via gpfans.comRUMOURRed Bull F1 star officially a free agent as rumours swirl over paddock switchA long-serving member of Red Bull's F1 outfit who played a key role in their Christian Horner/Max Verstappen glory years is now officially a free agent.
gpfans.comWed 9 Sep · 08:45 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Marc Alvarado · CC BY 2.0RUMOURGiovinazzi on standby amid Leclerc fitness checkSep.9 (GMM) Reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi has reportedly been sent to Madrid as Ferrari waits for Charles Leclerc to receive final medical clearance following his huge Monza crash. Leclerc suffered vision problems after the impact and has undergone further checks this week, although his own message to fans sounded reassuring. “Thanks for all the messages,”…newsonf1.comWed 9 Sep · 06:51 UTC
via BBC SportMcLaren talks, 'numb' cars and being 'captain of the ship' - Verstappen Q&AMax Verstappen, the Red Bull driver, is currently reflecting on his 2026 season, where he has achieved five podium finishes but is still seeking his first victory. He recently signed a contract extension with Red Bull until 2030, although he acknowledges that performance issues with the car need to be addressed for future competitiveness. Verstappen has been candid about his frustrations with the current car's performance and the new engine regulations in Formula 1, expressing a desire for improvements in the coming years.
In addition to his F1 commitments, Verstappen has participated in endurance racing, notably the Nurburgring 24 Hours, where he experienced both success and disappointment due to a mechanical failure. He has engaged in discussions with other teams like McLaren but ultimately feels a strong connection to Red Bull, viewing it as his second family. Looking ahead, he is interested in competing in more endurance events, including Le Mans, ideally alongside experienced drivers like Fernando Alonso.
BBC SportWed 9 Sep · 05:06 UTC
via f1chronicle.comLiam Lawson Gets a Third Straight Red Bull Race in Madrid as Isack Hadjar’s Wrist Injury Drags OnLiam Lawson has been confirmed to race for Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, as Isack Hadjar continues to recover from a wrist injury. Hadjar's absence has now extended to three consecutive races, impacting his rookie season and the team's lineup strategy. Lawson's recent performances have shown improvement, qualifying closely behind Verstappen at Zandvoort and finishing seventh, contrasting with his earlier struggles in 2025 when he was dropped after two races.
The Madrid race presents a unique challenge as the new Madring circuit is unfamiliar to all drivers, potentially leveling the playing field. Lawson's ability to perform well in this race is critical, not only for immediate results but also for securing his position within the team moving forward. Meanwhile, Hadjar's recovery remains a focal point for Red Bull, as they navigate the implications of his absence on their championship standings.
f1chronicle.comWed 9 Sep · 04:37 UTC
via gpfans.comAdrian Newey is the only man who can save popular F1 star’s careerOscar Piastri, a driver for McLaren, has been struggling significantly since his last victory at Zandvoort in August 2025, failing to win any races in the past year. His performance has been notably inferior to that of his teammate Lando Norris, who has secured multiple wins, leading to concerns about Piastri's future in Formula 1 and with McLaren specifically. The article suggests that Piastri's best chance for a career revival may lie with Adrian Newey at Aston Martin, as other top teams are unlikely to consider him given his recent form.
The article highlights the challenges Piastri faces in securing a competitive seat, noting that his winless streak and the significant points gap between him and Norris raise red flags. It draws parallels with other drivers who have experienced similar declines, indicating that Piastri must take decisive action to avoid being relegated to mid-tier teams. The potential retirement of Fernando Alonso in 2027 could provide an opportunity for Piastri, but he must demonstrate his capabilities to attract attention from top-tier teams.gpfans.comTue 8 Sep · 20:45 UTC
via the-race.comThe wider significance of Vettel's Schumacher runSebastian Vettel's recent demonstration of Michael Schumacher's 2002 F2002 at the Italian Grand Prix was not just a nostalgic moment but also a commentary on the future of Formula 1. He expressed his admiration for Schumacher and highlighted the emotional significance of driving a car that represents a pivotal era in F1 history. Vettel emphasized that while the current regulations have produced exciting racing, the essence of F1 encompasses more than just performance on the track. He believes that F1 should also focus on responsibility and sustainability as it moves forward.
Vettel has been critical of the turbo hybrid regulations, despite recognizing their environmental benefits. He has advocated for a potential return to V8s or V10s, especially with the rise of sustainable fuels. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has indicated that F1 will transition to V8 engines by 2031. Vettel argues that while no single change will solve all of F1's challenges, a combination of sustainable practices and a return to core values could revitalize the sport. He remains optimistic about F1's future, believing it can continue to inspire and connect with fans worldwide.
the-race.comTue 8 Sep · 19:01 UTC
via gpfans.comSebastian Vettel issues emotional Michael Schumacher statement: 'I just miss him'Sebastian Vettel paid tribute to Michael Schumacher during the Italian Grand Prix by driving Schumacher's Ferrari F2002. In an emotional statement, Vettel expressed how much he misses Schumacher, who has been unable to make public appearances since his skiing accident in 2013. He reminisced about their friendship and the impact Schumacher had on his life and career, describing him as a childhood hero and mentor.
Vettel highlighted the special connection he felt while driving the car, stating it brought back many memories and emotions. He reflected on their close relationship, especially towards the end of Schumacher's career, and how he misses being able to seek advice from him. The tribute served as a reminder of Schumacher's legacy in Formula 1 and the bond they shared.gpfans.comTue 8 Sep · 18:45 UTC
via RacingNews365Franco Colapinto hands Alpine apology after Max Verstappen fightFranco Colapinto faced a challenging race at the Italian Grand Prix, where he initially restarted in fourth position following a red flag. During the race, he engaged in battles with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton but ultimately lost control of his car, resulting in a drop down the order. Despite recovering to finish ninth, Colapinto expressed regret for not securing a better result for his Alpine team, as he believed they could have scored more points.
Colapinto's performance marked his first points since Belgium, and he reflected on the experience of racing against top teams, emphasizing the motivation it provided him. He acknowledged the importance of learning from his mistakes and the frustration of missing out on a better finish while competing at the front of the grid.
RacingNews365Tue 8 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via Motorsport WeekMax Verstappen hands Red Bull ‘weakness’ assessment in untelevised Monza radio exchangeMax Verstappen secured a podium finish at the Italian Grand Prix, marking his third podium in four races. During a radio exchange with his team, he highlighted the evident weaknesses of the Red Bull car, particularly in terms of rear axle performance and straight-line speed compared to Mercedes-powered competitors. Despite these challenges, Red Bull's Team Principal praised Verstappen's strong race pace and overtaking skills throughout the event.
Verstappen's struggles were compounded by a rear axle issue that persisted from qualifying, affecting his ability to navigate bumps and low-speed corners effectively. He acknowledged the need for improvements in the car's performance, especially in straight-line deployment, while reflecting on a difficult previous race in Zandvoort. Overall, the team is aware of the areas requiring enhancement as they move forward in the season.
Motorsport WeekTue 8 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton told to 'accept the consequences' of Charles Leclerc attackLewis Hamilton faced criticism from former F1 driver David Coulthard regarding his racing tactics during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. After an aggressive move on Charles Leclerc, Hamilton was pushed into the gravel, resulting in a significant drop in his race position. Coulthard emphasized that Hamilton must accept the consequences of his actions, suggesting that Leclerc's maneuver was fair and within the rules of racing.
Despite Hamilton's frustration and calls for clearer ground rules from Ferrari, the stewards deemed the incident a racing one without penalties. Coulthard pointed out that Hamilton had the option to avoid the situation by choosing a different racing line, highlighting the inherent risks of racing on the outside.RacingNews365Tue 8 Sep · 16:20 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFerrari executives question Fred Vasseur's futureFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur is facing criticism following the team's performance at the Italian Grand Prix. Reports indicate that dissatisfaction among Ferrari executives has led to questions about his future with the team.
f1oversteer.comTue 8 Sep · 15:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen radio messages prove Toto Wolff owes him an apology for 'done over' accusationMax Verstappen's radio communications during the qualifying session of the Italian Grand Prix have led to a reevaluation of Toto Wolff's accusations against him. Wolff claimed that Verstappen had hindered George Russell's chance at pole position, but analysis suggests that Russell's own actions were more to blame for his failure to secure the top spot. Pierre Gasly ultimately achieved pole, marking a significant milestone for both him and the Alpine team.
The situation escalated as Wolff expressed his frustration visibly, but further insights from F1 pundit Christijan Albers indicated that Verstappen was dealing with tire issues and had his own struggles during the session. In the end, Russell's performance was overshadowed by his teammate's success, and the incident highlighted the complexities of qualifying strategies in Formula 1.f1oversteer.comTue 8 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via espn.comLeclerc advice for Max vs 100 drivers: Don't crash!Max Verstappen is set to participate in a unique go-karting challenge where he will race against 100 drivers on September 16 at Silverstone. This event marks a return to his racing roots and will be broadcast live on Disney+. Fellow Formula 1 drivers, including Charles Leclerc and George Russell, have shared their thoughts on the challenge, with Leclerc advising competitors to avoid crashing into Verstappen due to his ongoing F1 season and Russell suggesting a tactical approach to keep Verstappen behind them.
The challenge is expected to be intense, as Leclerc acknowledged the difficulty of racing against one of the best drivers in the world. Verstappen, known for his aggressive driving style, is anticipated to navigate through the field from the back of the grid. The event will feature a mix of content creators and athletes, rather than solely professional racing drivers, adding an interesting dynamic to the competition.
espn.comTue 8 Sep · 10:37 UTC
via gpfans.comTime to come back? Sebastian Vettel admits he misses F1Sebastian Vettel made a notable return to the Formula 1 scene at the Italian Grand Prix, where he drove Michael Schumacher's iconic Ferrari F2002. This event was particularly significant as it coincided with the 20th anniversary of Schumacher's departure from Ferrari, and it reignited Vettel's passion for the sport, which he admitted he misses. The four-time world champion, who retired from F1 in 2022, expressed how quickly he felt the thrill of racing again and how special it was to be back on the track, even if just for a moment.
Vettel's appearance in Monza was met with enthusiasm from fans and marked a nostalgic moment for the driver, who reflected on his deep connection to F1. At 39, he remains open to the idea of a potential return, as he would still be among the older drivers on the grid. His comments highlight the lasting impact of his career and the emotional ties he maintains with the sport.gpfans.comTue 8 Sep · 09:57 UTC
via Motorsport WeekLiam Lawson to Replace Injured Isack Hadjar at Spanish Grand PrixLiam Lawson has been confirmed to race for Red Bull at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, stepping in for the injured Isack Hadjar. This marks Lawson's third appearance with the team as he continues to support their efforts during Hadjar's recovery.Motorsport Week+ 1 moreTue 8 Sep · 08:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJuan Pablo Montoya says Charles Leclerc’s ‘100%’ is still not enough to beat Lewis HamiltonIn the aftermath of the Italian Grand Prix, Juan Pablo Montoya expressed that Charles Leclerc's maximum effort is insufficient to surpass Lewis Hamilton in 2026. Leclerc faced a significant setback after crashing out early in the race, while Hamilton managed to secure a sixth-place finish, extending his lead in their internal competition and the overall standings. Montoya highlighted the need for Ferrari to make strategic decisions regarding their drivers as the season progresses.
Montoya also pointed out the tension between Leclerc and Hamilton, particularly following an incident where Hamilton accused Leclerc of aggressive driving. He emphasized that the pressure on Leclerc is mounting as Hamilton continues to perform strongly, suggesting that this dynamic could impact their teamwork and the team's overall performance in the championship.f1oversteer.comTue 8 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Untelevised Max Verstappen team radio emerges after Italian Grand PrixMax Verstappen secured a third-place finish at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, marking his third podium in four races. Despite briefly leading the race, he ultimately finished 11 seconds behind George Russell, highlighting Red Bull's struggles with straight-line speed and issues with the car's rear axle during the race. Verstappen's performance came after a challenging weekend at Zandvoort, where he retired early due to a mistake.
In a post-race exchange, Red Bull's Laurent Mekies noted a significant improvement in race pace, but Verstappen pointed out the team's ongoing weaknesses. He expressed frustration over the difficulties faced against the Mercedes cars, particularly in terms of defending his position. The team is aware of the areas needing improvement as they look to enhance their performance in future races.
PlanetF1Tue 8 Sep · 05:23 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Picture by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street · OGL 3Rosberg mocks Hamilton’s Ferrari claimNico Rosberg has publicly dismissed Lewis Hamilton's recent remarks regarding his interest in Ferrari during his successful years with Mercedes. Hamilton expressed that he had hoped for a potential move to Ferrari, particularly reflecting on a moment when Sebastian Vettel extended his contract with the team, which made him realize his desire to join them.
In response, Rosberg, who was Hamilton's teammate at Mercedes, labeled Hamilton's claims as 'complete nonsense,' asserting that during their time of dominance, Hamilton showed no inclination to leave the team. Rosberg also noted that if Hamilton had left, it would have benefited him personally in their competitive dynamic.newsonf1.comTue 8 Sep · 04:17 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf, crop by Cerebral726 · CC BY-SA 4.0Verstappen not interested in Norris-style teamMax Verstappen has clarified that he does not wish to follow Lando Norris's path of establishing a full junior racing team, instead opting to concentrate on endurance racing. He values maintaining control over his projects and prefers to support young drivers without the responsibilities of managing a racing team. Currently, he is involved with drivers like Dries van Langendonck and Chris Lulham in his GT program.
Additionally, Verstappen expressed admiration for Loek Hartog's heroic act during a recent race, highlighting the importance of safety in motorsport. He also mentioned that his future participation in endurance racing would depend on the upcoming F1 calendar, emphasizing that he would only compete if he could do so with a realistic chance of success.newsonf1.comTue 8 Sep · 04:17 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Original: Aécio Neves – Wellington Pedro/Imprensa MG / Derivative work: F1fans, FMSky · CC BY 2.0Vettel rules out F1 driving comebackSebastian Vettel recently drove Michael Schumacher's 2002 Ferrari during the Italian GP weekend at Monza, which reignited his feelings for racing. Despite this emotional experience, Vettel confirmed that he has no plans to return to Formula 1 as a driver, stating that he feels retirement was the correct choice and that he is enjoying his life post-racing.
Vettel acknowledged that he misses the sport but emphasized that he will always remain connected to it. He mentioned that while he is not looking to return as a driver, he is open to exploring other roles within Formula 1, depending on the opportunities that may arise.newsonf1.comTue 8 Sep · 04:17 UTC
via f1technical.netIsack Hadjar to miss Spanish Grand Prix due to injuryIsack Hadjar will not participate in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix as he continues to recover from a wrist injury. Red Bull has confirmed that Liam Lawson will once again race alongside Max Verstappen in Madrid.
f1technical.net+ 1 moreTue 8 Sep · 00:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen frustrated with Red Bull after MonzaMax Verstappen experienced dissatisfaction following the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. He reported encountering a problem during qualifying that affected his performance, resulting in a sixth-place starting position.gpfans.comMon 7 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via RaceFansLawson and Tsunoda continue for another weekend as injury keeps Hadjar out for third round | Formula 1Isack Hadjar is sidelined for the third straight Formula 1 race due to a wrist injury he sustained prior to the Dutch Grand Prix. This injury has kept him out of competition for a month, prompting Red Bull to make adjustments to their driver lineup.
Liam Lawson is set to compete in his third race this weekend at the Spanish Grand Prix, while Yuki Tsunoda will fill in for Lawson at Red Bull's second team, Racing Bulls. Red Bull has officially announced that Lawson will race alongside Max Verstappen in Madrid.
RaceFansMon 7 Sep · 19:17 UTC
via espn.comHadjar to miss Spanish GP, Lawson to keep seatIsack Hadjar will not participate in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix due to a wrist injury sustained during training. Liam Lawson will continue to fill in for him at Red Bull, having already raced in the previous two events. Yuki Tsunoda will take Lawson's place at the junior team Racing Bulls during this time.
Hadjar's recovery is progressing positively, but he is not yet ready to return to racing. Red Bull has not specified when they expect him back in the car. Following the Madrid race, the Formula 1 calendar will move to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix later in September.espn.comMon 7 Sep · 19:09 UTC