News305 stories
RSS ↗
via gpfans.comMercedes F1 boss reveals Spanish GP tyre concern: 'Our strategy chief said six stops'Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff expressed surprise at the high levels of tyre degradation observed during the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit. Despite expectations of minimal wear due to the new asphalt, the team faced challenges with tyre temperatures and wear, leading to a significant degradation rate of eight tenths per lap.
Wolff revealed that the team's chief strategist had proposed the possibility of six pit stops during the race, although he later revised this prediction to one stop. This race comes after a successful weekend for Mercedes at Monza, where they achieved a one-two finish, with Kimi Antonelli leading the drivers' championship.
Sat 12 Sep · 20:15 UTC
via Formula1.comWhat the teams said – Qualifying in SpainLando Norris of McLaren achieved pole position for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, clocking a lap time of 1:31.824. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, faced challenges during qualifying, ultimately finishing in 7th place. Kimi Antonelli from Mercedes narrowly missed pole, qualifying 2nd, while George Russell ended up in 6th position after a less than ideal final run.
The qualifying session highlighted the competitive nature of the field, with only fractions of seconds separating the top drivers. Teams expressed mixed feelings about their performances, with McLaren celebrating Norris's achievement while acknowledging Piastri's potential for improvement. Mercedes remained optimistic about their chances in the race despite the challenges posed by the track conditions.
Sat 12 Sep · 19:12 UTC
via AutosportF1 drivers criticise Madrid circuit, Verstappen laughs: "I'll sort it out"F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, have expressed concerns about the new Madrid circuit, particularly its lack of overtaking opportunities and poorly designed braking zones. Verstappen noted that the circuit's layout makes it challenging for drivers to pass each other, which could lead to a less exciting race experience.
Additionally, both drivers criticized the long pitlane, which they believe complicates race strategy due to its design. Verstappen mentioned that he would be willing to provide input on track design improvements in the future, emphasizing the importance of driver feedback in creating better racing environments.
Sat 12 Sep · 18:18 UTC
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz confirms Williams ‘putting all the eggs in next year’s basket’Carlos Sainz expressed confidence in Williams' future despite a challenging season, stating that the team is 'putting all the eggs in next year's basket.' Currently, Williams sits ninth in the Constructor's Standings with only 11 points, and Sainz noted that both he and teammate Alex Albon have not added to their tally since the Monaco Grand Prix. An upgraded chassis is expected to be introduced at the upcoming race in Azerbaijan, which Sainz hopes will improve their performance.
Sainz also highlighted the importance of learning from the difficulties faced this season, referring to it as a 'bump on the road.' He emphasized the need for the team to bounce back next year and show signs of improvement. Despite the current struggles, Sainz reaffirmed his commitment to Williams by signing a multi-year contract extension, indicating his belief in the team's potential to turn things around.
Sat 12 Sep · 10:00 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA president holds urgent Fernando Alonso and Lawrence Stroll talksFIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is set to meet with Fernando Alonso to discuss his future in Formula 1, emphasizing that it is unacceptable for the two-time world champion to retire without further success. Alonso has expressed interest in the World Endurance Championship as a potential next step, particularly in light of Aston Martin's struggles this season, where he has been the team's sole points scorer.
Alonso has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the new engine regulations that prioritize electrical energy. In response, the FIA has made adjustments to support underperforming power units, including increasing test bench hours and revising financial regulations. Ben Sulayem aims to persuade Alonso to continue racing, highlighting the need for the champion to leave on his own terms rather than due to performance issues.
Sat 12 Sep · 07:59 UTC
via PlanetF1The mindblowing hypocrisy of Lewis HamiltonLewis Hamilton has openly criticized his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc for his aggressive driving during the Italian Grand Prix. This criticism comes amid Hamilton's broader dissatisfaction with Ferrari's performance, which he has expressed publicly in recent races, raising concerns about the potential consequences of his comments.
The article highlights the historical context of Ferrari drivers facing difficulties when they publicly criticize the team. It suggests that Hamilton's approach may alienate him from the team, as his remarks have shifted the relationship dynamic from collaboration to confrontation. The implications of his criticisms could lead to significant repercussions for both Hamilton and Ferrari.Sat 12 Sep · 06:19 UTC
via newsonf1.comHadjar return still uncertain for BakuSep.12 (GMM) Isack Hadjar’s wrist injury appears more serious than initially hoped, with the Red Bull driver still wearing a substantial brace in Madrid and Laurent Mekies refusing to guarantee he will return in Baku. Hadjar has now missed three races, with Liam Lawson again substituting this weekend. Mekies said Red Bull had no hesitation…
via gpfans.comAlonso says YES to one more year as Spanish fans go wildFernando Alonso has indicated that he may continue his Formula 1 career with Aston Martin for another year, following a fan event where he responded positively to calls for him to race again. Despite previous hints about possibly moving to the World Endurance Championship, his recent comments and interactions suggest a strong likelihood of his return to F1 next season alongside teammate Lance Stroll.
Alonso, who is currently the oldest driver in the sport at 45, has been coy about his future but has shown enthusiasm for the Aston Martin project. He mentioned the importance of understanding the new regulations for the upcoming season and how they might affect the driving experience, indicating that he is considering the best role for himself moving forward.Fri 11 Sep · 20:45 UTC
via grandprix.comBen Sulayem tells Alonso to stay until he wins againFIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has urged Fernando Alonso to continue racing in Formula 1, suggesting that he should not retire after a challenging 2026 season with Aston Martin. He emphasized that Alonso, a celebrated champion, should remain in the sport until he secures another victory before deciding to leave.
Ben Sulayem has indicated that he plans to discuss Alonso's future with him directly, noting that Alonso is currently unhappy with the team's performance. While Alonso has left his options open for 2027, including a potential move to the World Endurance Championship, Aston Martin prefers to keep him in their Formula 1 lineup./16x9%20single%20image%20-%202026-09-11T121422.901.webp)
via Formula1.comteams share impressions after Spanish Grand Prix practiceTeams and drivers provided feedback following the initial practice session for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix. The session took place at the Madrid circuit, allowing teams to assess their performance ahead of the race.Fri 11 Sep · 15:04 UTC
via F1i‘Not acceptable’: Ben Sulayem won’t let Alonso retire in miseryFIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed his disapproval of the idea that Fernando Alonso might retire from Formula 1 due to the poor performance of his Aston Martin team. Speaking at the New Economy Forum in Madrid, he emphasized that it would be unacceptable for a two-time world champion to leave the sport under such circumstances, suggesting that he would intervene to prevent this outcome.
Ben Sulayem has already engaged in discussions with Aston Martin's owner, Lawrence Stroll, to address the team's competitive issues. He indicated that the FIA has taken measures to assist the team and is open to Alonso's input on how to improve their performance. The FIA president's commitment to keeping Alonso in the sport highlights the complexities of team dynamics and regulatory influence in Formula 1.
Fri 11 Sep · 14:26 UTC
via Motorsport.comAston Martin praises Lance Stroll's speed alongside AlonsoPedro de la Rosa, Aston Martin's Formula 1 ambassador, has praised Lance Stroll, stating he can be 'as quick' as his team-mate Fernando Alonso. De la Rosa described Stroll as 'very underrated' and suggested he is 'unbeatable' at many Formula 1 tracks.
+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 13:21 UTC
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton claims Ferrari F1 move BLOCKED by Fernando AlonsoLewis Hamilton revealed that his potential move to Ferrari was hindered by Fernando Alonso, who held veto rights during negotiations. Hamilton stated that he spoke with former Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali about joining the team, but Alonso's status as the number one driver played a significant role in blocking the move.
Hamilton and Alonso previously had a tumultuous partnership at McLaren in 2007, which ended with Alonso leaving the team after just one season. While Alonso continued with Ferrari until 2014, Hamilton moved to Mercedes, where he achieved significant success, ultimately joining Ferrari in 2025.Fri 11 Sep · 10:57 UTC
via PlanetF1Alonso considers Aston Martin World Endurance optionFernando Alonso is exploring alternatives as he awaits a final decision from Aston Martin regarding his future in Formula 1. The team's owner, Lawrence Stroll, has taken steps that reflect Alonso's uncertain position.+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 04:59 UTCvia newsonf1.comAlonso says 2027 decision ‘not soon’Sep.11 (GMM) Fernando Alonso says a decision about his 2027 future is still some way off, while openly admitting that options outside the Formula 1 cockpit are part of the discussion. Asked in Madrid when news about next season should be expected, the 45-year-old replied simply: “Not soon.” Alonso continues to insist his hesitation is…via newsonf1.comLeclerc cleared to race as Ferrari tension coolsSep.11 (GMM) Charles Leclerc has been cleared to race in Madrid after further medical checks following his heavy Monza crash, while Ferrari appears to have calmed the tensions exposed during its disastrous home weekend. “It felt like a serious accident,” Leclerc, who reported vision problems after the impact, said on Thursday. “But all the checks…
via thejudge13.comAlonso retirement preparations at Aston Martin as 2027 decision looms ahead of Madrid GPFernando Alonso's future in Formula 1 is uncertain as his contract with Aston Martin expires at the end of the 2026 season. The team has begun preparations for the possibility of racing without him in 2027, although Alonso has not made a definitive retirement announcement. He has indicated that the competitiveness of the next-generation cars will significantly influence his decision to continue racing or step away from the sport.
In a recent statement, Alonso expressed the need to evaluate how upcoming technical regulations will affect the driving experience. He remains open to continuing his relationship with Aston Martin in a different capacity, such as competing in other racing series. While he acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly in the Madrid GP, he is focused on assessing his options and the team's future direction.
Thu 10 Sep · 20:58 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso claims rivals visited Lawrence StrollFernando Alonso has stated that several prominent Formula 1 drivers visited Aston Martin team owner Lawrence Stroll during the summer. This revelation comes as Alonso considers his own future in the sport.+ 1 moreThu 10 Sep · 15:05 UTC
via RaceFans‘In Monza I did two or three unwanted overtakes’ – Alonso | Formula 1Fernando Alonso reflected on his performance during the recent Monza race, stating that he executed a few overtakes that he did not intend to make. He emphasized that drivers often find themselves at the mercy of their cars when attempting to overtake, indicating a lack of control in certain situations.
The article also highlights the recent changes to Formula 1's power unit regulations, which were implemented in response to widespread criticism from drivers regarding the artificial nature of racing. Despite the positive feedback from F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali about the Italian Grand Prix, Alonso remains doubtful about the overall racing experience on Sundays compared to the excitement of qualifying.
Thu 10 Sep · 14:22 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso confirms alternative option to F1 for 2027Fernando Alonso is considering a move to the World Endurance Championship (WEC) for the 2027 season, although he has not yet made a formal commitment regarding his future in Formula 1. Aston Martin, his current team, is keen to keep him on board as they aim to improve their performance with Honda as their engine partner.
Despite his struggles this season, where he has only scored three points in 13 races, Alonso has indicated that his decision will be based on his enjoyment of the new regulations rather than the competitiveness of the car. He has stated that any announcement about his future is not imminent, as he focuses on the upcoming challenges of racing on a new street circuit in Madrid.
Thu 10 Sep · 13:20 UTCPage 7 of 16