via f1oversteer.comRUMOURHow Yuki Tsunoda’s pace compared to Liam Lawson in his three races at Racing BullsYuki Tsunoda's time with Racing Bulls has been marked by underperformance compared to his teammate Liam Lawson. In three races, Tsunoda managed only a single point, finishing P10 at Monza, while Lawson consistently achieved better results, averaging a race position of 8.4 compared to Tsunoda's 11.7. Tsunoda's struggles were evident in qualifying as well, where he was on average seven-tenths slower than Lawson.
As Tsunoda steps back, Lawson is set to return for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Racing Bulls eager to improve their standings in the constructors' championship. The team has faced challenges, being outscored by Alpine during Tsunoda's stint, which has raised questions about Tsunoda's future in Formula 1 amidst speculation linking him to other teams.
f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star on verge of team exit after startling admissionEsteban Ocon has revealed that he is currently a free agent for the 2027 Formula 1 season, as he does not have a contract in place to continue racing. The 30-year-old driver, who is in his second season with Haas, acknowledged that he is exploring options while also considering a potential new deal with the team. Ocon's performance this season has been underwhelming, with only three points compared to his teammate Ollie Bearman's 18 points.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has indicated that he is evaluating five different drivers for the 2027 season, with F3 champion Rafael Camara emerging as a strong contender. Ocon's future with Haas appears uncertain, especially after a challenging stint at Alpine, where he had a notable rivalry with Pierre Gasly. As of now, Haas is one of three teams yet to confirm their driver lineup for the upcoming season.
gpfans.comWed 23 Sep · 18:44 UTC
via PlanetF1Ocon to lose Haas seat, Red Bull announcement, FIA confirms Russell inspection findings – roundupThe FIA has confirmed that George Russell's Mercedes W17 complies with the 2026 technical regulations following a thorough inspection conducted after the Spanish Grand Prix. This inspection is part of the FIA's routine checks for cars finishing in the top ten, and Russell's car was found to meet all requirements after he finished fifth in the race.
In other news, Esteban Ocon has been informed that he will not continue with the Haas team for the 2027 season, with Rafael Camara set to replace him. Additionally, Red Bull has announced that Isack Hadjar will remain as Max Verstappen's teammate for the upcoming season, following his impressive performance and recent podium finish.
PlanetF1Wed 23 Sep · 18:04 UTC
via CrashRafael Camara likely to replace Esteban Ocon at HaasEsteban Ocon is expected to leave Haas at the end of the season, with Rafael Camara emerging as the leading candidate for his seat. Camara is currently a Formula 2 driver and part of the Ferrari junior programme.
Crash+ 1 moreWed 23 Sep · 16:05 UTC
via Motorsport WeekOliver Bearman shares ‘relearning’ issues of 2026 Haas carOliver Bearman has expressed his frustrations with the 2026 Haas Formula 1 car, the VF-26, citing constant changes in its characteristics that hinder his performance. Despite a promising start to the season, Bearman and his teammate Esteban Ocon have struggled to maintain competitiveness, particularly as they enter the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with only 18 points.
Bearman described the challenge of adapting to the VF-26, stating that each race feels like he is driving a different car. He contrasted this with his experience in the previous season, where the VF-25 provided a more consistent driving experience. Bearman hopes that the chaotic nature of the Baku circuit will offer him an opportunity to challenge for points, recalling his previous success at the venue.
Motorsport WeekWed 23 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRalf Schumacher fears Oliver Bearman could become a ‘wasted talent’ after suffering a ‘huge blow’Ralf Schumacher has voiced his worries regarding Oliver Bearman's potential to become a 'wasted talent' while driving for Haas in 2026. After a promising start to the season, Bearman has struggled to score points, with his last points finish occurring at the Montreal Grand Prix. Schumacher believes that Bearman needs to secure a move away from Haas to continue his development as a Formula 1 driver.
Bearman, who debuted with Ferrari in 2024, has been highly regarded in the paddock, with interest from Red Bull before they secured Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar for 2027. As Bearman's contract with Ferrari is set to expire at the end of 2026, the pressure is on for him to make a significant career decision soon, especially as Schumacher fears that remaining at Haas could hinder his potential.f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via CrashRUMOURCryptic remark offers bleak twist in Esteban Ocon F1 future sagaEsteban Ocon has revealed that he is currently a free agent for the 2027 Formula 1 season, indicating uncertainty about his future with Haas. Speaking ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Ocon acknowledged that discussions regarding his position are beyond his control and confirmed he is in talks with other teams.
Ocon's performance this season has not met expectations compared to his team-mate Ollie Bearman, leading Haas to evaluate potential replacements. Among the candidates, Ferrari junior Rafael Camara appears to be leading the pack. Ocon has downplayed the significance of Haas testing other drivers, asserting that the team is focused on collective improvement rather than individual performance issues.CrashWed 23 Sep · 10:02 UTC
via racer.comFerrari needs to get its act together in qualifying, Vasseur saysFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur has emphasised the need for improvement in qualifying performance, stating that the team has the potential for better results if they can enhance their pace during qualifying sessions. Despite Charles Leclerc demonstrating strong race pace at the Spanish Grand Prix, Ferrari has struggled to secure podium finishes since July, with Vasseur pinpointing weaknesses in the final stages of qualifying as a critical area for development.
Leclerc echoed Vasseur's sentiments, indicating that the car's performance in qualifying is generally lacking compared to its race pace. He specifically mentioned that the power unit's performance is a contributing factor to their struggles on Saturdays. Both Vasseur and Leclerc expressed a commitment to finding solutions to unlock more qualifying performance, with Vasseur optimistic about the team's ability to carry over current developments into next year's project.
racer.comMon 21 Sep · 14:05 UTC
via thejudge13.comHaas F1 extensive testing to evaluate Ocon replacementHaas F1 driver Esteban Ocon is now in his 11th season in Formula One. He has been employed by five different teams in that time and was previously a highly rated Mercedes junior driver. He made his debut for Manor at the Belgian Grand Prix in 2016, replacing Rio Haryanto, whose sponsors failed to meet ...
thejudge13.comSun 20 Sep · 10:22 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso reveals 'shock' after finding out Aston Martin truthFernando Alonso revealed his shock at Aston Martin's performance at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, expressing disappointment over the team's competitiveness. Despite high expectations with Adrian Newey's car design and Honda's return, the team struggled with a rushed chassis and engine reliability issues, leaving them near the back of the grid.
In a podcast interview, Alonso shared his thoughts on the team's situation, acknowledging the initial optimism but recognizing the need for improvement. He highlighted the upgrades introduced during the season and expressed hope for better results in the future, emphasizing the talent and motivation within the team to become contenders.gpfans.comSat 19 Sep · 07:16 UTC
via f1oversteer.comGene Haas won’t let Haas become a Ferrari ‘junior team’ despite Oliver Bearman dealHaas F1 Team is actively exploring driver options for the 2027 season, with Esteban Ocon's seat up for grabs. Among the candidates are reserve driver Jack Doohan, Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, and McLaren's Leonardo Fornaroli. Despite Camara's impressive track record, team owner Gene Haas is hesitant to sign him due to concerns about being labeled a Ferrari junior team, which he wants to avoid. Oliver Bearman is confirmed to stay with the team, but Haas is weighing its options carefully.
The team is currently seventh in the standings and has faced challenges in development compared to rivals. They are under financial constraints and are looking for ways to enhance their competitiveness without becoming overly reliant on partnerships with manufacturers like Ferrari or Toyota. The upcoming decision on driver line-ups is seen as pivotal for the team's future direction, as they strive for greater independence while navigating the complexities of the driver market.f1oversteer.comThu 17 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via grandprix.comRUMOURRafael Camara emerges as candidate for Haas seatRafael Camara is reportedly the leading contender to take over Esteban Ocon's seat at Haas for the 2027 season. While speculation surrounds this potential move, no official announcements have been made by either Haas or Ferrari.newsonf1.com+ 1 moreThu 17 Sep · 06:39 UTC
via Motorsport.comWas Cadillac “faster” than Williams in Madring F1 race?Cadillac Racing, in its first season in Formula 1, showed some promising pace during the Spanish Grand Prix, particularly with driver Sergio Perez, who managed to keep up with Williams' Alexander Albon until a mechanical issue forced him to retire. Despite finishing 17th, Perez noted that he was competitive and even faster than Albon during certain parts of the race, which provided a glimmer of hope for the team.
On the other hand, teammate Valtteri Bottas struggled throughout the race, finishing at the back and highlighting ongoing reliability concerns. Cadillac has faced numerous challenges this season, including a high number of retirements, but both drivers remain hopeful for improvements in future races, particularly in the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Motorsport.comWed 16 Sep · 13:56 UTC
via f1chronicle.comFerrari Boss Fred Vasseur Insists ‘The Potential Is There’ for a Win After Charles Leclerc’s Bold Madrid GambleFerrari's team principal Fred Vasseur expressed confidence in the team's potential for victory following the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, where Charles Leclerc finished fourth after a bold strategy. Leclerc gambled on a single set of hard tyres for nearly 50 laps, hoping for a second caution that could have allowed him to pit without losing time. Despite his strong pace throughout the race, he ultimately fell short of a podium finish, crossing the line 29.116 seconds behind winner Kimi Antonelli.
Vasseur noted that the team's strategy was sound, but the absence of a second caution period hindered their chances. He emphasized that Leclerc's performance showcased Ferrari's capability to compete with the front-runners, despite Hamilton's early retirement due to brake issues. As the team prepares for the next race in Baku, Vasseur remains optimistic that a full race without incidents could finally yield the results that reflect their pace.
f1chronicle.comWed 16 Sep · 01:54 UTC
via Formula1.comVictoria Farfus sets the pace in 2026 F1 ACADEMY Rookie TestThe 2026 F1 Academy Rookie Test was held at the Circuito de Navarra, providing a platform for young female drivers to showcase their skills. Victoria Farfus emerged as the fastest driver, clocking a time of 1:46.988, while 18 participants completed a total of 1,447 laps over the course of the event. The test aimed to identify talent for future opportunities in the series, following a preparatory camp that included assessments and workshops.
The test featured notable performances, including Alexia Danielsson's fastest afternoon time of 1:47.259. The event has already proven successful, with seven drivers from the previous Rookie Test securing full-time positions in the series. F1 Academy's Performance & Talent Development Manager, Katie Denver, highlighted the impressive dedication of the drivers and the valuable insights gained regarding their potential.
Formula1.comTue 15 Sep · 17:09 UTC
via f1oversteer.comSimon Lazenby reminds Nico Rosberg of what he said about Lewis Hamilton’s ‘age’ last yearNico Rosberg has acknowledged that Lewis Hamilton has regained his qualifying pace this season, countering his previous doubts expressed in May 2025. At that time, Rosberg questioned whether Hamilton still possessed the ultimate speed, suggesting that age might be a factor. However, Hamilton is currently tied with Charles Leclerc in qualifying performances for the 2026 season, a significant turnaround from last year's results where he lost decisively to Leclerc.
During a discussion on Sky Sports F1, Rosberg noted Hamilton's impressive performance this year, stating that he is driving at his best and putting pressure on Leclerc. Hamilton's qualifying pace has improved significantly, and he is now the third-quickest driver in qualifying this year. Despite facing challenges, including a mechanical failure, Hamilton maintains a 24-point lead over Leclerc in the standings, showcasing his resilience and skill as a veteran driver.f1oversteer.comTue 15 Sep · 17:00 UTC%2FGettyImages-2295032319.webp&w=1200&q=70)
via Formula1.comWhy Haas see the positives after Madrid disappointmentEsteban Ocon expressed disappointment after finishing 11th at the Spanish Grand Prix, just missing out on points. This result marked his closest attempt to score since the Monaco race. Despite the setback, Haas took a positive outlook, highlighting the effectiveness of their recent upgrades, which have improved their performance after a difficult start to the season. Ocon noted that the team is now competitive and fighting for points, a significant improvement from earlier races.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu echoed Ocon's sentiments, stating that the disappointment of finishing just outside the points is a sign of progress for the team. Oliver Bearman, who finished 16th, also found positives in the car's performance, indicating that it was strong when he had clean air. Both drivers and the team are optimistic about building on this momentum as they prepare for the next race in Baku.Formula1.comTue 15 Sep · 11:08 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA confirms double Spanish GP punishment; Honda change; Brown receives apology – roundupThe FIA has confirmed a double punishment following the Spanish Grand Prix, where Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto was warned for moving under braking, and Racing Bulls were fined €200 for Yuki Tsunoda's speeding in the pit lane. This investigation highlights the stewards' commitment to maintaining safety and adherence to regulations during the race.
In other news, Honda has announced a leadership change, promoting Yoichiro Fukao to large project leader after the race. Additionally, Romain Grosjean issued an apology to Zak Brown regarding a misunderstanding about comments made about Oscar Piastri. Lando Norris faced a setback during the race due to a Virtual Safety Car, which altered his strategy, while Ferrari drivers Hamilton and Leclerc are set to participate in a tyre test at Imola.PlanetF1Mon 14 Sep · 18:01 UTC
via Motorsport.comMcLaren reflects on missed victory in Spanish Grand PrixMcLaren expressed disappointment after Lando Norris's pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix was undermined by an ill-timed Virtual Safety Car. The team acknowledged that factors beyond their control contributed to their inability to secure the win despite showing strong pace.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 14:03 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams aims for improvement with Baku upgradesWilliams Racing is preparing to introduce a significant upgrade package for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, following a challenging performance at the Spanish Grand Prix. Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes these upgrades could lead to a substantial improvement for the team.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 13:49 UTC
via grandprix.comWolff questions George Russell's inconsistent paceToto Wolff has expressed concern over George Russell's lack of consistent pace during races. The team is seeking to understand why Russell's speed fluctuates rather than remaining steady throughout the weekend.grandprix.com+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 10:43 UTC
via Formula1.comWhy Vasseur believes Ferrari had the pace to win in MadridFred Vasseur expressed confidence in Ferrari's performance during the Spanish Grand Prix, suggesting that Charles Leclerc had the potential to win if circumstances had favored him. Leclerc's strategy of not pitting during the Virtual Safety Car allowed him to lead for a time, but ultimately he finished fourth after a long stint on hard tires without a safety intervention to aid his strategy.
Hamilton's race ended prematurely due to a brake issue, marking his first DNF of the season. He had a strong start but quickly fell back as he struggled with braking. Vasseur noted that the team's strategy was sound, but they missed opportunities in qualifying that impacted their overall race performance.Formula1.comMon 14 Sep · 09:09 UTC
via Motorsport WeekPierre Gasly stumped by sudden pace loss after Q2 exit in MadridPierre Gasly experienced a surprising decline in performance during the qualifying session for the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, resulting in his elimination in Q2 and a 14th place starting position. He was perplexed by the drastic change in the car's behavior compared to earlier in the weekend, indicating that he felt comfortable with the car's balance prior to qualifying.
Gasly plans to work with his team to investigate the issues that led to the loss of grip and performance. He expressed skepticism about his chances in the upcoming race, suggesting that he might need to take risks to improve his situation. Despite the overall improvement in track conditions, he remains uncertain about the car's competitiveness in the high-speed sections of the circuit.Motorsport WeekSun 13 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via f1technical.netPiastri reveals why he "didn’t have that last bit we needed in the last run"Oscar Piastri expressed disappointment after qualifying seventh for the Spanish Grand Prix, despite McLaren showing competitive pace with Lando Norris achieving pole position. Piastri's performance was hindered by a cautious qualifying strategy that required him to use two sets of soft tyres in Q2, leaving him with only one fresh set for Q3, which affected his final lap performance.
Piastri acknowledged that while the team made improvements throughout the qualifying sessions, he lacked the final pace needed to challenge for a higher position. He emphasized the importance of strategy for the race, given the expected difficulty in overtaking and uncertainties regarding tyre degradation after practice sessions.
f1technical.netSat 12 Sep · 23:00 UTC