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via Motorsport.com"We clearly have an issue" – Red Bull responds to Max Verstappen's radio complaintsRed Bull Racing faced significant challenges during the practice sessions for the Italian Grand Prix, particularly with Max Verstappen's car balance. Technical director Pierre Wache confirmed that the team is grappling with similar issues to those experienced at Zandvoort, including a lack of rear downforce and heavy bouncing. Verstappen's absence from the first practice session limited the team's data collection, complicating their efforts to address these problems effectively.
Ayumu Iwasa, who substituted for Verstappen in the first session, echoed the concerns about the car's balance, especially at high speeds. Wache stated that the team is focused on optimizing energy management and evaluating various car components to improve performance. Despite their strong track record in overcoming difficulties, Wache expressed caution about their ability to turn the situation around in time for the race.
via Formula1.comAlex Albon receives 20-place grid penalty at MonzaAlex Albon will start the Italian Grand Prix from the back of the grid due to a 20-place penalty. This penalty was incurred after Williams made additional power unit changes to his car.
via f1oversteer.comJuan Pablo Montoya spotted something ‘really interesting’ on Yuki Tsunoda’s Racing Bulls at MonzaDuring the FP2 session at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, Juan Pablo Montoya found a unique feature on Yuki Tsunoda's Racing Bulls car, specifically the use of two activators on the front wing for straight mode. This design choice is distinct from other teams and caught Montoya's attention as he observed the car in the pit lane.
Tsunoda, who returned to Racing Bulls for this race, finished in P10 while teammate Arvid Lindblad achieved P7. Meanwhile, Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson struggled, finishing P9 and P12 respectively. The VCARB 03 has been noted for its stability compared to the RB22, which may contribute to Tsunoda's competitive performance.
via CrashRed Bull urged to keep Liam Lawson for Spanish GPRed Bull Racing has expressed uncertainty regarding Isack Hadjar's potential return for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that it may be challenging for Hadjar to race due to his ongoing recovery from injury.
via Motorsport.comRed Bull gives update on Isack Hadjar’s recovery timelineRed Bull Racing has provided an update on Isack Hadjar's recovery from a wrist injury, indicating that he will not participate in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Hadjar has already missed the Zandvoort and Monza races, with Liam Lawson stepping in as his replacement. Team principal Laurent Mekies emphasized the importance of ensuring Hadjar's full recovery before he returns to the track.
Hadjar has sought advice from MotoGP champion Marc Marquez regarding his injury management. Mekies expressed that while Hadjar is eager to return, the team's focus is on his long-term health, stating that they will take the necessary time for his recovery. Additionally, Hadjar's points tally has been positively affected by a recent ruling concerning the Monaco Grand Prix.
via f1oversteer.comLiam Lawson expresses frustration over Monza qualifyingLiam Lawson and Red Bull Racing described their Friday practice session in Italy as productive. Despite not being among the top contenders, the team focused on gathering valuable data ahead of the race.
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri receives three-place grid penalty at MonzaOscar Piastri has been penalized with a three-place grid drop for the Italian Grand Prix after impeding Liam Lawson during qualifying. As a result, he will start the race from sixth position instead of third.
via f1technical.netLawson opens up on key differences between Red Bull's and Racing Bulls' 2026 F1 carLiam Lawson is set to race for Red Bull at the Italian Grand Prix after Isack Hadjar was sidelined due to a wrist injury. Lawson had previously stepped in for Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix and is now looking to capitalize on this opportunity, having received late confirmation of his participation just days before the race. He feels that his experience from Zandvoort will help him adjust more easily to the car during the upcoming race weekend at Monza, which features a traditional format with three practice sessions.
In preparation for the race, Lawson has been balancing his readiness for both the Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars, which he describes as having significant differences in driving characteristics. He highlighted the Red Bull's superior high-speed grip and distinct handling, making the transition between the two cars challenging. Despite the late notice, Lawson managed to complete necessary preparations, including simulator sessions, to ensure he is ready for the race.Untitled story
via RacingNews365Arvid Lindblad reacts to latest Red Bull snubDespite his disappointment, Lindblad understands the team's decision, recognizing that Lawson's familiarity with the car and recent performance provided a logical rationale for continuity. Lindblad, who has had a solid debut season with 23 points and no retirements, remains focused on his own performance as he prepares for the race weekend.
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen addresses potential Liam Lawson help: 'I never ask'Max Verstappen has clarified his position regarding potential assistance from Liam Lawson during the qualifying session at the Italian Grand Prix. He stated that he does not request help from his team and is focused on his own performance, especially given Lawson's role as a substitute for Isack Hadjar due to injury. Despite the potential for slipstreaming to play a role at Monza, Verstappen is not interested in strategic maneuvers during his qualifying laps.
The article highlights the significance of slipstreaming at Monza, particularly under new FIA regulations that limit energy harvesting. Verstappen acknowledged that following closely behind another car might be more common this season, but he remains committed to his own racing strategy. He reiterated that the team aims for both drivers to excel, without relying on one to assist the other.
via PlanetF1Liam Lawson facing nervous F1 2027 wait as Racing Bulls responds to Verstappen decisionMax Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull until 2030 has brought stability to the team, but uncertainty remains regarding Liam Lawson's future with Racing Bulls. The team has not rushed to finalize its driver lineup for F1 2027, as both Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad have been performing well this season, contributing to the team's fifth place in the constructors' championship.
While Lawson's position appears secure for now, he faces competition from junior driver Nikola Tsolov, who is excelling in Formula 2. Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has indicated that the team is pleased with its current drivers, but decisions regarding the lineup will ultimately be made by team principal Alan Permane, who is focused on maintaining a calm environment as they approach the next season.
via f1oversteer.comYuki Tsunoda claims replacing Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls has ‘suspended’ talks over his futureYuki Tsunoda says he has had “several” calls from interested teams after his cameo in place of Liam Lawson for Racing Bulls, yet has paused ...
via Formula1.comColapinto grateful for Alpine ‘trust’ amid contract extensionFranco Colapinto has extended his contract with Alpine for the 2027 season, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by the team. He has had a strong start to the season, currently sitting in P12 in the Drivers' Championship with 19 points, and is looking forward to continuing his journey with Alpine alongside teammate Pierre Gasly.
As the Italian Grand Prix approaches, Colapinto is optimistic about the new upgrade package that will be implemented for both cars. He believes the upgrades will enhance their performance and help them close the gap to Racing Bulls in the Teams' Championship, where they are only three points behind. Colapinto is eager to maximize the car's potential during qualifying at Monza.
via CrashFranco Colapinto reveals talks with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem after Dutch GP F1 penalty falloutFranco Colapinto recently engaged in discussions with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding the penalties he and Arvid Lindblad faced during the Dutch Grand Prix. Both drivers were penalized for overtaking under yellow flags following a significant crash involving Max Verstappen. Colapinto expressed his disagreement with the penalty and highlighted concerns raised by a sponsor's executive about the integrity of Formula 1, prompting the FIA to investigate online abuse directed at the stewards involved in the decision-making process.
During Ben Sulayem's visit to Buenos Aires, Colapinto took the opportunity to discuss the penalties and the potential revival of the Argentine Grand Prix. While he acknowledged the stewards' adherence to the rulebook, he maintained his personal disagreement with the penalty. As the focus shifts to the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza, Colapinto remains committed to performing well in the race.
via grandprix.comBen Sulayem plans steward rotation after Zandvoort rowFollowing the controversy surrounding penalties issued to drivers Franco Colapinto and Arvid Lindblad during the Dutch Grand Prix, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has proposed a rotation system for stewards. This initiative aims to address claims of national bias and the subsequent online abuse directed at officials, which the FIA has condemned and is considering legal action against. Ben Sulayem has called for national sporting authorities to nominate more stewards for training to ensure a diverse and well-prepared officiating team in Formula 1 events.
In his remarks at the FIA American Congress, Ben Sulayem acknowledged that accusations of bias are not unique to any one country, as similar claims have been made regarding British competitors. He plans to personally reach out to Colapinto to discuss his perspective on the penalties. The FIA is committed to combating online abuse and fostering a fair environment in motorsport, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating that decisions are made without regard to nationality.
via grandprix.comHadjar misses Monza as Tsunoda gets another raceIsack Hadjar is unable to participate in the Italian Grand Prix as he recovers from a wrist injury, which has led to a series of driver substitutions. Liam Lawson will remain in the Red Bull car for another race after finishing seventh in his debut, while Yuki Tsunoda returns to Racing Bulls for a second weekend, having narrowly missed scoring points at Zandvoort. Ayumu Iwasa will also get a chance to drive during the practice session before Verstappen returns to the car.
Red Bull is cautious about Hadjar's return, emphasizing the importance of his recovery. Lawson and Tsunoda are the immediate beneficiaries of this situation, with Lawson gaining valuable experience and Tsunoda seeking to demonstrate his capabilities as he aims for a full-time seat in the future. The team has not set a timeline for Hadjar's comeback, prioritizing his health over rushing his return.
via PlanetF1Is Liam Lawson the big winner of Helmut Marko’s Red Bull exit?Liam Lawson has found a silver lining in Helmut Marko's departure from Red Bull, as he no longer faces constant scrutiny from the former motorsport advisor. After a challenging start in 2023 and a brief stint with Red Bull Racing, Lawson has rebuilt his reputation and emerged as a preferred substitute driver for the team, recently scoring points at the Dutch Grand Prix.
As Lawson prepares for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, he will continue to drive the RB22 while Isack Hadjar recovers from injury. Guenther Steiner has noted that Lawson's confidence has improved without Marko's oversight, allowing him to focus on his performance and adapt to the car more effectively.
via gpfans.comRed Bull confirm driver replacement for Italian Grand Prix as F1 star ruled out with injuryRed Bull Racing has announced that Liam Lawson will drive alongside Max Verstappen at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, as Isack Hadjar is still recovering from a wrist injury. Hadjar was initially thought to be on track for a quick return, but the team has decided to prioritize his health and safety by keeping him out of the race this weekend. Lawson had previously stepped in for Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix, where he finished in seventh place.
In addition to Lawson's promotion, Yuki Tsunoda will take the opportunity to race for Racing Bulls after Lawson's move to Red Bull. Tsunoda, who finished 11th in the Dutch Grand Prix, is looking to make a strong impression at Monza, although his future in Formula 1 remains uncertain. Red Bull is committed to closely monitoring Hadjar's recovery process to ensure he returns to competition only when fully fit.
via f1oversteer.comHonda manager has worked out how Yuki Tsunoda got so close to Liam Lawson’s pace at Racing BullsYuki Tsunoda made a strong impression during his debut with Racing Bulls at the Dutch Grand Prix, finishing 11th after a late penalty affected his race. He stepped in for Liam Lawson, who was filling in for the injured Isack Hadjar, and managed to closely match Lawson's qualifying pace despite having no prior experience with the 2026 cars. Honda's Shinji Nakano noted Tsunoda's performance exceeded expectations, attributing it to the car's driver-friendly design and Tsunoda's motivation to impress potential teams for the future.
Racing Bulls have been focusing on creating a car that is easy to handle, a strategy shaped by past experiences with driver performance. Currently, they are the leading team in the midfield standings with 66 points. Both Tsunoda and Lawson are now waiting for updates regarding Hadjar's recovery and potential return to racing.Page 8 of 16













