via f1technical.netRed Bull drivers report performance boost from upgradesMax Verstappen and Isack Hadjar from Red Bull Racing noted a significant improvement in performance following the team's recent upgrades at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The upgrades, which included a five-part package focused on enhancing aerodynamic efficiency, contributed to their competitive edge during the race.
f1technical.netWed 30 Sep · 22:00 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star admits hiding major injury after 'stupid' punchIsack Hadjar, the 22-year-old French driver for Red Bull Racing, has disclosed that he sustained a broken wrist while training, which led to him missing three races in his debut season. He revealed that the injury occurred during a boxing workout when he struck the bag without proper hand protection, describing the incident as a 'stupid' mistake.
After the injury, Hadjar returned to competition at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he achieved a commendable third-place finish behind George Russell and Max Verstappen. He admitted to initially keeping the injury a secret for a day as he contemplated his options before eventually informing his team principal, Laurent Mekies.
gpfans.comWed 30 Sep · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport WeekFred Vasseur addresses Hamilton's comments on LeclercFred Vasseur stated that Lewis Hamilton's radio messages regarding Charles Leclerc need to stop, emphasising the need for control over the situation. Jolyon Palmer suggested that Vasseur should take a firmer stance on the ongoing disputes between the two drivers.
Motorsport Week+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies relieved that furious Max Verstappen radio wasn’t broadcast at Azerbaijan GPLaurent Mekies, Red Bull's team principal, revealed that Max Verstappen was not pleased during qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he qualified eighth, his lowest position since Japan. Mekies shared data showing Verstappen lost significant time on the straights due to an engine issue, which contributed to his frustration expressed over team radio, although this communication was not broadcasted during the event.
In the race, Verstappen managed to finish second, just a tenth of a second behind George Russell, who had a strong performance. Despite the challenges faced in qualifying, Verstappen's driving earned him the driver of the day award, highlighting his capability to perform under pressure. With eight races remaining in the season, he aims to extend his streak of winning at least one race each year with Red Bull.
f1oversteer.comWed 30 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Sebastian Vettel hitches a ride from F1 rival after bizarre post-race crashDuring the 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel collided with Lance Stroll on the cool-down lap, damaging his Ferrari and leaving him stranded on track. Vettel expressed his frustration over the radio, claiming Stroll turned into him while he was attempting to pick up rubber on the outside of the track. Stroll, however, insisted he was on his normal line and unaware of Vettel's approach.
With his car unable to continue, Vettel resorted to hitching a ride on Pascal Wehrlein's Sauber to get back to the pits. Wehrlein later explained that he stopped to help Vettel as a friend. This incident is reminiscent of past occurrences in Formula 1 where drivers have assisted each other in similar situations.
RacingNews365Wed 30 Sep · 14:35 UTC
via Formula1.comIsack Hadjar praises Max Verstappen as a benchmarkIsack Hadjar expressed his gratitude for having Max Verstappen as a benchmark in Formula 1, describing him as an intimidating reference point. Hadjar, who is in his second season with Red Bull, acknowledged the challenges of competing alongside Verstappen.
Formula1.com+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 10:31 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Christijan_Albers_2006.JPG: Mathieu Felten derivative work: Flyz1 · CC BY 2.5Albers says Piastri lacks Verstappen’s ‘bite’Sep.30 (GMM) Oscar Piastri’s difficult run has drawn fresh criticism after his mistake in Baku, with former F1 driver Christijan Albers questioning whether the McLaren driver has the aggression of a driver like Max Verstappen. The Australian had been on course for the 2025 title before his late-season collapse, and his struggles have continued into…newsonf1.comWed 30 Sep · 07:44 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli praises Max Verstappen's unique skillsKimi Antonelli has described Max Verstappen's abilities as 'incredible' following their recent wheel-to-wheel battles in Formula 1. Antonelli's comments highlight the unique advantages Verstappen possesses, which he observed during their encounters on track.RacingNews365+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies reveals whether Liam Lawson ever had a chance of getting Isack Hadjar’s Red Bull seatIsack Hadjar has officially secured a new contract with Red Bull ahead of his return from injury at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite missing three races due to a wrist fracture, Hadjar's strong performance earlier in the season, including a podium finish and a 100% qualifying record, led to the team's confidence in him. Laurent Mekies, Red Bull's team principal, confirmed that Liam Lawson's temporary stint in the car did not affect their decision regarding Hadjar's future.
Mekies emphasized that Hadjar's development and performance were the primary considerations for the team. He noted that Lawson was a strong alternative but that Red Bull was satisfied with Hadjar's progress and improvement alongside Max Verstappen. Hadjar's contract extension positions him as Verstappen's second-longest-serving teammate since Daniel Ricciardo left in 2018, highlighting the team's commitment to his growth in the upcoming season.f1oversteer.comWed 30 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull point to key 'indicators' behind Isack Hadjar justificationRed Bull confirmed last week that it would stick with Isack Hadjar for the 2027 campaign.RacingNews365Wed 30 Sep · 06:10 UTC
via f1technical.netRussell and Verstappen reveal why Baku’s final laps were so much funGeorge Russell and Max Verstappen expressed their enjoyment of the final laps during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the intensity and excitement of the race. Russell, who secured victory, noted that the closing stages felt like a qualifying session, with both drivers pushing their limits on the Baku circuit.
The race featured two Safety Car periods that brought Verstappen closer to Russell, creating a thrilling battle. Both drivers appreciated the lack of tyre management required in the final stint, allowing them to race at full pace. Verstappen acknowledged the challenges of the Baku circuit, where proximity to the barriers added to the excitement.f1technical.netWed 30 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via gpfans.comKelly Piquet offers rare insight into F1 star Max Verstappen's private lifeIn a recent interview, Kelly Piquet provided a glimpse into her relationship with Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, revealing that he is a devoted family man who enjoys the comforts of home. Piquet highlighted how Verstappen prioritises family time, returning home promptly after his racing commitments, and how they share a life together in Monaco with their daughter, Lily.
Piquet described Verstappen as down-to-earth and grounded, contrasting his public persona as a fierce competitor. She expressed her appreciation for their equal partnership, noting that Verstappen does not seek the spotlight and prefers a quieter lifestyle, which aligns well with her own values.gpfans.comTue 29 Sep · 20:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen clarifies his comments about F1 becoming ‘easier’ after Liam Lawson disagreedMax Verstappen expressed his views on the 2026 Formula 1 cars, stating they are 'numb' to driver inputs, which he believes makes it easier for drivers to find their limits. This comment came after Liam Lawson, who recently replaced Isack Hadjar, performed impressively in qualifying, being only 0.115 seconds slower than Verstappen. Verstappen's remarks have sparked debate, particularly as Lawson disagreed, arguing that adapting to the new car was not straightforward due to the complexities introduced by new energy management protocols.
Verstappen further elaborated that the current cars favour a cautious driving style, allowing many drivers to achieve similar lap times. He noted that the small gaps in qualifying times this year, with seven out of eleven driver pairings within two-tenths of a second, support his theory that the cars do not reward the fastest drivers as much as before. This marks a significant change from the previous year, where the average gap between teammates was larger.f1oversteer.comTue 29 Sep · 19:30 UTC
via Formula1.comWhere does Russell’s Baku win rank in the closest F1 finishes?George Russell secured a narrow victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. This margin is significant as it places Russell's win among the closest finishes in Formula 1 history, although it falls short of making the top 10 by a mere 0.014 seconds.
The article details the closest finishes in F1, highlighting races from various years, including the 2002 Austrian Grand Prix and the 1971 Italian Grand Prix. These races showcase the intense competition and narrow margins that can occur in Formula 1, with Russell's recent win adding to the legacy of thrilling finishes in the sport.Formula1.comTue 29 Sep · 15:42 UTC
via Motorsport.comIsack Hadjar jokes about injury recovery progressIsack Hadjar, the Red Bull Formula 1 driver, has shared that he still lacks full movement in his wrist following an injury sustained during the 2026 summer break. Despite this, he expressed optimism about his recovery, joking that he did a 'good job' while resting during his time off.
Motorsport.comTue 29 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via Motorsport WeekSebastian Vettel hints at possible F1 returnSebastian Vettel has suggested that he may consider a return to Formula 1 in the future, despite not actively pursuing opportunities at this time. The former Ferrari driver stepped away from the sport nearly four years ago.Motorsport Week+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via racer.comTime off gives Hadjar clarity over Red Bull's development progressIsack Hadjar has gained a clearer perspective on Red Bull's car development after missing several races due to a wrist injury. His return at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix resulted in a podium finish, which he views as a significant achievement compared to his earlier performance in Monaco.
Hadjar highlighted the improvements in the car's handling and balance since his last race in Budapest. He took a cautious approach during the weekend in Baku, which he believes contributed to his successful performance. This podium finish has boosted his confidence as he looks ahead to future races.
racer.comTue 29 Sep · 11:35 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen picks overtake on Oscar Piastri as his favourite from his whole F1 careerMax Verstappen has declared his overtake on Oscar Piastri during the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix as his favourite move of his Formula 1 career. The Dutch driver executed the pass around the outside at the first chicane, a challenging overtaking spot, and went on to win the race by six seconds. He noted that the move was unexpected, particularly as Piastri braked earlier than anticipated.
In a discussion on the 'P1 with Matt and Tommy' YouTube channel, Verstappen reflected on the significance of the overtake, stating it was a pivotal moment in the race. Piastri acknowledged Verstappen's skill in the move, admitting he misjudged the situation. The overtake has since been recognised as the Overtake of the Year, highlighting Verstappen's prowess in wheel-to-wheel racing.f1oversteer.comTue 29 Sep · 11:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton disagrees with Charles Leclerc about Ferrari SF-26 after ‘unsatisfactory’ Baku blowLewis Hamilton expressed his disagreement with Charles Leclerc regarding the setup of the Ferrari SF-26 during the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite Leclerc qualifying in P2, he struggled with race pace, ultimately finishing in P4, while Hamilton qualified P6 after switching to a different bargeboard configuration that he felt provided better stability.
The race saw Hamilton's frustrations with the car's handling lead him to abandon the low-drag bargeboards in favour of a more stable three-part version. However, this change did not yield the desired results, as Hamilton was unable to outperform Leclerc, who maintained a faster pace throughout the race, finishing significantly ahead.f1oversteer.comTue 29 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Red Bull launches Verstappen engine investigation as penalty uncertainty growsRed Bull Racing has launched an investigation into Max Verstappen's engine issues that arose during the qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he finished eighth. Verstappen reported problems with his internal combustion engine, which worsened throughout the session, prompting the team to replace several components before the race.
Despite the qualifying setback, Verstappen managed to race from eighth to second place in the Grand Prix, finishing just 0.196 seconds behind race winner George Russell. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that while Verstappen may face a power unit penalty in the future, it remains uncertain pending further analysis of the engine issues.
PlanetF1Tue 29 Sep · 09:04 UTC
via thejudge13.comVerstappen questions F1's Middle East race plansMax Verstappen has expressed concerns about Formula 1's decision to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He emphasised that safety should take precedence over contractual commitments.
thejudge13.com+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 08:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri told why he’s ‘not a racer’ like Max Verstappen after getting caught ‘asleep’ in BakuOscar Piastri faced criticism following his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where a lock-up at turn one caused him to finish in thirteenth place. This incident occurred during a safety car restart while he was attempting to overtake George Russell, and it ultimately led to a disappointing race for McLaren, especially with teammate Lando Norris also facing issues.
Commentators like Christijan Albers and Jacques Villeneuve pointed out Piastri's lack of aggression and focus, suggesting he is not as competitive as drivers like Max Verstappen. Piastri has now gone eleven races without a podium, and with the next race at Sepang approaching, he is in urgent need of a turnaround in form to salvage his season.f1oversteer.comTue 29 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar dismisses Red Bull restrictions: 'I'm not five years old'Isack Hadjar has responded to suggestions that Red Bull might impose restrictions on his extracurricular activities following a wrist injury he sustained while training. He humorously remarked that he is not a child and can make his own decisions, despite acknowledging the need to be more cautious in the future.
The injury, which occurred while boxing a punchbag, caused Hadjar to miss several races, including the Dutch Grand Prix. Red Bull has confirmed that they will retain him for the 2027 season, and Hadjar expressed confidence in managing his activities without needing oversight from the team.RacingNews365Tue 29 Sep · 07:50 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURCharles Leclerc ‘angered’ Fred Vasseur with one revelation in Baku as tensions rise at FerrariFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed frustration with Charles Leclerc after the driver revealed he used the ADUO2 engine during the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Leclerc's admission came after he finished in P4, trailing significantly behind race winner George Russell and the Red Bull drivers. Vasseur was particularly displeased as the team had not intended to disclose the engine specification, especially given their performance issues.
The situation has contributed to rising tensions within Ferrari, with both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton reportedly growing frustrated with Vasseur's management style. There are suggestions that Vasseur's position may be in jeopardy, with potential replacements including Christian Horner, Antonello Coletta, and Jerome d’Ambrosio being considered as Ferrari looks to improve its standing in the championship.f1oversteer.comTue 29 Sep · 07:00 UTC