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via gpfans.comChristian Horner 'perfect man' to fix Ferrari as F1 star highlights Vasseur's 'big mistake'Christian Horner has been identified as the 'perfect man' to lead Ferrari, especially following recent tensions between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. These tensions arose during the Dutch and Italian Grands Prix, where Leclerc's refusal to let Hamilton pass cost him valuable time and points, leaving Hamilton significantly behind in the championship race.
Former F1 driver Marc Surer has criticized Ferrari's team principal Fred Vasseur for not taking a stronger stance during these incidents, calling it a 'big mistake'. Surer believes that for Horner to succeed at Ferrari, he would need the autonomy to assemble his own team, similar to what Ross Brawn did in the past, to restore the team's competitive edge.
Mon 21 Sep · 07:15 UTC
via f1oversteer.comToto Wolff's 'league of his own' comments highlight why Lando Norris is beating Oscar PiastriToto Wolff praised Lando Norris for his exceptional performance during qualifying at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Norris achieved pole position with a remarkable lap time of 1:31.385. Wolff noted Norris' skill in managing rear tyre overheating, especially under challenging hot conditions, which set him apart from his teammate Oscar Piastri.
Despite the compliments, Piastri's ongoing difficulties with tyre management were acknowledged, with McLaren's recent upgrades aimed at addressing these issues. Team principal Andrea Stella has urged Piastri to adapt his driving style to improve his performance, as his struggles have been a recurring theme in his career.
Mon 21 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri criticises AI impact on 2026 F1 carsOscar Piastri has expressed concerns about the influence of artificial intelligence in the 2026 Formula 1 cars, stating that it sometimes makes him feel like a 'passenger' on track. The McLaren driver highlighted that the AI reduces his input during certain moments while driving.
+ 2 moreSun 20 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc considers future in driver managementCharles Leclerc has expressed interest in pursuing a role in driver management after his Formula 1 career, potentially working alongside his long-time manager Nicolas Todt. While he remains focused on racing for Ferrari, he has discussed this future direction.+ 3 moreSun 20 Sep · 06:20 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMcLaren engineers think they have fix for one key ‘weakness’ of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s carMcLaren is preparing to introduce significant upgrades for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, focusing on enhancing the performance of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's MCL40 car. These upgrades include a new underbody and a modified version of their Macarena rear wing, aimed at improving the car's aerodynamics, particularly in slow-speed corners where the team has identified weaknesses. The decision on which rear wing to use will be made after practice sessions in Baku.
The upgrades come after a challenging 2025 Azerbaijan GP for both drivers, where Piastri faced multiple issues, including a crash and a poor start. Despite these setbacks, McLaren's engineers are optimistic that the new aerodynamic package will allow Norris and Piastri to compete for pole position. Recent performances have shown that the MCL40 is competitive in medium-speed turns, and the team is looking to build on this momentum as they head into the race weekend.Sat 19 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Colton Herta drops exit hint, potential Leclerc penalty, Michael Masi lands new role – roundupColton Herta, currently a test driver for Cadillac, has suggested he may leave Formula 2 at the end of the 2026 season, stating he is 'not interested' in continuing in 2027. Herta has had a difficult season, sitting 19th in the standings after moving from IndyCar to F2 to pursue a future in Formula 1. Meanwhile, Michael Masi has taken on a new role as head of sporting for SRO Motorsports Australia, marking a significant return to motorsport management five years after the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
In other news, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc could face a grid penalty at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to an accident at Monza. The FIA has also confirmed the cancellation of the Rally Saudi Arabia, which was set to conclude the 2026 WRC season. This cancellation comes as the FIA prepares to make a decision regarding the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix in the near future.
Sat 19 Sep · 17:24 UTC
via gpfans.comFerrari unveils black race suit for Charles LeclercFerrari has announced a unique black race suit for driver Charles Leclerc, set to debut at the Singapore Grand Prix. This design marks a departure from the team's traditional red color scheme.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 11:29 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc wagers Mercedes bet after 'vicious circle' observationCharles Leclerc has highlighted the ongoing challenges Ferrari faces with its engine performance, particularly in comparison to Mercedes. He described a 'vicious circle' where the lack of power from Ferrari's engine limits their ability to deploy power effectively, especially at the end of long straights. Despite this, Ferrari remains a close competitor in the championship as they work to resolve these issues.
Leclerc also mentioned the introduction of an ADUO-boosted engine during the Italian Grand Prix, expressing optimism that it has not sustained critical damage following a crash. However, he acknowledged that if the engine is damaged, he would need to take an engine penalty to introduce new parts into his pool before the season concludes.Sat 19 Sep · 10:20 UTC
via gpfans.comFerrari boss 'annoyed' with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, claims F1 insiderFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur is reportedly frustrated with drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc following a first-lap incident during the Italian Grand Prix. Ralf Schumacher suggested that Vasseur's annoyance was due to Hamilton being forced off the track by Leclerc, which negatively impacted Hamilton's race, finishing in tenth place. Leclerc also faced difficulties, crashing shortly after the incident.
In response to the situation, Vasseur spoke with both drivers to remind them of the team's operational principles. Hamilton expressed his desire for clearer communication and 'rules of engagement' to prevent future conflicts. Both drivers later addressed the incident, with Leclerc admitting his mistake and Hamilton noting the importance of their open discussion to move forward.Sat 19 Sep · 07:58 UTC
via the-race.comThe real reason Russell and Piastri are struggling in F1 2026In the 2026 Formula 1 season, drivers like George Russell and Oscar Piastri are facing significant challenges due to a mismatch between their driving styles and the new car and tire regulations. Russell finished fifth in the Madring race, significantly behind his teammate Kimi Antonelli, and noted that his struggles stem from how he drives compared to the demands of the current generation of cars. He observed that drivers who are performing well, such as Antonelli, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris, share similar driving styles that align better with the 2026 car characteristics.
The article discusses how the reduced downforce and tire grip of the 2026 cars have raised the crossover point of circuit grip, making certain driving techniques less effective. While Russell and Piastri tend to drive with a geometric ideal that works well on high-grip tracks, they struggle as grip decreases. In contrast, drivers like Hamilton and Norris have adapted their styles to better manage energy and grip, allowing them to perform more effectively. Ultimately, Russell and Piastri must adjust their approaches to keep pace with their competitors in this evolving racing landscape.
Fri 18 Sep · 09:11 UTC
via grandprix.comCharles Leclerc to face grid penalty in AzerbaijanFerrari's Charles Leclerc is expected to take a grid penalty at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team is preparing a new power unit despite the previous engine being deemed usable after inspections.
via f1oversteer.comDavid Coulthard tells Charles Leclerc to stop treating F1 weekends like a family ‘picnic’David Coulthard has expressed concerns about Charles Leclerc's approach to Formula 1 weekends, suggesting that the presence of his wife and pet dog may indicate a lack of seriousness. Despite Leclerc's achievements this season, including one win and four podiums, Coulthard believes that the Ferrari driver should focus more on his racing rather than personal distractions, especially as he competes against seasoned drivers like Lewis Hamilton.
Coulthard emphasized that F1 is a serious and dangerous sport, urging Leclerc to adopt a more professional mindset. He noted that while many drivers bring family members to the paddock, Leclerc's situation seems excessive. As Leclerc approaches his 200th Grand Prix start, he remains competitive but has faced challenges, including high-profile mistakes in key races.Thu 17 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comFred Vasseur shuts down claims Ferrari split Spanish GP strategy to separate driversFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur has addressed speculation regarding the team's strategy during the Spanish Grand Prix, specifically the differing tyre choices for drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Vasseur emphasized that the decision to split strategies was not intended to separate the two drivers, pointing out that other teams employed similar tactics without concern for potential collisions. Hamilton started on soft tyres but faced a braking issue that led to his early retirement from the race.
Leclerc, who opted for hard tyres, expressed confidence in his strategy, believing it was the best choice given the circumstances. He noted that starting on soft tyres would not have been advantageous and that he was waiting for a safety car to optimize his race. Despite the challenges, Vasseur has consistently defended the team's unity and dismissed any notions of a brewing crisis between the drivers.
Thu 17 Sep · 15:15 UTC
via Motorsport WeekLeclerc hopeful Monza-damaged Ferrari power unit can be saved, avoiding grid penaltyCharles Leclerc has provided an update regarding the Ferrari power unit that was damaged during his crash at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The team is currently evaluating whether the power unit can be salvaged, with the possibility of a grid penalty looming if it cannot be recovered. Following the incident, Leclerc had to use an older engine specification in the next race, and he reported a significant impact during the crash, measuring 60G.
In addition to the power unit concerns, Leclerc highlighted a more systemic issue with Ferrari's performance, noting a disparity between their race pace and qualifying speed. He emphasized that the team needs to improve energy deployment during qualifying sessions, as this has been a consistent struggle. Leclerc believes that even minor enhancements in qualifying performance could lead to better race outcomes, indicating that the team is secure in its race-day setup but still searching for solutions to their qualifying challenges.
Thu 17 Sep · 13:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Ferrari driver intervention shut down: 'Not an option for them'The article discusses the current dynamics between Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc as they navigate their second season together. Following an incident at the Italian Grand Prix, where Leclerc pushed Hamilton wide, there have been calls for Ferrari to establish a clear number one driver. However, former F1 driver David Coulthard argues that such a strategy is not feasible given the caliber of both drivers.
Coulthard emphasizes that both Hamilton and Leclerc are top-tier talents, making it challenging for Ferrari to impose a hierarchy. He suggests that while there may be existing rules of engagement in their contracts, the team must manage the relationship between the two drivers carefully. Hamilton himself noted that it may be too late for the team to implement any significant changes to their approach this season.Thu 17 Sep · 12:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comDavid Coulthard says Lewis Hamilton ‘shouldn’t’ be outscoring Charles Leclerc at FerrariIn the 2026 Formula 1 season, Lewis Hamilton has managed to outperform Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, a situation that David Coulthard finds surprising. Despite both drivers having secured one victory each, Hamilton holds a 24-point lead over Leclerc in the championship standings, placing him third overall, while Leclerc's performance has raised questions about team dynamics and engagement rules within Ferrari.
Coulthard notes that Hamilton's success is unexpected considering his age and nearing the end of his career, especially when compared to Leclerc, who is in his twenties and possesses significant raw speed. The relationship between the two drivers has been scrutinized, particularly following a controversial incident at Monza, indicating potential conflicts within the team as they prepare for future seasons.Thu 17 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc updates on Ferrari power unit after Monza crashCharles Leclerc has provided an update regarding the power unit used during his crash at the Italian Grand Prix. Ferrari is currently evaluating whether the damaged engine can be repaired.+ 1 moreThu 17 Sep · 09:05 UTCvia gpfans.com'Lewis knew it, it's clear in the contract' - Ferrari boss confirms Hamilton vs Leclerc truthFerrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will continue to be treated as joint number one drivers, a fact that Hamilton was aware of when he signed his contract. This decision comes amidst recent tensions between the two drivers, particularly highlighted during the Dutch Grand Prix where Leclerc's actions hindered Hamilton's performance. Despite Hamilton's criticisms regarding the team's lack of clear rules, Vasseur remains firm that Ferrari will not prioritize one driver over the other this season.
As the championship progresses, Hamilton finds himself significantly behind leader Kimi Antonelli, trailing by 101 points. Vasseur acknowledged that while Ferrari's strategy is to support both drivers equally, there may be a shift in focus if Hamilton becomes the sole contender for the championship later in the season. This approach is part of Ferrari's broader philosophy, which aims to maintain respect and equality among its drivers.Thu 17 Sep · 07:56 UTC
via PlanetF1Andrea Stella addresses Oscar Piastri's performance issuesMcLaren team principal Andrea Stella has identified that Oscar Piastri's driving style may not be well-suited to the current Formula 1 cars. Piastri has struggled this season, contributing less than 40% to McLaren's overall points.+ 1 moreWed 16 Sep · 17:58 UTCvia Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc identifies Ferrari's qualifying issueCharles Leclerc has highlighted a specific weakness in Ferrari's SF-26 that affects their qualifying results. He suggests that the team's struggles are not due to a lack of overall speed, but rather their performance when attacking kerbs during low-fuel runs.+ 2 moreWed 16 Sep · 15:02 UTCPage 4 of 18
