlighting the team's ambition and the privilege of racing alongside a four-time World Champion like Verstappen. Hadjar focused on his performance on track rather than contract negotiations, indicating his commitment to proving himself.
via PlanetF1The Final Sector: Will Imola replace Abu Dhabi? Antonelli’s meteoric riseThe latest episode of the PlanetF1 podcast, titled 'The Final Sector', explores the potential conclusion of the Formula 1 2026 season, debating whether it will take place in Imola or Abu Dhabi. Hosts Mat Coch and Thomas Maher share insights from the paddock and discuss the newly released F1 2027 calendar, highlighting the timing of its announcement despite ongoing uncertainties regarding the current season's end.
Additionally, the episode features a focus on the impressive rise of Kimi Antonelli, drawing comparisons to renowned drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel. The hosts also preview the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current F1 landscape.
via f1oversteer.comMontoya says Leclerc must regain Hamilton's respectJuan Pablo Montoya has stated that Charles Leclerc needs to 'earn that respect back' from Lewis Hamilton following their recent on-track dispute at Monza. Montoya believes the issue between the Ferrari teammates is not yet fully resolved.
via CrashMax Verstappen’s “unknown quantity” highlighted by F1 rival in title chaseAndrea Kimi Antonelli, the current leader in the Formula 1 championship, has described Max Verstappen as an 'unknown quantity' ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Antonelli, who has a significant 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, is on track to potentially become the youngest world champion in F1 history after securing eight victories in the first 14 races of the season.
Despite Verstappen's struggles this year, Antonelli acknowledged the Dutch driver's exceptional ability to read race situations and find opportunities. As Antonelli prepares for the upcoming race, he remains focused on maintaining his performance and not underestimating the competition, emphasizing that the championship is not decided until the final race.Page 13 of 54
