via PlanetF1David Coulthard criticises Charles Leclerc's attitudeDavid Coulthard has expressed concern over Charles Leclerc's approach to Formula 1, suggesting he treats the sport like a 'picnic'. Coulthard's comments come after Leclerc was advised that his behaviour during race weekends is excessive.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreFri 25 Sep · 04:52 UTC
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell Tops Day 1 Timesheets In BakuGeorge Russell dominated the first day of practice in Baku, achieving the fastest lap in both the first and second free practice sessions. In FP2, he clocked a time of 1:43.347, with teammate Kimi Antonelli following closely behind. Max Verstappen secured the third-fastest time, showcasing a competitive field as teams prepared for the upcoming Grand Prix.
The sessions were marked by varying track conditions, with significant temperature changes affecting tyre performance. Teams focused on optimising car setups to adapt to the evolving track surface, which was described as particularly dirty. Pirelli's Chief Engineer noted that track evolution played a crucial role in lap time improvements throughout the day.
f1chronicle.comThu 24 Sep · 21:51 UTC
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton reposts bizarre AI video of rapping car ride with Max Verstappen and coLewis Hamilton recently shared a quirky AI-generated video on his Instagram, showcasing a car ride where he and Max Verstappen rap along to Migos' song 'Walk It Talk It'. The video also features Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli, who are seen in the back seats, adding to the light-hearted nature of the clip.
The video is part of a collection from an account that creates similar AI content, swapping famous personalities into various scenarios. While Hamilton's engagement with AI has been noted, the video has sparked discussions about the environmental impact of such technology, contrasting with his advocacy for climate change.
gpfans.comThu 24 Sep · 21:30 UTC
via f1chronicle.comLewis Hamilton Admits Chasing George Russell, Not Kimi Antonelli, Is Now His Real Championship BattleLewis Hamilton has acknowledged that he is unlikely to catch Kimi Antonelli in the Drivers' Championship, as he trails by 101 points. Instead, he is now focusing on George Russell, who is just 20 points ahead of him in the standings. Hamilton believes that finishing second or maintaining third place would be a significant achievement for him and Ferrari this season, especially after a challenging 2025 campaign.
As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, Hamilton is preparing for a crucial triple header of races. He has expressed optimism about Ferrari's recent improvements and is determined to address execution issues that have hindered their performance. With 83 points available in the upcoming races, Hamilton's strategy has shifted to defending his position against Russell and Lando Norris, marking a change in his championship aspirations.f1chronicle.comThu 24 Sep · 21:26 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops Practice 3 at Baku Grand PrixGeorge Russell led the third practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, outperforming his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli. The session indicated that Mercedes could be the team to beat this weekend.
Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 17:02 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJock Clear has seen a ‘Michael Schumacher-esque’ trait in Kimi Antonelli even Max Verstappen lackedJock Clear, a long-time Ferrari performance engineer, has expressed admiration for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, likening his ability to engage fans to that of Michael Schumacher. Antonelli, who is currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 standings with eight wins, has captured the hearts of Ferrari supporters, particularly after his victory at Monza, making him the first Italian to win there since 1966.
Clear noted that Antonelli's impressive performance this season, including his ability to avoid major mistakes, sets him apart from his competitors, including George Russell. Despite facing some reliability issues, Antonelli's consistent results have positioned him as a strong contender for the championship, potentially making him the youngest F1 champion in history.
f1oversteer.comThu 24 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris suffering 'knife in the heart' over McLaren Baku realityLando Norris expressed disappointment over McLaren's performance during Free Practice 2 at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing sixth but significantly slower than George Russell. He described the experience as feeling like 'a little knife in the heart,' highlighting the struggles of the MCL40 despite recent upgrades.
Norris acknowledged that the Baku circuit's layout, with its slow-speed corners and long straight, revealed the car's weaknesses. He noted a challenging start to the day after losing time in FP1 but remained optimistic about the team's ability to analyse data and improve for the upcoming sessions.
RacingNews365Thu 24 Sep · 15:45 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops FP2 in Baku ahead of team-mateGeorge Russell set the fastest time during the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit. He was followed closely by Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:21 UTC
via RaceFansRussell leads Mercedes one-two, Lindblad crashes, Hamilton summoned for impeding | Formula 1In the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell led a dominant performance for Mercedes, clocking a fastest lap of 1'43.347. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, followed closely but could not match Russell's pace, finishing half a second behind.
Max Verstappen from Red Bull secured the third position, but his time was over eight tenths slower than Russell's. Meanwhile, championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli faced issues with his car, missing a significant portion of the session due to hydraulic repairs.
RaceFansThu 24 Sep · 13:16 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell tops Azerbaijan Grand Prix practice sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes finished first in the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, outperforming his teammate Kimi Antonelli. The results indicate a strong performance from Mercedes as they prepare for the race weekend.
Motorsport.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:06 UTC
via Motorsport WeekGeorge Russell tops practice session in BakuGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku. The session was marked by several incidents, highlighting the challenges teams faced on the track.
Motorsport WeekThu 24 Sep · 13:05 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell leads Kimi Antonelli in FP2 in BakuGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Russell's performance in Baku showcased his team's strong form ahead of the race weekend.Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 11:49 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFerrari fans ‘don’t want to see’ what Charles Leclerc just did at the Azerbaijan Grand PrixFerrari fans are expressing frustration over Charles Leclerc's performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, particularly after Free Practice 1 where he finished third. Despite showing promise in practice, fans are wary of the team's history of underperforming during actual races, leading to a cycle of hope and disappointment.
Comments from fans reflect their exasperation, with many stating they are tired of seeing Ferrari drivers perform well in practice only to falter in the race. The sentiment is that while Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are among the best drivers, the team's inability to convert practice success into race results has left fans feeling disillusioned.f1oversteer.comThu 24 Sep · 11:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhat Kimi Antonelli has learned from Max VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has been learning valuable lessons from Max Verstappen, who has praised Antonelli's impressive performances this season. With eight wins under his belt, Antonelli leads his teammate George Russell significantly in the championship standings. Verstappen, currently sixth in the standings, has encouraged Antonelli to maintain his current approach as he continues to develop his skills.
Antonelli has specifically noted Verstappen's exceptional racecraft, particularly his ability to read situations and position his car effectively. He reflected on a recent race in Madrid, where he learned the importance of maintaining track position and the potential to capitalize on opportunities, as demonstrated by Verstappen. Antonelli's observations of Verstappen's adaptability and performance under pressure have further inspired him in his own racing career.Motorsport.comThu 24 Sep · 11:15 UTC
via grandprix.comAlonso proposes longer, gentler electric boost for F1Fernando Alonso has proposed a change to the 2026 Formula 1 cars, advocating for a reduction in peak electrical output to allow for longer use of battery power on straights. He believes this adjustment would enable drivers to maintain speed more effectively towards corners, contrasting with the current model that requires drivers to lift and coast before braking.
Max Verstappen supports Alonso's view but warns that simply reducing electrical output could lead to a decrease in overall power unless compensated by an increase in combustion engine contribution. Both drivers acknowledge that any changes would require consensus and testing before being implemented in the regulations.grandprix.comThu 24 Sep · 10:47 UTC
via espn.comGeorge Russell leads opening practice in BakuGeorge Russell topped the first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, Russell's teammate Kimi Antonelli faced reliability issues that forced him to end his session early.
f1technical.net+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 10:10 UTC
via PlanetF1George Russell leads Azerbaijan Grand Prix FP2 sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, following an early red flag. Max Verstappen expressed frustration over ongoing issues affecting his performance during the session.PlanetF1+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 09:37 UTC
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc rejects ‘overanalysing’ of Lewis Hamilton F1 battlesCharles Leclerc has addressed the ongoing scrutiny regarding his on-track battles with Lewis Hamilton, stating that he finds it enjoyable to compete against one of the best in Formula 1. He believes that the analysis surrounding their racing dynamics is often misguided and that discussions between them can clarify any misunderstandings.
Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2019, emphasised the importance of teamwork and shared goals within the team. Despite the competitive nature of their rivalry, he insists that both he and Hamilton are focused on achieving success for Ferrari, rather than allowing personal competition to overshadow their objectives.Motorsport WeekThu 24 Sep · 08:30 UTC
via F1iLeclerc's Ferrari secret: ‘I've got some restrictions’Charles Leclerc has shared that he faces restrictions on his off-track activities as a Ferrari driver, particularly when it comes to potentially dangerous hobbies. This discussion arose in light of Red Bull's Isack Hadjar, who had been sidelined due to a hand injury from boxing, and Leclerc's comments highlighted the differences in how teams manage their drivers' leisure activities.
Leclerc noted that while he is not overly restricted, certain activities like skydiving are discouraged by Ferrari. He recounted a past experience where his attempt at skydiving was not well received by team management. Additionally, he mentioned that winter sports like skiing are approached with caution, especially as the racing season approaches, indicating a need for responsibility in managing risks associated with such activities.
F1iThu 24 Sep · 07:47 UTC.jpg%3Fwidth%3D480&w=128&q=70)
Wikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Verstappen targets Nurburgring, Spa endurance racesMax Verstappen has announced his intention to participate in major endurance races at the Nurburgring and Spa in 2027, as the Formula 1 calendar will not clash with these events. He expressed his desire to return to the Nordschleife after a previous race and highlighted Spa as another appealing option, although he remains uncertain about competing in Le Mans due to its demanding preparation requirements.
Lando Norris is also getting involved in endurance racing, having recently driven McLaren's new prototype for the World Endurance Championship. However, other F1 drivers like Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso have expressed skepticism about adding endurance races to their schedules, citing the busy calendar as a significant barrier to participation.newsonf1.comThu 24 Sep · 06:48 UTC
via PlanetF1Russell issues Mercedes engine update with FIA penalty implicationsGeorge Russell has announced that he will not incur an engine grid penalty during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, although he is expected to face one later in the 2026 Formula 1 season. This decision comes as Mercedes awaits the availability of an upgraded power unit, which they believe will enhance their performance. Russell's teammate, Kimi Antonelli, has also dealt with engine issues this season, having recently taken a penalty at Monza but still managing to secure a victory from a challenging starting position.
Russell highlighted that the Baku City Circuit presents opportunities for overtaking, which could mitigate the impact of a grid penalty. He explained that taking a penalty now would complicate future engine changes, particularly since he had to change both his power unit and turbo earlier in the season. As Mercedes prepares for the upcoming races, they are strategically planning their engine upgrades to maintain competitiveness in the championship.PlanetF1Thu 24 Sep · 06:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso casts doubt over dream Max Verstappen partnershipFernando Alonso has expressed skepticism about teaming up with Max Verstappen for the 2027 24 Hours of Le Mans. Although both drivers have previously shown interest in collaborating, Alonso believes it is unrealistic at this time due to Verstappen's busy racing schedule.
While Alonso is open to the possibility of a future partnership, he does not foresee it happening next year. He emphasized that the decision would depend on Verstappen's availability, as he participates in numerous races throughout the year.RacingNews365Thu 24 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comRed Bull announces driver decision for 2027Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Isack Hadjar will continue with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season, partnering with Max Verstappen. This decision comes after Hadjar's impressive performance in 2026, where he achieved seven consecutive top-six finishes and a podium at the Monaco Grand Prix. Red Bull's CEO, Laurent Mekies, expressed confidence in Hadjar's abilities and his integration into the team, making the contract extension a straightforward choice.
Hadjar's announcement coincides with his return from a wrist injury that sidelined him for three races. He has completed rehabilitation and is set to compete in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The young French driver expressed excitement about continuing with Red Bull, highlighting the team's ambition and the privilege of racing alongside a four-time World Champion like Verstappen. Hadjar focused on his performance on track rather than contract negotiations, indicating his commitment to proving himself.
thejudge13.comWed 23 Sep · 18:36 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