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via f1oversteer.comOliver Bearman confirms Lewis Hamilton hardly ever uses simulator after Ferrari factory visitsOliver Bearman, a Haas driver, revealed that Lewis Hamilton utilizes the simulator less than any other driver in Formula 1. While Bearman and his teammate Esteban Ocon are currently using the Ferrari simulator, they face limitations, as Haas is in the process of developing their own simulator, which is not yet operational. Bearman noted that they spend a significant portion of their simulator time reprogramming software to match their car's specifications before they can work on setups.
Hamilton's reluctance to use the simulator stems from his belief that it was leading him in the wrong direction regarding car setup. Despite his minimal simulator usage, Hamilton has achieved notable success this season, including a race win and multiple podiums. Other drivers, like Max Verstappen, emphasize the importance of simulator sessions for team development, even if individual drivers may not find them personally beneficial.
Thu 10 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via F1iFernando Alonso criticises Monza's speed reputationFernando Alonso has expressed his belief that Monza no longer deserves the title of 'Temple of Speed' due to significantly reduced top speeds in modern Formula 1. He argues that the circuit's reputation has diminished in the current era of the sport.
+ 1 moreTue 8 Sep · 13:07 UTC
via f1technical.netIsack Hadjar to miss Spanish Grand Prix due to injuryIsack Hadjar will not participate in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix as he continues to recover from a wrist injury. Red Bull has confirmed that Liam Lawson will once again race alongside Max Verstappen in Madrid.
+ 1 moreTue 8 Sep · 00:00 UTC
via RaceFansOvertake Mode meant others passed me like I was a “turtle”, says Verstappen | Formula 1Max Verstappen expressed frustration after the Italian Grand Prix, where he led for a short period but struggled to maintain his position due to the newly implemented Overtake Mode. This mode, introduced in 2026, allows drivers to access additional power when they are close to another car, but Verstappen noted that it hindered his ability to defend against competitors effectively.
The race highlighted the impact of Overtake Mode, particularly as the FIA had set energy harvest limits at their lowest for the fastest track on the calendar. Verstappen remarked that the Mercedes-powered cars had a significant advantage in electrical energy deployment, which contributed to his difficulties in keeping pace with them.
Mon 7 Sep · 09:43 UTC
via Formula1.comWhat the teams said – Race day in ItalyThe 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza saw Kimi Antonelli make history by becoming the first Italian winner at the venue since 1966, starting from 19th position. His victory was marked by a strong performance, particularly during the race's second start and a strategic pit stop under the Virtual Safety Car, which allowed him to reclaim the lead from teammate George Russell, who finished second after leading early in the race.
Max Verstappen completed the podium in third place, showcasing strong race pace despite challenges. The race featured significant strategic decisions influenced by the red flag and VSC, with Mercedes achieving a notable 1-2 finish. The results were a boost for the team in the championship standings, while other drivers like Liam Lawson faced difficulties, finishing 14th after starting from the pit lane.
Sun 6 Sep · 19:58 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton claims he was blocked from joining Ferrari years earlier due to ‘veto’Lewis Hamilton revealed that he was prevented from joining Ferrari earlier in his career due to Fernando Alonso's veto rights during the time when Stefano Domenicali was team principal. Hamilton had discussions with Domenicali but felt that Alonso's position as the number one driver at Ferrari hindered his potential move, leading to a lingering 'what if' scenario for him until he finally joined the team in 2025 after a long tenure with McLaren and Mercedes.
In the current season, Hamilton's relationship with Ferrari's team principal Fred Vasseur has been crucial in his integration into the team. Despite Hamilton's championship aspirations, he noted that both he and Charles Leclerc are given equal opportunities, which has led to competitive racing between them. The dynamics within Ferrari have shifted since Alonso's era, with Vasseur aiming to maintain parity in the driver lineup.Sun 6 Sep · 19:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comWinners and losers from F1's memorable Italian Grand PrixThe Italian Grand Prix featured a remarkable victory for Kimi Antonelli, who delighted the home crowd with a comeback win, becoming the first Italian to win at Monza since 1966. The event also set a new attendance record, showcasing the passionate support for Ferrari, despite the team's struggles during the race, particularly with Charles Leclerc's early crash.
George Russell faced a challenging race, ultimately conceding to Antonelli's dominance in the championship chase. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen managed to secure a podium finish despite technical difficulties, highlighting his resilience in a competitive field. Ferrari's performance, while improved with new upgrades, fell short of expectations, leading to disappointment among fans.
Sun 6 Sep · 19:15 UTC
via RaceFansGT3 racer pulls rival from burning car after horrific crash in Shanghai | Other MotorsportIn a dramatic incident at the Shanghai International Circuit, Dutch GT3 racer Loek Hartog saved his rival Ollie Millroy from a burning car following a crash during a race. Millroy became trapped after being hit by another competitor, and Hartog acted quickly to pull him from the wreckage, which was engulfed in flames.
Despite the heroic rescue, Millroy expressed frustration with the track workers for their slow response to the crash. He publicly acknowledged Hartog's bravery, stating that he owes his life to him, highlighting the importance of quick action in emergency situations during motorsport events.Sun 6 Sep · 13:03 UTC
via the-race.comFerrari Drivers Express Discontent After 2026 Italian Grand Prix QualifyingFerrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton criticized their team's qualifying strategy for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. Both drivers finished in fourth and fifth positions, expressing disappointment with the execution of their plans.
+ 2 moreSat 5 Sep · 17:50 UTC
via Motorsport.com"I kept forgetting SM!" – Yuki Tsunoda reveals amusing Monza challenge with F1's 2026 carsYuki Tsunoda is currently participating in the 2026 Formula 1 season and has shown promising performance at the Monza circuit, finishing 10th in Friday practice. He highlighted the challenges posed by the new regulations, particularly the complexity of the cars and the importance of energy management at Monza, which has four Straight Mode zones this year. Tsunoda humorously noted that he often forgot to utilize the SM zones during practice, which affected his lap times.
As he prepares for the upcoming qualifying session, Tsunoda anticipates a chaotic experience due to the significance of slipstreaming at Monza. He has expressed confidence in the VCARB 03 car's balance and ease of setup compared to his previous car, while also acknowledging the need to build his confidence further. Overall, Tsunoda's adaptability and the support from his team are key factors as he navigates the complexities of the 2026 season.Sat 5 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star snubbed for Ferrari upgrade as team-mate receives huge boostKomatsu acknowledged that the decision to prioritize Bearman over Ocon was partially influenced by their championship standings, although he emphasized that it was not the sole factor. The team has shifted its upgrade strategy, having previously introduced upgrades for both drivers simultaneously, but now opts to utilize available performance as soon as possible.
Sat 5 Sep · 10:57 UTCWikimedia Commons · Joop van Bilsen / Anefo · CC0Carlos Sainz Discusses Reasons for Renewing Williams ContractCarlos Sainz has signed a new contract with Williams, citing both public and private motivations for his decision. He acknowledged experiencing some mental concerns prior to finalizing the agreement.
via grandprix.comVowles highlights risks of Madrid's new F1 circuitJames Vowles has expressed worries that the new circuit in Madrid may present significant challenges for Formula 1 cars. Additionally, Carlos Sainz has highlighted potential difficulties with overtaking at the venue.
via Formula1.comLiam Lawson calls Friday practice productive for Red BullLiam 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.Fri 4 Sep · 18:28 UTC
via PlanetF1Mick Schumacher confirms IndyCar future in MSR moveMick Schumacher has confirmed his future in IndyCar by announcing that he will join Meyer Shank Racing for the 2027 season. He will drive the No. 66 MSR Honda and partner with Marcus Armstrong. Schumacher expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter and the opportunity to work with an ambitious team known for its success, including winning the Indy 500.
Before moving to IndyCar, Schumacher spent two seasons in the World Endurance Championship. As a rookie in the 2026 IndyCar season, he is currently competing for the title of top rookie driver, trailing Dennis Hauger by 18 points. Schumacher's transition to IndyCar has generated significant attention, and he looks forward to building a strong partnership with Meyer Shank Racing.
Fri 4 Sep · 17:44 UTC
via grandprix.comKomatsu confirms five-driver fight for Ocon's Haas seatHaas team principal Ayao Komatsu has confirmed that Esteban Ocon is one of five drivers vying for a single seat in the 2027 season. The other contenders include Ryo Hirakawa, Jack Doohan, Leonardo Fornaroli, and Rafael Camara, with testing already underway to assess their performances. Ocon's experience and familiarity with the team are highlighted as significant factors in the selection process, especially following a challenging 2026 season for Haas.
The team is gathering comparative data from various tests, with performance being the primary criterion for selection. While Ocon has the advantage of experience, the younger drivers bring different relationships with the team's partners and varying levels of performance. The decision on the driver lineup does not need to be immediate, but the testing program indicates a serious evaluation rather than mere contingency planning.
via grandprix.comBearman gets Haas's only upgraded Ferrari engineOliver Bearman will be the only Haas driver to race with the upgraded Ferrari engine at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, while Esteban Ocon will use the previous engine specification. This decision was made by team principal Ayao Komatsu, who noted that Ocon had received new components on two prior occasions, and the allocation is aimed at balancing the season's opportunities rather than favoring one driver over the other.
Both drivers will benefit from a significant aerodynamic update, although the impact of the engine difference will be more pronounced at Monza due to its unique layout and demands on engine performance. Ocon has acknowledged that the older engine will result in a performance deficit, and while he will eventually receive the upgraded engine, the current setup will provide a clear comparison of the two power units during the race weekend.
via Formula1.comWhy Ocon isn't receiving the new Haas power unit in MonzaHaas is set to debut a significant upgrade package at the Italian Grand Prix, marking their first major update since May. Both drivers, Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon, are optimistic about the new aero upgrades, although only Bearman will benefit from a new Ferrari power unit due to limited availability. The team has opted to run both cars with the new specifications from the start of practice, rather than testing them separately, to avoid logistical challenges and maximize performance at the power-sensitive Monza circuit.
The decision to allocate the upgraded power unit to Bearman, who is currently ahead of Ocon in the championship, reflects the team's strategy to enhance performance in light of recent struggles. Team Principal Ayao Komatsu explained that the choice was also influenced by previous upgrades given to Ocon, aiming to balance performance improvements between the two drivers. Haas hopes these changes will help them recover from a disappointing race in the Netherlands.Fri 4 Sep · 09:39 UTC
via newsonf1.comVasseur says ADUO engine a ‘step forward’Sep.3 (GMM) Ferrari has confirmed its first ADUO power-unit upgrade will debut at Monza, with the new specification understood to be worth around 15 horsepower. “It’s a step in the right direction, and as we know, this year it’s all about small improvements,” team boss Frederic Vasseur said in Ferrari’s Italian GP preview. Speaking separately…
via RaceFans‘Dad was driving angry’: Jacques Villeneuve on his father Gilles’ fatal crash | Formula 1Jacques Villeneuve shared his emotional response to a new film about his father, Gilles Villeneuve, which highlights Gilles' early racing career leading up to his time with Ferrari. The film, titled 'Villeneuve: Rise of a Legend', is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 19th.
In his comments, Jacques reflected on the personal significance of the film, noting that it focuses on aspects of his father's life that are often overlooked. He expressed a deep connection to the film's portrayal of Gilles' early years, indicating that it stirred strong feelings within him.Wed 2 Sep · 11:12 UTCPage 7 of 10