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via AutosportAutosport magazine: Antonelli and a Can-Am celebrationKimi Antonelli is emerging as a strong contender for the 2026 Formula 1 world championship, showcasing impressive performance and a significant points lead. His recent victory at Monza, where he started from 19th place, highlights his skill and strategic prowess, putting pressure on rivals like George Russell to improve their performance.
The October issue of Autosport not only focuses on Antonelli's championship journey but also commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Can-Am series, a notable chapter in motorsport history. The publication features insights into the challenges faced by teams and drivers, as well as reflections on the evolution of racing categories, emphasizing the ongoing excitement in the motorsport world.
Thu 17 Sep · 08:17 UTC
via gpfans.com'Lewis knew it, it's clear in the contract' - Ferrari boss confirms Hamilton vs Leclerc truthFerrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will continue to be treated as joint number one drivers, a fact that Hamilton was aware of when he signed his contract. This decision comes amidst recent tensions between the two drivers, particularly highlighted during the Dutch Grand Prix where Leclerc's actions hindered Hamilton's performance. Despite Hamilton's criticisms regarding the team's lack of clear rules, Vasseur remains firm that Ferrari will not prioritize one driver over the other this season.
As the championship progresses, Hamilton finds himself significantly behind leader Kimi Antonelli, trailing by 101 points. Vasseur acknowledged that while Ferrari's strategy is to support both drivers equally, there may be a shift in focus if Hamilton becomes the sole contender for the championship later in the season. This approach is part of Ferrari's broader philosophy, which aims to maintain respect and equality among its drivers.
Thu 17 Sep · 07:56 UTCWikimedia Commons · Parrot of Doom · CC BY-SA 3.0Jos pushes Verstappen towards rally testSep.17 (GMM) Jos Verstappen says rallying would suit Max perfectly and is trying to persuade his son to test a rally car this winter, but the four-time world champion says the risks are too high. Speaking to Play Sports, Jos said he has no interest in returning to the wheel of Formula 1 machinery himself,…Wikimedia Commons · Yu Chu Chin · CC BY-SA 4.0Colapinto reveals pre-race sex banSep.17 (GMM) Franco Colapinto has revealed an unusual rule in his preparation for Formula 1 weekends – avoiding sex before racing. Speaking on Spanish television program La Revuelta, the Alpine driver was asked whether he had had sex in the previous month. “No, I’ve been involved in many races,” said the 23-year-old. Colapinto said the…
via RaceFansTsunoda admits he wasn’t ‘hugely disappointed’ when Red Bull dropped him last year | Formula 1Yuki Tsunoda has shared his feelings regarding being dropped by Red Bull at the end of the previous season. He noted that while he was sad about not being able to drive in the upcoming season, he did not feel a significant sense of disappointment, as he had somewhat anticipated the decision.
Tsunoda's promotion to Red Bull's top team occurred during the third round of the last season, but his contract was not extended for 2026. He reflected on the intense pressure he experienced during the latter half of the season, which contributed to his acceptance of the situation.
Thu 17 Sep · 06:16 UTC
via f1oversteer.comGeorge Russell thought he was going to do a Michael Schumacher before Kimi Antonelli came alongGeorge Russell started the 2026 Formula 1 season strong, winning the opening race in Australia and outpacing Kimi Antonelli in qualifying. However, as the season progressed, Russell has only managed to secure one additional victory, while Antonelli has excelled, achieving eight wins and establishing a significant lead in the championship standings.
The situation has shifted dramatically for Russell, who initially drew comparisons to Michael Schumacher's early struggles at Ferrari. Despite Russell's early dominance over Antonelli, the rookie's impressive performance has left Russell facing the prospect of losing the championship to a teammate, a situation he had hoped to avoid. With discussions now focusing on Antonelli's potential coronation as champion, Russell's chances for the 2027 season remain uncertain.
Wed 16 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via AutosportBruising F1 2026 will not be the end for George Russell - Toto WolffToto Wolff expressed confidence in George Russell's ability to overcome a challenging 2026 Formula 1 season, where he currently trails teammate Kimi Antonelli by 81 points. Despite entering the season as a favorite, Russell has struggled against Antonelli, who has shown remarkable improvement in his sophomore year, winning consecutive races and solidifying his position as a title contender.
Wolff emphasized that Russell's past successes in various racing categories demonstrate his potential to become a champion. He acknowledged the psychological challenges Russell faces this season but believes that with the right support and mindset, Russell can bounce back and compete for titles in the future.Wed 16 Sep · 14:12 UTC
via Motorsport.comHow Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes made their own luck in MadridKimi Antonelli secured victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, benefiting from a timely virtual safety car caused by Lance Stroll's retirement. While Lando Norris missed the opportunity to pit due to the VSC deployment, Antonelli's strategic decision to slow down allowed him to enter the pit lane just in time, gaining the lead in the race.
The Mercedes team played a crucial role in this outcome by predicting the likelihood of a VSC and relaying this information to Antonelli promptly. This quick communication and Antonelli's ability to adjust his speed effectively contributed to his success, showcasing both the driver's skill and the team's strategic foresight.
Wed 16 Sep · 12:58 UTC
via f1oversteer.comNico Rosberg warns Kimi Antonelli of title pressureNico Rosberg has cautioned Kimi Antonelli that he could feel increasing pressure in his pursuit of the 2026 Formula 1 championship. Rosberg noted that upgrades from McLaren and Ferrari might challenge Antonelli's current dominance, which includes eight victories this season.+ 1 moreWed 16 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via grandprix.comStuck dislikes F1's new cars, but likes AntonelliHans-Joachim Stuck has voiced strong disapproval of the current direction of Formula 1, particularly criticizing the emphasis on electrical systems and adjustable wings that he believes detract from driver skill. He longs for a return to cars that enable more traditional racing tactics, such as slipstreaming, rather than relying on technology to dictate performance.
In contrast, Stuck praised Kimi Antonelli, calling him a once-in-a-century talent, and likened him to legendary drivers like Max Verstappen and Ayrton Senna. He noted that Antonelli's current championship lead provides him with the opportunity to be more selective in his racing approach, allowing him to prioritize strategic positioning over aggressive racing in every situation.
via Motorsport.comSebastian Vettel: “I’d be very happy” for Kimi Antonelli to beat me as F1’s youngest championSebastian Vettel has stated that he would be pleased if Kimi Antonelli surpasses his record as the youngest Formula 1 world champion. Vettel achieved this milestone in 2010 at the age of 23 years and 4 months, a record that Antonelli, now 20, is on track to break after a strong performance this season, particularly following his win at the Spanish Grand Prix which extended his lead in the championship standings.
Antonelli has already broken several of Vettel's records, including those for pole positions and hat-tricks at a younger age. He has received encouragement from Vettel, who appreciates the hard work and dedication required to achieve such success in the sport. Antonelli's achievements also include being the youngest to score a fastest lap and lead a race, showcasing his potential to become a future champion.Wed 16 Sep · 08:42 UTCWikimedia Commons · Yu Chu Chin · CC BY-SA 4.0Red Bull contracts imminent, Russell deal quietly doneSep.16 (GMM) Red Bull is expected to announce contract extensions in the coming days, according to Sky Deutschland presenter Peter Hardenacke, as uncertainty continues around several seats in the Red Bull driver pool. Hardenacke said he has learned that new deals are imminent, with Isack Hadjar the most obvious candidate after his strong season prior…
via RaceFansStats: Mercedes equal Ferrari as Formula 1’s most successful engine builders | 2026 Spanish Grand Prix stats and factsMercedes has reached a significant milestone by achieving 251 race victories for cars powered by their engines, matching Ferrari's record in Formula 1. This achievement was highlighted by Andrea Kimi Antonelli's recent win at the Spanish Grand Prix, marking a pivotal moment for the Mercedes brand in the sport.
Despite their success, Mercedes has participated in far fewer races compared to Ferrari, which has been a constant presence in Formula 1 since its inception in 1950. Mercedes' long absence from the sport, following the tragic events of the 1955 Le Mans, makes their current success even more remarkable, as they have quickly established themselves as one of the top engine builders in F1 history.Wed 16 Sep · 06:15 UTC
via f1chronicle.comLewis Hamilton Concedes There Is No Stopping Kimi Antonelli as His Ferrari Title Hopes FadeLewis Hamilton faced a setback at the Spanish Grand Prix, retiring early due to a brake issue, which has left him significantly behind Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. After Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the season, Hamilton acknowledged that there seems to be no stopping Antonelli and Mercedes this year, marking a rare moment of surrender from the seven-time champion. Hamilton's retirement dropped him to 101 points behind Antonelli, who is now on track to potentially become the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history.
Despite the growing gap in points, Antonelli remains focused on taking the season one race at a time, refusing to let the title prospects distract him. Hamilton, on the other hand, now shifts his focus to salvaging his season with Ferrari, as he grapples with the reality of his championship hopes fading. The next race in Baku presents an opportunity for Hamilton to recover, but the significant points deficit will require a strong comeback in the remaining races.
Wed 16 Sep · 02:04 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.Wed 16 Sep · 01:54 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.Tue 15 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via RacingNews365David Coulthard calls Kimi Antonelli a phenomenonKimi Antonelli continues to lead the championship, recently securing his eighth victory of the season in Madrid. Former F1 driver David Coulthard has praised Antonelli's talent, rejecting suggestions that his success is merely due to luck.
+ 1 moreTue 15 Sep · 16:10 UTC
via Motorsport WeekF1 photographer allegedly put in chokehold by police at Spanish GPDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring circuit, an incident involving a police officer and an FIA-accredited photographer occurred. The photographer, who is contracted to Williams F1, was attempting to access the podium ceremony through a designated media passageway when he was allegedly placed in a chokehold by a member of the Policia Nacional Espanyol. Footage of the altercation has circulated on social media, prompting discussions about the appropriateness of the police's response.
The photographer was reportedly wearing official team attire and had identification confirming his accreditation. Fellow journalist Daniel Atan shared images of the incident, describing it as surreal. Another post claimed that the photographer was assaulted and thrown to the ground while carrying expensive equipment. As of now, the exact reasons behind the police's aggressive reaction remain unclear.
Tue 15 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comFerrari to continue developing SF-26 despite challengesFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur confirmed that the team will maintain its focus on developing the SF-26 Formula 1 car. This decision comes even as the team's chances for the championship appear to be decreasing.+ 1 moreTue 15 Sep · 15:49 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen urged to fight back in controversial Madrid decision verdictDuring the Spanish Grand Prix, Max Verstappen's decision to relinquish two positions to Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton has sparked debate among fans, with a slight majority believing it was a mistake. The incident occurred on the first lap when Verstappen avoided a collision with Hamilton, leading to Red Bull's instruction to give back the positions to prevent a potential penalty from the stewards.
The race took a turn when a virtual safety car was triggered by Lance Stroll's brake failure, which affected Lando Norris's pit strategy. Norris, who was leading, could not pit in time and ultimately lost the race to Antonelli, while Verstappen capitalized on the situation to finish second. The outcome raises questions about whether Verstappen's early decision to give up positions was the right call, especially considering Hamilton's subsequent retirement.Tue 15 Sep · 15:20 UTCPage 15 of 44