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via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso makes 'amazing' three-second claim as Aston Martin wait endsFernando Alonso has highlighted a significant improvement for Aston Martin, claiming they have reduced their qualifying deficit by three seconds over the last two races following recent upgrades. Despite not making it to Q2 at the Dutch Grand Prix, Alonso noted that the team is closing the gap to the leaders, with a marked difference in performance compared to previous races. He emphasized the need for continued development to maintain this momentum.
While Alonso is optimistic about the upgrades, teammate Lance Stroll has a more cautious view, suggesting the improvements are minimal. Alonso pointed out that their chassis performs well in races, which could help them capitalize on competitors with older tires. However, he also acknowledged the challenges posed by the track layout, particularly regarding overtaking opportunities.
Sun 23 Aug · 09:20 UTC
via f1technical.netAston Martin offers its first assessment of the upgraded Honda power unitAston Martin faced a challenging qualifying session at the Dutch Grand Prix, with both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll unable to advance beyond Q1. Despite their disappointing positions, the team expressed optimism about the improvements made with their upgraded Honda power unit and overall package, noting that they are closer to the leading teams than in previous races. Alonso's qualifying time was 1:13.650, while Stroll's was 1:13.818, placing them 18th and 19th respectively.
Team Principal Adrian Newey highlighted the progress in chassis and aerodynamic performance but acknowledged that driveability remains a key issue. Both drivers reported that while their qualifying pace was lacking, they believe their race pace could be more competitive. The team aims to address the driveability concerns to unlock further performance as they head into the race.
Sun 23 Aug · 06:54 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri turns corner in fresh McLaren 'hope'Oscar Piastri showed improvement in his performance at the Dutch Grand Prix, qualifying in fourth place, which reflects a growing comfort with his McLaren car. Despite being outpaced by teammate Lando Norris, who achieved pole position, Piastri felt more at ease behind the wheel, indicating a positive shift in his driving experience.
During the sprint race, Norris faced challenges, dropping from second to third place. Piastri acknowledged that the team might still be struggling with downforce and balance issues, which could affect their race performance. He expressed hope that they had made improvements for the upcoming race, as maintaining pace would be crucial for a successful outcome.Sun 23 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comAlex Albon details hilarious Sardinia run-in with Max VerstappenAlex Albon shared a humorous story about a surprise meeting with Max Verstappen while he was learning to e-foil during his summer vacation in Sardinia. Albon described his struggles with the sport when he noticed a skilled rider passing him at high speed, who he later realized was Verstappen.
During the podcast discussion, Albon recounted how he was impressed by Verstappen's calmness and skill on the e-foil. The encounter added a light-hearted moment to Albon's summer, which also included other travel and training activities before the F1 season resumed.
Sat 22 Aug · 21:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comSainz Addresses Williams' Challenges After Difficult 2026 StartCarlos Sainz has highlighted the quality and consistency of parts as Williams' main issue this season. He delivered a personal message to the team's factory staff following a challenging start to the 2026 Formula 1 campaign.+ 1 moreSat 22 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin Drivers Critique Honda Engine Upgrade After Dutch GPLance Stroll and Fernando Alonso expressed disappointment with Honda's new power unit following their early exit in qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Stroll described the upgrade as a 'lottery' and stated it was 'not nearly enough' to improve their performance.
+ 1 moreSat 22 Aug · 19:15 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri just broke one of Max Verstappen’s F1 records at the Dutch Grand PrixOscar Piastri achieved a significant milestone at the Dutch Grand Prix by breaking Max Verstappen's record for the highest Q3 appearance rate in Formula 1 history. Piastri qualified in P4, while his teammate Lando Norris took pole position, marking a competitive qualifying session at Zandvoort. With this achievement, Piastri has reached Q3 74 times out of 82 race weekends, resulting in a 90.24% success rate, surpassing Verstappen's previous record of 90.20%.
In addition to Piastri's accomplishment, the article highlights the Q3 appearance rates of other notable drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. The current qualifying format, which began in 2006, complicates comparisons with drivers from earlier eras. Piastri's consistency in reaching Q3 is underscored, although he still has a way to go to match Hamilton's record of 104 pole positions.
Sat 22 Aug · 17:00 UTCOscar PIASTRI leads the Qualifying at ZandvoortOscar PIASTRI takes the lead from Kimi ANTONELLI — live from Zandvoort, Netherlands.
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri ‘surprised’ Jolyon Palmer with what he saw during F1 Sprint at the Dutch Grand PrixJolyon Palmer admits he was “surprised” by how Oscar Piastri performed for McLaren during the F1 Sprint at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, after finishing ...Sat 22 Aug · 13:15 UTC
via grandprix.comAlonso to meet with owner Stroll for contract talksFernando Alonso is preparing for contract discussions with Aston Martin's owner, Lawrence Stroll, as he evaluates his future with the team. The talks come amid challenges faced by Aston Martin's newly introduced Honda-powered package, which encountered drivability issues during the recent Sprint qualifying at Zandvoort, where Alonso finished last. Despite these setbacks, Alonso acknowledges that the new engine represents progress, although it requires further refinement and understanding.
The ongoing discussions about Alonso's contract are particularly significant as Aston Martin has recently altered its ownership structure. Alonso, who had previously suggested a decision would be made in the summer, now states that there is no immediate deadline. He plans to continue discussions with Stroll and potentially with Adrian Newey at the factory, as the team works to address the technical challenges presented by the new power unit.
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz issued warning after incident during Sprint Qualifying at the F1 Dutch GPFollowing a hearing, Sainz received a warning for his actions. The Williams team, despite Sainz's recent contract extension, continues to grapple with performance issues, struggling to keep pace with competitors in the midfield. The team is looking to improve as they navigate a challenging race weekend.
Sat 22 Aug · 11:00 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin confirm pitlane start for Fernando Alonso at F1 Dutch Grand PrixAston Martin has confirmed that Fernando Alonso will begin the sprint race at the Dutch Grand Prix from the pitlane due to issues encountered during qualifying. Alonso's performance was hindered by a malfunctioning straight line mode, resulting in a last-place finish in the qualifying session. The team made overnight setup changes to address these problems, which they hope will improve performance during the race.
The sprint race is set to start at 11:00 UK time, and Alonso expressed that he is still in the early stages of understanding the impact of Honda's recent power unit upgrade. The team had entered the weekend with optimism following a significant upgrade package, but the qualifying issues were an unwelcome setback as they continue to gather data on the new components.Sat 22 Aug · 09:57 UTC
via RacingNews365Sainz and Alonso to Start Dutch GP Sprint from Pit LaneCarlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso will begin the sprint race at the Dutch Grand Prix from the pit lane. This decision follows adjustments made to their car setups ahead of the event.+ 1 moreSat 22 Aug · 08:40 UTC
via CrashFernando Alonso gets Zandvoort F1 sprint penalty, but Aston confirms key car fixFernando Alonso will begin the sprint race at the Dutch Grand Prix from the pitlane due to issues encountered during qualifying. He finished last in the sprint qualifying session, attributing his struggles to problems with Honda's new power unit and a straightline mode issue with his car. His teammate, Lance Stroll, also had a disappointing qualifying performance, finishing 19th on the grid.
Aston Martin has confirmed that they addressed a crucial car issue overnight, which may improve Alonso's performance in the upcoming sprint. Despite the challenges, Alonso remains optimistic about the new engine, acknowledging that it is still early in its development. The sprint race is set to start at 11am BST, with Carlos Sainz also starting from the pitlane after modifications to his vehicle.
Sat 22 Aug · 08:36 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso contract discussions on going for ‘many months’Aston Martin is awaiting a decision from Fernando Alonso regarding his future in Formula 1, as his current contract ends after the 2026 season. Discussions about a potential renewal have been ongoing for several months, with team officials expressing optimism about a resolution in the near future. Alonso, however, has emphasized that his focus remains on the current racing events rather than contract negotiations.
The team has recently made significant upgrades to their car, including enhancements to the chassis and a new power unit from Honda, which have shown promising results. Alonso's performance and the evolving nature of F1 racing are factors he is considering as he weighs his options. As the last major unknown in the driver market, his decision will have implications for both his career and Aston Martin's future in the sport.
Sat 22 Aug · 08:32 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri points to season-long struggle in Zandvoort pole near-missOscar Piastri faced a challenging qualifying session for the Dutch Grand Prix Sprint race, ultimately securing fourth place. He was close to achieving pole position, finishing just 0.099 seconds behind George Russell, who took the top spot. Piastri's teammate, Lando Norris, also struggled with soft tyre performance, finishing slightly behind Russell as well.
Throughout the season, Piastri has experienced difficulties in extracting optimal performance from soft tyres, a trend he noted continued during this qualifying session. Despite these challenges, he expressed satisfaction with the improvements made since free practice and acknowledged the competitive nature of the upcoming races against Ferrari and Mercedes.Sat 22 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell draws first blood as Oscar Piastri confirms Carlos Sainz texts - RacingNews365 ReviewGeorge Russell achieved pole position for the sprint race at Zandvoort, narrowly beating Lando Norris. Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri revealed he communicated with Carlos Sainz following their incident during the Hungarian Grand Prix, which was complicated by a malfunctioning blue flag system. Lewis Hamilton expressed confusion regarding his pace during the sprint qualifying, while Norris reflected on his performance, citing tire management as a key factor in his loss to Russell.
In other news, Red Bull's team principal explained why Arvid Lindblad was not promoted for the Dutch Grand Prix, and Isack Hadjar was confirmed to miss the race due to a wrist injury sustained earlier. Laurent Mekies reassured fans about Hadjar's condition, indicating ongoing monitoring of his health.Fri 21 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comF1 Dutch GP: Saturday schedule, weather forecast and how to watchThe article outlines the schedule and key details for the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, highlighting George Russell's achievement of securing sprint pole position. He narrowly beat Lando Norris, with Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri following closely behind. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli will start fifth due to damage sustained during qualifying, while Max Verstappen will begin in sixth place for his final home race at this circuit.
The sprint race and qualifying sessions are crucial given Zandvoort's challenging layout, with the sprint set for August 22 at noon CEST and qualifying later that day. The weather is expected to be cool with potential morning showers, which could impact track conditions. The main race is scheduled for August 23, emphasizing the importance of qualifying and track position in this fast-paced environment.Fri 21 Aug · 17:46 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso Highlights Engine Issues During Dutch Grand Prix QualifyingFernando Alonso experienced significant difficulties during the F1 Sprint qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Aston Martin confirmed that a problem with the Honda power unit contributed to Alonso's struggles on track.+ 2 moreFri 21 Aug · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comFernando Alonso Highlights Challenges with Honda's New F1 EngineAston Martin driver Fernando Alonso has reported difficulties with Honda's new engine during sprint qualifying at Zandvoort. He emphasized the need for further optimization to improve the car's driveability.+ 1 moreFri 21 Aug · 16:59 UTCPage 10 of 16