via f1technical.netLawson opens up on key differences between Red Bull's and Racing Bulls' 2026 F1 carLiam Lawson is set to race for Red Bull at the Italian Grand Prix after Isack Hadjar was sidelined due to a wrist injury. Lawson had previously stepped in for Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix and is now looking to capitalize on this opportunity, having received late confirmation of his participation just days before the race. He feels that his experience from Zandvoort will help him adjust more easily to the car during the upcoming race weekend at Monza, which features a traditional format with three practice sessions.
In preparation for the race, Lawson has been balancing his readiness for both the Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars, which he describes as having significant differences in driving characteristics. He highlighted the Red Bull's superior high-speed grip and distinct handling, making the transition between the two cars challenging. Despite the late notice, Lawson managed to complete necessary preparations, including simulator sessions, to ensure he is ready for the race.
f1technical.netFri 4 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via the-race.comGeorge Russell tops final practice at Italian Grand PrixThe results from Free Practice 3 at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix in Monza have been published. This session is part of the ongoing preparations for the race, which is the 13th round of the Formula 1 World Championship.
the-race.com+ 6 moreFri 4 Sep · 11:32 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Untitled storyWikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Untitled story
via RacingNews365Arvid Lindblad reacts to latest Red Bull snubDespite his disappointment, Lindblad understands the team's decision, recognizing that Lawson's familiarity with the car and recent performance provided a logical rationale for continuity. Lindblad, who has had a solid debut season with 23 points and no retirements, remains focused on his own performance as he prepares for the race weekend.
RacingNews365Fri 4 Sep · 10:00 UTC
via grandprix.comMax Verstappen Comments on Red Bull's Engine Compliance IssuesMax Verstappen has expressed concerns regarding the compliance of the Red Bull car following a challenging weekend at Monza. He also mentioned ongoing discussions between Red Bull and the FIA about the team's Ford-backed engine.grandprix.comFri 4 Sep · 09:50 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc issues ‘isolate myself’ claim as Ferrari driver reveals personal cost of Italian GPCharles Leclerc, the Ferrari driver, has shared insights into the personal toll of competing at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where he has experienced immense support from the Tifosi. He emphasizes the importance of isolating himself during the busy race week to recharge, as the demands of the event can be overwhelming, both physically and mentally. Leclerc has won the Italian GP twice, and with Ferrari's upgraded engine, he has the potential to become the second-most successful driver for the team at this event, trailing only Michael Schumacher.
Leclerc recalls the exhaustion he felt after his first victory at Monza in 2019, which lingered into the next race. His journey with Ferrari began in 2019 after a successful career in lower racing categories, and he has since established himself as a prominent figure in Formula 1, boasting nine wins and numerous pole positions. The unique atmosphere at Monza, coupled with the pressure of representing Ferrari, makes this race particularly challenging for him.
f1oversteer.comFri 4 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMontoya predicts drama between Hamilton and LeclercJuan Pablo Montoya has highlighted the importance of teamwork for Ferrari during the Italian Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc also emphasized that slipstreaming will be a key factor in the race.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreFri 4 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comCharles Leclerc confirms Ferrari exit talks with F1 star honest about 'other opportunities'Charles Leclerc has acknowledged that he explored other opportunities in Formula 1, facilitated by his manager's discussions with rival teams. Despite these talks, Leclerc ultimately chose to renew his contract with Ferrari, where he has been a driver for eight seasons, emphasizing his loyalty to the team and his dream of driving for Ferrari.
In a recent podcast, Leclerc clarified that while he did not engage in negotiations himself, he was informed about potential options by his manager. He remains committed to Ferrari's success and aims to deliver strong performances, particularly as he prepares for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he hopes to achieve his third victory.
gpfans.comFri 4 Sep · 07:59 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen addresses potential Liam Lawson help: 'I never ask'Max Verstappen has clarified his position regarding potential assistance from Liam Lawson during the qualifying session at the Italian Grand Prix. He stated that he does not request help from his team and is focused on his own performance, especially given Lawson's role as a substitute for Isack Hadjar due to injury. Despite the potential for slipstreaming to play a role at Monza, Verstappen is not interested in strategic maneuvers during his qualifying laps.
The article highlights the significance of slipstreaming at Monza, particularly under new FIA regulations that limit energy harvesting. Verstappen acknowledged that following closely behind another car might be more common this season, but he remains committed to his own racing strategy. He reiterated that the team aims for both drivers to excel, without relying on one to assist the other.RacingNews365Fri 4 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFerrari Introduces Engine Upgrades Ahead of Italian Grand PrixFerrari is set to debut its second engine upgrade of the season at the Italian Grand Prix. Driver Charles Leclerc expressed hope that the performance data from their simulator does not accurately reflect the car's capabilities.f1oversteer.comThu 3 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via Formula1.comVerstappen sets out target for MonzaMax Verstappen is approaching the Italian Grand Prix with a realistic mindset following a disappointing exit at Zandvoort, where he crashed on the first lap. He will miss Free Practice 1, allowing Ayumu Iwasa to drive, and will return for Free Practice 2, aiming to assess the car's performance at Monza, a track where he previously won.
Despite his past success at Monza, Verstappen is tempering expectations, acknowledging that the team has been struggling recently. He remains optimistic about the experience of racing in front of fans at his home Grand Prix, reflecting on the positives from his previous outings despite the challenges faced in the last race.
Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 18:25 UTC
via PlanetF1Liam Lawson facing nervous F1 2027 wait as Racing Bulls responds to Verstappen decisionMax Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull until 2030 has brought stability to the team, but uncertainty remains regarding Liam Lawson's future with Racing Bulls. The team has not rushed to finalize its driver lineup for F1 2027, as both Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad have been performing well this season, contributing to the team's fifth place in the constructors' championship.
While Lawson's position appears secure for now, he faces competition from junior driver Nikola Tsolov, who is excelling in Formula 2. Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has indicated that the team is pleased with its current drivers, but decisions regarding the lineup will ultimately be made by team principal Alan Permane, who is focused on maintaining a calm environment as they approach the next season.
PlanetF1Thu 3 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen reveals Red Bull response to playful "shunt" request in 100-driver karting challengeMax Verstappen recently took part in a unique karting challenge where he raced against 100 other drivers on a specially designed track at Silverstone. During a live stream, he humorously inquired with Red Bull about the possibility of 'shunting' his competitors, to which the team advised against it, although they acknowledged the playful nature of the request.
The event, titled 'Max vs 100' and hosted by comedian Mo Gilligan, will showcase Verstappen's karting skills and will be available for streaming on Disney+ on September 16. The bespoke track, designed by a former karting world champion, aims to provide an unforgettable experience as Verstappen navigates through heavy traffic while racing.
Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 17:41 UTC
via F1iMax Verstappen provides health update before MonzaMax Verstappen has shared a health update as he prepares for the upcoming race at Monza. He reported that a significant concern has been resolved ahead of the weekend.
F1i+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 16:26 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc to assist Hamilton with tow at Italian GPCharles Leclerc plans to provide a tow for his Ferrari teammate Lewis Hamilton during the qualifying session of the Italian Grand Prix. This strategy highlights the importance of teamwork and slipstreaming in the upcoming race.RacingNews365+ 3 moreThu 3 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Formula1.comLeclerc targets ‘very special’ Monza weekend with new engineCharles Leclerc is optimistic about Ferrari's chances at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where they will debut an upgraded power unit. He aims for a memorable weekend, hoping to secure his third victory with the team at this iconic track, which holds significant personal meaning for him due to his early racing experiences in Italy. Leclerc acknowledges the challenges posed by strong competitors but believes that the engine enhancements will help improve their performance.
Leclerc stresses the importance of executing their strategy perfectly to maximize their chances of success. He reflects on previous wins this season and expresses hope that the upgrades will allow them to put pressure on their rivals. The team is focused on making the car faster, which will benefit both qualifying and the race, as they prepare for what they hope will be a triumphant home race.Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 15:52 UTC
via Motorsport.comCharles Leclerc reveals he deleted social media apps from his phone amid F1 2026 hardshipCharles Leclerc, a driver for Ferrari, shared his experience of dealing with negativity during the challenging 2026 Formula 1 season. He decided to delete social media apps from his phone to focus on his performance, especially after facing multiple issues that affected his results, including a late-race accident in Monaco and problems in Barcelona.
Despite the difficulties, Leclerc managed to turn his season around with a victory at Silverstone. He acknowledged the impact of external negativity on his performance and emphasized the importance of concentrating on his driving and the car's setup to overcome the challenges he faced.Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 15:47 UTC
via Motorsport.comCharles Leclerc on his belief in Fred Vasseur, odds to win Italian GP, and what Monza means to himIn an interview, Charles Leclerc reflected on his emotional connection to Monza, recalling his victory in 2019 and the overwhelming support from fans. He emphasized the unique atmosphere surrounding the Italian GP, noting how it elevates the experience for drivers and fans alike, creating a special bond with Ferrari.
Leclerc also discussed the challenges of preparing for Monza, highlighting the need to manage fatigue during a demanding race week. He expressed confidence in the new features of Ferrari's SF-26 and his belief in team principal Fred Vasseur's vision, indicating his readiness to embrace the challenges ahead, including the upcoming race in Madrid.Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 14:44 UTC
via grandprix.comBarrichello returns to FIA world karting at 54Rubens Barrichello is set to return to FIA world-level karting at the KZ2 Masters World Championship in Le Mans, scheduled for September 17-20, 2026. This marks his first participation in a decade, having last raced at the KZ World Championship in 2016. The KZ2 Masters category is designed for experienced drivers aged 35 and over, and Barrichello will be racing a kart named after him, developed in collaboration with Birelart. He has already participated in a preparatory race at the same circuit, achieving competitive results.
In addition to his karting return, Barrichello will also pay tribute to his past with Ferrari by demonstrating the F2002 at Monza. This dual appearance highlights the connection between his historic Formula 1 career and his current endeavors in karting, showcasing his ongoing passion for motorsport and competitive racing.grandprix.comThu 3 Sep · 09:47 UTC
via gpfans.comRUMOUROscar Piastri to Red Bull is not dead and neither is Max Verstappen dramaThe article discusses the ongoing speculation surrounding Oscar Piastri's future in Formula 1, particularly regarding a potential move to Red Bull. Despite recent rumors linking him to a swap with Max Verstappen, who has signed a lucrative contract extension with Red Bull, Piastri remains a McLaren driver for now. However, the dynamics could change if Verstappen's performance declines, as his new contract may contain similar exit clauses as his previous one.
Furthermore, the article highlights that while the immediate drama has subsided, the possibility of Piastri being replaced by Verstappen in the future remains a significant storyline. With Lando Norris securing his position at McLaren, Piastri's future could be uncertain if Red Bull does not perform well in the coming seasons.gpfans.comThu 3 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via F1iLeclerc says 'powerful upgrades' will decide F1 title raceCharles Leclerc has expressed confidence that powerful upgrades will play a decisive role in the 2026 Formula 1 championship race, despite Ferrari currently trailing Mercedes by 87 points in the Constructors' standings. He is focused on the potential for rapid changes in performance due to aerodynamic improvements and is determined to maintain a race-by-race mindset as he pursues his championship aspirations, currently sitting fifth in the Drivers' standings, 28 points behind Lewis Hamilton.
Leclerc acknowledges the challenges faced earlier in the season but has found a better connection with his car following adjustments made during the Silverstone weekend. He emphasizes the importance of instinctive driving and avoiding overthinking to maximize performance. With the development race ongoing, he believes that the true outcome of the championship will hinge on how effectively Ferrari can implement their upgrades.F1iThu 3 Sep · 08:37 UTC
via gpfans.comFerrari's Vasseur confirms talks with Hamilton and LeclercFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur confirmed discussions between drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc following a controversial race. The talks aimed to address tensions within the team after the Dutch Grand Prix.gpfans.comThu 3 Sep · 06:15 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen misses first practice at MonzaRed Bull Racing encountered difficulties during the opening day of practice at the Italian Grand Prix. Max Verstappen, who missed the first practice session, acknowledged that the team is struggling to achieve the right balance with their car.PlanetF1+ 2 moreThu 3 Sep · 05:50 UTC