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via PlanetF1Charles Leclerc fastest in Bahrain Grand Prix FP2Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in the second practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, clocking a lap of 1m37.528s. The session remained dry despite a significant threat of rain, with both Mercedes drivers struggling to find pace.
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc sets fastest time in Bahrain FP2Charles Leclerc achieved the fastest lap during the second free practice session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Meanwhile, Mercedes struggled to keep pace with the frontrunners.
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc beats the heat but Max Verstappen has overall edgeCharles Leclerc managed to secure the top spot in the second practice session ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, overcoming extreme heat conditions. However, it was Max Verstappen who recorded the fastest lap of the day during the first practice session, showcasing Red Bull's competitive edge.
In FP1, Verstappen clocked a time of 1:37.520s, narrowly beating Leclerc's FP2 time of 1:37.528s. The high track temperatures forced teams to adapt their strategies, with many drivers switching to soft tyres earlier than planned. Lewis Hamilton faced scrutiny for an incident involving another driver, while Lando Norris and Isack Hadjar also performed well, finishing third and fourth respectively in FP2.
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc test rare Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale at FioranoLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc recently conducted a track test of the limited-edition Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale at Fiorano. This super GT is powered by a 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine that delivers 830 horsepower, and it features a unique Manuale-By-Wire system that enhances the driving experience with a manual gearbox feel.
During the test, Leclerc was the first to drive, with Hamilton as his passenger. Both drivers expressed their enjoyment of the car, with Leclerc praising Hamilton's calm demeanor and Hamilton describing the experience as 'fantastico'. The test video has garnered significant attention online, highlighting the excitement surrounding this new Ferrari model.
via PlanetF1FIA imposes €30,000 fine on George RussellThe Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile has confirmed a €30,000 fine for George Russell following the Bahrain Grand Prix. Russell is also facing a potential double penalty for incidents during the race.
via f1oversteer.comMercedes just dealt George Russell a bigger ‘drop off’ blow than Max Verstappen’s pace at SepangDuring Practice 1 of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, George Russell secured second place but faced significant tyre degradation issues, as confirmed by Mercedes. Max Verstappen dominated the session, finishing 0.383 seconds ahead of Russell, raising concerns for the Mercedes team regarding their performance.
Russell inquired about the tyre situation over the radio, revealing that Mercedes was struggling compared to Red Bull. The team indicated that they were the outliers in terms of tyre performance, which could lead to a challenging race weekend if not addressed. Russell is hoping for rain to potentially alter the tyre dynamics in his favour.
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen leads opening practice at Bahrain GPMax Verstappen of Red Bull set the fastest time in the first practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. He was followed closely by George Russell, marking a competitive start to the event.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen leads first practice in MalaysiaMax Verstappen recorded the fastest time in the first practice session at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver outpaced George Russell, setting a strong tone for the weekend.
via RacingNews3652026 Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice 1 resultsThe Free Practice 1 session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Full results from the session have been released, detailing the performance of all participating teams and drivers.
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri raises menacing Mercedes concern: 'That's not a great sign'Oscar Piastri has voiced concerns regarding Mercedes' recent performance, particularly after George Russell's dominant victory in Baku and the introduction of a significant upgrade for the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix. Piastri highlighted that Russell's pole position and race win indicate a strong showing from Mercedes, which could pose challenges for McLaren.
Piastri believes that the Sepang circuit's layout may favour McLaren more than Baku did, as it features high-speed corners that align with their strengths. However, he remains cautious about Mercedes' upgrades, which are designed to enhance their cornering capabilities without sacrificing straight-line speed, potentially complicating McLaren's efforts to compete effectively.
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton snubbed as Emerson Fittipaldi picks Oscar Piastri among his five favourite F1 driversEmerson Fittipaldi believes Ferrari have two “strong drivers” in Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, but neither rank among the Brazilian’s favourites on the 2026 grid. ...
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc calls for Ferrari upgrades to competeCharles Leclerc has urged Ferrari to implement upgrades to enhance their competitiveness against Red Bull Racing. He highlighted that the team's challenges extend beyond engine performance, indicating a need for broader improvements.
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell flags tyre overheating concern ahead of Malaysian Grand PrixGeorge Russell has expressed concerns about tyre overheating at the Malaysian Grand Prix, which could complicate overtaking maneuvers. He highlighted that the hot conditions at the Sepang International Circuit may lead to aggressive tyre degradation, making it difficult for drivers to maintain close racing.
With the FIA declaring a heat hazard for the weekend, both Russell and McLaren's Oscar Piastri are preparing for a challenging race. The resurfaced track, which hasn't hosted a race since 2017, may present grip issues, and Friday's practice sessions will be vital for teams to assess tyre performance and adapt to the conditions.
via PlanetF1FIA confirms Charles Leclerc findings after ‘extensive’ Ferrari inspectionThe FIA conducted an extensive inspection of Charles Leclerc's Ferrari following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, confirming that the car complied with the 2026 Formula One regulations. This inspection was part of the FIA's routine checks for top-10 finishers, and Leclerc's car was randomly selected for further examination.
Leclerc finished fourth in the race, while George Russell from Mercedes took the victory. After the race, Leclerc revealed that he had used the ADUO2 engine, which had raised questions after his crash at Monza. The FIA's checks focused on the internal combustion air intake cooling system and other components, all of which were found to meet the required standards.
via BBC SportRussell says his 'confidence is back and growing'George Russell expressed renewed confidence following his recent victory in Azerbaijan, stating he no longer feels lost and is ready to compete for wins consistently. With seven or eight races remaining, he aims to close the 66-point gap to his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Russell noted that he has adjusted his driving style to better suit the Mercedes car, allowing him to focus more on speed rather than adjustments.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton backed Ferrari's team principal Frederic Vasseur amidst speculation about his future, asserting that removing him would be a mistake. Hamilton highlighted Ferrari's improvement this season, noting their second place in the constructors' championship despite a power deficit compared to rivals. He emphasised the importance of building on their progress and maintaining a strong foundation for future success.
via Formula1.comAntonelli believes Russell has ‘got the momentum’Kimi Antonelli has expressed his belief that George Russell has gained significant momentum following his recent victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite maintaining a 66-point lead in the drivers' standings, Antonelli acknowledges the challenge Russell poses, especially after his strong performance in Baku where he secured pole position and ultimately won the race.
Looking ahead to the Bahrain Grand Prix, Antonelli is optimistic about the upgrades Mercedes will introduce, which he hopes will enhance the car's grip and downforce. He is eager to test his skills on the Sepang circuit, noting the importance of improving in areas such as managing long corners. Antonelli remains focused on achieving the best results and is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen says George Russell needs big turnaroundMax Verstappen has stated that George Russell requires a significant improvement to catch his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the 2026 Formula One title race, with Russell currently 66 points behind. Meanwhile, Mercedes chief Bradley Lord has expressed concerns about Russell's ability to close the gap as the season progresses.
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc defends Fred Vasseur amid speculationCharles Leclerc has publicly supported Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, dismissing ongoing rumours linking Christian Horner to the role. To avoid distractions from the speculation, Leclerc has deleted social media applications from his phone.
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc backs Ferrari boss Fred VasseurCharles Leclerc has expressed his support for Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur as he faces pressure ahead of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Leclerc stated that he has trust in Vasseur's leadership during this challenging period for the team.
via Sky Sports F1Lewis Hamilton backs Fred Vasseur amid Ferrari scrutinyLewis Hamilton has expressed strong support for Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, urging critics to focus on higher management rather than Vasseur himself. Hamilton's comments come amid speculation regarding Vasseur's position following the team's recent performance.Page 4 of 34